The Royal Ottoman Society gathered in Ludwigshafen to celebrate Ottoman heritage. The evening brought together the sound of Sheikh Nazım’s Mehter Takımı and the presentation of a new book, “Kızıl Elmaya At Süren Aslanlar”.
Guests were welcomed by the drums, cymbals and horns of the centuries-old Mehter tradition. The musicians, drawn from the circle of Sheikh Nazım’s disciples, performed classic marching pieces as well as lesser-known compositions. Their discipline and devotion turned the venue into a bridge between past and present.
After the music, the book was introduced. It explores the symbolism of the red apple (Kızıl Elma) in Ottoman mysticism and brings together historical anecdotes, Sufi poetry and reflections on courage and purpose. The title – “The Lions Who Ride to the Red Apple” – evokes the quest for higher truth at the heart of our tradition.
Members and friends talked about how the rhythm of the Mehter echoes the inner beat of the seeker’s heart, and how Ottoman wisdom can be applied to modern life. The evening confirmed Ludwigshafen as a growing centre for those drawn to this spiritual and cultural legacy.
If this gathering inspires you, learn more about membership and join the conversation on the Royal Ottoman Society’s community page.
