Religious Melodies Section Concludes at Iran’s 48th National Quran Contest
The event is part of the country’s largest and most prestigious Quranic competition, organized annually by the Awqaf and Charity Affairs Organization. This year, 330 contenders in men’s and women’s divisions are competing in disciplines such as recitation, Tarteel, memorization, Adhan and group performances. Some 50 experts are serving on the jury, and more than 120 Quranic gatherings are being held on the sidelines of the competition. The final round will continue through October 27, when the winners will be announced in a closing ceremony.
Hojat-ol-Islam Mohammad Karvand, secretary of the 48th edition, said the first segment—covering du’a recitation, group Quran recitation, Adhan and choir performances—successfully wrapped up after two days of competition.
“Fortunately, the first part of this round in the field of religious melodies has come to an end, and we witnessed the competitors’ performances in this category,” he said.
He added that the remaining categories will follow immediately. “From tomorrow, the competition will enter its most enthusiastic stage with Tarteel, Tahqiq and memorization,” Karvand noted, expressing confidence that the presence of contenders and the warm reception of audiences in Sanandaj and other cities of Kurdistan Province will ensure “a successful and passionate continuation.”
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Karvand, who also serves as director-general of Awqaf and Charity Affairs in Kordestan Province, emphasized the spiritual depth of the Holy Quran. Quoting Imam Sadiq (AS), he said: “When a person listens to the Quran, it is as if the divine word is being revealed to them at that very moment.”
He stressed that true transformation requires action, adding: “More important than recitation and reflection is acting upon the Quran. Reading has its reward, but the impact on life depends on practice.”
During the ceremony, the “Al-Mokhtar” choir from Khuzestan, ranked first in this section, performed for the audience.
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Mamousta Fayeq Rostami, the Islamic Revolution Leader’s representative in Kordestan and Friday Prayer leader of Sanandaj, also addressed the gathering. “For several days now, the atmosphere of this city and province has been illuminated by the light of the Quran,” he said, describing it as “nothing but divine grace.”
He spoke about the eternal miracle of revelation. “The light of the Quran was first revealed to the heart of the Prophet (PBUH), and this is the greatest divine miracle,” Rostami said. He contrasted the Quran’s everlasting impact with temporary miracles of previous prophets, adding: “After 14 centuries, this light is still fresh and vibrant.”
Rostami stressed that the Quran provides a practical roadmap for all. “The Quran is not only for reading. Recitation is the first step,” he said, likening its impact to both the fragrance and taste of a citrus fruit.
He added: “It has instructions for everyone: for officials to honor justice and honesty, and for people to respect one another’s rights and practice forgiveness.”
The annual National Holy Quran Competition aims to promote Quranic values and literacy, and top winners of this edition will go on to represent Iran in international contests worldwide.
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