Qawaali as Narrative Agency in the Play Bulha by Shahid Nadeem

This book aims at highlighting the functions and importance of music, in general, and of qawaali in theatre in particular. The technique of using qawaali in Bulha contributes to the whole theatrical process by working as a narrative agency: putting generalizing, humanizing, and harmonizing impact on the mind of the audience. It proves a spiritually uplifting experience for them and functions as a vehicle in conveying the meanings to the audience, keeping in view the socio-cultural background of the people of the Indo-Pak, where listening to qawaali means much more than mere entertainment. It actually performs as a link to educate the listeners, harmonize their souls and connect them to the theatrical experience. This study will highlight the importance of qawaali in theatre as it may have the potential to reform society by inculcating the spirit of oneness and humanity in the people. The researcher would proceed in the light of the theory of vibration by Hazrat Inayat Khan. The use of qawaali in theatre makes the whole theatrical process a transcultural, transregional, and trans-linguistic experience.