Gen Z’s fascination with ghazals is giving the genre a fresh audience
November 29, 2024
Scroll through Instagram, and you will spot ghazals everywhere — Faiz Ahmed Faiz over moody Supernatural edits or Mehdi Hasan capturing the heartbreak of Fleabag. But what is with the seemingly sudden resurgence? Is it just nostalgia or a cultural phenomenon?
Ghazals have found new life among younger audiences, thanks in part to technology. Platforms like Spotify and Instagram have globalised this classic genre, making it available beyond South Asia. A reel-worthy blend of poetic angst and haunting melodies is irresistible for a generation fluent in the language of emotions. These songs are custom-made for late-night reflections and wistful WhatsApp statuses, connecting you to the cultural roots of ghazal while living in a digital-first world.
The aesthetic of ghazals, with their introspective lyricism and timeless appeal, mirrors Gen Z’s need for emotional depth in an often chaotic world. In a fast-paced environment, where everything feels transient, ghazals give you the grounding of tradition and a sense of introspection.
And with Spotify Wrapped just around the corner, don’t be surprised if your top artists include Jagjit Singh or Abida Parveen alongside Taylor Swift and The Weeknd. Ghazals have become the go-to soundtrack for heartbreak and self-discovery, a testament to how this ancient art form remains timeless, blending seamlessly into the fast-paced lives of today’s listeners.