Bhatkal: The Quran Memorization Competition organized by Jamiat-ul-Huffaz showcased remarkable performances by participants from South Indian states, including Gujarat and Maharashtra.
In the Uliya Group (ages 15 to 22), Hafiz Tauheedur Rahman, son of Raza-ul-Kareem, from Mangalore secured the first position. In the Sufla Group (under 15 years), Hafiz Hassaan, son of Anwar Ali, from Maharashtra emerged as the winner. Hafiz Abdullah Anees, son of Sharif Mukhtasar, from Manki clinched the first position in the 15-Juz category for students from Mangalore to Goa, while Hafiz Umar, son of the late Faiyyaz Gawai, from Bhatkal topped the 10-Juz category for school and college students.
Notable Ranks:
- Uliya Group: Second place went to Hafiz Mohammed Arfat, son of Hussain Gawai, and third to Hafiz Ahmed Khuzema, son of Maulana Musaddiq Hallare.
- Sufla Group: Second place was secured by Hafiz Ahmed Abbad, son of Abdul Rahim Ekkeri, and third by Hafiz Abdul Hadi, son of Maulana Irfan S.M. Nadwi.
According to the program convener, Maulana Muazzam Shabandari, the competition attracted 310 participants from eight states. After a month-long process of eliminations and semi-finals, 40 students qualified for the final round in all four categories. The finals were held on Wednesday and Thursday at the Eidgah Grounds in Bhatkal, drawing thousands of spectators who demonstrated their love and connection with the Quran, the holy book of Islam.
The event was presided over by Jamiat-ul-Huffaz President Maulana Niamatullah Askiri Nadwi, while General Secretary Maulana Abdullah Shuraih Kobatte Nadwi hosted the program. The successful conclusion of the event was marked by active participation from dignitaries, including the Qazis of Bhatkal and representatives of various institutions.