Bronnikov Stunned by Youthful Enthusiasm at Sheikh Imam’s 30th Anniversary Celebration

Denis Bronnikov, the Deputy Director of the Russian Cultural Center in Cairo, expressed his amazement at the overwhelming turnout of youth at the celebration of Sheikh Imam, marking the 30th anniversary of his passing.

He noted that the crowd stretched for dozens of meters along Tahrir Street, extending all the way to the entrance of the Russian Cultural Center.

Bronnikov pointed out that most of the attendees were in their twenties. He added that the Tchaikovsky Theatre was fully packed, describing it as a phenomenon worthy of contemplation.

The celebration, organized by the Sheikh Imam Society for Arts and Literature in collaboration with the Russian Cultural Center in Cairo, saw a large turnout that included a number of renowned poets and artists.

The distinguished poet Zayn El-Abidin Fouad was present, along with other contemporary poets such as Mahmoud El-Taweel, Mohamed Seif, Farghali Mahran, and Sayed Enaba, who recited poems reflecting the rich poetic heritage of Sheikh Imam. Meanwhile, several individuals were honored for their contributions to preserving the legacy of Sheikh Imam.

As the evening unfolded, the connection between Sheikh Imam's music and political activism became even clearer. Bronnikov also highlighted that Sheikh Imam’s songs reached beyond Egypt’s borders, having been introduced to Russian audiences since 1985, when he performed at the World Youth Forum in Moscow.

The Russian Cultural Center has maintained this cultural exchange, showcasing the universal themes in Imam’s music that resonate with youth all over the world.

Sherif Gad, a key figure at the event, reflected on the enduring impact of the late musician. “Sheikh Imam is still alive in the hearts of Egyptians,” he said. “He was the blind singer who illuminated the hearts of the poor and the revolutionaries. He sang for workers, farmers, and for Palestine, and his songs remain a guiding light for those fighting for justice.”

The celebration, which also included a poignant memorial for late poets such as Naguib Sorour and Ahmed Fouad Negm, reinforced the idea that Sheikh Imam’s artistic and political influence continues to shape the cultural landscape of Egypt. It also highlighted the continued role of music in shaping social and political movements, especially among the youth.