Qawwali has been an enduring art form that crosses boundaries and generations, captivating audiences with its rhythmic devotion. Icons like Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Sabri Brothers, and Aziz Mian have brought this Sufi tradition to global prominence, while contemporary artists like Rahat Fateh Ali Khan continue to carry the torch.
Today, Gen-Z is embracing Qawwali with renewed enthusiasm. Viral performances by digital-age artists such as Vylom are gaining popularity on Instagram and TikTok. Among those modernizing Qawwali for young listeners is Sagar Bhatia.
Photo by Shihab/KT
This singer-songwriter has created a unique style by blending honesty, storytelling, and Sufi-rock energy into what’s now known as ‘Sagarwali Qawwali’. Recently performing in Dubai, a city he considers his second home, he reflects on his journey and the authenticity that fuels his art.
Delhi roots, Dubai home
Born in Agra and raised in Delhi, Sagar recalls the chaotic yet comforting city before moving to Noida. “My nana (maternal grandfather) lived in Jamuna Park, East Delhi, when it was underdeveloped,” he says. “I spent my life in Delhi before moving to Noida. Despite the hustle, it’s beautiful and peaceful for me.”
This balance of chaos and peace also defines his relationship with Dubai. “Dubai isn’t just a tourist destination for me. It’s home. I have a house here. Every visit rejuvenates me. Despite the heat, there’s serenity and beauty. I can enjoy a solitary day and then explore the vibrant nightlife.”
The first time on a Dubai stage
Sagar’s debut in Dubai was during Diwali. At the time, the city’s music scene wasn’t ready for a full-scale Qawwali night. “In India, I performed with big setups and audiences. Here, I played for about 300 people, mostly Pakistanis. I thought it was just a show, but the response was overwhelming, leading to another booking.”
Reflecting on his musical journey, Sagar shares, “I started with a Sufi rock band when Coke Studio Pakistan was popular. I was captivated by Qawwali and Sufi music and wanted to mix it with rock. While Bollywood was always present, the magic for me was in the Sufi-rock fusion.”
Photo by Shihab/KT
This fusion led to his signature ‘Sagarwali Qawwali’, now synonymous with his name. However, he resists labeling it as just an “act”.
“People think it’s my signature act, but it’s more than that. That connection is why it resonates. I could use complex poetry, but I choose simplicity. Saying, ‘Tumne aaj mujhe block kiya hai, kal search karoge’ (You’ve blocked me now but will search for me later) is relatable even to a child. Simplicity makes it feel personal.”
Pain as the seed
Art often finds depth in heartbreak, and Sagar embraces this aspect of his story. He candidly shares about a girlfriend who left because he wasn’t “successful.”
“She wanted someone her parents deemed settled,” he explains. “I was a struggling musician. The breakup hurt but fueled my passion. I vowed that one day she’d pay to watch me on stage. That pain became passion, which turned into artistry.”
Despite years of successful performances, Sagar still finds the stage daunting. “Before each performance, my heart races. I worry about having nothing to say. My palms sweat, my mind spins. But once the music starts, everything flows. I surrender to the moment. I choose the first song, and then God takes over.”
This surrender, he believes, connects him to a higher power. “Authenticity is key. You can’t fake it. If you do, the applause is short-lived. But when it’s genuine, the same shayari from 2022 can still touch hearts today.”
When asked why he returns to Dubai, Sagar states, “The love here feels like family. Music knows no borders, and the appreciation is universal. But the warmth in Dubai is unique. My audience here has given me so much, and I cherish it everywhere I go.”
As long as authenticity endures, he believes his music will too. “As long as there are real stories to tell, ‘Sagarwali Qawwali’ will thrive.”
