Musavvari: Colours of Tradition

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In the heart of Lahore, classical music and art come alive when Murad Khan Mumtaz and Zohaib Hassan breathe life into the ancient tradition of Ragamala.

Musavvari: Colours of Tradition follows the creation of Ragamala paintings inspired by Raga Basant, blending miniature art, classical music, and the spirit of spring in a vibrant celebration of South Asia’s cultural heritage.

Synopsis
Ragamala is an artistic tradition of miniature paintings that bring music, colour, and mood to life on canvas. Musavvari : Colours of Tradition explores Ragamala through the creation of a series of paintings inspired by Raga Basant, bringing together the worlds of visual art and classical music.
Set in the historic city of Lahore, the documentary draws on the city’s rich artistic heritage. Its streets and landmarks, including the Wazir Khan Mosque, provide a vibrant backdrop for the narrative, showcasing the beauty and history of this cultural hub.
The film follows painter Murad Khan Mumtaz as he combines the timeless techniques of miniature painting with contemporary interpretations. Ragamala paintings visualize musical modes, or ragas, evoking distinct moods, colours, and times of day or year. Murad’s work explores the symbolic and poetic elements that define this tradition.
Sarangi nawaz (player) Zohaib Hassan brings music to the story, performing and interpreting Raga Basant, a melody that reflects the emotions of spring, joy, renewal, and a touch of sadness. His music adds depth and texture to the narrative, connecting the audience to the soul of South Asian classical music.
Chand Khan, a master of the Sham Chaurasi and Patiala Gharana traditions, offers further insights into Raga Basant. He describes how the raga’s notes carry a hint of sadness, but its essence symbolizes joy and comes to life in the right setting, much like the vibrant colours of spring.
With vivid cinematography, intimate interviews, and behind-the-scenes moments, Musavvari captures the intricate process of creating Ragamala paintings. It celebrates the tradition’s use of colour and symbolism to express the moods and melodies of classical music, presenting it as a historical artifact and a living, evolving art form.
Musavvari is a journey through art, music, and culture, bringing together sound, colour, and the human emotion.
Director & Producer        

Jawad Sharif

Year of release

2025