LAHORE: The Punjab Institute of Language, Art & Culture (Pilac) and the provincial information and culture department organised a Qawwali gathering on the occasion of the 267th Urs of the great sufi poet Baba Bulleh Shah at Alhamra Arts Council.

Ustad Asif Ali Khan Santu Qawwal presented the ‘kafis’ of Baba Bulleh Shah and other Qawwalis. A large number of intellectuals, writers and citizens participated in the programme.

On this occasion, Pilac Director General Benish Fatima Sahi and Director Dr. Muhammad Asim Chaudhry said Bulleh Shah’s poetry is a reflection of true love and philanthropy. All Sufi poets, including Baba Bulleh Shah, taught humanity, love, peace, tolerance and brotherhood.

According to Sahi, having a high lineage is not something to be proud of, but it is the actions of a person that make him good or bad. According to Asim Chaudhry, all human beings are equal; he spoke of human intention beyond religion, colour, caste and nationality.

Ustad Asif Ali Khan Santu presented the Allah Ho Allah Ho, Kamli Wale Muhammad Ton Sadaqey Mein Jaan, Shah Mardan-e-Ali, Mira Pya Ghar Aya, Ni Mein Jana Jogi De Naal, Teray Ishq Nachaya Kar Ke Thaya Thaya and received applaud from the audience.

Published in Dawn, September 1st, 2024