In GN Qazi’s view, the theme of the current oeuvre is self actualisation or awakening and the bell has been used as a symbol for giving an awakening call. Bells are used for call to prayers in churches, Malangs in South Asia wear them around their necks and wrists and they are part of Hindu religious rituals as well.
Islam was spread in this part of the world by sufi saints and it evolved under local cultural and religious influences. It is different from Islam practiced in the Arab world. Sufism is all inclusive and its mystical and musical form entices people from all religions, caste, creed, colour, ethnicity etc and binds them together. It values the spirit and soul of humanity and call towards humanism and love. It goes beyond the rituals and emphasises on purity of heart and good deeds. A symbol, like the bell, is taken from sufi shrines and their devotees, to propagate their message through Qazi’s work.
