September 7, 2005

EVENTS: Muslim Film Festival In Tatarstan Aims To Break Stereotypes (RUSSIA)

Russia: Muslim Film Festival In Tatarstan Aims To Break Stereotypes

By Jeremy Bransten

These are difficult times to be a Muslim. In the wake of 9/11, the Madrid explosions, the London bombings, the Beslan school massacre, and other acts of terror, Islam and extremism are mentioned in the same breath all too frequently. Many ordinary Muslims, who reject the linkage, say they are tired of being portrayed in the media as fanatics or assassins. A film festival in Russia's republic of Tatarstan aims to change that.

Prague, 20 July 2005 (RFE/RL) -- Preparations are under way in Tatarstan's capital Kazan for the Golden Minbar International Muslim Film Festival, which opens in September.

In Islamic terminology, the minbar is the raised pulpit from which imams preach to the faithful. The name Golden Minbar is symbolic of what organizers hope their festival will be: a platform from which the good and true word about Muslims, their culture and achievements will be conveyed.
 
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