Episodes

  • Stories That Shape Us: Saima Hussain on Libraries, Identity, and Heritage

    Stories That Shape Us: Saima Hussain on Libraries, Identity, and Heritage
    Nov 5 2024
    In this episode, we sit down with writer, editor, and librarian Saima Hussain. From her book The Arab World Thought of It: Inventions, Innovations and Amazing Facts, to the anthology The Muslimah Who Fell to Earth, Saima's work uncovers the forgotten contributions and personal stories of Muslim cultures. She shares her journey from Pakistan to Canada, her reflections on the power of storytelling, and how libraries serve as spaces for connection, learning, and equality. Saima also discusses the importance of oral histories, the complexities of identity, and her mission to make knowledge accessible to everyone, especially through her work with young people in library spaces. To fill out our listener survey, go to agakhanmuseum.org/tbhsurvey. If you enjoyed this episode and want to learn more, go to agakhanmuseum.org/thisbeinghuman.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    34 mins
  • Finding Joy and Connection in Storytelling with Marguerite Richards

    Finding Joy and Connection in Storytelling with Marguerite Richards
    Oct 22 2024
    In this episode, we sit down with Marguerite Richards, editor of The Ordinary Chaos of Being Human, an anthology of personal stories from around the world. Marguerite opens up about her love for helping writers bring their visions to life, the intimate relationship between editor and author, and the power of memoir in understanding our shared humanity. We also explore themes of identity, home, and connection across cultures. Listen in for an inspiring conversation about storytelling and the human experience. Learn more about Marguerite's work at margueriterichards.com. To fill out our listener survey, go to agakhanmuseum.org/tbhsurvey. If you enjoyed this episode and want to learn more, go to agakhanmuseum.org/thisbeinghuman.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    36 mins
  • The Legacy of Qawwali with Bilal Chishty

    The Legacy of Qawwali with Bilal Chishty
    Oct 8 2024

    Join us as we journey into the heart of Qawwali with Bilal Chishty, a descendent of the great Chishti Sufi lineage and a musician devoted to preserving this sacred art form. In this episode, Bilal shares his stories of learning under Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, reflects on the history of Qawwali, and discusses the delicate balance between maintaining tradition and embracing modernity. We explore the profound spiritual power of Sufi music and Bilal’s mission to keep this timeless tradition alive.

    Listen in for an inspiring conversation on music, mysticism, and the search for divine love.

    Follow Bilal’s work on Instagram @dhruvsangarimusic, or listen to his music on Spotify by searching Dhruv Sangari.


    To fill out our listener survey, go to agakhanmuseum.org/tbhsurvey.

    If you enjoyed this episode and want to learn more, go to agakhanmuseum.org/thisbeinghuman.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    41 mins
  • Gardens of the Soul: Emma Clark on the Sacred Art of Islamic Gardens

    Gardens of the Soul: Emma Clark on the Sacred Art of Islamic Gardens
    Sep 24 2024

    In this episode of This Being Human we sit down with Emma Clark, an expert in Islamic garden design, to explore her journey from a childhood surrounded by English gardens to her spiritual awakening through Islamic art and Sufism. Emma reflects on her time at the Royal College of Art, where she studied under the renowned Keith Critchlow, who introduced her to the beauty and meaning within Islamic art. She discusses how Sufism became her path to Islam, how it transformed her understanding of beauty and the natural world, and how she uses her designs to reflect paradise on Earth.

    Learn more about Emma’s work and her philosophy of garden design at emma-clark.com


    To fill out our listener survey, go to agakhanmuseum.org/tbhsurvey.

    If you enjoyed this episode and want to learn more, go to agakhanmuseum.org/thisbeinghuman.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    27 mins
  • Art Fazil's Revival of the Folk Music of Nusantara

    Art Fazil's Revival of the Folk Music of Nusantara
    Sep 10 2024
    Join us for a captivating conversation with Art Fazil, as we explore his journey through the rich cultural tapestry of Nusantara. Celebrating 30 years of his self-titled debut album, Art shares insights into his timeless music, the influence of Malay folk traditions, and his unique blend of global sounds. Dive into the history of Nusantara, the significance of traditional songs like "Rasa Sayang," and the impact of spirituality on Art's work. This episode offers a deep dive into Art's role as a cultural ambassador and educator, preserving and innovating the musical heritage of Southeast Asia. Listen and be inspired by Art's stories, reflections, and his commitment to creating meaningful art.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    32 mins
  • Kazem Abdullah: Conducting Change in Classical Music

    Kazem Abdullah: Conducting Change in Classical Music
    Aug 27 2024
    In this episode, we delve into the life and career of Kazem Abdullah, exploring his path from a clarinetist to a prominent conductor. We will discuss his notable achievements, including his tenure as Generalmusikdirektor in Aachen, Germany, and his pioneering work in bringing contemporary and diverse repertoires to traditional concert halls. Kazem's work with American operas and his efforts to expand the American repertoire will be highlighted, showcasing his dedication to both classical and modern music. You can learn more about Kazem's work at kazemabdullah.com To fill out our listener survey, go to agakhanmuseum.org/tbhsurvey If you enjoyed this episode and want to learn more, go to agakhanmuseum.org/thisbeinghuman

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    33 mins
  • Nasir Sirikhan’s Philosophy of Dance

    Nasir Sirikhan’s Philosophy of Dance
    Aug 9 2024

    Nasir Sirikhan and Abdul-Rehman Malik discuss Nasir's viral wedding dance video and the joy and connection it brought to millions of viewers. They talk about the origins of QuickStyle and how Nasir, Suleiman, and Bilal met and formed their dance crew. Nasir shares the emotional journey of performing and the camaraderie among the group. They also discuss the influence of hip-hop and their love for music in their dance style.

    Nasir Sirikhan, a member of the dance crew Quick Style, discusses his background growing up in Oslo as a Thai Pakistani kid and the diverse cultural influences he experienced. He explains how Quick Style Studio was born and how they decided to build community by teaching dance to young students. Nasir Sirikhan discusses the power of dance to connect people and break down barriers. He shares his experiences of witnessing love and unity in different cultures and how it has shaped his perspective. Nasir also reflects on his personal growth as a dancer and artist, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and finding his own unique style. He describes dance as a spiritual practice that allows him to connect with his emotions and find strength and hope in difficult times. Nasir and Abdul-Rehman Malik discuss the significance of movement in human expression and the role of dance in bringing joy and inspiration to the world.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    34 mins
  • Faig Ahmed Melts Tradition with His Mind-Bending Rugs

    Faig Ahmed Melts Tradition with His Mind-Bending Rugs
    Jul 30 2024

    In this episode we sit down with renowned contemporary artist Faig Ahmed, celebrated for his revolutionary approach to traditional Azerbaijani carpet weaving. Faig’s work transcends cultural and artistic boundaries, creating a unique dialogue between the ancient and the modern.

    We delve into his artistic journey, exploring the inspirations and creative processes behind his avant-garde masterpieces. Faig shares how he deconstructs and reimagines centuries-old patterns, blending historical craftsmanship with contemporary artistry to challenge our perceptions of tradition and modernity.

    Join us for an enlightening conversation as we uncover the profound cultural significance of Faig’s work and the message he hopes to convey through his transformative pieces.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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    31 mins