Time to pray, care and share

Naat Khuan Muhammad Owais Raza Qadri. PHOTO | ALLAUDIN QURESHI

What you need to know:

  • A praiseworthy feature of these broadcasts is Naats or poetic renditions in praise of Allah. These compositions admire the life and attributes of Allah in a unique manner.
  • Naat recitation is considered an honourable art and although for me Urdu Language is the perfect vehicle for those who recite most of the languages of the world suit this recitation.

Observing the Holy month of Ramadhan, the faithful are fasting, praying and sharing to bring happiness to the less fortunate in the society.

Ramadhan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is observed by Muslims the world over to commemorate the first revelation of Quran to the Prophet of Islam Mohammad. This annual observance is also regarded as one of the five sacred Pillars of Islam.

During this period, Kenya’s Asian radio East FM has included special Ramadhan features in its programmes. It is highlighting in its broadcasts the religious and social attributes of this month and  love for mankind, peace and unity.

A praiseworthy feature of these broadcasts is Naats or poetic renditions in praise of Allah. These compositions admire the life and attributes of Allah in a unique manner.

Ever since the legendary poet Hassan Ibn Thabit, who is revered as SHAIR E RISALAT, rarely has there been any Muslim poet. The practice of recitation is popular in South East Asian countries and widely observed in other parts of the world as well.

There is no particular time set aside for this creativity, however Naat Khuans as the reciting artists are referred to, have a field day during the observance of Milad Un Nabi, the birth of the Prophet and during other religious celebrations.

A unique feature is that it is not accompanied by any musical instrument, however in some circles a DAFF (small percussion) is used as an accompaniment. Naat recitation is considered an honourable art and although for me Urdu Language is the perfect vehicle for those who recite most of the languages of the world suit this recitation.

Some of the universally acclaimed Naat Khuans are Owais Raza Kadri, Aamir Liaqat Hussain, and the lady Huria Rafiq Qadri. On the local scene Seemein, Shabir Ansari, Parveen Adam, Waheed Khan, Mohamed Ashraf khan and Bilal Lone Mir also excelled in this revered art.

The common belief is that Naat reciting is an art bestowed by the blessings of Allah. Enjoy the blessings of Ramadhan and serve the cause of sharing and caring to bring happiness to one and all.