Sharjah exhibition to showcases rare Rumi artefacts, manuscripts

Residents can explore Rumi’s rare artefacts at House of Wisdom (HoW) exhibition

Sharjah: House of Wisdom (HoW) in Sharjah is set to host the ‘Rumi: 750 Years of Absence… Eight Centuries of Presence’ exhibition from November 18 to February 14, 2025, as part of the inaugural Tanweer Festival.

Under the patronage of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), and founder and visionary of the festival, this exhibition celebrates the legacy of the 13th-century poet and mystic, Rumi. It aligns with the festival’s theme ‘Timeless Echoes of Love and Light’.

The exhibition is a collaboration between Shurooq and Turkey’s General Directorate of Cultural Heritage and Museum. Through this partnership, Marwa Al Aqroubi, HoW Executive Director, and Dr Naci Bakirci, Director of the Konya Mevlana Museum, have arranged a loan of rare artifacts and manuscripts.

Sheikha Bodour noted the exhibition redefines the essence and impact of cultural initiatives.

“This exhibition holds particular significance as it highlights the life of an extraordinary individual who has deeply impacted the course of human thought. While a material perspective is essential for tackling practical challenges, Rumi reminds us of the critical importance of spirituality and knowledge in fostering personal growth and happiness.”

Profound insights

Sheikha Bodour noted that, beyond addressing material challenges, Rumi’s teachings offer profound insights into spirituality, personal growth, and human connection, values essential in today’s fast-paced world. Revisiting Rumi’s legacy underscores “the value of humanity and the imperative to create communities rooted in love, tolerance, and spiritual clarity,” Sheikha Bodour said.

Al Aqroubi said the exhibition reinforces Sharjah’s vision and strengthens its role in fostering international partnerships.

“The unveiling of this remarkable exhibition follows Sheikha Bodour’s recent visit to the Mevlana Museum in Konya, which pays tribute to the legacy of Rumi.”

Legacy

The exhibition is divided into three sections: ‘The Beginnings’, ‘the Transformation’, and ‘the Legacy’ exploring Rumi’s early life and youth, his family’s migration to Konya, examining his spiritual awakening, and enduring influence, and demonstrating how his teachings on divine love continue to resonate globally.

The exhibition is organised in partnership with several local entities, including the Department of Government Relations in Sharjah, the Sharjah Museums Authority, the Islamic Manuscripts House, the Barjeel Art Foundation, and the Sharjah Islamic Bank.