Photo: Hassaan Qureshi- winner in the primary school category with Hajrah Kamran (Organiser, left) and Dr Tanzil Rahman (Competition Judge, right).
The Arabic Calligraphy Painting Competition, organised by the United Muslims of Northern Territory and led by Hajrah Kamran for the past five consecutive years, has now become a popular and deeply cherished annual tradition within the community.
With each passing year, it continues to grow not only in numbers, but in meaning, connection and a deepening love for Arabic calligraphy. In 2026, it reached a new and beautiful milestone.
This year’s theme, Nature, invited participants to explore the harmony between the natural world and the elegance of Arabic calligraphy.
Verses were carefully shaped into blossoming trees, flowing leaves and intricate floral forms, where every letter carried both artistic beauty and sacred meaning.
Each piece was not simply a painting, but a reflection of the timeless elegance of the Arabic script.
Some works conveyed serenity and gratitude, while others reflected strength and resilience, yet all were united by a shared reverence for the written word.
The growth of this annual event is not measured only by the increasing number of participants, but by the connection it nurtures with Arabic calligraphy itself.
Individuals from diverse cultural and faith backgrounds continue to attend with curiosity and openness. Many arrive unfamiliar with the script, yet leave with a deep appreciation for its precision, balance and spiritual depth.
Through each carefully formed letter, participants begin to understand that Arabic calligraphy is not just a visual art, but a discipline rooted in patience, intention and devotion.
A particularly special highlight of 2026 was the participation of parents alongside their children, a first in the history of this competition. What was once an individual experience became a shared journey across generations.
Families sat side by side, learning the flow of each letter, guiding one another and collectively engaging with the beauty of the Arabic script. It was no longer just a competition, but a meaningful moment of connection through calligraphy.
As always, choosing winners proved to be the most difficult task. The standard continues to rise each year, and the level of skill and dedication is remarkable.
Yet the true success of the event lies beyond rankings. It is found in the confidence of a child proudly presenting their calligraphy, in the courage of a parent trying something new, and in the collective effort to preserve and honour a deeply significant tradition.
At the heart of every stroke was something far greater than ink on canvas. It was a love for the words of Allah. The Qur’an describes itself as guidance, light and healing for the hearts, and through Arabic calligraphy, that divine message is given a form that is both seen and felt.
Watching children carefully trace each letter, ensuring every curve and dot was placed with precision, was deeply moving. Their work reflected not only artistic growth, but a sincere spiritual connection. They were not simply writing letters; they were honouring words that bring meaning, comfort and identity into their lives.
As the Arabic Calligraphy Painting Competition continues to flourish, it stands as a powerful reminder that Arabic calligraphy is more than an art form. It is a bridge between beauty and belief, a practice that strengthens identity and a tradition that nurtures love for the Qur’an.
Through each letter written with care, seeds of connection and inspiration are planted, continuing to grow with every passing year.
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