Ever since I fell in love with the mysterious and mesmerizing world of reading, I have heard about book reading, but never have I thought that I would ever be sitting in front of an established author, attending a book reading. An invitation from Dr. Mustafa Lutfi to attend the book reading was such an honour that I couldn’t resist.
All the aspects of a book reading was seen at the gathering as the audience got to interact with the author face to face, observe the author in real life and also gave an opportunity for the book lovers to clarify their curiosities regarding the book or the author. We are lucky that we got to meet the author’s spouse and some family members too.
The book reading ceremony of Sanfa aai Moosa: Loabinfaru was held at the Salt Café and Restaurant, where the surrounding view was perfect for such an event. It was conducted in a very casual and friendly manner where all the participants were eager to learn more about the story. The event commenced with a short introduction by Mohamed Farook, a close friend of Dr. Mustafa. Although it was a very short speech, it gave the audience an understanding of Mustafa’s literary activities. He said that story provided a unique insight into Maldivian culture and traditions and he spoke about the important role the story plays in reminiscing about the simple and traditional life of us, Maldivians especially in island communities. He said that this aspect of the story moved him to translate it to English and that the English version will be available soon. Though we have become very much modernized, deep within us lies an unquestionable thirst to learn more about our history and culture. The book Sanfa aai Moosa: Loabinfaru is one which will quench our thirst in that regard and more.
Dr. Mustafa then narrated parts of the book while the audience keenly listened to him. The applause and comments from different corners of the room justified the enthusiasm shown by the audience. He also profusely thanked Mr. Ibrahim Nooraddeen who had been the sponsor for the book reading event.
I, for one person can honestly say that I didn’t really taste what I was eating, as I was so engrossed in the story being told. The style and flair with which Dr. Mustafa told the story kept the whole audience enthralled. We were transported to some distant area of Maldives where Sanfa and Moosa were falling head over heels in love; fighting battles and sacrificing everything so that they could be together.
Oh, if only such love existed in the real world!
We also listened to one song from Moosa’s poetry book which was a bit melancholic, making us wonder in which period of Moosa’s life the song was written. And although I wasn’t one of the lucky ones who got special romantic gifts, it was a beautiful gesture on the part of the author and I am happy for the recipients.
One very unique moment in the event was when Dr. Mustafa introduced one of the illustrators Ismail Aswad to the audience. The surprise and joy on the youth’s face said it all. My respect for him moved up a notch with this single action of his.
All in all, the whole ceremony brought about a big change in us: Our faith in love strengthened and we all fell in love – with Sanfa aai Moosa: Loabinfaru!
