On March 10, the World Forum of Tatar Youth organized an iftar at the Apanay Mosque Medrese.
Guests were welcomed by the chairman of the World Forum of Tatar Youth, Rainur Khasanov. He emphasized that this evening was not just a traditional meal, but an important event that united Tatar youth and created a space for communication.
The venue was not chosen by chance: the Apanay Medrese has a rich 255-year history. For centuries, educated, progressive Tatar youth gathered here, and religion and language have always gone hand in hand. Preserving traditions, national heritage, and continuing the legacy of our ancestors is our shared responsibility, and choosing such a significant location gave special meaning to the iftar.
Also greeting the guests were Danis Shakirov, a member of the State Council of the Republic of Tatarstan, first deputy chairman of the National Council of the World Congress of the Tatars, and head of the Executive Committee of the World Congress of the Tatars, and Rinat Sadiykov, the Minister for Youth Affairs of Tatarstan.
Ahmat Khazrat Sabirov, the head of the Apanay Medrese, spoke about its rich history. Ayrat Fayzrahmanov, head of the Public Relations Department of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Tatarstan, shared interesting facts about the Old Tatar settlement, its characteristics, and notable figures who received education at local medreses. The evening was held in a warm atmosphere, accompanied by insightful discussions.
Gulnaz Badretdin, former vice-chairperson of the World Forum of Tatar Youth, addressed the women present with the word “abystailar”. She highlighted that this term is not limited to addressing elderly women and explained its origins and development in the Tatar language. She also emphasized the crucial role women play in preserving Tatar culture:
“I encourage you to speak in Tatar. Sometimes we hear that there are no nationalities in Islam, but the Allah created us as Tatars and gave us our language. Let us preserve it with pride and respect. The future of our people is in your hands”, she said to the participants.
After the enriching conversations, the participants gathered for the iftar meal. Imam Khazrat Sabirov of the Apanay Mosque presented a letter of gratitude from the “Iman” organization to Rainur Khasanov, chairman of the World Forum of Tatar Youth. At the end of the evening, Khazrat Sabirov delivered a sermon and recited verses from the Quran.
