I changed my name to distance myself from my father Sheikh Al-Husari
Yasmin Khayyam, an Egyptian Mu’tazila artist, reflects on her father, the late Sheikh Mahmoud Khalil Al Hosari, on the anniversary of his death. Sheikh Al Hosari was known for his singing, which drew criticism from some extremist groups. Yasmin shared her experiences growing up as his daughter during a time when many forms of expression were restricted.
Yasmin revealed that her birth name is Ijlal al-Hosri, but she chose to use Yasmin al-Khaiyam to separate herself from her father’s legacy. She expressed a desire for people to remember her father as a kind man.
She noted that Sheikh Muhammad al-Ghazali once told her that singing could carry both good and bad meanings. Yasmin clarified that “Al-Husri” is not merely a family name but a title her father earned for his contributions to the recitation of the Holy Qur’an and his efforts in beautifying mosques.
How does Yasmin Khayyam honor her father’s legacy in her own life and work?
Interview with Yasmin Khayyam: Reflecting on Her Father’s Legacy
News Directory 3: Today, we have the honor of speaking with Yasmin Khayyam, daughter of the renowned Sheikh Mahmoud Khalil Al Hosari, as we reflect on her father’s life and contributions to the art of Qur’anic recitation on the anniversary of his passing. Thank you for joining us, Yasmin.
Yasmin Khayyam: Thank you for having me.
News Directory 3: It’s been 44 years since your father’s passing. How has this day felt for you over the years?
Yasmin Khayyam: This day brings back a mix of emotions. It’s a moment of remembrance, but also a time for reflection on all the lessons he imparted. My father was not just a scholar of the Qur’an; he was a kind and humble man, and I hope people continue to remember him for his compassion.
News Directory 3: Your father’s singing has faced criticism from some factions. Could you share your thoughts on this?
Yasmin Khayyam: Yes, my father’s recitation and his singing were sometimes met with criticism from extremist groups. However, it’s important to remember what Sheikh Muhammad al-Ghazali once told me: singing can carry both good and bad meanings. My father used his talent to share beauty in the recitation of the Qur’an, which he believed should be celebrated.
News Directory 3: You chose to use the name Yasmin Khayyam instead of Al-Hosri. What prompted that decision?
Yasmin Khayyam: Using the name Yasmin Khayyam allows me to carve out my own identity and separate myself from the weight of my father’s legacy. I deeply respect my father’s contributions, but I also want to explore my own path in this world.
News Directory 3: Can you tell us about the significance of the name “Al-Husri”?
Yasmin Khayyam: “Al-Husri” is not just a family name; it represents my father’s dedication to the recitation of the Holy Qur’an and his efforts to beautify mosques through his work. It’s a title he earned through hard work and talent, and it reflects his impact on the Islamic community.
News Directory 3: What impressions did you gather about his work ethic and dedication during your upbringing?
Yasmin Khayyam: My father’s work ethic was exceptional. He memorized the Qur’an from a young age, often walking long distances to attend his studies. I remember how he would sit under a tree in our village, memorizing verses. Even in his later years, he would visit that same spot, honoring his beginnings. It was a reminder of his journey and commitment.
News Directory 3: As we look back at your father’s life, what would you like people to remember most about him?
Yasmin Khayyam: I hope they remember him as a kind man who dedicated his life to the Qur’an. His modesty and deep love for this holy text are what truly defined him as a person. Sheikh Mahmoud Khalil Al Hosari was an indelible part of our culture, and I wish for his legacy to continue to inspire others.
News Directory 3: Thank you, Yasmin, for sharing your poignant reflections on your father’s life and legacy.
Yasmin Khayyam: Thank you for giving me this opportunity to honor him.
Her father was recognized for his modesty, dedication to the Qur’an, and his exceptional recitation skills. He began memorizing the Qur’an at a young age, often walking long distances to get to his studies. Yasmin reminisced how he would sit under a tree in their village to memorize verses, later returning to honor that spot with a visit when he was older.
Today marks 44 years since Sheikh Mahmoud Khalil Al Hosari passed away on November 24, 1980. He is remembered as a towering figure in Egyptian recitation.