Rahat-An Australian initiative bridging global cultures
The Rahat Project music CD is conceived as a musical tribute to the friendship, deep respect and affection for the late poet, Mr O. K. Rahat.
The music composed and arranged by A. R. Alvi breathes life into the poetry selections of Rahat’s lyrics, superbly sung and performed by artists from Australia and overseas. These songs capture the poet’s lifetime experience, describing the history of life-changing turbulent times during the post-WWII period, especially in the Indian subcontinent. The Rahat CD sets a new approach to assist inter-nation cooperation. The message is enhanced through of soothing music reminding Us the values of brotherhood and peace that once prevailed in communities during the pre-partition era.
Immediately after the Second World War, which claimed 50 million lives, the violent nature of the 1947 partition of a united India displaced 12 million people along religious lines. It created an atmosphere of hatred amongst ethnicities. This animosity is still heavily depriving subcontinent countries from maximising investment in bilateral and global trade, defence, and security.
Rahat’s poetry, influenced by the high and low moments, is laced with themes of childhood memories, childhood friends, backyards, dreams, lost friends, multiculturalism, peace and harmony. This talented Australian creative team has masterfully composed and performed Rahat’s poetic lyrics into melodic compilations. Rahat’s music tracks blend the vast Australian sounds fused with the music of the Indian subcontinent. The emotions inspired by the melodic tunes (Tarz) will bring listeners together to cement bonds, reject war and differences among each other and live in peace and harmony
