Reported Journalist:Zamil Shafeek
The Iran Cultural Centre commemorated the literary and spiritual contributions of 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 literary works convey profound messages about life, explore its deeper mysteries and guide humanity towards divine love.
Dr. Sasanka Perera, the Sinhala translator of Rumi’s poetry, also addressed the gathering, emphasising the importance of translating Rumi’s works into both Sinhala and Tamil to make his poetry accessible to a wider readership in Sri Lanka.
He further observed that Rumi’s poetry has gained considerable popularity in the United Kingdom and other countries, reflecting the enduring international appeal of his spiritual and literary teachings.
The ceremony featured musical presentations, including performances by Iranian musician Ali Reza Shahini, who was present at the event.
The performances added a cultural dimension to the programme, highlighting the close relationship between Persian poetry and music.
Writers, authors, media personnel and singers attended the ceremony, which celebrated the timeless literary, cultural and spiritual heritage of Rumi and Hafez.
The event highlighted the continuing relevance of Persian literature in promoting cultural understanding, spiritual reflection and artistic exchange across national and linguistic boundaries.
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