Chennai Prepares for an Evening of Mystical Harmony with Ruhaniyat Festival
This weekend, the vibrant city of Chennai will transform into a sanctuary of spiritual sound as it hosts the highly anticipated Ruhaniyat – Seeking The Divine festival. Scheduled for February 7 at the Madras Race Club in Guindy, this open-air evening promises a profound journey into the world of mystical and devotional music. The event is designed to weave together age-old traditions that eloquently speak of peace, surrender, and inner calm, offering attendees a rare escape from the cacophony of daily life.
A Celebration of Timeless Devotional Art Forms
Curators Mahesh Babu and Nandini Mahesh describe the festival as a vibrant celebration of devotional and mystical art forms that have transcended generations. "This festival is a heartfelt gathering of folk, Sufi, Baul, Qawwali, and other rich traditions, all deeply rooted in themes of unity, compassion, and spiritual seeking," they explain. The curators emphasize that the choice of an open-air venue in Chennai is intentional, as it fosters a deeper emotional and spiritual connection with the music, allowing the melodies to resonate under the open sky.
Relevance of Ancient Traditions in Modern Times
According to the curators, these artistic expressions remain profoundly relevant today. "They articulate the oneness of creation, the importance of compassion, the surrender of ego, and the transient nature of material life—ideas that continue to resonate powerfully in our contemporary world," they note. The evening is dedicated to preserving and showcasing traditions that have been passed down through generations, ensuring that the wisdom of saints, poets, and mystics remains alive and impactful.
Diverse Lineup of Performances
The festival will feature a captivating array of performances that highlight the diversity of spiritual music. Attendees can look forward to:
- Through the Eyes of Kabir, exploring the poetic insights of the revered saint.
- Chhattisgarhi Kapalik Pandvani, a traditional narrative art form from central India.
- Whispers Through Rainforests, evoking the natural serenity of forest melodies.
- The Melodic River Flows On, a symbolic representation of continuous spiritual flow.
- So Said the Saints of Maharashtra, celebrating the devotional heritage of the region.
- A powerful Qawwali presentation by the Hussain Brothers & Group, delivering soul-stirring Islamic devotional music.
This carefully curated lineup ensures a rich tapestry of sounds and stories, inviting everyone to experience a night of transcendental music and reflection.
