| In the 16th century the region that is now Pakistan entered a golden age of literature, architecture, and music. Aristocrats and scholars alike looked to India and Persia for inspiration, and with that came the great Muslim leader Lahore, who was responsible for the establishment of a profound Sufi (Islamic religious sect) tradition. During their gatherings, Sufis sang a type of devotional song known as qawwali. This rich vocal tradition is based on Indian and Pakistani classical melodies, semiclassical love songs, and melodic and free-rhythmic song poems. In modern times, qawwali musicians also perform for major secular events. Many, including this great performer Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, became popular recording artists as well. |