Qawali Project

(2023)

“The Qawwali Project” presents a series of black-and-white photographs that capture the soul-stirring essence of Qawwali performances. Leena’s work offers a window into the fervour and devotion that pulsate through these Sufi spiritual gatherings, with each frame rich in narrative and emotion.

Her choice of monochrome echoes the timeless tradition of Qawwali, highlighting the contrast of light and shadow, much like the depth of the music itself. The photographs, while devoid of colour, are full of life, movement, and a palpable energy that invites the viewer to hear the music through the silence of the images.

view curator’s note
From a series of images across the country capturing the mood, energy, and fervor of Qawwali performances

Nizamuddin Dargah 1

A qawwali singer performs with expressive gestures alongside fellow musicians at a nighttime gathering

Nizamuddin Dargah 2

Qawwali performers sing passionately with harmoniums and microphones, surrounded by musicians, drawing in the engaged audience

Nizamuddin Dargah 3

Qawwali singers perform with harmoniums and microphones at a gathering, engaging the audience while musicians accompany them

Nizamuddin Dargah 4

Qawwali being performed by artists at a gathering, while passionately engaging with the audience through their song

Nizamuddin Dargah 5

Artists perform Qawwali at a gathering, passionately engaging with the audience through music and rhythmic singing

Nizamuddin Dargah 6

Qawwali singers perform with harmoniums and microphones, musicians accompanying them, as the audience is captivated by the energy

Nizamuddin Dargah 7

A group of qawwali musicians perform passionately with harmoniums and microphones, surrounded by an engaged audience

Nizamuddin Dargah 8

Qawwali singers, with musicians on harmoniums and microphones, perform passionately, captivating the audience with their energy

Nizamuddin Dargah 9

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Leena Kejriwal’s galleries are powerful visual narratives that illuminate the harsh realities of our world while inspiring change through art.