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Turkish Mahya Tradition Faces Uncertain Future Without Successor

Lights message installed in between the minarets of the Suleymaniye mosque reads in Turkish "Ramadan is the month of Quran" ahead of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan in Istanbul, Turkey, Sunday, March

In the heart of Istanbul, on top of the towering minarets that dot the city’s skyline, a 68-year-old craftsman diligently practices the art of Mahya, a unique Turkish tradition that has illuminated the Muslim holy month of Ramadan for generations. Mahya involves stringing religious messages and designs between minarets, serving as a visual spectacle and conveying spiritual messages.

For over 50 years, this master of Mahya has been creating intricate designs that light up the night sky during Ramadan, encouraging faith and charity among observers. However, with no apprentice in sight to carry on this ancient tradition, the future of Mahya hangs in the balance.

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