ISLAMABAD: The second day of the three-day international conference titled “Mevlana Rumi & Hazrat Sultan Bahoo – Preachers of Humanity, Peace, Love, and Tolerance” concluded successfully in Islamabad.
The event was jointly organised by the MUSLIM Institute, Yunus Emre Institute, and the National Language Promotion Department, bringing together scholars, diplomats, students, and cultural enthusiasts from around the world.
Twelve academic and dialogue sessions were held throughout the day, covering a diverse range of topics including Sufi traditions in South Asia, the role of native languages in spiritual expression, the cultural relevance of Sufi poetry, and the influence of Rumi and Sultan Bahoo on contemporary thought.
Speakers emphasized the enduring significance of Sufi teachings in addressing extremism, hatred, and moral decay in society. “The essence of religion lies not merely in syllabus content, but in ethics and action,” one speaker noted. “Without genuine character development and moral training, true progress is unattainable. Ethical behavior must be practiced, not just studied.”
Participants stressed the need to reconnect with the inner message of peace and love championed by the Sufis in a world yearning for spiritual fulfillment. “We have everything but lack peace and love. The world is spiritually hungry—let us draw from the spiritual wealth of the Sufi tradition,” remarked a panelist.
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Special focus was given to Punjabi Sufi poetry, with experts highlighting its unique two-syllable expression found only in the Punjabi language. While Hazrat Sultan Bahoo authored more than 140 books in Persian, his Punjabi verses have left the most profound cultural impact and remain widely revered.
The global resonance of Mevlana Rumi’s philosophy—especially in Central Asia—was also explored. In countries like Uzbekistan, Rumi’s teachings are deeply embedded in religious, educational, and cultural institutions. Speakers referred to the region as a “cradle of Sufism,” where diverse Sufi orders flourished and continue to influence lives. Despite varying approaches, all Sufi paths aim toward universal welfare and human upliftment.
A highlight of the day was a spiritual recitation by students from the shrine of Hazrat Sultan Bahoo, who presented the poetry of Rumi and Bahoo in Arabic, Persian, Urdu, and Punjabi, captivating the audience with their soulful performances. Additionally, a tableau based on Allama Iqbal’s iconic Persian poem “Peer-e-Rumi o Mureed-e-Hindi” was staged by students, further enriching the conference experience.
At the conclusion of the sessions, commemorative shields were presented to distinguished speakers. International delegates actively participated and praised the event’s focus on spiritual dialogue and intercultural harmony.
The closing ceremony of the conference will be held on April 24, 2025, featuring prominent scholars, journalists, and socio-political figures who will reflect on the enduring relevance of Sufi teachings in the modern world.