Jawaher Al Qasimi Explores Egyptian History In 'Awlad Al Nas' At Sharjah Cultural Salon
H.H. Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, the wife of H.H. the Ruler of Sharjah, participated in a session from the "Sharjah Cultural Salon" series. Organised by the Cultural Office of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs in Sharjah, this event took place on 19th November at the Al Jawaher Reception and Conference Centre. The session featured Egyptian author Dr. Reem Bassiouni and was moderated by Dr. Maryam Al Hashimi.
During the event, Sheikha Jawaher expressed her delight in hosting Dr. Bassiouni, whom she praised as a respected Arab cultural figure. She commended Dr. Bassiouni's novel "Awlad Al Nas" for its vivid depiction of Egypt’s history and Mamluk society, highlighting its portrayal of Sufi thought that emphasises mercy, tolerance, and acceptance.
Sheikha Jawaher emphasised the importance of maintaining Arab-Islamic identity and values amidst rapid global changes. She encouraged young people to engage with history and learn from influential figures who have contributed to societal progress, urging them to uphold and represent their heritage with pride.
The session explored Dr. Bassiouni's writing process for her trilogy "Awlad Al Nas," which spans over seven hundred pages. She shared insights into balancing academic precision with creative storytelling while addressing real historical events and figures.
Dr. Bassiouni discussed how women are portrayed in her work and her dual responsibilities as both an academic and novelist. Despite her academic background from Oxford University in sociolinguistics, she remains committed to using Arabic in her literary works to promote Arab and Islamic culture today.
Her novel "Awlad Al Nas" received recognition when it won the Naguib Mahfouz Medal for Literature in 2019-2020. This accolade highlights her dedication to enriching Arabic literature through engaging narratives that reflect historical depth.
The session attracted notable female writers, cultural enthusiasts, historians, and community members who engaged with the discussion on preserving cultural heritage through literature.
With inputs from WAM
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