Rumi Exhibition Showcases Timeless Legacy At House Of Wisdom In Sharjah
The "Rumi: 750 Years of Absence... Eight Centuries of Presence" exhibition was inaugurated by H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Sharjah Media Council. This exhibition, located at the House of Wisdom in Sharjah, will be open to visitors until 14th February 2025. It offers a unique insight into the life and legacy of Jalal al-Din Al Rumi, a renowned poet and philosopher.
Upon his arrival, Sheikh Sultan was welcomed by several dignitaries, including Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Shurooq; Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of DGR in Sharjah; Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the National Media Office; Abdul Rahman bin Mohammad bin Nasser Al Owais, Minister of Health and Prevention; Zaki Nusseibeh, Cultural Adviser to the UAE President; and Mohammad Ahmad Al Murr, Chairman of Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library Foundation.
The exhibition is divided into three thematic sections that provide an immersive experience for visitors. "The Beginnings" section delves into Rumi’s early years, exploring his birth in Balkh and his family's migration to Konya. This part highlights the cultural influences that shaped his youth and laid the groundwork for his future works.
In "The Transformation" section, visitors learn about Rumi’s spiritual awakening through his encounter with Shams al-Din al-Tabrizi. This meeting significantly influenced Rumi's philosophy and inspired some of his most famous works. The final section, "The Legacy," showcases Rumi’s lasting impact on the world through his poetry and teachings on divine love.
This exhibition is a collaborative effort involving Shurooq and Türkiye's General Directorate of Cultural Heritage and Museums. It strengthens the House of Wisdom’s role as a hub for cultural appreciation and community engagement. Esteemed institutions like the Mevlâna Museum have contributed priceless artefacts to this exhibition.
Visitors can explore rare manuscripts such as a beautifully bound 13th-century Qur'an and Seljuk-era artefacts like candlesticks attributed to Rumi. These items reflect the profound impact of Rumi's teachings over centuries. The exhibition is supported by Sharjah Islamic Bank and DGR.
Tanweer Festival Inspired by Rumi
The exhibition serves as a precursor to the Tanweer Festival scheduled from 22nd to 24th November at Mleiha Desert. Envisioned by Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, this festival aims to foster reflection through music, poetry, and art inspired by Rumi's wisdom. It seeks to nurture universal values in today's evolving world.
Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi commented on the exhibition: "Sharjah has long been a place where cultures and diverse nations connect... every encounter with art and heritage is a profound step towards understanding our shared humanity." Her words highlight how Rumi’s teachings transcend boundaries.
The exhibition provides audiences in the UAE with an opportunity to engage deeply with Rumi’s enduring influence on literature, philosophy, and Sufism. Through these artefacts, visitors can explore themes of love, unity, and enlightenment that continue to resonate across generations.
With inputs from WAM
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