The Barbican continues its commitment to platforming South Asian voices with a one-night-only event that speaks directly to the UK’s richly diverse diaspora.
On 3 October, audiences will be transported across borders and generations by the distinctive sounds of Ustad Noor Bakhsh, a revered master of the benju (a traditional Baloch string instrument), whose story has inspired artists and audiences alike. Bakhsh’s late-blooming global career is a testament to the enduring power of traditional music, played with soul and spiritual devotion.
Also performing are Jaubi, the instrumental collective from Lahore blending Sufi philosophy with jazz improvisation and hip-hop influences. Their performances move seamlessly from raga to rhythm, rooted in emotion and experimentation.
North London’s own Amrit Kaur brings a diasporic voice into the fold—her Punjabi folk-infused vocals paired with sarangi instrumentation have captivated festival stages and spiritual gatherings alike. Her music explores identity, healing, and intergenerational wisdom.
Presented by Dialled In, a leading South Asian arts collective, the event reflects the evolving tapestry of South Asian music—from rural Balochistan to urban Britain.
Get your tickets now: https://www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on/2025/event/ustad-noor-bakhsh
WRITTEN BY: Nura Arooj
