Abida Parveen Shares Concepts of Spirituality in Poetry

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Famous artiste Abida Parveen combined recitation of poetry and song rendition with detailed explanation of sufi concepts to deliver one of her rare lectures, leading to a standing ovation by an enthralled audience.

She was addressing a packed auditorium on the topic of "Spiritualism" under Aga Khan University's Special Lecture Series. Abida presented poetry and anecdotes to explain sufi traditions in the light of her own experiences.

Abida shared in detail her understanding of the sufi poetry which she usually sings, and revealed to the audience the spiritual ecstasy which is the driving force behind her spirited performances.

She explained to the audience that spirituality lies within a person who only needs to delve deeper into himself to find his connection to God. She repeatedly referred to the concept in Sufi tradition that human soul was created from the divine light, therefore man strives to seek reunification with the basis of his existence.

Stressing upon the virtues of humility, she elaborated upon the concept that humility was God's gift to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and said that humility is the weapon with which one can defeat the ego. Discussing the role of the medium in spiritual tradition, she said that the connection between God and creation was forged by the dargah - the shrine.

Abida recited from stalwarts of the sufi tradition like Rumi, Amir Khusro, Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai, Bhagat Kabir and anecdotes from Islamic history. A question and answer session followed the lecture.

AKU's Special Lecture Series programme is a part of its policy of encouraging broad-based education. Eminent personalities are invited to share, reflect and engage in meaningful dialogue. Past speakers have included H.R.H. Prince Hasan of Jordan; Professor Stanley Wolpert (author of 'Jinnah of Pakistan'), Ambassador Dr Maleeha Lodhi, art educator Salimah Hashmi, renowned poet Ahmad Faraz, acclaimed artist Gulgee and writer Karen Armstrong.

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