Mystic Voices Tradition | Sufi Qawwali Warsi Brothers

‘Qawwali is a centuries-old devotional art form that blends poetry, music and spiritual expression into a powerful collective experience. Rooted in the Sufi traditions of the Indian subcontinent, it uses rhythmic clapping, soaring vocals and repetitive melodic patterns to evoke a state of heightened spiritual ecstasy. Times of India

As India’s renowned artists, the Warsi Brothers – Naseer Ahmed Khan Warsi and Nazeer Ahmed Khan Warsi – were honoured at the prestigious Aga Khan Music Awards 2025. It which was held in London in November 2025 at the South Bank Centre.

The jury recognised the duo ‘for the energetic preservation and onward transmission of the spiritual and musical legacy of Amir Khusrau to multigenerational audiences at the highest level of musical excellence.’

This recognition also comes at a time when traditional music faces challenges from rapid modernisation. Artists like the Warsi brothers help bridge the past and present by presenting authentic, high-quality performances on national and international stages. Their work ensures that qawwali remains vibrant and relevant for younger generations.

The Warsi Brothers are widely regarded as among the finest living custodians of traditional qawwali in the subcontinent. They trained under their grandfather Padma Shri Aziz Ahmad Khan Warsi. They represent the classical rigour and devotional depth of the Delhi Gharana. Based in Hyderabad, their family has long served as court musicians for the erstwhile Nizam.

Presented by Art Asia & SAMA in association with Indus Music