RIYADH — In the rounds of the quarterfinals of the international Holy Qur’an and Call to Prayer Competition, the Azhari reciter Ezzat Al-Sayed Rashid won the votes of the jury after a wonderful recitation that qualified him for the semi-finals of the competition. Rashid eliminated Mutasim Billah Al-Asali , who is a Swiss of Syrian origin.

The two contestants, Rashid and Al-Asali, have been among the most beautiful voices in Otr Elkalam (Scent of Speech) TV show. They were able to easily pass the preliminary rounds and reach the quarterfinals, which brought them face to face in one episode to compete for who remains and who leaves the largest competition of its kind in the world.

In the call to prayer category, experienced Turkish muezzin Muhsin Kara qualified for the semi-finals after beating Anas Sahloul, who also excelled in delivering the prayer call, but got fewer votes than Kara.

The international Holy Qur’an and Call to Prayer Competition is one of the initiatives of the General Entertainment Authority. Its episodes are broadcast daily at 5 p.m. on Otr Elkalam show on Saudia channel and Shahid platform. — SG