From May 16 to 18, 2025, the 15th All-Russian Forum of Tatar Religious Leaders titled “National Identity and Religion” will be held in Kazan and Bolgar. The Forum traditionally brings together imams, Islamic scholars, members of the clergy, public figures, and experts from all corners of Russia.

The event will host 1,049 delegates from 74 regions of the Russian Federation. This is the largest gathering of Muslim clergy in Russia, aimed at strengthening unity, sharing experiences, and discussing pressing issues of Islamic life in a multiethnic country.

Key Events of the Forum:

May 16:

The Forum will begin with the registration and accommodation of participants, followed by Friday prayers in the historic mosques of Kazan. The official opening ceremony will take place at the Kazan Agro-Industrial Park (Agrarnaya St., 2). After the opening, attendees will visit the “Russia Halal Expo 2025” and the “Tatar Bazaar” exhibitions, held at the same venue.

May 17:

Forum participants will proceed to Kazan Expo (Vystavochnaya St., 1), where a plenary session will be held with the participation of the Rais (Head) of the Republic of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov. After the plenary session, several thematic discussion panels will commence, focusing on the preservation of spiritual and moral values, the development of Islamic education, and the role of religion in strengthening national identity.

May 18:

On the final day of the Forum, delegates will travel to the ancient city of Bolgar to participate in the ceremonial event “Izge Bolgar Jiyeny” (Holy Bolgar Gathering). The program includes the Tawba (repentance) ritual, an official opening, and a collective Zuhr prayer.

Main Goal of the Forum:

The Forum continues the tradition of dialogue and cooperation between the Muslim community, the clergy, and state institutions. It aims to strengthen the national consciousness and spiritual culture of the Tatar people.