Thousands gathered in Istanbul for a Mawlid al-Nabi event organized by the Prophet Lovers Foundation (Peygamber Sevdalıları Vakfı) under the theme “ “Our Leader of Unity and Salvation, Prophet Muhammad,” where attendees emphasized the importance of unity, brotherhood, and collective resilience during difficult times.

Speaking to reporters, participants said they had come together out of love for the Prophet and stressed that such events play a vital role in strengthening solidarity across the Muslim Ummah.

Ramazan Sincar said their presence at the gathering was driven by love and responsibility.

“We are here out of love. We are here for the unity and honor of the Ummah. Before the events of October 7 in Gaza, perhaps we were unaware. But Gaza, as the bleeding wound of the Ummah, awakened us. These programs strengthen our unity, our love for the Prophet, and our devotion to Allah,” he said.

Nezir Alp, who attended the event with his children, said he had been waiting for weeks.

“Remembering the Prophet is a beautiful feeling. We wish more people would attend and come to know him. Unfortunately, the importance given to religious values is declining,” he said.

Nedim Öztürk, who traveled from Izmir, described the gathering as sincere and meaningful.

“This is a cause worth sacrifice. It is a gathering free of worldly interests. May Allah be pleased with all those who came here seeking His pleasure and remembering the Prophet,” he said.

İlyas Şimşek highlighted the social benefits of such events, noting that they promote brotherhood, trust, and ethical awareness.

İzzetin Çıtırık, who said he has attended the event for 15 years, added: “May Allah make these gatherings a means for unity among Muslims. These programs leave a lasting impact on us. I hope they continue.”

Yusuf Ökmen said experiencing such a gathering is something all Muslims would desire, expressing hope that it contributes to unity across the Islamic world.

Ercan İlhan described the event as “a prototype of the Ummah,” adding that such programs play a key role in bringing Muslims together and expressing a renewed Islamic identity to the world.

Şuayb Yıldız emphasized the need for solidarity amid ongoing challenges.

“We are going through difficult times. The Ummah must stand together and support one another,” he said.

Ercan Bozkurt thanked the Prophet Lovers Foundation for organizing the event annually, noting that such gatherings allow people to express their love for the Prophet.

Halil Çelik emphasized the significance of the theme, stating: “Without Prophet Muhammad, there can be neither unity nor salvation. The end of oppression and conflict depends on following his path.”

Participants agreed that such events serve not only to commemorate the Prophet but also to strengthen unity, revive shared values, and reinforce a collective sense of purpose across the Muslim world. (ILKHA)