UN culture agency celebrates life of poet, philosopher and spiritual leader Rumi
A demonstration of Sufi dancing, an exhibition of manuscripts, books and paintings, and an international seminar of scholars are among the events being held today by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to celebrate the 800th anniversary of the birth of the poet, philosopher and Muslim spiritual leader Mawlana Jalal-ud-Din Balkhi-Rumi.
A demonstration of Sufi dancing, an exhibition of manuscripts, books and paintings, and an international seminar of scholars are among the events being held today by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to celebrate the 800th anniversary of the birth of the poet, philosopher and Muslim spiritual leader Mawlana Jalal-ud-Din Balkhi-Rumi.
UNESCO said it would issue a commemorative medal in honour of the man known also as Rumi as part of the day-long programme being held at its headquarters in Paris. Afghanistan, Iran and Turkey have helped organize the festivities.
Born in 1207 in Balkh in what is now Afghanistan, Rumi is the author of the renowned Mathnawi or “Rhyming Couplets.” After being exiled, he spent most of his life in Konya, which is in present-day Turkey. Since his death in 1273, Rumi has come to be considered one of the greatest Sufi masters.
In a press statement UNESCO said today’s seminar brings together eminent scholars and philosophers from Member States to discuss themes relating to the thought, message and universality of Rumi.
A performance of Sufi dancing by troupes from Afghanistan, Iran and Turkey will also take place, while the exhibition of books, manuscripts and paintings relating to Rumi will remain on display until 14 September.