Konkani Music Gets Sufi Makeover by Young Goan Singer

Konkani, the traditional language of Goan music, has found a novel expression through the fusion of qawwali. Nawab Gaffar Shaikh, a 27-year-old singer with a background in geography, has successfully adapted Konkani lyrics into a Sufi song, a feat that recently impressed singer Sonia Shirsat. The idea originated from Cyril Fernandes, president of the All Goa Catholic Association, who suggested using Konkani words in a Sufi composition. Nawab, trained in Indian classical music, drew inspiration from M Boyer's song, selecting lyrics that express concern over Goa's future.

Shaikh set the chosen lyrics, which question the future of Goans if Goa is exploited, to the melody of Adnan Sami's qawwali 'Bhar Do Jholi'. This innovative musical rendition was performed at the Catholic Association event 'Goem ani Goemkarponn'. The performance carried a message of solidarity, urging Goans to unite for their common future. Despite initial skepticism about the reception of the adapted tune, the audience warmly appreciated Nawab's unique contribution to Konkani music.