Two Day National Conference on Mevlana Rumi and Sultan Bahoo concludes at Islamabad
Islamabad () MUSLIM Institute, Yunus Emre Institute and the National Language Promotion Department (National Language Authority) organizes a two-day national conference "Mevlana Rumi and H̱aḏrat Sultan Bahoo: Preachers of Human Friendship, Peace, Love and Harmony". The second day of the National Conference commenced with insightful discussions and reflections on the profound impact of these eminent Sufi scholars on society. Scholars and intellectuals from various fields reiterated the transformative power of Sufism in shaping cultural norms and fostering harmony.
Distinguished speakers include H.E. Khazar Farhadov Ambassador of Azerbaijan in Islamabad, Sahibzada Muhammad Ameer Sultan Member National Assembly of Pakistan, Sahibzada Sultan Ahmed Ali Chairman, MUSLIM Institute, Islamabad, Mr Kashif Manzoor Director General, Public Libraries, Punjab, Prof. Dr Mukhtar Ahmed Chairman Higher Education Commission, Islamabad, Prof. Dr Muhammad Saleem Mazhar Director General, National Language Promotion Department, Islamabad.
The speakers at the National Conference emphasized how Sufism, with its core principles of love, empathy, and awareness, resonates universally across cultures. They stressed the importance of acknowledging the realities of society, advocating for unity through embracing diverse perspectives, and cultivating qualities of selflessness and patience. Sultan Bahoo and Mevlana Rumi's teachings were praised for their ability to instill inner peace and self-awareness, encouraging individuals to embody these teachings for the betterment of humanity and to deepen their spiritual connections.
Moreover, the conference shed light on the cultural bridges built by Sultan Bahoo and Rumi's teachings, illustrating how they transcend borders and bring people together despite differences. By embracing Sufi principles, the speakers highlighted the potential to overcome societal divisions and pave the way for a harmonious future.
In essence, the conference served as a reminder of Sufism's enduring relevance in fostering peace, love, and understanding in our increasingly complex world, aiming to make these profound teachings accessible to all.
Proceedings of the 1st day are as follows:
The conference commences with great fervour at the National Language Promotion Department (National Language Authority) in Islamabad. Dignitaries, scholars, and intellectuals from various walks of life graced the event, adding their invaluable insights to the discourse on Sufism and its pivotal role in shaping societal norms and values.
Distinguished speakers include Prof. Dr Muhammad Saleem Mazhar, Director General, National Language Promotion Department, Chairman MUSLIM Institute, Sahibzada Sultan Ahmad Ali, Mr Anssi Kullberg, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Finland, Islamabad, Professor Niaz Ahmad Akhtar, Vice-Chancellor of Quaid-e-Azam University, Senator Mushaid Hussain Syed, Dr Khalil Toqar, Country Director, Yunus Emre Institute, Islamabad.
Speakers underscored the universal appeal of Allama Iqbal's philosophy in times of intellectual inquiry and crisis, emphasizing the profound influence of Rumi and Sultan Bahoo's teachings on humanity's spiritual quest for enlightenment. The message of Sultan Bahoo is the message of love and friendship which require certain human attitudes such as politeness, courteousness, patience and humility. The concept of Hoo in Sultan Bahoo's poetry is eternal. Earthly love we shower in the shape of love, peace and respect is actually a metaphor for divine love. The teachings of Sufi scholars shower the image of oneness. Sufi teachings taught us the lesson of divine reality which is manifested through our good behavior. The same thing is propagated by Mevlana Rumi, when he said, leave all the power at the mercy of Almighty Allah and be kind-hearted and compassionate.
Speakers eloquently stated, "In a world grappling with dichotomies, the luminance of these Sufi luminaries serves as beacons, illuminating paths towards collective understanding and harmony." They further emphasized the contemporary relevance of Mevalana Rumi and Sultan Bahoo's teachings, asserting, "In today's complex world, the essence of Sufism is indispensable. Respect for differing opinions, ethical conduct, and human dignity transcends superficialities like attire and beliefs." The core message of Sufism lies in the ethos of peace and love. Justice, as ordained by the Divine, forms the cornerstone of societal order, and the teachings of Sufis advocate for its unwavering implementation. Sufism is ingrained in the DNA of Pakistanis. Its teachings are a bulwark against the perpetuation of injustices and strife. By embracing Sufi tenets, we endeavour to transcend our egos and strive for the greater good of humanity. Speakers highlighted the imperative for Sufi-inspired compassion and solidarity in conflict-ridden regions, stressing, "Amidst the tumult of conflicts from Gaza to Kashmir, it is incumbent upon us to imbibe the spirit of Sufism, fostering a culture of love and brotherhood."
The conference served as a poignant reminder of the timeless wisdom encapsulated in the teachings of Mevlana Rumi and Hadhrat Sultan Bahoo. As intellectuals and leaders emphasized the need for respectful dialogue and adherence to Sufi principles, the imperative for the younger generation to embrace diversity of thought was underscored. Indeed, understanding the true essence of Rumi and Sultan Bahoo holds the key to unlocking our authentic selves and fostering a more enlightened society.