Kailash Kher to perform at world Sufi fest

Feb 10, 2012 IANS

New Delhi, Feb 10 (IANS) Singer Kailash Kher is set to serenade music lovers with his soulful Sufi renditions at the fourth edition of the World Sufi Spirit Festival, supported by international singer Sting.

The festival will be held Feb 16-21 in Nagaur and Jodhpur.

The Royal family of Jodhpur will play host to some of the leading Sufi exponents from across the borders, with the serene Mehrangarh Fort as the backdrop for the very first time.

Organised by the Mehrangarh Museum Trust, the festival will see Sufi artists from Egypt, Iran, Zanzibar, Pakistan, Tajikistan and China come together to perform in Jodhpur along with the traditional Rajasthani folk musicians displaying the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan.

"The World Sufi Spirit Festival is an humble step towards preserving and encouraging the sacred art of Sufism. Our endeavour is to create a huge platform for national and international Sufi exponents to come together and create an extraordinary enriching experience for one and all," Maharaja Gaj Singh II said in a statement.

"We look forward to showcasing the talent of our versatile folk performers at the beautiful and legendary Mehrangarh Fort," he added.

The festival will feature Indian and international performers such as Kailash Kher, the Nayiks, Sonam Kalra, Kalakar children, Mehardeen Khan, Sher Khan, the Rajasthan Langa troupe, Darbar Morchang Party and the Teratali dancers & singers.

Among the international performers are Wang Li (China), Fareed Ayyaz and Party (Pakistan), Tanourah Sufi Dance (Egypt), Vahdat sisters (Iran), Mtendeni Maulid Ensemble (Zanzibar), The Musicians of The Nile and Deba ritual from Mayotte, Africa.

"We are spirits in a material world… Join the Sufi Spirit World Festival at Nagaur-Jodhpur and experience the magic. This is a wonderful opportunity for India to combine its spiritual heritage with the beauty of sacred music and dance," said Sting in a statement.