As most of humanity remains indoors to combat the lethality that has sprung itself upon us, I bring to you, this week, one of the truest flavours of the subcontinent; two voices that transcend borders and the divisiveness they engender. By all measurable yardsticks, Abida Parveen and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan are a treat in themselves. In this rare opportunity, Coke Studio presents them together and the result is nothing short of blissful magic.
Composed in the 14th century by the Sufi mystic Amir Khusro for his mentor Hazrat Nizaummidin Awliyah (whose shrine in Delhi hosts otherworldly qawwalis every Thursday), Chaap Tilak is written in braj, a language that was widely spoken in pre-19th century north-west India but has largely been given up in favour of Hindustani. The sentiment in the ghazal remains as relevant six centuries later it was written: of losing oneself in inexplicable love and devotion.
In these uncertain times, a sense of faith resonates in us all, giving us strength and succour with which we can ride through this. In the hope that this week is a spiritual one for you, I hope you enjoy Chaap Tilak.
You can learn more about Abida Parveen & Rahat Fateh Ali Khan here:
About the curator - Aarushi Aggarwal
Aarushi is a senior at college and is majoring in history and international relations. Her music library is as much home to jazz as it is to Indian classical. Her passion for discovering new music far supersedes other equally important things like finishing assignments on time. She loves dogs, coffee and chocolate.