Celebrating the Legacy of Mevlana Rumi: Sema Performance and Calligraphy Exhibition in New York
Honoring 751 Years of Mevlana Rumi’s Legacy
The 751st anniversary of the death of the Sufi philosopher Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi was marked with a special event in New York, organized by the Yunus Emre Institute’s U.S. branch. Held at the Turkish House (Türkevi), the event included a stunning Sema performance and a calligraphy exhibition.
Distinguished Guests and Cultural Exchange
The program was attended by notable figures, including Türkiye’s Consul General in New York. Ambassador Muhittin Ahmet Yazal, Gevher Çelebi from the International Mevlana Foundation, and Joshua W. Walker, CEO of the Japan Society. Representatives from Turkish Airlines, such as Emre Ismailoğlu, and the Yunus Emre Institute, led by Gökhan Coşkun, were also present alongside a diverse audience of local and international guests interested in Mevlevi culture.
Exploring the Love and Wisdom of Rumi
Under the theme “Breath, the Path of Love,” Gevher Çelebi highlighted Rumi’s understanding of divine love. She remarked, “Mevlana defines the fear of God not as a fear of punishment but as the fear of disappointing or upsetting the one you love. All loves in this world act as bridges to the ultimate love of God.”
Bridging Cultures through Art and Spirituality
Director of the Yunus Emre Institute U.S., Gökhan Coşkun, noted the event’s unique contribution to cultural exchange. He said, “This program brings Rumi’s timeless wisdom to life and offers a bridge between cultures through the transformative power of art and spirituality.”
Mesmerizing Sema Performance and Calligraphy Exhibition
The highlight of the evening was the Sema performance, accompanied by soul-stirring Sufi music. Guests were also treated to the “Wings of Love” calligraphy exhibition, showcasing works by artist Sanaz Alborzi, who combined traditional Kufic styles with modern techniques to create captivating pieces.
A Tribute to Rumi’s Eternal Wisdom
The event concluded as an elegant tribute to Rumi’s philosophy of love, spirituality, and cultural harmony, offering attendees a deeper appreciation of his enduring legacy.
