The weather was pleasant on August 31, so my plan to attend this year’s Sha’iran Annabi remained unchanged. It is an annual event organised by Ƴan Biyun Maaiki, the famous Kano twins known for their soul-soothing praise songs for the Prophet (PBUH). The event was educational, as scholars were invited to enlighten both popular and emerging artists on the significance of acquiring knowledge about the Prophet (PBUH) before writing a praise song (Qasida). Similarly, the choice of words, genuine intention, and mode of delivery were emphasised as essential elements to be taken seriously.
The poetry of Hassan bin Thabit, a companion and praise singer of the Prophet (PBUH), and the magnum opus of the Senegalese Sheikh Ibrahim Niasse have been cited as ageless masterpieces that continue to inspire generations of writers. From the poems of the colossus Sheikh Nasir Kabara to the impeccable works of Umar Fadar Bege, thousands of eulogies have been rendered immaculately in the Hausa language. It is, therefore, encouraged that anyone blessed to write or sing should understand the delicate nature of the genre. In this regard, vivid examples were drawn from the revered works of the above figures to serve as guidance for our madihs.
For a long time in Kano, Islamiyya, Majalisi, and Zawiyya have served as breeding grounds for creative writing, the performance of praise songs, and other forms of literary activities. These are places where young souls are nurtured to develop an unadulterated love for the Magnificent Master. The use of social media platforms for dissemination and promotion is equally important in Gen Z times. However, deliberate observations and reflections were made about the excesses of our folks on social media. One of the observers cautioned the attendees, especially women, to tread carefully. This is where I must commend Prof. Ibrahim Maqari, who has been making strident calls about the issue. He was recently seen in a viral video admonishing a TikToker to wear a hijab in her videos.
It was a successful event graced by people from Kano and neighbouring states, filling up the entire BUK New Site Convocation Arena. As someone who has been promoting our local madihs in my own simple ways for about two decades, I was overwhelmed with joy as I settled in to watch the live performance of this year’s Qasida collaboration by over 100 artists.
Junaid Sharfadi, an avid listener of Qasidun Annabi, writes from Kano.