Afghan Folk & Qawwali Night

Afghan Folk & Qawwali Night is a unique live music event celebrating Afghanistan's musical heritage alongside the devotional traditions of South Asian qawwali. Presented as part of the UK Jumeraat Jaam Series by Insaan Arts, the programme offers audiences an opportunity to experience music rooted in cultural memory, spirituality, and storytelling.

The evening features acclaimed Afghan vocalist Yusuf Mahmoud, whose repertoire draws from traditional Afghan folk music, Sufi poetry, and contemporary interpretations of classical melodies. Performing in Dari and Pashto, Mahmoud’s music reflects themes of love, longing, resilience, devotion, and identity, creating an emotional connection between performer and audience.

Joining him is tabla artist Ariz Mahmoud, whose dynamic rhythmic accompaniment enriches the performance with depth, energy, and improvisational expression. Together they present a musical journey that moves between reflective folk traditions and uplifting devotional sounds.

The programme also includes a live qawwali experience inspired by the centuries-old Sufi tradition of musical expression. Combining powerful vocals, rhythmic intensity, poetry, and audience interaction, qawwali remains one of South Asia’s most celebrated forms of spiritual music. The performance creates an atmosphere that is both intimate and immersive, inviting listeners to engage with themes of faith, humanity, and shared cultural heritage.

Designed for both dedicated world music enthusiasts and first-time listeners, Afghan Folk & Qawwali Night offers a rare opportunity to experience authentic live traditions in an intimate setting, fostering cultural understanding and artistic exchange through music.

Event Details

Event: Afghan Folk & Qawwali Night

Series: Jumeraat Jaam – UK Music Series

Presented By: Insaan Arts

Date: 19 June 2026

Time: Doors Open 7:30 PM

Venue: Karamel Club, Wood Green, London

Address: Chocolate Factory 2, 4 Coburg Road, London N22 6UJ, United Kingdom

Artists:

• Yusuf Mahmoud (Vocals)
• Ariz Mahmoud (Tabla)

Genres: Afghan Folk Music, Qawwali, Sufi Music, World Music

Languages: Dari, Pashto

Entry Requirements: Open to all