Ilahi Sufi Qawwali

Artist Profile

Ilahi Sufi Qawwali is an international all-female Qawwali ensemble dedicated to performing traditional Sufi devotional music. The group brings together women singers from different backgrounds to perform the classical Qawwali tradition, which has historically been dominated by male ensembles.

Founded through the work of Tahir Qawwal and Alexandra Amïe Lyons at the Samā School of Music, Ilahi combines traditional South Asian vocal arrangements, harmonium, rhythmic accompaniment and spiritual poetry. The ensemble aims to preserve the musical heritage of Qawwali while creating opportunities for women to perform this centuries-old art form. <Cite refs={["turn882017search2","turn882017search5"]}/>

Background and Formation

Ilahi Sufi Qawwali emerged from the musical and educational work of the Samā School of Music. Its creation was inspired by discussions about women's contributions to Sufi music and the limited opportunities available for women to perform Qawwali in its traditional ensemble format.

Tahir Qawwal helped develop the group and guide its musical training, while Alexandra Amïe Lyons co-founded the project and contributed to its wider artistic and educational vision.

The ensemble's work focuses on learning the poetry, melodies, rhythms and performance practices associated with traditional Qawwali. Its members have undergone intensive training to develop the vocal coordination and musical understanding required for group performances.

Career and Musical Journey

Ilahi's musical journey has included live performances, online videos and digital music releases. The group gained international attention through performances of traditional Qawwalis associated with renowned South Asian musicians, including Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.

Its performances introduce audiences to Sufi poetry and the devotional character of Qawwali while highlighting the role women can play in carrying this tradition forward.

The ensemble has also become part of a broader conversation about gender, cultural heritage and access to traditional musical education.

Members and Musical Guidance

Ilahi is a collective ensemble rather than a solo singer. Its performances have featured a group of women vocalists from different cultural backgrounds.

Tahir Qawwal is the group's principal musical guide and Qawwali teacher. He is associated with the international Qawwali group Fanna-Fi-Allah and has studied the tradition with established Qawwali masters.

Alexandra Amïe Lyons is a co-founder of Ilahi and is associated with the Samā School of Music's vocal education and artistic programmes.

The ensemble's membership and the number of performers may vary by performance. A complete, current list of individual female singers has not been reliably established in the public sources reviewed. 

Music Career and Performances

Ilahi performs traditional Sufi Qawwali, drawing on devotional poetry from India and Pakistan. The group uses ensemble vocals, repeated refrains, rhythmic clapping and traditional instrumental accompaniment to create the immersive sound associated with Qawwali.

Its repertoire includes works associated with established Qawwali artists as well as traditional devotional compositions. The group presents this music to audiences who may be familiar with Sufi traditions and to listeners discovering Qawwali for the first time.

Popular Qawwalis and Recordings

Some of Ilahi Sufi Qawwali's documented recordings include:

• Haq Ali Ali – A powerful devotional Qawwali associated with the repertoire of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.

• Tumhein Dillagi – A well-known Qawwali performed by the ensemble.

• Kali Kamalia – A release listed in the group's digital catalogue.

• Chaap Tilak – A performance of a celebrated Sufi composition associated with Amir Khusro.

• Mera Piya – A recording released with Tahir Qawwal.

• Orooj – A project listed on digital music platforms.

• Karlo Garje Shakar (Live) – A live single featuring Tahir Qawwal, released in November 2025.

These recordings demonstrate the group's focus on traditional Sufi poetry and devotional music. Release formats and dates can differ between streaming services. 

Latest Updates

Ilahi's latest release listed on Apple Music is “Karlo Garje Shakar (Live),” featuring Tahir Qawwal, released on November 3, 2025. Its catalogue also includes recordings such as “Mera Piya,” “Orooj,” “Chaap Tilak,” “Kali Kamalia,” “Tumhein Dillagi” and “Haq Ali Ali.”