RUZAIK FAROOK
COLOMBO — The Iran Cultural Centre commemorated two eminent Persian poets, Jalal al-Din Rumi and Hafez-e Shirazi, at a ceremony held at the Centre’s premises on Wednesday, October 7. The event was held under the patronage of Ali Kebriaei Zadeh, Cultural Counsellor of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and presided over by Mahinda De Lanerolle of the Iranology Society of Sri Lanka.
Addressing the gathering, Cultural Counsellor Ali Kebriaei Zadeh highlighted the contributions of Rumi and Hafez to music and their enduring influence through poetry and song. He noted that their works convey profound messages about life, reveal its deeper mysteries, and guide people towards the love of God.
Dr. Sasanka Perera, the Sinhala translator of Rumi’s poetry, also addressed the gathering. He emphasised the importance of translating Rumi’s works into both Sinhala and Tamil to make his poetry accessible to a wider readership. He further noted that Rumi’s poetry has gained considerable popularity in the United Kingdom and other countries.
The ceremony also featured musical presentations, including performances by Iranian musician Ali Reza Shahini, who was present at the event.
Writers, authors, media personnel and singers attended the ceremony, which celebrated the timeless literary and spiritual contributions of the two celebrated Persian poets.
