House of Wisdom (HoW) is gearing up to host the exhibition “Rumi: 750 Years of Absence…Eight Centuries of Presence,” in Sharjah, as part of the emirate’s preparations for the inaugural Tanweer Festival. Under the patronage of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) and Founder and Visionary of Tanweer Festival, this captivating exhibition will run from November 18, 2024, to February 14, 2025. It perfectly aligns with the festival’s theme, “Timeless Echoes of Love and Light,” drawing inspiration from the profound poetic wisdom of Rumi.

The exhibition marks a successful collaboration between the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) and the General Directorate of Cultural Heritage and Museum in Turkey. Through this partnership, Marwa Al Aqroubi, HoW Executive Director, and Dr Naci Bakırcı, Director of the Konya Mevlâna Museum, have arranged a loan of select artifacts that will grace audiences in Sharjah and the UAE. This occasion provides a unique opportunity to celebrate the enduring legacy of Rumi, inviting visitors to embark on a journey through his profound literary works and spiritual path that have inspired generations for centuries.

Cultural influence strengthened through collaboration

Reflecting on the exhibition, Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi said: “Events like this redefine the essence and impact of cultural initiatives. Our ambitions go beyond merely enriching knowledge-based societies; we aim to nurture universal human values and offer audiences a chance to find balance in today’s fast-paced world. Collaboration and shared efforts amplify culture’s influence, and Sharjah has played a vital role in this endeavour, fostering partnerships that promote inclusive experiences and create opportunities for reflection and connection in our ever-evolving society.”

She added: “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. By cultivating our inner virtues, we elevate our spirits. In the face of today’s global challenges, revisiting Rumi’s legacy underscores the value of humanity and the imperative to create communities rooted in love, tolerance, and spiritual clarity.”

Sharjah’s cultural vision and message

Marwa Al Aqroubi stated, “The unveiling of this remarkable exhibition follows Sheikha Bodour’s recent visit to the Mevlâna Museum in Konya, which pays tribute to the legacy of Rumi. This announcement underscores our firm conviction in the significance of cultural initiatives that resonate with Sharjah’s vision, benefiting not only local and Arab communities but also extending their impact to humanity at large. We are committed to organising high-quality events that bolster our partnerships both within the UAE and internationally, thus reinforcing House of Wisdom’s position as a vital interactive cultural venue that nurtures communities dedicated to knowledge and lifelong learning for sustainable development.”

Beginnings, transformation, and legacy

The exhibition, featuring priceless artefacts and manuscripts, unfolds Rumi’s life through three engaging sections: ‘The Beginnings,’ ‘The Transformation,’ and ‘The Legacy.’ Each segment artistically captures Rumi’s world, reflecting his profound philosophy and lasting influence.

‘The Beginnings’ invites visitors to explore Rumi’s early years, from his birth in Balkh to family’s migration to Konya, highlighting the cultural and historical contexts that shaped his youth. ‘The Transformation’ examines Rumi’s spiritual awakening, focusing on his pivotal encounter with Shams al-Din al-Tabrizi, which sparked his quest for truth and a significant shift in his philosophy, inspiring some of his most renowned works. Finally, ‘The Legacy’ illustrates Rumi’s enduring impact, demonstrating how his poetry and teachings on divine love and spiritual contemplation continue to resonate across cultures and generations.

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