-by David Clarke

The National Qaseeda Singing Competition got underway today at the Muslim Youth Organization Complex on Woolford Avenue, bringing together junior and senior performers from across the country.

Organisers say the event aims to preserve the tradition of Qaseeda singing, promote the Urdu language, and inspire a new generation of participants.

The competition brings together participants in junior and senior categories, with contestants required to perform Qaseedas in Urdu—songs expressing love and reverence for the Holy Prophet Muhammad.

Chief Executive Officer of he National Communications Network, Neaz Subhan said, “Urdu language have diminished. This competition represents an effort to change that, to refine the tradition, preserve the language and, importantly, transport it to another generation.”

For religious leaders, keeping the tradition alive also means giving young people a positive form of expression rooted in their culture and faith.

“Sometimes we hear songs and do not promote discipline and decency. It’s not the lyrics, it’s not very healthy for our children to listen to. And so while we are talking about that, how are we correcting the situation And so in this regard, I think the Qaseeda competition and more singing of it is even more needed. Especially in these time” Shaykh Moeen Ul-Hack, Director of Education- Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana.

This year’s competition is being held across several regions, with the preliminary rounds determining who advances to the national finals on September 12.