The provincial finals of the Adhan and Khutbah competition took place in Antalya, showcasing the best reciters and speakers. Imam Hatip Süleyman Kurşun from Aksu and Enes Demirbaş from Konyaaltı clinched the top spots.

Key Takeaways

  • Provincial finals of the Adhan and Khutbah competition were held in Antalya
  • Participants were evaluated on proper recitation, diction, body language and audience engagement
  • Süleyman Kurşun (Aksu) and Enes Demirbaş (Konyaaltı) won first place in their categories

The Adhan Beautiful Recitation and Effective Khutbah Presentation Competition concluded its provincial finals on July 22, 2026, at the Akdeniz University Mosque. Organized by the Antalya Provincial Mufti’s Office, the event aims to raise the professional standards of religious officials across the region.

Two categories were contested: Adhan Beautiful Recitation and Effective Khutbah Presentation. In the former, judges assessed the participants’ adherence to traditional melody, pitch (maqam) and proper timing. In the latter, speakers were judged on diction, rhetorical style, body language and their ability to connect with congregants.

Historical Background

Reciting the Adhan and delivering the Khutbah have been central to Islamic communal life for centuries, especially in Turkey where the Ottoman tradition refined the art of vocal modulation (maqam). Since the early 20th century, the Turkish Directorate of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) has institutionalized competitions to preserve these traditions and to train new generations of imams.

This year’s Antalya finals attracted over 120 imams from across the province. The judging panel was chaired by Provincial Mufti Aydın Yığman, assisted by senior muftis and experienced scholars. Süleyman Kurşun from Aksu emerged victorious in the Adhan category, while Enes Demirbaş from Konyaaltı topped the Khutbah category, earning the right to represent Antalya in the upcoming regional contest.

Why This Matters (इसके मायने क्या हैं)

BozokMedia analysis shows that such competitions do more than celebrate vocal talent; they enhance community cohesion by improving the quality of public worship. When imams deliver clearer, more engaging sermons, congregants experience a deeper spiritual connection, which can translate into greater social harmony.

Moreover, higher standards in Adhan and Khutbah delivery attract religious tourism, benefitting local businesses and reinforcing Antalya’s reputation as a cultural hub.

"Religious competitions provide a platform for imams to refine their craft, leading to measurable improvements in the public worship experience," said a senior Islamic scholar.
Did You Know?: The first national Adhan competition in Turkey was held in the 1920s as part of the country’s modernization efforts, standardizing the call to prayer across the newly formed republic.

Frequently Asked Questions (अक्सर पूछे जाने वाले प्रश्न)

  • Question: What were the eligibility criteria for contestants?
    Answer: Participants had to be certified imams or religious officials recognized by the Turkish Directorate of Religious Affairs and must adhere to the prescribed standards for Adhan and Khutbah.
  • Question: What rewards did the winners receive?
    Answer: First‑place winners were awarded scholarly books, official certificates, and the opportunity to represent Antalya in the upcoming regional competition.