As the holy month of Ramazan commences the demand for copies of the Holy Quran increases manifolds, driven by the rising trend of daily recitation because the month is known as the month of self-purification through increased worship, spiritual cleansing, good deeds, and acts of charity.
Copies of the Holy Quran are distributed in mosques and madaris for esal-e-sawab (dedicating reward of a good deed or charitable act to another person). Moreover, they are given to friends and family as Ramazan gifts, contributing significantly to the increased demand for copies of the Holy Quran.
An important trend is the surge in demand among the youth, regardless of educational background, reflecting a growing desire to learn the Holy Quran. This is particularly evident in the increased interest in the versions aiding correct pronunciation during the fasting month. Similarly, there is a growing demand for larger-print editions, with accompanying translation and commentary (tafseer), catering to the elderly.
Usman Tahir, a distributor of the Holy Quran in Urdu Bazaar, told The Express Tribune that the pursuit of learning the Holy Quran with proper pronunciation has expanded not only among the youth but also among the elderly. In response to current trends and requirements, private institutions have introduced various digital and non-digital easy and Tajweed versions of the Holy Quran, available both offline and online.
According to Tahir, a publishing house has launched a Tajweedi Quran with 15 lines per page, designed for those familiar with Nazra (recitation without understanding), priced at Rs920 per copy. Another offering is a 16-line-per-page Holy Quran with Tajweed, aiding in correct pronunciation during recitation.
Qari Yasir, associated with the publication of the Holy Quran, noted the availability of 30-part sets with full laminated coating, presented in leather pouches at a discounted price of Rs12,000 during Ramazan. A version in large letters is accessible for the elderly, priced at Rs1,600, containing 12 lines per page with Hashiya (explanations in the margins.)
Tahir highlighted the popularity of the Holy Quran version titled Ahsan Al-Kalam, featuring translations in 28 different languages and audio recitation, while Yasir mentioned a copy with easy translation and commentary priced at Rs1,750.
Yasir also spoke about the increased attraction towards worship during Ramazan, prompting the publication of Manzil for individuals seeking additional rewards through reciting different surahs or manazil. These are available at a price of Rs45 each, and Punj Surahs with Manzil can be obtained for Rs110 each.
Tahir drew attention to a beautiful set containing Surah Yasin, Punj Surah, Noorani Qaida, and easy prayer, becoming a popular choice for households.
For children, publishing houses offer "The Tracing Quran," featuring 42 Surahs, with the unique feature of allowing handwritten notes while reading. Moreover, pocket-size Siparahs pf the Holy Quran are available for travelers during Ramazan, priced at Rs1,380. Haji Salman, known for donating the Holy Quran sets and Siparahs to mosques, underlined the significance of understanding and acting upon the Holy Book, complementing the act of recitation.
Published in The Express Tribune, March 13th, 2024.
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