My Journey With Qavali
I grew up in Kabul, Afghanistan, where food was at the heart of every moment. We cooked, ate, and shared stories together – it was our way of life.
Moving to Delhi introduced me to Mughlai Indian cuisine, and I instantly fell in love. The rich curries, fragrant biryanis, and charcoal- grilled kebabs were unlike anything I’d tasted before. But it wasn’t just about the food.
I discovered Qawwali music and Sufi culture at Nizamuddin Auliya in Delhi.
Sitting in those gatherings, listening to the beautiful melodies, I felt something special. The music told stories that went back hundreds of years – from Persia to the Mughal courts to modern Delhi.
It connected me to history in a way I’d never experienced.
When I arrived in Birmingham, I knew I had to share this journey. And that’s how Qavali came to be.
This isn’t just a restaurant. It’s my story – Afghan warmth, Mughlai flavours, Qawwali music, and the spirit of bringing people together. When you eat here, you’re tasting a journey of food and memories and hopefully creating some of your own.
Faheem Badur, Founder
