In an age where authenticity is judged by one’s followers count first and work second, Radhika Sood Nayak reminds us of a Sufi saint who not only renounced the idea, but went on to shun his followers. “Madho Lal Hussain was a malamati sufi saint. He didn’t wish to be held in high esteem; for that would have led to worldly attachment,” the vocalist shares. This is perhaps why widespread recognition seems to have eluded the 16th century saint. Mela Chiraga’an, Nayak’s musical performance this weekend will aim to change that.

Radhika Sood Nayak