Qawwali

Question

Some people who describe themselves as attached to the Chishti order hold qawwali (Sufi devotional singing with music) at their places in full swing, with the hand drum and harmonium. They say that since Khwaja Ajmeri listened to qawwali, they listen to it as well. They also say that qawwali is the most important component of the Chishti path; without it the Chishti path remains incomplete. Now the question is: did Khwaja Ajmeri really listen to qawwali with instruments, or give permission for it?

Answer

Holding a gathering with the hand drum, harmonium or any kind of musical instrument is not permissible according to the Shari‘a; the cover of the Chishti path is of no avail either. Attributing this to Hazrat Khwaja Ajmeri ﵀ is not established by any sound chain of transmission.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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