Istanbul: Cheikha Nur and the Mevlevi rites

On the outskirts of Istanbul, I was invited to witness the rites and their preparation under Cheikha Nur.

Nur is a Mevlevi teacher and master — a follower of Rumi, the Mevlana — and one of the few women to hold the rank of Cheikh.

Her spiritual community gathers around her not only for teaching and ritual, but also for guidance during significant moments in life. Most of the dancers and participants are women.

The atmosphere during the Sema and the Zikr is intense and pure, charged with devotion and collective presence.