Qatar National Library (QNL) has announced the winners of the second annual ‘Beautiful Athan Contest’, held in May to coincide with the holy month of Ramadan.
The contest for the most beautiful Athan (Islamic call to prayer) was open to all community members and received an “overwhelming response” of over 134 entries, the library said in a statement. Recordings submitted by contestants were judged on the basis of correct Arabic pronunciation and vocal harmony.
The contest highlighted the importance of the Athan in Islam; the delivery of the call in a soothing, pleasing tone is regarded as important in drawing Muslims to mosques for prayer.
The three winners,are Ahmad Abdul Rahman al-Emadi, programme producer at Al Jazeera, in first place; Moaz Mohamed al-Louh, an administrative manager, in second place; and Ahmad Abdul Sattar, a high school student, in third place.
“I entered the competition after a friend encouraged me to participate. It was an enjoyable and easy experience for me,” said al-Emadi. “The competition criteria made the contest accessible to everyone.”
Abdul Sattar added: “My experience in this competition was wonderful. It was a reason to enhance my relationship with my religious mentor, who gave me the opportunity to call Athan in the local mosque for morning and noon prayers. Through this competition, I have acquired a new talent.”
Abdul Rahman al-Emadi, Moaz Mohamed al-Louh, Ahmad Abdul Sattar
