Cairo came alive with the soulful sounds of Pakistani Qawwali as the Badr Ali and Bahadur Ali group performed at the 18th World Samaa International Festival for Chanting and Spiritual Music. This event, running from November 27 to 30, 2025, showcased Pakistan as an honorary guest, drawing large crowds and highlighting cross-cultural spiritual traditions.
Festival Kicks Off with Global Talent
The World Samaa International Festival opened in Cairo on Thursday, bringing together artists from around the world for a celebration of chanting and spiritual music. Organizers designed the event to blend ancient traditions with modern interpretations, creating a space for shared devotion and artistic exchange.
This year’s festival marks 18 years of promoting Sufi and religious music forms. It features performers from various countries, including ensembles known for dervish dances and devotional recitations. Attendees, including diplomats and local music fans, filled the venues, applauding the diverse lineup.
Egypt hosts this gathering to spotlight its own cultural heritage while inviting international acts. The program includes workshops and dialogues that encourage understanding between different faith traditions.
One standout element is the interfaith segment called “Here We Pray Together.” This part explores common values through music and performance, fostering unity in a divided world.
Pakistani Artists Steal the Show
The Badr Ali and Bahadur Ali Qawwal Group represented Pakistan with a captivating performance on the opening night. Their classical Qawwali, a form of Sufi devotional music, earned strong applause from a mix of Egyptian and international audiences.
The Pakistan Embassy in Cairo arranged the group’s participation, aiming to showcase the country’s rich musical heritage. The performers delivered cohesive and powerful renditions, blending poetry and rhythm to evoke spiritual trance.
Qawwali traces its roots to 13th-century South Asia, often linked to poets like Amir Khusrau. Modern icons such as Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan have popularized it globally, influencing fusions with world music.
In Cairo, the group performed pieces that built energy, drawing listeners into a hypnotic state. Fans noted how the music bridged cultures, with some attendees joining in rhythmic claps.
This appearance builds on Pakistan’s growing presence in international festivals. For instance, recent events like the World Culture Festival in Karachi featured artists from over 100 countries, including Qawwali acts.
Cultural Impact and Broader Reach
The festival’s theme emphasizes collaboration, turning Cairo into a hub for spiritual arts. Organizers report growing attendance, with this edition attracting more visitors than previous years due to its diverse programming.
Participating groups exchange ideas, leading to new collaborations. For example, past festivals have seen Indian and Pakistani artists perform together, overcoming political divides through music.
Here are key benefits of such cultural events:
- They promote peace by highlighting shared human experiences.
- They boost tourism, drawing crowds to host cities like Cairo.
- They preserve traditions, ensuring younger generations engage with heritage.
- They inspire global artists to experiment with fusion styles.
Pakistan’s involvement reflects efforts to export its soft power. Devotional music like Qawwali has gained fans worldwide, from sold-out concerts in Europe to viral videos online.
Recent trends show Qawwali evolving. A unique event in Lahore featured a performance inside a fight cage, blending tradition with modern spectacle and going viral on social media.
Looking Ahead to More Performances
The festival continues through November 30, with more shows planned. The Badr Ali and Bahadur Ali group will perform again, offering audiences another chance to experience their art.
This event ties into a busy year for cultural festivals. In Pakistan, the Arts Council hosted an alumni festival ending with Qawwali, while international gatherings like the one in Qatar celebrate similar traditions.
Experts predict these platforms will expand, potentially including virtual elements for wider access. As global interest in spiritual music grows, festivals like Samaa could inspire new generations of performers.
| Festival Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Dates | November 27-30, 2025 |
| Location | Cairo, Egypt |
| Theme | Here We Pray Together |
| Key Participants | Pakistani Qawwals, Egyptian ensembles, international Sufi groups |
| Attendance | Large crowds including diplomats and locals |
| Special Features | Interfaith dialogues, dervish dances, workshops |
Events like this remind us of music’s power to connect people. Share your thoughts on cultural festivals in the comments below, and spread the word by sharing this article with friends who love world music.
