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South Asian Traditions of Peace and Inclusion: The Poetry and Songs of Kabir

Date: Wednesday, May 15, 2024 / Time: 2:30pm - 4:30pm EDT

Center: Asia Center

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In a joyful folk style, Prahlad Singh Tipanya and group sing the devotional poetry of Kabir and related mystic poets of Northern India and Pakistan. Kabir was a 15th-century mystic poet who has remained popular and influential for more than 500 years. Kabir’s poetry has been celebrated in Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, and other religious and nonreligious communities. Kabir challenged caste hierarchies and his poetic music remains inspiring for lower-income communities across South Asia — serving as an important vehicle in advocating for communal harmony, spirituality, social cohesion, and equality across all boundaries.

Performers sharing the poetry and songs of Kabir at a past performance. (Photo provided by Linda Hess)
Performers sharing the poetry and songs of Kabir at a past performance. (Photo provided by Linda Hess)

Musician Prahlad Singh Tipanya is renowned for his singing and interpretation of Kabir. Hailing from the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, Tipanya contributes to Kabir’s legacy by sharing this poetic music in both live performances and online.

Join USIP, in coordination with the Reed Society for the Sacred Arts, for an in-person performance of Kabir poetry from Prahlad Singh Tipanya and his ensemble. Translations of the musical poetry will be made available during the concert by scholar and translator of Kabir, Dr. Linda Hess.

Speakers and Performers

Tamanna Salikuddin, moderator
Director of South Asia Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace

Dr. Linda Hess, translator
Emerita Professor, Stanford University

Prahlad Singh Tipanya
Vocals and Tambura

Devnarayan Saroliya
Vocals and Violin

Ajay Tipaniya 
Vocals and Dholak

Dharmendra Tipaniya
Vocals and Harmonium

Priyal Maheshwari
Vocals And Manjira

Vivek Virani
Vocals, Flute, and Translation

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