The Poetic Heart 15th edition brought together poets, musicians and students to promote peace and shared humanity through artistic expression.
DUBAI: The Poetic Heart 15th edition concluded with two days of poetry, music and cultural dialogue, reinforcing its mission to promote harmony and shared humanity through artistic expression.
Launched in 2012 by SGI Gulf under the guidance of Dr Shihab Ghanem, the initiative has grown into one of the region’s longest running cultural platforms. The Poetic Heart 15th edition welcomed senior poets, musicians, students and people of determination from across the UAE and beyond.
Day one, hosted at the Emirates Institute of Finance Auditorium, focused on youth participation. Around 900 students from 41 secondary schools attended, with 43 students presenting original poems. Three performances by people of determination and four musical acts added to the vibrant atmosphere.
A commemorative video marked 15 years of the initiative, followed by a message from Minoru Harada, President of Soka Gakkai, honouring Dr Shihab Ghanem and the vision of Dr Daisaku Ikeda in reviving the poetic spirit. Emirati bilingual poet Wael Al Sayegh delivered a poem inspired by the lotus flower, symbolising transformation and awakening.
The second day at Zabeel Ladies Club featured 11 senior poets and five musical performances. International and regional voices explored themes of identity, courage and belonging. Performances included works inspired by Rabindranath Tagore and recitations celebrating literary heritage.
The Poetic Heart 15th edition also marked the launch of two publications, including Taj Mahal, a Marathi translation of Dr Shihab Ghanem’s work, and Each Line, a New Dawn, commemorating 15 years of the festival.
The event concluded with a final recitation by Dr Shihab Ghanem, trophy presentations and a closing celebration, affirming Dubai’s role as a vibrant hub for cultural dialogue.
