Sonic Swirl & Silence was a new commission for Bradford 2025 supported by British Council and launched at BD:IS LIT 2025.

We explored the mysticism of Sufi Islam at Sonic Swirl & Silence – a mesmerising installation created by Pakistani musician Zohaib Kazi and presented as part of BD is Lit.

Sonic Swirl & Silence was a light and sound installation created from images and recordings of some of the most important Sufi sites in Pakistan – including the shrines dedicated to Sufi saints Lal Shahbaz Qalandar and Laki Shah Sadar, and to the revered Sufi poet Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai. This atmospheric installation introduced us to the devout Sufis who journey to these sacred sites, the music and dance that’s such a vital part of Sufism, and the extraordinary power of this deeply spiritual practice.

The 15-minute preview was followed by a conversation between artist Zohaib Kazi and Bradford 2025 Creative Director Shanaz Gulzar to take a deep delve into Zohaib’s inspiration, creative practice and vision for Sonic Swirl & Silence.