“Azadi Cultural Evening” captivates the audience at the High Commission

The Pakistani community in the UK was treated to a memorable “Azadi Cultural Evening” organized by the Pakistan High Commission London in its premises on 23 August 2016. The evening featured Qawwali performance by renowned Najmuddin Saifuddin Qawwals & brothers from Pakistan.

Khawaja Saad Rafiq, Federal Minister for Railways was the chief guest, who attended the evening together with his spouse Mrs Ghazala Rafiq.

Welcoming the guests, H.E. Syed Ibne Abbas, Pakistan High Commissioner to the UK said that the “Azadi Cultural Evening” is a continuum of the cultural events frequently organized by the High Commission. He said: “This is an endeavour to introduce the culture, ethos and heritage of Pakistan in the UK. We have planned an elaborate set of programmes for the 70th anniversary of Pakistan next year and we hope and encourage our community to fully participate in the celebrations. We will kick start the celebrations with participation in the famous New Year’s Day Parade 2017 in London.

“We are happy to have amongst us famous Najmuddin Saifuddin brothers whose ancient lineage goes back to 13th century. They are the true face of Pakistan and ambassadors of love, peace and harmony.”

In packed to the capacity Chancery Hall, the devotional Qawaali music enthralled the audience for two hours—the audience were still yearning for more at the end.Famous Qawwalis created quite an atmosphere with their divine appeal. The Qawwals received a standing ovation from the avid lovers of Sufi music.

The five-brother band of Qawwals from Karachi, led by Ustad Najmuddin is currently touring the UK. They are the descendants of 13th-century legendary musician Hazrat Amir Khusrou. The guests were served traditional dinner and other delights.