The inaugural International Scientific Conference on Mawlawinasi, organized by the Presidency of the University of Sulaimani in collaboration with the Mawlawi website, convened on December 11, 2024, at the University of Sulaimani’s Congress Hall. The event garnered significant attendance, drawing thousands of educators, religious leaders, and literary figures from the Kurdistan Region and beyond. Presiding over the opening ceremony was Prof. Dr. Kosar Mohammed Ali, President of the University of Sulaimani, accompanied by the vice presidents and numerous distinguished guests.
In his opening address, Prof. Dr. Kosar Mohammed Ali extended a cordial welcome to the assembly of scholars, experts, and attendees. He underscored the seminal contributions of Mawlawi to the Sufi tradition, emphasizing the movement’s pivotal role in shaping Kurdish cultural identity and enriching the broader Sufi heritage. Reflecting on the significance of the occasion, he remarked, “As President of the University of Sulaimani, I take great pride in hosting this academic and literary gathering to honor this eminent mystic and poet, in partnership with the Mawlawi website.”
The conference, spanning two days, was designed to critically examine the enduring legacy of Mawlawi. Prof. Kosar expressed anticipation for the academic presentations, noting their potential to provide invaluable insights for Kurdish readership and beyond.
The opening session featured addresses by Mr. Adel Latif, founder of the Mawlawi website, and Mr. Mohammed Ali Qaradakhi. A notable contribution was made by Dr. Abdulrahman Adak, a lecturer in the Kurdish Language Department, who explored Mawlawi’s linguistic influence, particularly its connections to the Pahlavi language and the ancient histories of the Medes and Hawrami languages.
The proceedings included the screening of a documentary film produced by Hama Group, which illuminated the life and works of Mawlawi. Additionally, musical performances by Mr. Shahram Mansouri and Mr. Rebar Dilshad featured renditions of selected poems by Mawlawi and Maulana, enriching the cultural and artistic dimensions of the event.
In recognition of their contributions, Prof. Dr. Kosar Mohammed Ali, along with the University and Community Coordination Centre and Prof. Dr. Mohammed Tatani, Chair of the Conference’s Scientific Committee, were presented with awards by the Mawlawi website.
The conference will culminate with the presentation of 35 research papers by a diverse cohort of scholars from within and beyond the Kurdistan Region, organized into eight thematic discussion panels. The event will conclude with the announcement of the conference’s findings, proposals, and recommendations, marking a significant academic milestone in the study of Mawlawi and his contributions.