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I am silent in anticipation, as adrenaline rushes through me as a music lover. I delight at the opportunity of listening to original compositions. It is for this reason that when the song Mawla Mera Ishq Tu is shared with me, I eagerly click on the link to experience the musical journey expressed through this beautiful composition.

In his remarks at the inaugural Aga Khan Music Awards in 2019, Mawlana Hazar Imam said, “after all, art is a matter of humanity just as much as it is a matter of identity.” Ismaili youth across the globe have been embracing art in this very spirit, to express, appreciate, and propel their emotions, thoughts, and passions in an outstanding way.

Art has often played a powerful role in shaping society’s consciousness, especially in times of crisis. Some of the most touching moments during the early days of the pandemic were people singing or playing music for their neighbours, drawing their communities out on balconies and rooftops to share the moment. Ismaili artists from various countries share their stories of how Covid-19 impacted them and how they adapted to the new normal.

After months of excitement, anticipation, and a journey of over 6,000 miles from Salamiyah, Syria, Nuha Alaizouki and Wassim Alhammwy are finally able to call the Aga Khan Academy in Maputo, Mozambique their new home.

The Ismaili is pleased to present New Perfume by the Canadian Artist Collective. The lyrics draw on the symbolism of fresh fragrance to invoke feelings of hope, excitement, and renewal as we look ahead to a new year.