Hyderabad, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, witnesses a unique spiritual transformation during the holy month of Ramadan. Among the many traditions that intensify during this period is the heightened demand for Hafiz-e-Quran in Hyderabad. These scholars, proficient in the recitation of the Holy Quran, lead Taraweeh prayers in mosques and extend their services to private homes, apartments, and workplaces. As a result, hundreds of Hafiz-e-Quran from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh travel to Hyderabad each year to meet the growing demand.
Why Hafiz-e-Quran in Hyderabad Are in High Demand
Ramadan holds deep religious significance for Muslims, marked by fasting, prayer, and the recitation of the Holy Quran. The people of Hyderabad have a strong desire to listen to the complete Quran during this sacred month, which is facilitated through Taraweeh prayers led by Hafiz-e-Quran in Hyderabad. The increasing population, the large number of mosques, and the religious devotion of the residents contribute to this growing demand.
Many households in Hyderabad prefer to arrange Taraweeh prayers at home, especially those with elderly members or limited access to mosques. Similarly, residential communities in apartment complexes invite Hafiz-e-Quran in Hyderabad to conduct prayers within their premises. Even some businesses and corporate offices make arrangements for their employees to participate in Taraweeh, further driving the demand for skilled reciters.
Prominent Islamic scholar and khateeb of Ibrahim Gulshani Jama Masjid, Bholakpur, Maulana Muhammad Abid Hussain Nizami, emphasized the importance of Quranic recitation and listening during Ramadan. He advised that financial compensation should not be a barrier in hiring Hafiz-e-Quran, urging the community to support financially struggling Hafiz with generosity. He also discouraged Hafiz from demanding fixed fees for their services, highlighting that Ramadan should be about devotion rather than financial negotiations.
Arrival of Hafiz-e-Quran in Hyderabad from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh
Despite Hyderabad producing a significant number of Hafiz-e-Quran, the local availability falls short of meeting the overwhelming demand during Ramadan. This gap is filled by scholars from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, two states renowned for their strong Islamic educational institutions. Many young Hafiz-e-Quran see Ramadan as an opportunity to not only gain spiritual rewards but also secure temporary employment by leading Taraweeh prayers in Hyderabad.
For them, this journey is financially beneficial, with compensation ranging from ₹20,000 to ₹50,000 for the month, depending on their expertise and recitation style. Additionally, they are often provided with accommodation, meals, and travel expenses. Their presence enriches the spiritual experience of Hyderabad’s residents, making the recitation of the Holy Quran during Taraweeh more melodious and engaging.
Imam of Qutb Shahi Masjid in Bazaar Guard, Hafiz Aajiz Ibn Masood, shed light on the increasing preference for private arrangements over mosques for Taraweeh prayers. He pointed out that many people now prefer Hafiz who can complete the recitation quickly, often seeking those who charge the least but have the best recitation style. He also noted that some anti-Islamic elements criticize the practice of holding Taraweeh in apartments and private spaces, creating unnecessary controversy. Additionally, he mentioned that just as Hafiz come to Hyderabad from other states, local Hafiz from Hyderabad are also invited to lead prayers in foreign countries during Ramadan.
Hyderabadi Haleem: The Go-To Ramadan Dish Driving a Billion-Dollar Market
Economic and Social Impact of Hafiz-e-Quran in Hyderabad
The role of Hafiz-e-Quran in Hyderabad extends beyond mosques. Their services are sought in homes, apartment communities, and even workplaces, catering to diverse segments of the Muslim community. While their primary responsibility is leading Taraweeh prayers, their presence also contributes economically to the city. The compensation they receive circulates within the local economy, benefiting landlords, eateries, and transport services.
Prominent social activist Aleem Khan Falaki raised concerns over the trend of ‘Shabeena’ and ‘Do Shabeena,’ where the entire Quran is recited in one or two nights. He argued that while listening to the Quran is rewarding, rushing through it contradicts the essence of understanding and reflection. He stressed that Taraweeh should be conducted in a way that allows worshippers to absorb its teachings, rather than being a ritualistic practice of completing recitation at high speed.
Religious scholars emphasize that Hafiz-e-Quran in Hyderabad should be treated with generosity during Ramadan. While some advocate for providing financial support unconditionally, others believe that Hafiz-e-Quran should not set fixed monetary demands. Despite the debate, their role remains essential in maintaining the spiritual significance of Ramadan in Hyderabad.
A survey of Hyderabad’s residents revealed that nearly 99% of people prefer a peaceful and melodious recitation during Taraweeh rather than a rushed completion of the Quran. Residents from Toli Chowki, Red Hills, and Mehdipatnam shared their experiences of choosing mosques known for their soothing recitation styles. Some even travel to specific mosques, such as Makkah Masjid and Shahi Masjid in Bagh-e-Aam, just to experience a more immersive prayer environment.
Although challenges exist—such as accommodation arrangements and language barriers—Hyderabad’s hospitality and religious enthusiasm ensure that visiting Hafiz-e-Quran find a welcoming environment. Their presence strengthens the bond between different communities, preserving the sacred traditions of Ramadan.
As Hyderabad continues to evolve, the tradition of inviting Hafiz-e-Quran in Hyderabad during Ramadan remains strong. Their contributions go beyond prayer leadership, fostering religious devotion and unity. Recognizing their efforts is essential, as they provide thousands of Muslims with the opportunity to listen to and benefit from the Holy Quran during this blessed month.
