Mevlana Rumi Commemorations Konya
The Whirling Dervishes Festival is one of the world's most intriguing sights, a mesmerizing spectacle of twirling delight. Become entranced at the origins of the Whirling Dervishes in Konya, Turkey, home to Mevlana Jelaleddin Rumi, a revered 13th-century scholar. Rumi preached of love, tolerance, and forgiveness, and as a way of connecting with God would whirling the city streets in joy. Every December on the anniversary of Rumi’s death known as Seb-i Aruz, thousands of pilgrims flood Konya to witness the ritualized whirling at his Mausoleum.
The ceremony known as Sema, takes place in the evening through an intricate tradition of mystical dances on the 17th of December 2012.
It is divided into seven parts and includes four distinct musical movements, or selams. The eerie sounds floating from the reed flute provide an almost haunting musical accompaniment. Though not whirling yourself, simply watching the unrelenting dervishes detaches you from yourself and the physical world, precisely the purpose of the ritual. Although some significance may be lost on many who get a chance to take in this experience, the mesmerizing music, nimble feet in perfect step, and reverent expressions promise to evoke a great new sense of appreciation.
