Indus Blues screening + Q&A & Live Music from Arieb Azahar

Embark on a remarkable journey through the heart of Pakistan with Indus Blues, the internationally award-winning documentary by acclaimed filmmaker Jawad Sharif.

Filmed across Pakistan's mountains, deserts and river plains, Indus Blues is a visually stunning and deeply moving exploration of the country's endangered musical heritage. The film follows extraordinary musicians and master craftsmen who are among the last custodians of ancient instruments and traditions, preserving cultural treasures that have echoed through the Indus region for centuries. As changing social attitudes, economic hardship and modernisation threaten their survival, these artists continue their struggle to keep their music, identity and history alive.

Winner of multiple international awards, Indus Blues is both a celebration of artistic resilience and a poignant reflection on what is lost when cultural traditions disappear. Through breath-taking cinematography and unforgettable performances, the film reveals a side of Pakistan rarely seen on screen.

Following the screening, acclaimed musician, writer and cultural producer Arieb Azhar, who features prominently in the film, joins us for a special Q&A exploring Pakistan's musical traditions and play an intimate acoustic set, after a short interval. 

About Arieb Azhar's acoustic set

Arieb is internationally renowned for his powerful interpretations of Sufi poetry and his ability to connect ancient wisdom with contemporary audiences. Drawing inspiration from the verses of mystic poets including Bulleh Shah and Shah Hussain, his music transcends boundaries of language, faith and geography, speaking directly to the universal human experience.

In this special live and unplugged performance, Arieb strips music back to its essence, creating an atmosphere of warmth, reflection and connection. Blending soulful vocals, acoustic melodies, storytelling and poetry, he invites audiences on a deeply personal journey through themes of love, longing, freedom, belonging and the search for meaning.

This is an opportunity to experience the transformative power of music in an up-close setting, where every song carries a story and every verse offers a moment of insight. Whether you are discovering Sufi music for the first time or are a lifelong admirer, expect an evocative and uplifting evening that celebrates our shared humanity through the timeless language of song.