On a bright spring day in the historic town of Lefke, Cyprus, the Royal Ottoman Society gathered to honor the 93rd birth anniversary of Sheikh Nazim Efendi. The courtyard resonated with the powerful strains of a traditional Mehter band led by Ayberk Efendi, whose drums, zurnas and trumpets revived the soundscape once associated with the Janissary corps. In this moment the ancient military music became a living bridge between Ottoman heritage and the Sufi path that Sheikh Nazim exemplified.
The celebration wove together prayer, silent zikr and readings from Sheikh Nazim’s letters. As the rhythmic beats of the Mehter rose, participants felt an inner “march”—steady, disciplined, yet joyful—mirroring the guidance that Sheikh Nazim offers seekers today. Ayberk Efendi explained how the cadence of the drums reminds us to keep our hearts aligned with love and service while moving forward on the spiritual road.
Beyond the music, the gathering was a testament to community. Stories were shared, gratitude expressed, and a collective intention renewed: to preserve both the teachings of Sheikh Nazim and the cultural expressions that have sustained Ottoman spirituality for centuries. In honoring his birthday through sound, word, and heartfelt remembrance, we reaffirm our shared heritage and invite future generations to walk this path together.
We welcome you to explore more about our gatherings and ongoing programs. Join the conversation in our [Community] page or discover upcoming live meetings where tradition and devotion continue to meet.
