Dhamaal - pakistani whirling and dancing ceremony
In Sufi shrines in Pakistan, such as the Lal shrine in Sehwan, Sindh, the practice of Sufi whirling is called Dhamaal and is performed to honor Sufi saints or qalandars. Unlike the Turkish practice, Dhamaal may be practiced by any devotee. Dhamaal is usually preceded by the beating of a drum (naghara) and the ringing of bells, as pilgrims raise their hands, start to skip steps standing at one place, and gradually work into a trance as the beats get faster. They regard the rhythm of the drum to evoke the rhythm of the creation of the universe, as illustrated in the concept of Kun Fyakun. All images are available for royalty-free commercial or editorial licensing. Please check the “Licensing” page or contact me: pavel.gospodinov@me.com!
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