The Saadi Foundation has officially launched an international literary competition titled “20 Words, One Text” to mark national celebrations. The global event will honor the National Day of Persian Poetry and Literature, observed on September 18.
The cultural organization has invited Persian language students and international enthusiasts to participate in the creative writing competition. Participants must compose an original short narrative using a designated list of 19 specific words.
The required terms include historical and cultural concepts such as civilization, poetry, freedom, independence, affection, Shahriar, respect, and love. Therefore, participants must create and recite a short Persian text focusing on Iranian heritage and literary history.
Participants must record their original recitations as vertical videos lasting a maximum of two minutes. Additionally, contestants must state their full name and country of residence at the beginning of their videos.
Contestants must submit their completed video entries to the official event secretariat before the September 17 deadline. Subsequently, an expert panel will evaluate the submissions and select five winners for formal awards.
Established in 2012, the Saadi Foundation develops standardized methods for Persian language education and instruction worldwide. The organization currently operates more than 40 specialized educational centers in various countries.
The foundation offers both in-person and online language courses, connecting international students with Iranian culture. Persian classical literature spans more than a thousand years and includes renowned poets such as Rumi and Hafez.
Learning Persian allows international scholars to explore these historic masterpieces in their original language. Ultimately, initiatives such as this competition strengthen cultural exchange while promoting greater global interest in Persian language and literature.