Egypt’s Minister of Culture, Dr. Ahmed Fouad Heno, has endorsed an extensive agenda to honor the late Nobel Prize-winning novelist and prominent Egyptian writer, Naguib Mahfouz. The events, titled “Mahfouz in the Heart”, will include a wide range of activities and programs executed by various cultural sectors across Cairo and Egypt’s governorates. This initiative aims to preserve the legacy of Mahfouz, emphasizing his profound impact on Egyptian, Arab, and global literature. The events will officially kick off on Wednesday, April 16, in both Cairo and the provinces.
Dr. Heno stated that the celebration of Naguib Mahfouz is a testament to Egypt’s commitment to honoring its intellectual and creative icons. He highlighted Mahfouz’s unparalleled literary genius, which elevated Egypt’s name on the global literary stage. The Minister emphasized that Mahfouz’s works serve as a historical document and a cultural reference, reflecting the diverse cultural, social, and political aspects of Egyptian society over several decades.
A Tribute to Naguib Mahfouz: A Comprehensive Cultural Agenda
Dr. Heno further added that the “Mahfouz in the Heart” event is part of a series of ongoing activities aimed at celebrating Egypt’s cultural and artistic figures who have significantly contributed to enriching the country’s cultural life. The Ministry of Culture has worked to ensure the events cater to a variety of interests and demographics, with programming designed for all ages and communities.
Key Highlights of the Event
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General Authority for Cultural Palaces (GACP): Under the leadership of Major General Khaled El-Laban, the GACP has prepared a comprehensive program in Cairo and the governorates. The program, overseen by writer Mohamed Nassef, features a variety of events, including documentary film screenings, art exhibitions, creative workshops, cultural seminars, poetry evenings, and storytelling sessions, all supported by prominent writers and intellectuals.
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Cultural Seminars and Documentary Screenings Across Egypt: A series of cultural and literary seminars will be held, starting on the evening of Wednesday, April 16, at various cultural venues across Egypt. Notable seminars include:
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“The Egyptian Alley in Naguib Mahfouz’s Novels” at the Cairo New Cairo Cultural Palace
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“The Character of Naguib Mahfouz” at the Suez Cultural Palace
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“Aesthetic Features of Language in Naguib Mahfouz’s Novels” at the Sohag Cultural Palace
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“Naguib Mahfouz: A Mirror of History and Society” at the Luxor Cultural Palace
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“Naguib Mahfouz’s Contribution to Arabic Novel Formation” at the Aswan Cultural Palace
Additionally, Alexandria’s Anfoushi Cultural Palace will host a seminar titled “Naguib Mahfouz’s Novels: From Literary Text to Cinema”.
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Workshops and Training Sessions: The General Administration for Talented Care will conduct various artistic workshops, such as portrait design workshops at the Shabin El-Koom Cultural Palace and a theatrical presentation workshop at the Mahalla Cultural Palace.
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Special Exhibitions and Documentaries: The Central Administration for Studies and Research will host a number of activities, including an exhibition and lectures focusing on Mahfouz’s life, his Nobel Prize achievement, and his cinematic legacy.
A Legacy Celebrated Nationwide
This initiative underscores Egypt’s dedication to preserving and promoting its rich literary heritage, with Naguib Mahfouz standing as a pillar of cultural pride. The events are designed to educate, entertain, and inspire audiences, ensuring that Mahfouz’s literary works continue to resonate across generations
