'Sufi Kalam', a type of devotional music, is characteristic of:
U.P. P.C.S. (Pre) 1994
A. Gujarat
B. Kashmir
C. Rajasthan
D. None of the above
Answer: Kashmir
Option b is the correct answer.
Sufi Kalam is a genre of devotional music that originated in the Kashmir Valley and is based on the teachings of Sufism, a mystical branch of Islam. Sufi Kalam is also known as Sufiana Mausiqi or Sufiana Kalaam, which means "the music of the Sufis" or "the words of the Sufis" respectively.
Sufi Kalam is sung in Kashmiri, Persian, and Arabic languages, and uses a variety of musical instruments such as santoor, sitar, sarangi, tabla, and dholak. Sufi Kalam is characterized by its melodic, rhythmic, and spiritual qualities, and aims to create a state of ecstasy and union with the divine. Sufi Kalam was introduced in Kashmir by the Persian Sufi saint Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani in the 14th century, who brought along with him 700 followers and musicians. He also influenced the conversion of many Kashmiris to Islam and established the Kubrawiya order of Sufism in the region.