The Royal Ottoman Society recently joined the annual gathering organized by the Prussian community across Germany, a vibrant celebration of their historic kingdom, royalty and unity. Together with our dedicated team—Ayberk Efendi, Sheikh Mehmed Efendi and Sheikh Bahauddin Efendi—we set up a large tent to share Ottoman culture, engage in dialogue, and deepen bonds between Turkish, Muslim, Christian and broader German associations.
The atmosphere was alive with mutual respect: members of the Prussian community greeted us as brothers, exchanged warm wishes, and invited us to partake in their festivities. In return, we offered traditional refreshments—popcorn, tea, coffee, and even the iconic fez—entirely free of charge, a gesture performed solely for the sake of Allah. The highlight of our participation was the performance of the whirling dervishes’ sima ceremony, a spiritual offering that underscored our shared yearning for world peace and human compassion.
Beyond the music and food, this gathering reminded us why active cultural associations are essential. Germany hosts hundreds of religious, sports and cultural groups, yet many remain inactive, fostering distance and misunderstanding among communities. By standing together at events like this, we demonstrate how empathy, tolerance, and friendship can flourish when people meet face‑to‑face. Our presence aims to revive the spirit of solidarity that has existed for three centuries, honoring the legacy of Ottoman‑German cooperation while planting seeds for a more peaceful future.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Ayberk Efendi for his tireless organization, to Sheikh Mehmed Efendi and Sheikh Bahauddin Efendi for their gracious approval, and to every brother who volunteered at the stand. Their dedication made this cultural exchange possible and illuminated the path toward greater harmony among all peoples.
If you feel inspired by our work and wish to support further initiatives, consider becoming a member of the Royal Ottoman Society. Together we can continue building bridges across cultures and nurturing the timeless friendship between Ottomans and Germans.
