MEHFIL SERIES:
A Musical Evening of Raga, Kharabat, and Ghazal Traditions
Presented by The Bandish Network
ABOUT THE SHOW
The Bandish Mehfil Series offers an intimate musical gathering rooted in the timeless traditions of South and Central Asian classical music. In this special evening, Afghan vocalist and composer Aqil Sharifi presents a program of raga, Kharabat repertoire, and Persian ghazals drawn from the rich musical heritage of Afghanistan.
Accompanied by the resonant tones of live sitar by Gurjit Sikri and the rhythmic dialogue of tabla by Hriday Buddhdev, Sharifi’s expressive voice guides audiences through a tapestry of melody, poetry, and improvisation. His performance reflects a lineage that connects Afghan classical music with the wider Indo-Persian traditions, where music becomes both storytelling and spiritual reflection.
Rooted in poetic expression and refined classical training, Sharifi’s interpretations reveal the emotional depth of Persian verse and the nuanced beauty of raga-based musical forms. In the close and immersive atmosphere of the mehfil setting, audiences experience music as it has been shared for generations, as a living conversation between artist, tradition, and listener.
Through the Bandish Mehfil Series, these intimate gatherings celebrate the enduring vitality of heritage arts, creating space for artists and audiences to meet in a spirit of listening, learning, and cultural connection.
ABOUT THE ARTISTS
Afghan vocalist Aqil Sharifi presents an intimate evening of raga, Kharabat song, and Persian ghazals, accompanied by live sitar by Gurjit Sikri and tabla by Hriday Buddhdev. Part of the Bandish Mehfil Series, curated by Nina Buddhdev.
The Bandish Mehfil Series is curated by cultural arts specialist Nina Buddhdev, whose work through the Bandish Network supports historically informed heritage arts and intercultural artistic dialogue. The series presents intimate gatherings that honour classical traditions while fostering meaningful cultural connection between artists and audiences.
SINGLE TICKETS ON SALE!
All Tickets $33Â
BOX OFFICE: 604.927.6555 | Open Monday – Saturday, 12 – 5PM
This is a co-presentation organized by The Bandish Network and Nina Buddhdev.
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