Introduction to Indian Qawwali Music

Qawwali, the soul-stirring devotional music of Sufi saints, is a centuries-old tradition rooted in spiritual poetry and hypnotic melodies. Originating in 13th-century India through the Chishti Sufi order, Qawwali seeks to transport listeners into a state of divine ecstasy known as wajd. With harmoniums, tablas, and soulful vocals, Qawwals deliver powerful messages of love, unity, and devotion.

Today, India remains a vibrant hub for Qawwali, nurturing both legendary maestros and rising stars who continue to preserve and innovate the art. Here’s our tribute to the top 10 Qawwali singers in India, ranked from oldest to newest.

1. Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan

• Born: October 13, 1948

• Died: August 16, 1997

• Origin: Pakistan (Massive influence on Indian Qawwali)

The undisputed king of Qawwali an on the first in top 10 qawwali singers in India, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan elevated this art form to global fame. With his unique vocal range and improvisational mastery, he connected deeply with Indian audiences and influenced generations of Indian Qawwals.

Top Qawwalis:

• Afreen Afreen

• Tumhein Dillagi

• Allah Hoo

• Mera Piya Ghar Aaya

YouTube Playlist

2. Ustad Aziz Mian Qawwal

• Born: 1942

• Died: 2000

• Known for: Philosophical and provocative Qawwalis

Aziz Mian’s performances were known for bold, intense lyrics filled with spiritual queries and societal reflections. His voice was raw and resonated with seekers and rebels alike.

Top Qawwalis:

• Main Sharabi

• Teri Soorat Nigahon Mein

• Allah Hi Jaane

• Haq Ali Ali

Aziz Mian Collection

3. Ustad Sabri Brothers (Ghulam Farid & Maqbool Ahmed)

• Era: 1950s–2000s

• Origin: India

Legendary icons in Indian Qawwali, the Sabri Brothers crafted timeless masterpieces. Their legacy is foundational to Indian Qawwali concerts and film songs, he is one of the top 10 qawwali singers in India.

Top Qawwalis:

• Tajdar-e-Haram

• Bhar Do Jholi

• Khwaja Mere Khwaja

• Man Kunto Maula

Sabri Brothers on Spotify

4. Ustad Shankar-Shambhu Qawwal

• From: Uttar Pradesh, India

The duo became popular during India’s radio and Doordarshan era, with Qawwalis focused on both Sufi and social themes.

Top Qawwalis:

• Chadhta Sooraj Dheere Dheere

• Ganj-e-Shakar

• Maula Mere Maula

• Ali Maula

5. Warsi Brothers

• Base: Hyderabad

Custodians of the Delhi Gharana, the Warsi Brothers carry forward a 700-year-old tradition of Sufi Qawwali and are frequent performers at spiritual and cultural events.

Top Qawwalis:

• Haq Ali Maula

• Khwaja Ki Diwani

• Bhar Do Jholi

• Chhap Tilak

Sufi Gharana Info

6. Ustad Nizami Brothers

• Base: Delhi (Nizamuddin Dargah)

Direct descendants of the 700-year-old Qawwali lineage, Nizami Brothers, one of the top 10 qawwali singers in India deliver traditional Sufi content with authenticity and spiritual charm.

Top Qawwalis:

• Kun Faya Kun

• Maula Mere Maula

• Khwaja Garib Nawaz

• Aaj Rang Hai

Nizami Brothers Official

7. Abida Parveen

• Born: February 20, 1954

• Known For: Sufi Kafis, Ghazals, Qawwalis

Though more often recognized for her Sufi kalams, Abida Parveen has performed soul-shaking Qawwalis that resonate with Indian and global audiences. Her voice is often described as divine.

Top Performances:

• Yaar Ko Humne

• Tere Ishq Nachaya

• Dama Dam Mast Qalandar

• Mahi Yaar Di Gharoli

Abida Parveen Collection

8. Tahir Hussain Faridi

• From: Canada (by birth), based in India

• Known for: Bringing Qawwali to Western audiences

A non-South Asian Qawwal deeply immersed in the Indian style, Tahir Faridi’s renditions blend tradition with global flavor, making Qawwali accessible to new listeners worldwide.

Top Tracks:

• Man Kunto Maula

• Ali Maula

• Laal Meri Pat

• Khwaja Ki Diwani

Fanna-Fi-Allah (His Group)

9. Jaani Babu Qawwal

• From: Uttar Pradesh, India

• Active Since: 1990s

A regional gem and one of the top 10 qawwali singers in India, Jaani Babu Qawwal gained popularity for his energetic stage presence and powerful renditions in dargahs and public festivals. He preserves raw, emotional Qawwali traditions of the heartland.

Top Qawwalis:

• Ali Ali Maula

• Khwaja Garib Nawaz

• Ya Hussain

• Chalo Ajmer Ki Sar Zameen Pe

Jaani Babu Qawwal YouTube

10. Ateeq Hussain Khan

• Base: Rampur-Sahaswan Gharana

A brilliant fusion of classical depth and Sufi soul, Ateeq Hussain Khan represents a new era of Qawwals who can enthrall both purists and modern audiences.

Top Performances:

• Ya Muhammad Noor-e-Mujassam

• Man Kunto Maula

• Tajdar-e-Haram

• Khwaja Mera Khwaja

YouTube Performances

Conclusion

The legacy of the top 10 Qawwali singers in India proves that this divine art form transcends borders, languages, and generations. From the poetic power of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan to the spiritual depth of Abida Parveen and Tahir Faridi’s global resonance, each artist adds a unique fragrance to the bouquet of Indian Sufi music. Their devotion echoes through every beat and every verse.

FAQs

1. Who is the most famous in Top 10 Qawwali singer in India?

Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan is globally acknowledged, but many Indian legends like the Sabri Brothers and Warsi Brothers are revered too.

2. Can women sing Qawwalis?

Yes! Abida Parveen is a shining example of a female Qawwal who mesmerizes millions.

3. Where can I hear Qawwalis live?

Dargahs like Nizamuddin Auliya in Delhi regularly host spiritual Qawwali nights.

4. What’s the spiritual significance of Qawwali?

Qawwali is a form of musical worship that connects the performer and the listener with the divine.

5. Who is the youngest Qawwal in India today?

While this list focuses on legends, many young artists like Ateeq Hussain Khan are carrying the torch forward.

Useful Links

• Nizami Brothers Website

• Sabri Brothers on Spotify

• Fanna-Fi-Allah Official Site

• Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah Info

• Jaani Babu Qawwal on YouTube

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