Afghan writers, poets and cultural figures gathered in Istanbul this week to commemorate the 314th anniversary of the death of Mirza Abd al-Qadir Bedil, the celebrated 17th-century Sufi poet whose intricate Persian verse has inspired generations across South and Central Asia. It was the first such event held in Turkey.
The commemoration was organized by the Sokhan Cultural Association in collaboration with the Friends of Bedil Society, the Turkish Writers’ Union and the Hafez Shirazi Research Center at Istanbul Medeniyet University.
A statement from the organizers said the gathering highlighted Bedil’s enduring literary and spiritual legacy, describing the anniversary as an opportunity to reconnect with the poet’s mystical thought and complex artistry.
The program featured comparative discussions on Bedil’s influence on Ottoman-era Turkish literature, parallels between the “Indian style” of Persian poetry and Ottoman verse traditions, and the poet’s signature use of layered metaphors and linguistic intricacy. Scholars also analyzed themes of humility in his work, explored reasons for his lasting fame, and read selections of his verse.
Music set to Bedil’s poetry was also performed.
Participants said the gathering served not only as a tribute to Bedil but also as a bridge between Persian-speaking communities and admirers of mystical literature in Turkey. Organizers called it a landmark event — the first Bedil commemoration in Turkey, one they said would be remembered in the cultural history of both nations.
