Why it matters:
Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh is more than literature, it’s a cultural cornerstone that has shaped the Persian language and inspired generations of poets and writers across the Islamic world and beyond. The celebration in Pakistan underscores growing regional appreciation for literary heritage as a means of cultural diplomacy.
The big picture:
This cross-border celebration reflects deeper cultural ties between Iran and Pakistan, particularly through a shared reverence for the Persian language and classical literature.
At a time when cultural preservation faces modern challenges, events like this keep historical figures like Ferdowsi in public consciousness.
What they're saying:
Majid Meshki, Iran’s Cultural Counselor in Rawalpindi, emphasized that Shahnameh is not just an epic; it’s a comprehensive account of Iranian civilization, identity, and values.
Sarfaraz Zafar highlighted Ferdowsi’s influence beyond Persian, noting his impact on Urdu, Pashto, Punjabi, and other regional literatures.
Majid Pouyan described Shahnameh as a “timeless masterpiece” recognized globally, noting that artists have honored it through visual storytelling across cultures.
Key points:
- The ceremony was held under the auspices of Iran’s Cultural Consulate in Rawalpindi.
- Academics, students, and experts of Persian literature attended the event.
- A documentary on Ferdowsi’s life and works was screened to an enthusiastic reception.
- Speakers from Iran and Pakistan joined virtually to discuss Shahnameh’s enduring literary and cultural significance.
- Ferdowsi’s work continues to inspire literature and art across the Islamic world.
Go deeper:
Shahnameh, written over a thousand years ago, remains one of the longest epic poems in the world. Ferdowsi’s dedication to preserving the Persian language during a period of Arabic language advancement has made him a symbol of linguistic and cultural resistance.
His influence on South Asian literature, especially in shaping epic themes in Urdu poetry, makes his legacy deeply relevant to audiences in Pakistan today.
Hossein Vaez
