SALALAH: The inaugural Haboot folk art competition, held in the Dhofar Governorate recently, served as a testament to the Sultanate of Oman's unwavering dedication to safeguarding and fostering its authentic folk heritage, while simultaneously nurturing a burgeoning generation of poetic virtuosos.
The competition witnessed a remarkable turnout of gifted Omani poets, each vying for recognition with their original creations steeped in the rich tapestry of Haboot folk art.
The diversity and richness of their contributions served as a vibrant testament to the enduring power and depth of this ancient artistic expression.
Salem Ali Salem al Maashani, a poet of singular talent, emerged victorious in the competition, having secured the highest accolades from both the judging panel and the enthusiastic public vote.
Al Maashani's artistry shone brightly, manifest in his ability to weave verses that resonate deeply with the audience, capturing the very essence of the time-honored Haboot tradition.
The cultural event was organised by the Dhofar Center for Culture, Heritage and Creativity, which has established its prowess in orchestrating exceptional cultural events. These events serve as a potent catalyst for the flourishing of the cultural movement within the country. Also playing an important role was Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth in championing Omani folk arts and elevating the stature of Omani folk poetry, particularly the esteemed Haboot tradition.
The Haboot competition served not only as a platform for celebrating the past but also as a potent force nurturing poetic talent, encouraging innovation, and fostering artistic contributions across the spectrum of cultural endeavors.
The competition garnered an overwhelming response from the public, with the total number of votes surpassing an impressive 1.3 million. This unprecedented outpouring of support highlights the profound resonance the competition struck with audiences.
Further underscoring the significance of the competition, the prize pool for the winners amounted to a substantial RO 100,000, reflecting deep appreciation for the art of Haboot poetry and the organizers' commitment to recognizing and rewarding the exceptional talents of the participating poets.
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