From Sufi-Rock Fusion to ‘Sagarwali Qawwali’
Sagar Bhatia, a singer-songwriter from India, is gaining popularity for his unique blend of Sufi-rock music, which his fans have dubbed ‘Sagarwali Qawwali’. His music, which he describes as a combination of honesty, storytelling, and Sufi-rock energy, is resonating with a new generation of listeners on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, much like the work of other contemporary artists. Bhatia has a special connection to Dubai, a city he considers his “second home,” where he recently performed to an enthusiastic crowd.
The Journey of an Artist
Bhatia’s musical journey began with a Sufi-rock band, inspired by the sound of Coke Studio Pakistan. He wanted to merge the spiritual power of Sufi music with the energy of rock. He avoids using complicated poetic words in his lyrics, choosing instead to tell simple stories that his audience can relate to. He believes that this simplicity and honesty are the reasons his music connects with people so deeply.
Pain and Passion Fuel the Art
The singer is open about how a painful breakup fueled his passion for music. He recalls a former girlfriend who left him because he wasn’t “successful,” and that heartbreak became the driving force behind his artistic ambition. Despite his success and sold-out shows, Bhatia admits he still feels nervous before every performance, but once the music starts, he surrenders to the flow. He says this feeling of surrender is what makes his performances authentic and lasting.
