The imamate of one who listens to qawwali

Question

As nowadays qawwali (Sufi devotional singing with music) is performed at ‘urs gatherings (annual festivals at saints’ tombs on their death anniversaries), what is the ruling on the imam of a mosque taking part in them and listening, or approving of it? Can prayer be performed behind him?

Answer

As long as another man is available, one who listens to qawwali and takes part in the ‘urs should not be made imam.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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