Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the Sufi music festival Jahan-e-Khusrau on Friday, celebrating its 25-year journey and its deep-rooted connection with people’s hearts. Calling this emotional bond its greatest success, he highlighted the festival’s significant role in preserving and enriching India’s cultural and artistic heritage.
Addressing the gathering, Modi underscored the importance of such festivals in showcasing the country’s diverse artistic traditions. He shared his experience of visiting TEH Bazaar at the venue before joining the event, calling it a refreshing and culturally enriching experience. He emphasized that Jahan-e-Khusrau, over the years, has evolved into a symbol of India’s deep-rooted artistic and spiritual traditions.
A Celebration of India’s Spiritual Heritage
Extending his greetings ahead of Ramzan, the Prime Minister also acknowledged the contributions of Aga Khan in restoring and beautifying Sunder Nursery, where the festival is being held. Reflecting on the performances, particularly Nazr-e-Krishna, he said they beautifully captured India’s shared heritage. “There is a unique fragrance in this event—the fragrance of Hindustan’s soil,” he added.
Modi also recalled the words of Hazrat Amir Khusrau, the legendary Sufi poet and musician, who once described India as greater than all other great nations of the time. He highlighted how Khusrau revered Sanskrit as the finest language in the world and regarded Indian scholars as superior to even the greatest intellectuals. Discussing the deep-rooted connection of Sufi culture with India, he noted that it seamlessly integrated with the country’s traditions, finding a natural home in its spiritual landscape.
Jahan-e-Khusrau: A Global Cultural Platform
Jahan-e-Khusrau, a three-day festival running from February 28 to March 2, brings together artists from across the world to celebrate the legacy of Amir Khusrau. Organized by the Rumi Foundation, the festival was founded by renowned filmmaker and artist Muzaffar Ali in 2001 and has since grown into a revered annual cultural event. The festival serves as a platform for artists and audiences alike to engage with Sufi music’s mystical and spiritual essence, fostering unity through art.
During the festival, the Prime Minister also visited TEH Bazaar (TEH: The Exploration of the Handmade), which showcased One District-One Product crafts, exquisite artifacts from across India, and short films highlighting traditional handicrafts and handlooms. He interacted with shopkeepers, appreciating their craftsmanship and the rich artistic traditions they represent.
Preserving Cultural Identity Through Art
As the Jahan-e-Khusrau festival marks 25 years, it stands as a testament to India’s enduring artistic and spiritual legacy. By bringing together artists, musicians, and cultural enthusiasts from around the world, the festival continues to serve as a beacon of India’s rich cultural heritage. With Modi’s endorsement and appreciation, Jahan-e-Khusrau reaffirms its position as a cornerstone of India’s artistic landscape, uniting people through the universal language of Sufi music.
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