Echoes of Kabir: A Summer in Rajasthan

This summer, I embarked on a transformative journey to Pugal, a remote village in Rajasthan, to live with and learn from the esteemed Qawwal, Mr. Mukhtiyar Ali. Immersed in the rich traditions of Sant Kabir’s poetry, I spent 2 months practicing bhajans and classical qawwali compositions under his guidance. My days were filled with intensive vocal training, exploring the deep connection between music and spirituality.

The experience extended beyond just music; living with Mukhtiyar Ji’s family offered a profound insight into a way of life that values simplicity, dedication, and cultural heritage. The journey culminated in a performance with Mukhtiyar Ji in Hyderabad and teaching Kabir’s poetry to schoolchildren, which deepened my commitment to making this art form a meaningful part of my daily life. This project wasn’t just about learning music—it was about embracing a tradition and letting it shape my future path.