In this episode, we speak of a flame that knows it's time to fade, a drop ready to merge with the vast ocean, and a bird that feels the call to soar beyond. The year is 1273—after thirteen years of composing the Masnavi, Rumi departs from this world and journeys to the beyond. Yet even in his passing, he leaves behind a timeless echo that continues to resonate in our hearts. His words, like a gentle wind, still stir the soul. This moment marks not an end, but a return—a reunion with the Beloved he so often spoke of.

Rumi Begu | A podcast dedicated to the life and works of Moulana Rumi

Created and Narrated by: Ashwin Afraad

Music Credits:

The Magic Of Persian Music, Vol. 1 | Masshad Persian Ensemble | Abdul Amin

Deep Roots Records

If the Masnavi is the ring of a Sufi, then the "Song of the Reed" is the jewel at its center. In this episode, we focus on the key to understanding the Masnavi—its opening section known as the Nayname, or the Song of the Reed. We explore the deep symbolism behind the reed flute’s lament and how it sets the tone for the entire work. This first composition is not just an introduction, but a doorway into Rumi’s spiritual world. Through it, we begin to grasp the longing, separation, and divine yearning that lie at the heart of the Masnavi.

Rumi Begu | A podcast dedicated to the life and works of Moulana Rumi

Created and Narrated by: Ashwin Afraad

Music Credits:

The Magic Of Persian Music, Vol. 1 | Masshad Persian Ensemble | Abdul Amin

Deep Roots Records

In this episode, we explore the themes and structure of Rumi’s Masnavi, a work often regarded as a spiritual guide in poetic form. Rumi enriches the text with a wide range of metaphors, parables, and symbolic language that add depth and beauty to every story he tells. We discuss how these metaphors are not just literary devices, but gateways to deeper spiritual truths. The Masnavi touches on profound themes such as the nature of the soul, the ego’s struggle, the longing for the Divine, and the transformative power of love. This episode sets the stage for a deeper engagement with the text in future discussions.

Rumi Begu | A podcast dedicated to the life and works of Moulana Rumi

Created and Narrated by: Ashwin Afraad

Music Credits:

The Magic Of Persian Music, Vol. 1 | Masshad Persian Ensemble | Abdul Amin

Deep Roots Records

In this episode, we find Rumi at a turning point—contemplating sharing his inner journey with the world. He begins writing his magnum opus, the Masnavi, in collaboration with his close companion, Husamuddin Chalabi. We explore some of the central themes of the Masnavi and lay the groundwork for diving deeper into this profound text.

Rumi Begu | A podcast dedicated to the life and works of Moulana Rumi

Created and Narrated by: Ashwin Afraad

Music Credits:

The Magic Of Persian Music, Vol. 1 | Masshad Persian Ensemble | Abdul Amin

Deep Roots Records

We are on a journey exploring the various metaphors Rumi uses in his poetry.

In this episode, we delve into the most profound and encompassing metaphor in his work—Ishq, or divine love—and along with it, the timeless figures of the Lover and the Beloved.

Rumi Begu | A podcast dedicated to the life and works of Moulana Rumi

Created and Narrated by: Ashwin Afraad

Music Credits:

The Magic Of Persian Music, Vol. 1 | Masshad Persian Ensemble | Abdul Amin

Deep Roots Records

Ghazal No. 213 from Divan-e-Shams "If you're a Lover"

Music Credits: The Magic Of Persian Music, Vol. 1 | Masshad Persian Ensemble | Abdul AminDeep Roots Records

In this episode, we delve deeper into Rumi’s metaphors in his ghazals—exploring his reflections on silence, the whirling dance, the 'Motreb' (minstrel), and finally, his radiant vision of Shams, the sun that illuminates all.

Join us as we unravel the mystic imagery that continues to speak across centuries.

Rumi Begu | A podcast dedicated to the life and works of Moulana Rumi

Created and Narrated by: Ashwin Afraad

Music Credits:

The Magic Of Persian Music, Vol. 1 | Masshad Persian Ensemble | Abdul Amin

Deep Roots Records

Ghazal No. 132 from Divan-e-Shams "From Aql to Ishq"

Music Credits: The Magic Of Persian Music, Vol. 1 | Masshad Persian Ensemble | Abdul AminDeep Roots Records