Fanna-Fi-Allah's Memorable 2024 UK and Europe Tour: Celebrating Traditional Sufi Qawwali on an Unprecedented Scale
This past June, Fanna-Fi-Allah embarked on an unforgettable tour across the UK and Europe, performing in some of the most prestigious venues we’ve ever graced, including London’s iconic Union Chapel and the historic Birmingham Town Hall. The scale and response to our performances this year marked a significant milestone, as we were honored to bring the rich and profound tradition of Sufi Qawwali to larger audiences than ever before.
In a music landscape where many groups adapt to modern tastes by shortening songs, incorporating Western instruments, or shifting toward pop elements, Fanna-Fi-Allah has remained devoted to preserving the purity of traditional Qawwali. Our mission is to deliver this sacred art form in its authentic form—rich, powerful, and deeply connected to its roots—without compromise. It is our belief that this dedication resonates deeply with audiences and allows them to experience the true essence of Qawwali.
One of the tour’s highlights was the presence of Ustad Dildar Hussain Khan, a living legend and a foundational figure in Qawwali. As the former tabla player for Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan for over three decades, Ustad Dildar Hussain Khan’s mastery of the Qawwali tabla is unmatched, a fact that was evident in every performance. His powerful, intricate rhythms added an unparalleled energy to each concert. Beyond his tabla brilliance, he graced us as a vocalist and harmonium player, performing beautifully alongside his student, Tahir Qawwal. Their shared musical dialogue, rooted in years of dedication and transmission, brought a depth and authenticity to each performance that left audiences in awe.
Additionally, we were thrilled to be joined by guest Sarangi player Nabeel Khan, whose soulful playing enriched the ensemble and brought further dimension to the sound. Together, we traveled across cities in the UK, Netherlands, Germany, and the Czech Republic, where audiences embraced our music with open hearts. Each concert became a celebration of this centuries-old tradition, a bridge across cultures, and a reminder of the beauty and unity that Qawwali inspires.
As we reflect on this tour, we feel profound gratitude for the opportunity to bring traditional Sufi Qawwali to audiences across Europe, honoring the legacy of our teachers and the timeless beauty of this music. With each note, each beat, and each shared moment, we strive to keep the flame of authentic Qawwali alive, and we are deeply moved by the response we’ve received. Thank you for being part of this journey with us.
