Mevlana’s Commemoration Ceremonies Draw Crowds to Konya

A high number of visitors were seen at the Mevlana Museum during the International Commemoration Ceremonies marking the 752nd anniversary of Hazrat Mevlana’s Vuslat.

Held this year in Konya under the theme “Time for Serenity,” the 752nd International Commemoration Ceremonies of Mevlana have attracted many foreign tourists to the city, who continue to closely follow the events.

Negin Nasirivatan (25), who traveled from Iran to Konya for the ceremonies, said Iranians are deeply familiar with Mevlana, Shams, their poetry, and the sema ritual. She noted that they visited the places where Mevlana and Shams met, as well as their tombs. Describing the visit as a wonderful experience, Nasirivatan said they met warm and kind people, experienced Turkish hospitality, and enjoyed delicious food. She added that Mevlana teaches that all humanity is one, that people are not different from one another, and that everyone should strive to be close to God.

Shahazadi Kobra (40), who visited the Mevlana Museum with her family from Bangladesh, said she felt deep emotions during the visit. Stating that it was her first time at the museum, Kobra described the atmosphere as very peaceful and emphasized that Mevlana speaks of love. She said they have heard about Mevlana for generations and that being close to him is a wonderful feeling, adding that his spirituality and awakening bring people closer to God.