In the historic town of Lefke, Cyprus, the Royal Ottoman Society gathered to honour the 93rd birth anniversary of Sheikh Nazim Efendi. The courtyard resounded with a traditional Mehter band led by Ayberk Efendi, whose drums, zurnas and trumpets revived the sound once associated with the Janissary corps. For a moment, this old military music became a living bridge between Ottoman heritage and the Sufi path that Sheikh Nazim exemplified.
The celebration brought together prayer, silent zikr and readings from Sheikh Nazim’s letters. As the beat of the Mehter rose, participants felt an inner “march”: steady, disciplined and joyful, like the guidance Sheikh Nazim offers seekers. Ayberk Efendi explained how the cadence of the drums reminds us to keep our hearts aligned with love and service as we move forward on the spiritual road.
The gathering was also a testament to community. Stories were shared, gratitude expressed, and a common intention renewed: to preserve both the teachings of Sheikh Nazim and the cultural expressions that have carried Ottoman spirituality for centuries.
To learn more about our gatherings and programmes, visit our Community page.
