Syrians Celebrate Victory Through Music as Wasfi Maasarani Returns from Exile

Wasfi Maasarani performed in Damascus to celebrate Syria’s recent victory over Assad, marking his return from exile. The concert, organized by the Molham Volunteering Team, was attended by a passionate crowd celebrating the revolutionary spirit of the uprising against Assad’s regime. Songs of resistance continue to inspire Syrians as they navigate the aftermath of conflict.

A vibrant atmosphere enveloped a concert hall in Damascus this week during a performance by Wasfi Maasarani, a prominent figure in the Syrian uprising, as he celebrated what he termed “Syria’s victory.” This concert, held to commemorate a month since the overthrow of former President Bashar al-Assad, also marked Maasarani’s return to Syria after spending 13 years in exile. While in Los Angeles, Maasarani dedicated himself to advocating for the Syrian cause through music, touring across the United States and Europe.

Organized by the Molham Volunteering Team, a humanitarian group formed by Syrian students, the event featured revolutionary songs that have historically rallied support during the protracted conflict. Songs by Maasarani and the late Abdelbasset Sarout, a renowned singer and activist, played an integral role during the uprising which began over 14 years ago. Many Syrian expatriates, including Maasarani, had longed to return home, uncertain of when this moment would arrive.

As the concert progressed, the audience illuminated the room with their phone lights, creating an ethereal ambiance. They sang along, some moved to tears, while cheers and applause echoed throughout the hall. Attendees waved the new Syrian flag adorned with three stars, and a banner reading “It is Syria the Great, not Syria the Assad” highlighted the sentiment of the gathering. Among Maasarani’s celebrated compositions is “Jabeenak ‘Ali w Ma Bintal,” originally performed in 2012, addressing the Free Syrian Army formed to oppose Assad’s regime.

The ongoing Syrian conflict, which transformed from an initial uprising in 2011 into a complex civil war, has seen widespread attendance at concerts and events that celebrate resistance and hope for a better future. Music has emerged as a pivotal medium for expression, uniting supporters of the revolution against the regime and fostering a sense of community among those displaced or in exile. Wasfi Maasarani is one such artist who has used his platform to give voice to these sentiments, promoting solidarity for the revolution through his performances across various continents.

The concert held by Wasfi Maasarani in Damascus serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of the Syrian people amidst ongoing challenges. With his return after years of exile, Maasarani reinvigorates hope and unity as Syrians celebrate their victory over oppression. The powerful melodies and lyrics of revolutionary songs continue to resonate, underscoring the significance of music as a catalyst for social change and collective resilience during difficult times.

Original Source: www.scmp.com