ABU DHABI: Round three of Millions’ Poet contest continues with four poets in close competition to grab one of the five remaining spots and a chance to win five million dirhams and the prestigious title of “The Millions’ Poet.”
Judges showered praise on Saudi poetess Ayda Al-Jahani who recited a historical poem that spoke of the importance of women in society, drawing references from Islam, Greek mythology and Arabic literature.
Poets Mohammed bin Tanaf Al-Kaabi from the UAE, Mohammed Al-Fares Al-Tamimi from Saudi Arabia and Moushari Al-Mirri from Kuwait also took part in the Thursday night’s episode of the TV competition.
Al-Raha Beach Theater’s 2,000-strong audience listened in earnest to each of the poets, bursting into cheers at the end of every poem and encouraging their favorites to keep their spirits high.
First to recite was the highly popular and talked-about poetess Ayda Al-Jahani. Al-Jahani drew applause and encouragement after the confidence and strength she demonstated at the Millions' Poet event. She was praised by all the five judges for having made it to the third round and presenting exceptional poetry.
“Ayda Al-Jahani, you are getting closer to stealing the ‘flag’ from the other poets and winning the competition. Your method of writing on this very cultured and educated subject as a woman talking to other women is very admirable. You have excelled on this night,” said Judge Hamad Al-Saeed
The remaining three poets worked even harder to recite their poems to perfection and managed to draw some praise from the judges on poems about nationalism, love and unjust judgment. Emirati contestant Al-Kaabi recited a poem about the nation giving the people more than they give back and the people’s need to protect the country they are devoted to.
With three poems to his name in the competition and all about nationalism, presenter Hussein affectionately called Al-Kaabi Poet of the Nation. The “Millions’ Poet” program was launched by the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage and is produced by Pyramedia. Its aim has been to inform the region’s youth about their roots and traditions of the Bedouins.
This year's live competition will see 48 poets battle it out through various stages to win the prestigious title of “The Millions' Poet.”
