On the evening of 2 November 2019, the Royal Ottoman Society gathered in the historic heart of Rome for an Ottoman Sufi Night that brought together music, poetry and timeless Sufi wisdom. Seekers and friends from the local community joined us in a warm space where the Ottoman spiritual tradition could be experienced anew.
Sheikh Bahauddin Efendi shared heartfelt reflections on understanding, compassion and the unity that lies beyond cultural borders, reminding us that true insight goes beyond any single worldview. Alongside him, Ayberk Efendi led the Ottoman Band, whose gentle sounds of the ney, oud and kanun filled the hall with reverence and joy—a living bridge between past and present.
Moments of silent contemplation alternated with collective chanting, reflecting the Ottoman Sufi balance of solemn devotion and joyful gratitude. The night deepened each person’s connection to the path and strengthened the sense of belonging within our worldwide community of seekers.
If the spirit of this evening touched you, we invite you to explore membership and join our growing community of fellow travellers on the Sufi path.
