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Female whirling dervishes reclaiming Afghanistan’s Sufi heritage
Female whirling dervishes reclaiming Afghanistan’s Sufi heritage

A female-led whirling dervish group based in Afghanistan, is reclaiming the country’s deep-rooted Sufi heritage.

Image of Jason Webster and Nadia Khan on zoom
Interview with Jason Webster: Author of ‘Andalus’

It was an absolute pleasure to talk with Jason Webster (author and historian) about his book ‘Andalus’, and to ask him more about the history and impact of Moorish rule on Spain.

Review of: ‘From Shamanism to Sufism’
Review of: ‘From Shamanism to Sufism’

This book explores the history of women, Islam and culture in Central Asia. Central Asia is a land filled with an ancient culture and heritage. Islam came to these lands in the 8th century and it became the height of civilisation, learning and trade.

Review of: ‘Forty Rules of Love’
Review of: ‘Forty Rules of Love’

The Forty Rules of Love by Turkish writer, Elif Shafaq, is a really heart-warming story. Elif Shafaq is one my favourite authors. I think she's a vey accomplished writer. She puts a lot of social conscience themes into what she is writing.

Spanish Muslim woman with central role in Tudor history
Nadia Khan Nadia Khan

Spanish Muslim woman with central role in Tudor history

Catalina Motril, most likely a Muslim woman from Spain was thought to be the only witness to Catherine of Aragon and Prince Arthur’s marriage consummation (15th century). Catalina was part of Queen Catherine of Aragon’s entourage - she came from from Granada Spain when it was still a Muslim emirate.

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Nadia Khan Nadia Khan

Cervantes’ Muslim connection

The father of Spanish literature, Cervantes (b.1547) is said to have based aspects of his famous book, ‘Don Quixote’ on Moorish figures and culture. He was after all writing at a time when the legacy of Moorish rule was still very obvious. It would have been virtually impossible for Cervantes to ignore such a prominent influence of Muslim culture and not draw on it for inspiration.

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