Ilahi Sufi Qawwali Ensemble: A Powerful Female Performance of 'Chaap Tilak' Live

The Ilahi Sufi Qawwali Women's Ensemble presents a captivating live performance of the classical qawwali Chaap Tilak at the Samā School of Music in Bali. As the first all-female qawwali group, Ilahi brings a unique yet authentic approach to this ancient Sufi musical tradition.

Founded in 2019 by renowned qawwali singer and harmonium virtuoso Tahir Qawwal of Fanna-fi-Allah, alongside his wife Alexandra Amïe, the ensemble is breaking new ground by welcoming women into a musical form traditionally dominated by men. Under the guidance of Tahir Qawwal, the group continues to receive training at the Sama School of Music, sharing the rich tradition of qawwali with audiences worldwide.

Tahir, deeply inspired by his Pakistani mentors and his experience working on the award-winning documentary Music of the Mystics, was motivated to teach women this profound art form, blending tradition with innovation. In this performance, the ensemble interprets the mystical poetry of Hazrat Amir Khusrau, with a brief English translation:

"You’ve taken away my identity with just a glance,
Forcing me to drink the wine of love,
Intoxicated me with just a glance.
My adorned wrists held tight by you,
I give my life to you, oh cloth-dyer;
You’ve dyed me in your color with just a glance."

For those who appreciate the works of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, the timeless tradition of qawwali, or those delving into the soul-stirring depths of Sufi music, visit the Sama School of Music's website and explore the full Qawwali - Music of the Mystics documentary.