A press introduction program was held in Istanbul as part of the 752nd Reunion Anniversary International Commemoration Ceremonies, which carry the theme “Time for Peace” this year.

Speaking at the program held at the Istanbul Atatürk Cultural Center, Konya Metropolitan Mayor Uğur İbrahim Altay emphasized that a journey that began centuries ago in Khorasan transformed into a civilization of the heart in Konya. He said, “The guide of that journey, Hazrat Mevlânâ Jalaluddin Rumi, became a sun of wisdom that speaks not only to his own era but reaches across ages to touch our time as well. With his pen, he illuminated hearts; with his words, he broadened horizons. As a great master of spiritual insight who united hearts, guided seekers, and brought solace to the troubled, he became the common voice of Konya, Anatolia, and all humanity.”

Mayor Altay emphasized that, together with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Konya Metropolitan Municipality has prepared programs that best reflect this spirit, and he added:

“This year, between December 7 and 17, we will welcome our guests from all around the world to the city of Mevlana, the center of love and affection. The Sema Ceremony, which is included in UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, will enchant hearts with its journey that leads a person to the mysteries of the universe and its stages of attaining the Divine. In addition to the Sema ceremonies, we will present a wide range of events—from panels to cultural and artistic programs and international gatherings—shaping the theme ‘Time for Peace’ in a way that touches the heart. On this occasion, I invite all friends of the heart to Konya, the center of tranquility, between December 7 and 17. Let us come together and experience the atmosphere of peace that unites our hearts and brings serenity to our souls.”

Konya Governor İbrahim Akın stated that the theme of this year’s 752nd Reunion Anniversary International Commemoration Ceremonies is “Time for Peace,” and said:

“The meaning of peace is well-being and harmony. Today, in oppressed regions, there are brothers and sisters searching for peace under the shadow of war, poverty, and injustice. The prayer that echoes in their hearts meets the centuries-old message of love, tolerance, and peace of Hazrat Mevlana, turning into a hope that continually calls humanity back to itself. And this hope spreads across the world this year as peace, well-being, and brotherhood. We, too, wish to convey this truth of the heart from Konya to humanity once more, like a prayer and a call for peace. I extend my gratitude to our minister, who provides the strongest support in our efforts to share Mevlana’s wise teachings with the world. As always, I also offer my thanks to our Konya Metropolitan Mayor and his dedicated team for carrying out this year’s preparations with care and sincerity.”

Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy began his speech—delivered after the showing of the video prepared for the 752nd Vuslat Anniversary International Commemoration Ceremonies—by commemorating Hazrat Mevlana with mercy on the 752nd anniversary of his reunion with the Divine.

Minister Ersoy stated that, together with the Konya Metropolitan Municipality, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism will not only commemorate but also strive to understand Hazrat Mevlana over the course of 11 days through lessons in traditional arts, panels, exhibitions, talks, workshops, concerts, Sema ceremonies, and various other events held in the light of his wisdom and teachings. He added:

“Among the values gifted to us by the culture of Mevlevi tradition—which those who follow Mevlana’s path have transformed into a way of life—the ‘Sema’ tradition holds a unique place with its distinctive etiquette and practice, special musical repertoire, and rich literary heritage. As with many elements that form and sustain Turkish culture, the preservation of this tradition and its legacy is among the foremost responsibilities of our ministry.”

Minister Ersoy thanked all those who contributed to the organization of the events and said, “I congratulate all our art institutions, distinguished artists, and esteemed academics participating in our programs. I also extend my gratitude to Konya Metropolitan Mayor Uğur İbrahim Altay and Konya Governor İbrahim Akın for their valuable cooperation.”