Bradford: Allama Iqbal’s poem ‘Shakwah’ was presented in orchestral tunes

In the ongoing annual literature festival in the city of Bradford, United Kingdom, this time the famous poem “Shakwah” by poet Allama Muhammad Iqbal has been presented with orchestral tunes, which according to the organizers is the first attempt of its kind.

Shikoh’s orchestral score was composed by Indian-born composer Rochelle Ranjan and classical singer Abhi Sampa performed at St George’s Hall in Bradford with the Manchester Orchestra Group.

Rochelle and Abi are known for their fusion of subcontinental classical music with western tunes and have also performed qawwalis with orchestras.

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British citizens of Pakistani and Indian origin came in large numbers from Bradford, Manchester and surrounding areas to listen to Allama Iqbal’s ‘Shakwah’ in orchestral tunes and were mesmerized during the performance in the dark hall.

Abi Sampa is not familiar with Urdu or Persian. While talking to Independent Urdu, he said that he rehearsed the song well by understanding Allama Iqbal’s poem through a translator, but still he finds it difficult to understand some of the words.

According to composer Rochelle Ranjan, South Asians growing up in the UK are influenced by many types of music. When their ‘inherited’ music is mixed with Western music, then the music that is meant for those who grow up in Britain or other countries is born.