Sufi music is not just a genre of music but a spiritual experience that touches the soul. It has been around for centuries and its origins can be traced back to the Delhi Sultanate in India. Despite being relatively unknown to many, Sufi music has gained popularity over time, with even legendary musicians like Bob Dylan considering themselves as part of this spiritual tradition.
Sufi music is there for ages but it also has many interesting facts that many people don’t know about. In this blog post, we explore some interesting facts about Sufi music that you may not have known before!
Reached India during Delhi Sultanate - Sufi music has its roots in the Islamic mystical tradition, and it is said to have arrived in India during the Delhi Sultanate. This was a period of Muslim rule over parts of northern India from the 13th to 16th centuries. During this time, many Sufi saints migrated to India and brought with them their spiritual beliefs and practices, including sufi music. They established khanqahs (Sufi lodges) throughout the country where they would gather for zikr (remembrance of God) accompanied by devotional songs and music. From there, it reached to other parts of the country and was adopted by people from all cultures and backgrounds.
Bob Dylan considered himself a Sufi singer - Bob Dylan, the legendary American singer-songwriter, is widely regarded as one of the greatest musicians of all time. Interestingly though, not many people know that he considered himself a Sufi singer. In fact, Dylan has often expressed his deep admiration for Sufism and its mystical teachings. He was greatly influenced by the poetry and philosophy of Rumi, who is considered one of the most renowned Sufi poets in history. This influence can be heard throughout his albums like "John Wesley Harding" and "Blonde on Blonde".
It has a relaxing effect - Sufi music has a magical effect on the mind and soul. It is not just about entertainment, but it also has a therapeutic impact on listeners. The soothing sound of Sufi music can be very relaxing, calming our restless minds and helping us to unwind after a long day. Listening to Sufi music can help you reduce stress levels and promote relaxation. The gentle rhythms of the songs have an incredibly calming effect on both body and mind, transporting you to another world altogether. The melodies in Sufi music are often repetitive, which allows your mind to focus solely on the present moment instead of worrying about what’s going to happen next. This kind of mindfulness practice helps relieve anxiety by bringing awareness back into the present.
