Shodikhon Mabatkulov is a talented Daf player in the Badakshan Ensemble. The characteristics of south-eastern Tajikistan have nourished the preservation of traditional culture and devotional song, mystical music, and dance have flourished. Concert programme showcases devotional songs, mystical music, and dance traditions of the Pamir. Members of the Ensemble present a repertory that includes maddoh – devotional songs that embody the spiritual power known as baraka, laments called falak, and traditional popular songs, called khalqi, as well as rich symbolism of Pamiri dance. Lyrics of Rumi come alive in verse admired among many cultures and that provided the inspiration for the Mevlevi (“Whirling”) Dervishes.