‘Mushaira & Sufi’ evenings make a return to Dharamsala after 50 years

After nearly five decades of silence, the soulful traditions of ‘Mushaira and Sufi’ music returned to the hill town of Dharamsala, rekindling a cherished cultural legacy. Organised at the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) in McLeodganj, the event marked the revival of an art form last celebrated in the region in 1974.

Thanks to the efforts of Sujit ‘Haasil’, the initiative brought together a rich blend of Urdu poetry and spiritual music. The audience was mesmerised by the lyrical beauty and emotional depth of the recitations, which created an atmosphere of reflection and wonder.

A total of 11 renowned ‘shayars’ (poets) from across India took part, including four from Himachal Pradesh. The line-up featured Krishna Kumar ‘Toor’ (Sadarat), Athar Shakeel (Nizamat), Nusrat Mehdi, Shahid Anjum, Navin Joshi ‘Navaa’, Sujit Haasil, Shahid Noor, Naghma Noor, Vikas Rana, Tanoj Dadich and Kushal Dauneria. Each poet delivered original verses that deeply resonated with the audience.

The evening concluded with an electrifying performance by the Sufi music ensemble ‘Sufi Bandu Band’ from New Delhi, who had the audience singing and dancing to their popular spiritual numbers.

RS Bali, Chairman of the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC), attended the event as the chief guest. He praised the initiative and highlighted the value of such cultural events in promoting national unity and boosting tourism in the Kangra district. “These ‘mushairas’ and Sufi evenings possess immense potential to create an ambiance that enriches both culture and tourism,” he said.

The event was well attended by dignitaries and community leaders, including Zafar Iqbal, Commissioner Dharamsala; Devinder Jaggi, former Mayor; Basu Kaushal, Conservator of Forests; SDMs from Nagrota Bagwan and Dharamsala; and representatives from the hoteliers’ association, Ashwani Bamba and Sanjiv Gandhi.