Renowned Pakistani Qawwal Ijaz Sher Ali Khan has said that Qawwali is an integral part of the spiritual, cultural, and civilizational heritage of the subcontinent.

In an exclusive interview with Radio Pakistan Lahore Correspondent Ghulam Haider, he said that proper training of the younger generation, along with institutional patronage, is essential for the promotion and preservation of this rich artistic tradition.

Ijaz Sher Ali Khan said he is committed to carrying forward the artistic legacy of his father, Ustad Sher Ali Khan, and his uncle, Ustad Mehr Ali Khan.

He said that Qawwali is not merely a musical genre but a powerful medium for conveying the message of love, peace, tolerance, and humanity as preached by the great Sufi saints.

Ijaz Sher Ali Khan said his family has performed Qawwali in Pakistan as well as in several countries around the world, consistently showcasing Pakistan's rich cultural identity on the international stage.

He said the true essence of Qawwali lies in its foundation of classical music, Sufi poetry, rigorous practice, and the traditional teacher-student relationship.

He said that, given the growing interest of young people in contemporary music, Qawwali should also be presented in a fresh and engaging manner. However, he emphasized that its traditional foundations, rhythmic structure, and spiritual sanctity must remain intact.

Ijaz Sher Ali Khan said Faisalabad has remained an important centre of Qawwali and Sufi music, producing legendary artists including Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Ustad Mubarak Ali Khan, Ustad Sher Ali Khan, and Ustad Mehr Ali Khan, who introduced this art form to audiences across the world.

He urged the government and cultural institutions to establish dedicated training centres for the preservation and promotion of Qawwali, enabling young artists to receive formal training and carry forward Pakistan's rich cultural heritage.