Qawwal Warsi Brothers: From Hyderabad, India
Recipient of the Patron's Award
Aga Khan Music Awards 2025
In partnership with Howard Assembly Room
Date: Sunday, 19 April 2026
Time: 7:45 PM
Venue: Howard Assembly Room, 32 New Briggate, Leeds, LS1 6NU
Tickets: Standard £25 | Under 30s £15
About the Concert
A rare and immersive musical experience brings together the Warsi Brothers, among India's most revered custodians of traditional Qawwali, for an evening of profound devotion and classical mastery.
Rooted in the centuries-old Sufi tradition, their performance draws on the sacred repertoire of Hazrat Amir Khusrau, blending poetry, rhythm, and soaring vocals into a powerful collective experience.
Led by brothers Naseer Ahmed Khan Warsi and Nazeer Ahmed Khan Warsi, the ensemble presents Qawwali in its most authentic form—where harmonium-led melodies, rhythmic clapping, and layered improvisations guide listeners towards a state of spiritual elevation.
Their celebrated interpretations include Main Nizam Se Naina Lagai Aayi Re, the ecstatic invocation Allah Hoo, and the timeless Chhaap Tilak Sab Chheeni and Zehaal-e-Miskeen. Equally renowned is their stirring rendition of Har Dam Mere Khwaja Ki Ek Shaan, capturing the devotional intensity and collective energy at the heart of the Qawwali tradition.
Trained in the distinguished Qawaal Bachhey lineage and shaped by the classical rigour of the Delhi Gharana, the Warsi Brothers embody a living musical tradition that has travelled from shrine courtyards to international concert stages while remaining deeply rooted in devotion.
Their artistry preserves and continues a heritage spanning more than seven centuries.
An Evening in Leeds
Located in the heart of Leeds city centre, the venue is surrounded by excellent dining options. Restaurants such as Tharavadu, Bundobust, and The Reliance offer great choices for dinner before the concert. For those wishing to continue their cultural evening, Leeds Art Gallery and The Henry Moore Institute are both within easy walking distance.
Getting There
The venue is in the heart of Leeds on New Briggate, with entry through the Opera North Box Office. It is well connected and easy to reach:
By Train: Leeds Train Station is within walking distance, making the venue accessible for visitors arriving from across the region.
By Bus: A wide range of bus routes stop close to the venue, with several major stops just a short walk away.
By Car: Numerous city centre car parks are located nearby, including large multistorey options and smaller local facilities. Many of these offer disabled parking. Limited on street parking can sometimes be found around the area and is typically free in the evening, though it fills quickly.
Whether arriving by foot, public transport or car, the Howard Assembly Room is easy to reach and well connected to the rest of the city.
Photo Credit: Sebastian Schutyser / AKMP
