Sabri Brothers

The Sabri Brothers were a prominent Sufi qawwali ensemble associated with the Chishti tradition, widely recognized for their contribution to the global dissemination of qawwali music. Originating from Kalyana (East Punjab, British India) and later based in Karachi, Pakistan, the group was led by Ghulam Farid Sabri and Maqbool Ahmed Sabri.

Formed in the mid-1950s, the ensemble initially performed at Sufi shrines and private gatherings before gaining recognition through recordings and live performances. Their early recordings were released under EMI Pakistan, and their repertoire included widely known qawwalis such as “Tajdar-e-Haram,” “Bhar Do Jholi Meri,” and “Balaghal Ula Bi Kamaalihi.”

The Sabri Brothers were among the first qawwali groups to perform internationally, including tours across the United States, Europe, and other regions. They performed at venues such as Carnegie Hall (New York) in 1975 and participated in major cultural festivals worldwide. Their recordings were also included in the UNESCO Collection of Traditional Music.

Over the decades, the group collaborated with various institutions, appeared in films and television, and contributed to charity concerts and cultural exchanges. Following the passing of key members, including Ghulam Farid Sabri (1994), Maqbool Ahmed Sabri (2011), and Mehmood Ghaznavi Sabri (2021), the ensemble concluded its journey, while its musical legacy continues through disciples and family members.

The Sabri Brothers remain a significant reference point in the history of Sufi music and qawwali performance traditions.