Asian & Pacific Islander American Studies

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Founded in 2006, Riyaaz Qawwali performs the gripping devotional music known as Qawwali, a spiritual Sufi tradition. The ensemble, based in the United States, reflects the diversity of South Asia with members from India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, representing various religious backgrounds. Fluent in Urdu, Punjabi, Hindi, and English, the group has spent over 15 years sharing this 700-year-old tradition with Western audiences and South Asian diaspora communities. Supported by The City of Houston, Mid-America Arts Alliance, and national grantors, Riyaaz Qawwali has performed across the U.S., including at Harvard, Dartmouth, University of Chicago, the U.S. Military Academy, and internationally in Europe and South America.

In addition to their performances, Riyaaz Qawwali is known for fostering cross-cultural understanding through meaningful collaborations with jazz, blues, and classical musicians, further expanding the reach of Qawwali. They have been featured on NPR and in international media, and their work has been highlighted by cultural institutions for preserving and innovating within a 700-year-old tradition. Riyaaz Qawwali is also deeply engaged in civic participation, using their platform to promote voter education and community involvement among South Asian Americans. Through workshops, artist residencies, and educational programs, they share the rich history of Qawwali with students and audiences across the globe.

Sponsored by: Office of the Arts

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