“We have the chance to live in a rich society where there are different cultures. We should seize this opportunity to learn from one another.” This wise statement comes from Samah Ghoora, a member of the Mehfil-E-Naat association. It is in this frame of mind that the association has organised a whole series of programmes with the world-famous Naatkhan, Qari Syed Muhammad Fasihuddin Soharwardy, all over the island during the month of September. If you’ve missed them, you still have the chance to see one at Curepipe – Town Hall tomorrow at 9 pm.

Samah considers that the programme is a “cultural activity with a spiritual dimension”. Since the recitals are open to the public, they are not held in mosques: “We wanted anyone interested to feel comfortable to come and see the artist perform.” Of course, the origin of the recital is religious but it could be the perfect occasion for those wishing to discover Islam to come and share this cultural event.

The Naat is to chant and expose the qualities of the Prophet of Islam Mohammed in melodious and artistically arranged verses upon which the audience keeps meditating throughout the recital, thus securing immense spiritual solace and tranquillity.

<B>Communicate with God</B>

Despite his great talent, which leads to consider the Pakistani Naatkhan as an artist, the latter feels more like a religious man. Holder of a LLB and a degree in journalism and political science, he has been chanting Naats since he was five year-old. “I was both a professional during the day and a Naatkhan at night during quite a long period, but then I had to make a choice. I chose to be a Naatkhan.”

He thinks that his talent is a “gift from God”. This activity allows him, and his public, to get closer to God. His interaction with the public during his one-hour performance is incredible. “In fact, praying is the best way to get as close as possible with God in any religion. As Naats are a message of peace, love, it is a way of communicating with God.”

The most amazing is that his family is a descendant of the prophet. “I believe that my talent is a blessing that the prophet gave me.” With his 200 recordings, the Naatkhan is undoubtedly the most famous the world has ever known. He has been travelling around 17 countries since he began his career and his recordings can be found all over the planet.

Mauritius has been fortunate to welcome him six times. This year, the visit of the Naatkhan is even more special as it coincides with a special event in the Islamic calendar: in one month, the Ramadan – the fast – starts. Will he be here next year? “Inch Allah,” he answers with a modest smile. If the Peermamode family welcomes him once again...