Faqeer

It is difficult to define India without using the words diversity and multicultural society. Since time immemorial, India has hosted a plethora of cultures, subcultures and within them hundreds of rituals. As beautiful as it is, a multicultural society comes with its own conflicts, often due to the gap between different cultures and geographic boundaries. But along with these arise some unique blends of cultures which are not seen elsewhere. One such case is from the state of Assam. A saint from the Sufi school of philosophy, Hazrat Meeran Shah came to the Sibsagar region in the 17th century. More commonly known as Ajan Fakir, his name is still known in the Brahmaputra Valley. Though a Muslim saint, he is known among and respected by both the Hindus and the Muslims of Assam. He forged unity among the different sections of society through his unique devotional songs in Assamese known as Jikirs — a blend of local folk songs, Quranic teachings and the philosophy of Srimanta Sankardev, with influences from the Geeta — which continue to be sung by Assamese people to this day. A tale of such an inclusive culture needs to be captured and retold; this documentary revolves around that diversity and harmony.