Echoes of Ottoman Empire: Ayse Gulnev Osmanoglu on family, history and legacy

In an exclusive interview with Türkiye Today, Ayse Gulnev Osmanoglu, born in 1971 in the U.K. as the daughter of Prince Osman Selaheddin—a descendant of Sultan Murad V and Sultan Mehmed Resad V—shares her unique insights into the final days of the Ottoman Empire. She discusses her personal connection to one of history’s most influential dynasties and her dedicated efforts to preserve its rich history and enduring legacy.

As a member of the Ottoman family, she carries the deep heritage of her ancestors, sharing their stories with the world. In this interview, we explore not only her personal journey but also her efforts to keep Ottoman history alive.

From her literary works to her perspective on the past and future of the Ottoman legacy, Ayse Gulnev Osmanoglu provides a fascinating glimpse into the life of a woman whose family shaped history.

Can you share your earliest memories of growing up in a family with such a rich and unique heritage?

Osmanoglu: My earliest memories of growing up in a family with such a rich heritage are linked to the physical reminders of our Ottoman roots. Our home was filled with old family photographs and a few treasured heirlooms, which created a tangible connection to the past. However, it wasn’t until my first visit to İstanbul, a couple of years after the exile order was lifted, that I truly grasped the uniqueness of my heritage.

I was about four years old, walking hand-in-hand with my grandfather, Sehzade (Prince) Ali Vasib Efendi, along the Bosphorus. As he looked out over the water and said, “This is our home,” I felt a real sense of belonging. Sadly, this beautiful moment was overshadowed by a group of men who followed us, shouting obscenities and threats. It was only years later when my grandmother explained the lingering animosity toward our family, that I understood the deep-seated hostility behind their words.

How did your family’s exile and their stories shape your identity and perspective on life?

Osmanoglu: The exile of my family has profoundly shaped my identity and perspective. I feel immense pride in my heritage, humbled by the knowledge that the blood of the Ottoman Sultan-Caliphs runs through my veins. At the same time, growing up in exile in a foreign land was very challenging. Assimilating into cultures that were not my own often left me feeling like an outsider in both worlds. This duality has made me cautious in my interactions with others, as I’ve encountered prejudice from both Turks and foreigners.

However, my family’s resilience in the face of such adversity has been a constant source of strength for me. Their stories of survival and perseverance inspire me to navigate my own challenges with grace. This unique perspective has fuelled my passion for Ottoman history and motivated me to share my family’s stories through my writing, not only to honor them but to shed light on a history that is often misunderstood.

What role did your father, Prince Osman Selaheddin Osmanoglu, play in inspiring you to explore your family’s history?

Osmanoglu: My father, Osman Selaheddin Efendi, has been instrumental in inspiring my exploration of our family’s history. His passion for our history and his encouragement led me to study Ottoman history at university. During the research for my first book, he patiently answered my many questions and shared insights that only someone with firsthand knowledge of our family’s experiences could provide. I hope that through my work, I have made him proud by trying to preserve our family’s remarkable legacy.

What inspired you to start writing about the Ottoman Imperial family and its history?

Osmanoglu: My inspiration to write about the Ottoman Imperial family comes from my desire to give a voice to my ancestors so that their story might be told. Growing up, I was fortunate to hear firsthand accounts and memories from my grandparents—priceless fragments of history that offered a personal glimpse into an extraordinary past. I felt a strong responsibility to record these stories before they were lost to time. Writing became my way of honoring my family, bringing their experiences out of the shadows of history and into the light of the page.

‘The Gilded Cage on the Bosphorus’ started as a project for your children. What made you decide to share it with the world?

Osmanoglu: That’s absolutely true! I initially wrote “The Gilded Cage on the Bosphorus” hoping to give my children, their children, and generations beyond a genuine connection to their heritage. At the time, I never imagined I would publish the book, intending for it only to be read by my children and extended family. However, after my father read the manuscript, he suggested I publish it. My husband and daughter also encouraged me to publish, and eventually, I thought, why not! Their belief in the book gave me the confidence to release it to the world.

What were the challenges of translating such deeply personal stories into a book for a broader audience?

Osmanoglu: Translating deeply personal family stories into a book for a broader audience presented several challenges. The most significant was maintaining objectivity and keeping my personal feelings in check. As a descendant of the Ottoman Imperial family, I had to balance my own emotions with the broader historical narrative.

Another challenge was deciding which details to include. Some aspects, deeply meaningful to me and essential for my children to understand their heritage, might not resonate with a typical historical fiction reader. This process required careful consideration and some difficult compromises had to be made in the final edit.

In your writing, you balance personal narratives with historical accuracy. How do you approach this balance?

Osmanoglu: In balancing personal narratives with historical accuracy, my approach centers on trying to evoke the human stories behind historical events. I am definitely more of a historian than a creative writer, so I often need to remind myself to step back from over-explaining historical details and allow the storyteller in me to take the lead. That said, the historical accuracy of the political and social context is essential because it shapes the world in which my characters lived. I want readers to grasp the monumental issues at play, and I find that the raw material of history is so compelling that straying far from fact is rarely necessary.

However, I am also aware that history is often written by the victors, which means events are not always portrayed as they truly happened. So, I see my books as an opportunity to present the Ottoman perspective, giving voice to a narrative that is often overlooked. More specifically, I strive to share my family’s unique experiences during the turbulent final years of the Empire, blending fact and emotion to create a richer, more nuanced understanding of the past.

What do you hope readers will take away from your books about the Ottoman Empire and its legacy?

Osmanoglu: I hope my books spark curiosity in readers, inspiring them to delve deeper into this fascinating period of history. My aim is to highlight the complex forces that shaped the twilight years of the Ottoman Empire while fostering an appreciation for its enduring legacy. I also hope readers feel encouraged to visit the places I describe, experiencing the beauty and significance of these historic sites for themselves.

Most importantly, I want readers to connect emotionally with the characters—real people who faced extraordinary challenges with remarkable dignity and resilience. Through their stories, I hope to remind readers of the timeless human qualities that resonate across cultures and eras.

How do you think modern audiences view the Ottoman Empire, and how does your work aim to shape or challenge those perceptions?

Osmanoglu: Modern audiences often view the Ottoman Empire through a distorted, lens shaped by outdated stereotypes and misconceptions. These narratives frequently ignore the complexity and sophistication of the Empire, reducing its legacy to unwarranted cliches. My books aim to challenge these misperceptions by portraying the beauty and splendor of Imperial Istanbul and highlighting the Ottoman Empire’s remarkable achievements as a multi-ethnic state that for centuries thrived as a result of cultural integration.

Through a more balanced depiction, I hope to foster a deeper appreciation for the Ottoman legacy, demonstrating how it continues to influence art, architecture, and geopolitical dynamics in the Balkans and the Middle East. Recent events in Syria demonstrate how this legacy continues to impact the modern world.

Can you share any details about your upcoming book in the Ottoman dynasty novels series?

Osmanoglu: Absolutely! The next book in the “Ottoman Dynasty Chronicles” is the sequel to “The Gilded Cage on the Bosphorus,” and I’m excited to say that writing is well underway. It covers the turbulent period of Ottoman history from 1906 to 1909, continuing the story of Sultan Murad V’s family living in the Ciragan Palace.

Familiar characters, such as Sultan Abdulhamid II and his loyal eunuch Cevher Aga, play prominent roles, while new characters, including a dashing young army officer stationed in Macedonia, are also introduced. It’s a period marked by significant political upheaval, and I can’t wait to bring this chapter of Ottoman history to life.

Are there other historical periods or themes you’re interested in exploring in the future?

Osmanoglu: Yes. While my current focus remains on completing the “Ottoman Dynasty Chronicles”, which has four more books to come, I would like to explore other historical periods and themes one day. One possibility is a prequel trilogy on Sultan Murad V, delving into his life as Crown Prince, his short reign as sultan, and his years of captivity in the Ciragan Palace. Additionally, I am drawn to the idea of writing a series that covers the rise of the Ottoman Empire through the eyes of its first 10 sultans. It would be wonderful if I had time to complete both.

How do you envision the legacy of the House of Osman evolving in the 21st century?

Osmanoglu: I am heartened by the growing interest in Ottoman history and culture, as more Turks embrace and take pride in our shared heritage. This resurgence could lead to increased historical tourism and the preservation of Ottoman sites and artifacts, both within Türkiye and beyond its borders.

It also opens up opportunities for expanding the national school curricula and encouraging deeper research into the Palace Archives, ensuring the House of Osman’s legacy is preserved for future generations. The reopening of the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque and the Yildiz Palace, as well as the ongoing restoration of Ottoman tombs and yalis, are wonderful steps forward. I hope such initiatives continue, revitalizing our connection to the past.

As a descendant of the House of Osman, I see our family’s legacy as more than physical monuments and artifacts; it represents the values of tolerance, innovation, and cultural exchange that defined the golden era of the Ottoman Empire. I hope these principles will serve as a bridge between past and present, inspiring pride, understanding, and unity in the 21st century.

How do you balance your roles as a mother, writer, and historian?

Osmanoglu: Balancing my roles as a mother, writer, and historian has definitely been a juggling act! As every mother knows, finding time to pursue your dreams often takes a back seat while you are bringing up a family. This is why I only started writing later in life as my children have always come first for me, but now that my youngest has just started university, I find myself with a little more time to dedicate to my writing and historical research. However, when my children are home, everything gets put on hold and my focus shifts naturally back to being a mother.

What is rather lovely though, is that my children are my biggest fans and making them proud makes all the hours spent at my writing desk so worthwhile.

What are some of your favorite family traditions that connect you to your Ottoman heritage?

Osmanoglu: One of my favorite family traditions is coming together over a special meal. Food has always been such a big part of Ottoman culture, and enjoying recipes from its rich, diverse cuisine is something we love to do as a family. Another tradition close to my heart is storytelling. I love passing on the stories my grandparents shared with me, as they not only teach us about the past but also keep our family’s memories alive. Even though my children are growing up in a very different world, I always remind them of the importance of honoring our roots and understanding our heritage.

Do you involve your children in your research or writing process?

Osmanoglu: While my children don’t directly get involved in my research or writing process, my daughter is a big help! She reads each scene as I write it, offering great feedback and plenty of encouragement. Her perspective is always fresh, and it’s lovely that she is part of my writing process.

Do you believe your work can serve as a bridge between the past and present, especially for Turkish and global audiences?

Osmanoglu: Yes, I believe my work can serve as a bridge between the past and present. By sharing the stories of my ancestors and the rich history of the Ottoman Empire, I aim to offer both Turkish and global audiences a deeper understanding of this fascinating period. Through my writing, I hope to connect the past to the present, helping readers appreciate the lasting connections across time and the ways history continues to shape the world we live in today.

How has the reception been from Turkish readers for the translated version of “The Gilded Cage on the Bosphorus”?

Osmanoglu: The reception from Turkish readers for the translated version, “Bogaz’daki Altin Kafes”, has been modest but deeply meaningful. Since I’ve self-published all my books and have yet to officially launch them in Türkiye, their reach has been limited. Despite this, I’ve been fortunate to receive some positive press coverage from Turkish news outlets and heartwarming messages from readers who discovered the book independently.

Each message means the world to me. I am incredibly grateful to everyone who has purchased, read, and taken the time to review the book. Their feedback not only encourages me but also reminds me that our shared heritage continues to be respected and valued today. These connections have strengthened my resolve to partner with a traditional Turkish publisher to make the book more widely available and to continue sharing my family’s story with a broader audience.

What advice would you give to aspiring writers or historians wanting to tell their family’s stories?

Osmanoglu: I am still an amateur writer myself, so I do not feel qualified to offer expert advice to aspiring writers or historians wanting to tell their family’s stories. However, if pressed, I would say, stay true to the historical facts. History is already rich and compelling, so there’s no need to embellish or sensationalize. Rely on primary sources as much as possible—diaries, letters, memoirs and photographs. And above all, enjoy the journey of connecting with your roots through your research and writing.

Bringing history to life, especially your own family’s story, is a unique and rewarding experience. If you are passionate about what you are writing that passion will shine through and resonate with your readers.

If you could have a conversation with one member of your family’s past, who would it be and why?

Osmanoglu: This is such a difficult question to answer, as there are so many members of my family I would love to have a conversation with. Of course, it would be amazing to speak to Sultan Osman I and ask him if he ever imagined the state he founded in 1299 would grow to become the largest and most powerful Islamic empire the world has ever seen.

It would be an incredible honor to meet Sultan Mehmed II and hear firsthand about his strategy for the conquest of Constantinople. I would ask Sultan Selim I about the emotions he felt when he took the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, and I would be fascinated to speak with Sultan Suleiman I about his vision for the empire and his role in shaping the cultural and legal legacies that endure to this day.

But as much as I would love to speak with these great sultans, there’s one person who stands out above all others for me: my grandfather, Sehzade Ali Vasib Efendi. He was my favorite person in the world, and I adored him with all my heart. To have just one more conversation with him, to hear his voice again, would be the greatest gift I could imagine.

What’s the one thing you hope your readers understand about the House of Osman after reading your books?

Osmanoglu: The one thing I hope my readers understand about the House of Osman after reading my books is that for six centuries my family were dedicated servants of the state, devoted to their people and committed to their duty. Above all, they loved their homeland. Even in exile, despite enduring immense personal loss and injustice, their loyalty never faltered. They never spoke ill of the new republic, and their love for Türkiye never wavered.

Ayse Gulnev Osmanoglu combines the past and future through her efforts to preserve the Ottoman family’s legacy. Her writings reflect her deep respect for history, inviting readers to explore the path of the Ottoman Empire.

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About Ayse Gulnev Osmanoglu

Ayse Gulnev Osmanoglu, born in 1971 in the U.K., is a member of the Ottoman Imperial family. She is the daughter of H.I.H. Prince Osman Selaheddin, a descendant of Sultan Murad V and Sultan Mehmed Resad V. Raised in the U.K., her rare visits to Istanbul deepened her pride in her heritage.

Osmanoglu holds degrees in history, politics and Turkish studies and worked in property development before focusing on writing. She is the author of “A Farewell To Imperial Istanbul” and “The Gilded Cage on the Bosphorus,” works that reflect the history and legacy of the Ottoman family.

Living in Sussex with her husband and five children, Osmanoglu continues to preserve and share her family’s history through her writing.