Turkish soldier Hasan’s 55-year vigil at Al-Aqsa Mosque comes to life on theatre stage

The story of Turkish soldier Hasan, a corporal from Igdir, is being brought to life in the theater production titled “Ask Derinlerde Onbasi” (Love in the Depths).

He maintained his vigil in Jerusalem until his death following the Ottoman withdrawal from Palestine.

The production is directed by Yasar Elmas and produced by OyunBozan Atolye.

Elmas shared with Anadolu Agency (AA) reporters that the play is based on a true story, saying: “The play narrates the story of an Ottoman soldier who stood guard alone at Al-Aqsa Mosque for 55 years.

“It’s a powerful story, making it challenging to capture the internal voices. I considered the emotions and thoughts of someone dedicating 55 years to such a place. We discovered this story through a journalist’s column, which inspired me to understand and convey the experiences of a hero who devoted his life there,” Elmas added.

Pillars of the play

Elmas explained that the play is structured around two main pillars: one focuses on the inner world of the hero and what he sees and feels over 55 years, while the other addresses the genocides and oppressions that have occurred in Palestine over the past century.

The hero experiences four dreams in which he sees sultans and leaders urging him to continue his vigil, longing to hear those words. When he meets a journalist in 1972 and is asked: “Why didn’t you return?” he replies, “My commander did not tell me to return. This place is entrusted to me.” It’s an incredible statement.

Elmas also highlighted the inclusion of music in the play, sharing his connection with Tunisian singer-songwriter Emel Mathlouthi during the screenplay writing process.

“What I admire about Emel Mathlouthi is her unwavering support for the Palestinian cause on every platform she performs. I reached out to her on social media about using her music for our new play. When she replied the next day, I was pleasantly surprised and thrilled. Now, we’re exploring ways to collaborate on future projects.”

Having lived with this story for two years, Elmas revealed, “We started rehearsals two months ago. It’s an expensive production, so we’ve been seeking project partners and are still looking.”

“This is not a musical; it’s a theater play that includes animations, composed texts, and theatrical segments. In our play, for perhaps the first time in world theater history, music has been composed specifically for a script.”

Resonating with Turkish soldier Hasan’s spirit

Actor Abdurrahman Meralli emphasized the significance of being part of this story, portraying both a journalist and an officer. He expressed his excitement for both roles, highlighting the journalist’s impact in bringing Hasan Onbasi’s long vigil to light.

“The journalist plays a crucial role in ensuring Hasan Onbasi’s story is told to this day. For me, this is immensely significant. The officer reluctantly has to leave the region for Istanbul, knowing that his departure could lead to even greater disasters. It’s very difficult for him to abandon that place. He entrusts the flag to someone he believes in before leaving.”

“I’m excited about this project and hope that Hasan Onbasi’s patience and love resonate with many people and find a response,” Meralli added.

Actor Metin Cingilic, who plays the journalist, noted, “For years, Hasan Onbasi has been waiting there. No one notices him, and he doesn’t even feel the need to speak. The journalist sees something and approaches him. After several attempts to communicate, the bigger picture comes to light: Hasan Onbasi has been waiting in a trance-like state for 40 years. If we know of Hasan Onbasi today, it’s thanks to the journalist’s curiosity.”

Tribute to Turkish hero

Metin Cingilic described the character of Nazif Ustegmen (First Lieutenant), who encourages Hasan Onbasi to remain vigilant, underscoring the significance of the location for both Turks and the Islamic world.

“The army is being discharged, but he emphasizes the need for volunteers to guard Jerusalem. Hasan Onbasi steps up as a volunteer with one condition: to be buried there. Later, a mosque is built in his name, and he is laid to rest there. However, by the end of the play, we see that the mosque is now in ruins.”

Cingilic highlighted Hasan Onbasi’s willingness to stay voluntarily, noting his desire for the flag to be raised again.

“If they return, he wants to raise the flag himself. If they don’t return, he intends to be the confidant of that flag. What struck me the most was the moment when he likely realized that he was accepting the flag that would be placed at his own grave. This play aims to demonstrate the importance of Jerusalem, that it is not easily taken, and that we cannot easily relinquish it.”

The production features actors Abdurrahman Meralli, Metin Cingilic, Yasar Elmas and Coskun Ugur, and includes a 10-member cast. It is set to premiere for art lovers in October.