All roads led to the new cultural landmark and entertainment destination Kalagram, Garden Of Five Senses on February 9, 2019 as music virtuosos A. R. Rahman and Sami Yusuf advocated world peace and inclusion in their individualistic musical style at the second edition of India’s foremost traveling global Sufi festival, The Sufi Route, organised by Friday Music Project in association with Delhi Tourism. EVENTFAQS in an exclusive chat with Gagan Takyar of Friday Music Project discovered what was new this edition.
Sufi Route was a gigantic hit in its previous edition what was that one thing which made it different this time?
The Sufi Route was bigger and better than its last edition in every sense. But the one thing that made the difference this year was it was the platform where Sami Yusuf, who is an international sensation, chose to have his very first performance in the country. That put us on the international festival maps.
The Versatility of an artist line up is the essence of a show, How did you choose these artists to add more value to the experience?
We have always maintained that we are an undiluted Sufi music festival, being true to our core helps us and the artists enhance the experience for our audiences. Everyone who is a part of The Sufi route subscribes to a similar value system, making it seamless, thus an enriching encounter altogether.
Focusing on Technological perspective what new was added in terms of enhancing the experience this year?
No experience is complete without the coalescence of technology. We have always worked towards creating an event which is in perfect sync with the latest technical enhancements. This year we had over 4000 sq feet of LED on the stage as part of the set. Our partners Harman were instrumental in providing us with one of their most advanced PA systems the VTX A12. The complete seating arena had the surround sound experience.
The one thing that you are the most proud about at The Sufi Route?
The Sufi Route with all that grandeur and glory is also India’s first and only all accessible concert. The Deaf and hard of hearing community has been an integral part of the festival since its inception. We work very closely with them to make this an amazing experience for the people who can feel music through the vibrations even when they cannot hear it. This year there were 6 interpreters who tirelessly rehearsed the lyrics of the songs and performed them for about 25 specially abled guests. This is something that we are very proud of yet very humbled by at the same time.
