Fairouz bids farewell to her son, Hali Rahbani: Funeral details and celebrity attendance
In moments shrouded in sorrow and grief, the iconic Arab singer and beloved Lebanese icon, Fairouz , bid farewell to her son, Hali Rahbani, who passed away after a long battle with illness that had plagued him since childhood. The funeral service was held at the Church of Our Lady of the Dormition in the Mhaydtheh-Bikfaya area, where the "Moon's Neighbor" appeared in a deeply moving scene that touched the hearts of millions around the world, bringing to a close a story of motherhood and sacrifice that spanned decades.
Farewell ceremony and moving attendance
Fairouz arrived at the church accompanied by her daughter, director Rima Rahbani , who was a pillar of support for her mother during these difficult moments. Signs of deep emotion were evident on Fairouz's face, a stark contrast to her usual strength and dignity. The ceremony was a small, private affair, attended only by family and close friends, in keeping with the Rahbani family's tradition of maintaining their privacy. However, cameras captured the presence of renowned designer Elie Saab , who, in a spontaneous and touching moment, kissed Fairouz's hand, offering his condolences. Several other social and artistic figures, as well as members of the Rahbani family, were also in attendance.
Who is “Hali”? A story of silent pain
Hali was the son who remained out of the public eye compared to his siblings Ziad and Rima, and his late sister Layal. From birth, Hali suffered from a special health condition (physical and intellectual disability), and Fairouz dedicated her life to his care and attention with quiet love, refusing to place him in any care institution. This reflects a profound humanitarian aspect of the great artist's character. Hali's passing reopens the book of sorrows for the Rahbani family, who have given Arab art an invaluable legacy.
The history of the Rahbani family: Creativity mixed with pain
This event cannot be separated from the historical context of the Rahbani family, who have shaped the very soul of Arabic and Lebanese music. Fairouz has experienced previous losses that profoundly impacted her life, beginning with the passing of her life partner and the architect of her musical success, Assi Rahbani, in 1986, followed by the death of her daughter, Layal, in 1988 at a young age due to a stroke. Today, with the loss of her son, Hali, Fairouz reaffirms that she is a symbol of resilience, not only in her art but also in the face of life's adversities.
Widespread local and Arab interaction
As soon as the news broke, social media was flooded with condolences and expressions of sympathy from across the Arab world. Many considered Fairouz's grief to be a shared sorrow for all lovers of authentic art, emphasizing that the woman who sang of love, homeland, and hope deserved all the love and support she received. This event was not merely news of a death, but a reminder of the humanity of a living legend, who experienced her joys and sorrows with dignity and quiet dignity.
