An International face of Sufi Music.
When you talk about Indian Sufi music and qawwali’s, the first name that comes to the mind is Nizami Bandhu. Nizami Bandhu is the most admired and prestigious Sufi band by of Ustad Chand Nizami, Shadad Faridi Nizami and Sohrab Faridi Nizami. They come from the legendary Sikandra Gharana, which has a 400-year legacy as Darbari singers at the Asthana of Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya and Hazrat Amir Khusrau.

Stepping onto our Samaa Stage is the Kathak virtuoso, Aditi Mangaldas—a dancer renowned for her artistry, grace, and unmatched technique. With a firm foundation in Kathak, she has boldly redefined the dance form, blending its classical essence with a contemporary language of movement. Her illustrious career with many Indian and global accolades, is a testament to her ingenuity. For Aditi, dance is more than just an art—it is an experience of freedom, passion and love.

Gurpreet Saini is a name that resonates deeply in the world of music and cinema. A gifted lyricist and talented actor, he has left an indelible mark on the hearts of millions through his music. Writing under the pen name Mohtaaj, Gurpreet brings his soul to life through poetry. His words weave magic in Punjabi, Hindi, and Urdu, reflecting his deep reverence for language and emotion.

Kabir Café, a neo-folk fusion band, plays the poetry of 15th century Indian mystic poet - Sant Kabir. They're redefining contemporary Sufi music with a sound that blends Rock, Reggae, Pop, and Carnatic influences. The band is on a quest to ensure Kabir's verses are accessible and comprehensible through contemporary music to the rest of the world, reaching those who are alienated from traditional Kabir folk music.

Priya Malik, an award winning spoken word poet, storyteller and actor. She writes and performs in English, Hindi, and Urdu and her work has been featured on some of India's biggest spoken word platforms. At the Sufi Heritage Festival, Priya will bring to light the often-overlooked legacy of Women Sufi Saints—voices that history has quietly set aside but deserve to be heard.

Rekha Bhardwaj, an Indian singer and live performer. She has received two Filmfare and one National Awards. From her debut album Ishqa-Ishqa, she has mesmerised us with her rustic voice, creating waves in the music world. Her repertoire seamlessly blends traditional melodies with contemporary Hindi film songs, but at her core, she is a true Sufi. And when she takes the stage, surrendering to the music in a whirling trance, you don’t just hear Sufism—you feel it.