Muzaffar Ali Brings His Celebrated Sufi Festival Home to Kolkata

KOLKATA: Renowned filmmaker and cultural icon Muzaffar Ali is all set to bring his acclaimed Sufi music festival, Jahan-e-Khusrau, to Kolkata this December — a city that, in his words, gave birth to his artistic journey.

Ali, known for his diverse creative pursuits — from directing films and designing fashion to writing poetry and reviving lost traditions — began his career in Kolkata. Speaking exclusively to us, the Padma Shri awardee called the upcoming event “a homecoming of the soul.”

A Tribute Rooted in Love and Spirituality

The Jahan-e-Khusrau festival, launched in Delhi in 2001, is held in memory of the 13th-century poet and Sufi saint Amir Khusrau, widely regarded as the father of qawwali. Every year, the three-day event takes place at the historic Arab ki Sarai, located within the Humayun’s Tomb complex — a place believed to be where Khusrau first introduced qawwali music.

This year, however, the festival will take a special journey — to the very city that inspired Ali as a young man.

“Khusrau Belongs to the World”

Ali believes Amir Khusrau’s message of love and unity is more relevant now than ever. “In today’s divided world, Khusrau’s teachings remind us of oneness,” he said. “He blended cultures beautifully, making India a symbol of inclusiveness. His words feel even younger with time — they connect deeply with today’s youth.”

The festival, Ali explained, is not just about music. “It’s a spiritual offering — the artist sings to the divine, for the divine. It becomes a sacred journey, both for the performer and the audience.”

Victoria Memorial — A Stage of Grandeur

Speaking about the ideal venue for Jahan-e-Khusrau in Kolkata, Ali mentioned the iconic Victoria Memorial. “Its grand setting perfectly matches the spirit of the festival,” he said. “It will be a humble offering from a Sufi heart, set against a city that has always inspired me.”

He described the festival as a “cinematic sama” — a performance where poetry, music, and dance come together like scenes in a seamless film.

“Kolkata Is Where It All Began for Me”

Ali fondly recalled his early years in the city, working in advertising at Clarion alongside the legendary Satyajit Ray. “He was the art director, and I was a young account executive. Watching him shaped my understanding of cinema,” he said. “Kolkata opened my eyes to poetry and film. It didn’t just inspire me — it nurtured me.”

He added, “Each time I return, it feels like coming home. There are many dreams I still hope to fulfil here.”

A Festival That Keeps Evolving

Now in its third decade, Jahan-e-Khusrau has grown beyond borders. The 2025 edition will feature artists from Iran, Turkey, and across India — bringing a truly global voice to Sufi music.

Ali is working closely with photographer and curator Kounteya Sinha to design a unique experience for the Kolkata audience. “We’re creating something immersive, something new,” he said. “There will be surprises — for the city, and for everyone who comes to celebrate with us.”

With this edition, Jahan-e-Khusrau is not just returning to the city of its creator’s roots — it’s returning to the heart of inspiration, in a place where art, soul, and story have always found a home.