Awaken: Sufi Music & Women of South Asia

A women wearing South Asian attire, with long hair, holding two musical instruments, while playing the drum and dancing.

Discover the role of women in Sufi music and poetry, the mystical devotion of the Islamic faith, across Pakistan, India, Bengal and the diasporic communities, through their shared contributions in the devotional musical culture that unites diverse communities across borders in the past and present.

Curated by Lead Curator Attia Shiraz, this exhibition illuminates the long-overlooked connection of women in the musical landscape of Sufism over centuries. Experience the rich diversity of Sufi soundscapes and rituals rooted in various cultures, including the Siddi community, through Mughal miniature paintings, photography, instruments and women’s representation in cinema

Thanks to the generous support of the Cockayne Foundation, enjoy an array of events, including poetry and music performances, a documentary screening, a Mughal Miniature soundscape workshop for children and families, as well as curator-led talks and panel discussions. Don’t miss this unique celebration of history, heritage, and harmony!

Photograph (above) by Tanzim Ahmed Bijoy, courtesy of Parvathy Baul.

This special exhibition ran from 18 June – 20 October 2024.

Two women dancing in flowing garments, with a dark blue sky in the background.

Desert Melodies, 2019, Roshani Shah.

The exhibition's central themes celebrate the pivotal role of women and the rich, shared history of devotion and musical traditions from Pakistan, India, and Bengal that create completely unique and diverse Sufi sounds.

At the exhibition, you will experience the captivating voices of trailblazing women in Sufi music, including Gauhar Jan, the first successful Indian woman recorded by the Gramophone Company; Sheema Kermani, a renowned social activist and performer; Parvathy Baul, who preserves the rich oral history of the Baul tradition influenced by Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sufism; and the Grewal Twins, London-born storytellers and sound healers specialising in Punjabi folk and Sufi musical genres.

The key exhibits featured are:

Highlights of 16th-century Mughal princesses contribution to Sufi poetry.
Poetry of Sufi saints such as Bulleh Shah in Mughal miniature paintings by Fatima Zara Hassan.
The first all-women qawwali performance in Indian cinema.
18th-century Sarangi from the RCM Collection, alongside a collaboration with Jas Musicals, Southall showcasing instruments performed in folk, Qawwali, and Baul music from diverse regions and musical traditions.

Book your ticket online or just turn up on the day.