Concerts by Mir Vasu Khan and party

Sufi and Bhakti music, Lok Kala Manch
18 December, 2008

Manana in collaboration with Lok Kala Manch organized a concert of Sufi and Bhakti music on 18 December, 2008 at Vasuki Auditorium, Lok Kala Manch for a promising young talent of the Mir community, Vasu Khan, and his group. The concert was another step in continuing efforts to encourage the Mirs who, against all odds, are making efforts to continue in music.

Originally from Pugal, now living in a small hamlet called 1 PB (Pugal Branch), Vasu Khan is a talented youngster with a unique voice and a deep commitment to carrying on the 500 year old tradition of his people. He learnt music from his father, Late Ramzan Khan, a reputed singer of the region. He got an opportunity to hone his talent in a Music camp that the Mirs organized in March, 2006. Using the stipend money he received, he built a small Music Room in his village where he is teaching children from his community.

Vasu Khan also played harmonium, and was accompanied by Shabbir on the tabla, and Rafiq on Dholak while Sattar Khan and Barkat Ali gave him vocal support. Over 150 people attended the programme and were treated to renditions of Kripak karo Maharaj; Khwaja Ghulam Farid’s Kaldi jungle vich and Jhonk ladage yaar na dan; Bulle Shah’s Mainu ishq ullare denda he and Ki jaana main kaun, Buliya; and Meera Bai’s Sanwariyo jadu kar gayo, main kya karoon. Barkat Ali presented the famous Bikaneri maand, Kesariya baalam and a kaafi Baanh fadke saanu vi kanne la ja.

Review

Delhi International Arts Festival 2008
19 December, 2008

Vasu Khan and party performed Sufi music on 19 December in Miranda House, Delhi University as part of the Youth festival of the Delhi International Arts Festival 2008. The programme opened with their energetic presentation of Sufi songs. The audience mostly comprising of university students greatly appreciated and enjoyed the music.