Iranian Magazine: Persianesque.com

About

Jujunaz — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 23:48:48 +0000

Currently read in over 120 countries, Persianesque.com - Modern Iranian Online Magazine is everyone’s online connection to modern Iranian life and style. Highlighting Iran’s international artists and contributors to humanity, Persianesque.com Iranian Magazine will keep you updated.

In an effort to promote positive press for the Iranian diaspora, Persianesque.com Iranian Magazine accepts tips, articles, stories, and news related to the Iranian community - worldwide.

And while the definition for online publishing continues to evolve, so do we.

Life-cycle studies show that the "CO2 emissions caused by the production and distribution of one copy of an average sized 0.39 pound magazine in the USA total about 0.95 kilograms (2.1 pounds) -- including paper from trees, materials, production, shipping and customer use." Additionally scientists report a 0.39 pound magazine costs about 0.73 square meters (7.9 square feet) of nautral habitat loss. Join us as we aim to break the boundaries in electronic publishing and keep our planet green at the same time.

You too can become a part of the change by reading our online magazine and standing united with the paper-less revolution.

*Persianesque.com is not affiliated with any political or national parties.

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Per·sian - [pur-zhuhn, -shuhn] ––noun A member of the native peoples of Iran, descended in part from the ancient Iranians.

esque - [ess-k] -- An adjective suffix indicating style, manner, resemblance, or distinctive character. ex.: persianesque, in the manner of the Persians.

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In the Communtiy:

As a female-owned small-business and contributing member of the International Women in Media Foundation, Persianesque.com, Modern Iranian Online Magazine proudly sponsors a female journalist from a developing country each year.

nedashoes

Jujunaz — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 16:36:58 +0000

Advertise

Jujunaz — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 19:14:38 +0000

For information on advertising and sponsorship on Persianesque.com, please contact: ads@persianesque.com

shiraz2

Jujunaz — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 19:52:14 +0000

Parisa Montazaran: MTV's own Persian-Princess

Jujunaz — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 16:06:46 +0000

Interview with Parisa Montazaran from The Real World, Sydney

By: Sanaz Khalaj Santos

WASHINGTON, DC – The year 2007 is coming to a close, and yet MTV’s long-running-mega-hit show, The Real World — which some consider ‘the cradle of reality-TV’ — still manages to stay on the forefront of exposing raw and unfiltered modern-American-culture. This season’s drama-filled show is set in Sydney, Australia with an all-American cast; Parisa, Isaac, Cohutta, Dunbar, Kellyanne, and Ashli.

Parisa Montazaran, noted for being the most level-headed and relatable by viewers, is The Real World’s first Iranian-American cast-member. Based in New York, Parisa has a degree in International Relations from NYU, flawless Persian-hair, an über-sexy physique, and a gift for music that’s bound to dishevel any rival.

However, what has made Parisa a fan-favorite by a landslide, is her ability to calmly overcome an excess of distasteful behavior exhibited towards her by a few of her housemates. This Persian beauty’s unmatched patience, has become the hottest blog topic for the comment-obssessed as technology allows viewers to voice their opinions online, albeit anonymously at times. Parisa’s supporters have already plastered Real World-related blogs, Facebook, and Myspace pages with pro-Parisa groups and chants. ”Team Parisa” and “Enjoy your flight. Take Care.” — a phrase Parisa is now famous for from Episode 18, aptly named ’Enjoy Your Flight’ – take the lead in the Parisa-infused comment-battles dominated by her loyal cyber-soldiers.We hope to write about Parisa’s first Grammy win some day, but in the meantime, “Enjoy your read. Take care.”

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The Real World airs every Wednesday @ 10:00 EST on MTV. All images courtesy of MTV/Jason Campbell. SK: Where were you born? PM: Brooklyn, NY Where do you currently reside? Long Island, NY and the occasional couch in Manhattan. Being on MTV is huge. Do you get recognized a lot now? Yes and no. New York is a huge huge place so there are times when people definitely recognize you but a lot of people don’t say anything, they just smile or say hi and then other times (like at the doctor or in a restaurant), they’ll take out the cameras or put me on the phone with a relative. Those make for some interesting stories! Favorite Real World season? Seattle How did you end up on The Real World? Casting directors came to NYU and were privately interviewing student organizations on campus. I went to a sorority meeting and found myself sitting in a circle discussion about relationships and the war in Afghanistan. I guess I was a bit more vocal about politics because they kept calling me back and a year later I got a call to go to Australia! Do you feel that your character was accurately portrayed on The Real World? I think every individual has way too many layers to capture and display in a fraction of a 22-minute program. That said, I think they definitely captured a few qualities of my character and tried to portray them as genuinely as they could within the storylines we get to see. Imagine living with 7 people for 4 months and getting to know them and having to describe everything that you learned to the world; if you’re off on a few points, it’s not really the end of the world considering how huge the bigger picture is… Who did you grow closest to during the show? I grew close to all my roommates in different ways but I keep in touch most with Ashli, KellyAnne, Cohutta and Isaac. Is the Parisa we see on TV the same one we would find off-screen? Yes and no. I’m pretty open, and I forget to filter at times but I think there were a lot of factors in the Real World House (captivity, chemistry with roommates) that brought out qualities that I didn’t know I could possess and probably won’t come out again — considering that off-screen, I’m free to hang out and be comfortable with my surroundings. How did you like Sydney, Australia? It was like heaven on earth. Absolutely beautiful. What did your family think about the show? They love it (I hope!). How close are you to your former roommates now? Very. I talk to Ashli multiple times a day and KellyAnne almost every day. I talk to Cohutta and Isaac often too. Do you watch the show? Yes. Would you do the show again? In a heartbeat. So, doing the show was a positive experience? I would probably do some things differently but it definitely was and continues to be a learning experience. Do you feel as though you may have been treated differently by some of your cast members because of your Iranian heritage, and all the negative media coverage that’s attached to it? It came up in conversations with the guys because they seemed to be a little more knowledgeable on the politics of the situation; Isaac is half-Jewish and well-read on the history of the Palestinian/Israeli conflict and Iran’s history with its Jewish population, and Dunbar, being in the military and going to college, learned a lot more about the political tensions in the Mid-East and Iran’s role in that. The girls didn’t really ask, and Cohutta tried to stay out of politics and religion altogether. Like all Iranian moms, your mom gives the best advice. Does she have a fan club yet? Do you think her advice is what helped you remain so calm for as long as you did? My mom, my dad and my younger sister really helped me throughout the entire experience by keeping my [head] leveled and offering really grounded, objective insight. I owe them my sanity for most of those first few months. What’s your favorite thing about being Iranian and what does it mean to you? Being Iranian has awarded me a sense of humanity and culture that I don’t think I would possess if I grew up being like everyone else around me. It sparked curiosities in me that wouldn’t otherwise be provoked and gave me the opportunity to learn and want to learn more about people, the world, life. I’m very proud of my heritage. Can you read and write in Farsi? Fluently! I took graduate courses in Farsi at NYU as an undergraduate and was thinking of pursuing a MA or PhD in the intellectual and cultural history of Iran. What’s your favorite Iranian dish? Fesenjoon What’s your sign? Libra/Scorpio cusp (October 20th) How has your life changed since the show? My life was in for a major change after graduating in December last year so I’m taking all the changes as more transitioning to life post-graduation vs. life post-”The Real World”. I’m not in school anymore and I’m not on “vacation” in Australia, so now it’s back to what I was planning on doing after school: singing and performing. How’s your music career progressing? Will you ever do a Farsi song? I would absolutely LOVE to do a Farsi song (Googoosh, call me!). I’ve been singing the anthem at sporting events (NJ Nets, American Volleyball Professionals) and getting back to work on my album, working with Grammy Award winning producer Jimmy Greco (Jennifer Lopez, Carlos Santana, Celine Dion) on his label, Airgo Music, which is progressing nicely. The Real World currently airs every Wednesday at 10:00 PM EST on MTV, but what have you been doing since filming wrapped? In addition to singing and auditioning for acting/voiceover work, I’m also traveling around the country ,speaking at universities about my experience on the show, intercultural exchange and perceptions of Islam in America. How can your fans stay current on your work? Check out myspace.com/parisa720. I keep up with the page even when I’m traveling and update with music and news all the time. Parisa, thank you for taking the time to do this interview. Thank you so much for the opportunity!

Navid Shirazi: Character in Beverly Hills 90210 Spinoff

Jujunaz — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 20:26:14 +0000

Yesterday's Variety published parts of a leaked script based on the 1990's teentastic show, 'Beverly Hills, 90210'. The show has not been approved for The CW network's programing yet, but an Iranian-American character described as the "consummate high school politician" should be reason enough to watch the show (should it air).

We're just wondering who the role will go to, a person of real Iranian heritage or someone the producers think an Iranian-American should look like?

I guess we'll just have to tune in and see.

Navid Shirazi produces the high school's student-run video newscast and is of Middle Eastern descent. He's the consummate high school politician.

Beverly Hills 90210 New Cast Revealed

Jujunaz — Wed, 14 May 2008 13:08:51 +0000

The names of the new Beverly Hills 90210 cast have been revealed: Dustin Milligan, Anna Lynne McCord, Jessica Walter, Shenae Grimes, Tristan Wilds, Lori Loughlin, Ryan Eggold, Jessica Stroup, and Michael Steger. And as far as we can decipher: the producers have decided to forego using a person of real Iranian/Persian descent to play the role of Navid Shirazi (whose charater was previously described as an Iranian-American student). We conclude as such because, none of the cast names mentioned resemble an Iranian name. Though to the producers' credit(s), they just probably had a hard time finding an Iranian in LA. At least Jennie Garth is back.

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Jujunaz — Wed, 14 May 2008 18:15:27 +0000

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Beverly Hills 90210 Spinoff Character Navid Shirazi: Not Iranian

Jujunaz — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:10:33 +0000

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="181" caption="Michael Steger (Navid Shirazi) - Image: Jennifer Macleod"][/caption]

As we predicted, Michael Steger, the actor cast to play the character of Navid Shirazi in the new Beverly Hills 90210 spinoff - set to air this September - is not of Iranian descent. Steger is actually of Ecuadorian, Austrian, and Norwegian origin. It was probably really difficult for the producers and casting department to find a real Persian in Greater LA.

prince-of-persia-2

Jujunaz — Wed, 21 May 2008 13:56:02 +0000

Prince Of Persia: Jake Gyllenhaal?!

Jujunaz — Wed, 21 May 2008 13:59:37 +0000

What is it with Hollywood?

With all the diversity in the US, why do they insist on giving roles of multicultural characters to the non-multicultural?

Do they really think that Jake Gyllenhaal - who has been cast to play the lead in the film adaptation of the hit video-game Prince of Persia: Sands of Time - will bring an authentic Persian feel to the character?

Yes, it's true that Iranians come in many colors and sizes, but there's absolutely nothing Persian about Jake. We like Gyllenhaal, but he doesn't even resemble the picture emblazoned on the game series covers. Sad.

oyvey

Jujunaz — Tue, 27 May 2008 20:31:20 +0000

Oy Vey vs. Ey Vay

Jujunaz — Wed, 28 May 2008 22:43:42 +0000

We think - and we realize that this is pure speculation - that the slang Yiddish term, "Oy Vey", which roughly means: "Oh No", may very well have been created by, or at least derives from the Persian Jews.

The Farsi slang for "Oh No", is "Ey Vay" - pronounced: ay-vaay - and is used as often and commonly amongst Iranians, as "Oy Vey" is in the Jewish community and beyond. We don't care for conspiracy theories, but we found this worth sharing.

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tehrannightslogosmall

Jujunaz — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 21:10:00 +0000

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Jujunaz — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 12:58:43 +0000

"It's Beautiful to be Good": Exclusive Interview with Celebrity-Hairstylist David Babaii

Jujunaz — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 13:08:03 +0000

By: Sanaz Khalaj-Santos

Washington, DC - The wave of change and awareness to humanity is in the air, and now it’s Iranian-American hairstylist-to-the-stars, David Babaii’s turn to make a big splash.

Working with some of the biggest names in Hollywood, serving as a guest-judge on BRAVO's hit reality-tv-show Shear Genius, and calling Kate Hudson a best friend, aren't claims that most people can make, but David Babaii can. And he couldn't be any more self-effacing and compassionate if he tried.

Born in London, England and raised in Los Angeles, CA, David has teamed up with his BFF and now business partner, the loveable Kate Hudson, to create an eco-friendly and natural hair-care line that is suited for all hair types. As David and Kate share a charitable nature and love for animals, they have chosen to donate a portion of their product line's proceeds to the WildAid organization (a non-profit organization focusing on ending illegal wildlife trading, which Babaii was introduced to by Angelina Jolie).

We know we’re always looking for better ways to take care of our tresses, aren’t you? To get the rare organic nutrients replete in the David Babaii for WildAid products right at your fingertips visit: www.db4wildaid.com

We believe in David’s passion and his determination to beautify us: one head of hair at a time. Enjoy our exclusive interview with the celebrity-hair-designer-entreprenuer-philanthropist below.

[Images: Ben Duggan]

Who is your biggest inspiration in life? My mother Hilda was my biggest inspiration. She was a legendary hairdresser in London and as a child I would go to the salon with her. I was intrigued at how she mastered her craft.

How and when did you get into Hair Design? As I mentioned in the previous question, my mom Hilda was a legendary hairdresser so the beauty industr y was very much a part of my early days. However, the turning point occurred when my family and I were in Paris for vacation. At the time, I had a degree in hotel management in which I specialized in both food and beverage. Since I worked for some of the top hotels in the world, my work life was highly stressful and overwhelming.

On our first full day in Paris, my dad and sister went shopping, while my mom and I decided to visit the Eiffel Tower. We had lived in Europe for many years, but never had the time to experience this amazing site. As we gazed over the city, my mom noticed I was just not myself. Being the amazing mom that she is, she wanted to know what was on my mind. With the city of Paris before us, I began to share how I wanted to change my life and career. Yet, at 24 years old, I felt it was too late for me to make this change. She quickly responded by saying, “It is never too late to change David. Life is too short to be so unhappy”.

As a brief history, my mom was a legend in the hair industry during the 70’s so I grew up with this profession in my life. Her work was just so beautiful and I was always so proud of her. As we stood, at what seemed to be the top of the world, we began talking about my future.

Here, she asked me the magic question that started everything, “Why don’t you do what I did? You always seemed to be so fascinated with my trade.” In fact, at the time of our trip, the real irony was a hair show going on at the same time we were in Paris! My mom and I immediately bought tickets to attend. As soon as we walked in, I knew this was fate and that hairdressing was going to be my new career path.

I immediately took my new passion seriously, attending beauty school in both London and Los Angeles. As I look back, the simple explanation was: it was just meant to be.

Describe high school in one sentence. I miss it a lot!

How and when did you come up with this product? During the past 7 years of my friendship with Kate, we often spoke about doing something for animals and creating products free of the beauty industry’s standard “dirty dozen”.

We were approached by several big companies, but we wanted to create change on our own. Kate and I were determined to make a line free of Sulfates, Parabens, Petrochemicals, animal products and most importantly free from all animal testing. Kate transformed into the perfect face and this is the perfect time.

Who is your product good for? The products are great for everyone, all hair types and all age groups. The exotic natural ingredients make the line perfect for everyone.

Is it good for both straight and curly hair? Absolutely! I designed these products so everyone could have great looking hair. It was essential that the styling products would encompass various styling needs.

How did you come to choose the name WildAid? WildAid is the organization Angelina Jolie introduced me to. They are devoted to preserving wildlife and stopping illegal trade (poaching).

How and when did you meet the gorgeous Kate Hudson? Kate and I met 7 yrs ago on a photo shoot. At the time, I knew Brad Cafarelli her publicist and he recommended Kate to use me for the shoot. From that day on, we became the best of friends. Kate is the friend you’ve always wanted. She is so free spirited, just loving life and fun.

How amazing or scary was your photo shoot in the wild? Our trip to Africa was the most amazing trip of my life. I have traveled all over the world but nothing has captured my heart and soul like Africa. It is one thing to watch television, documentaries or movies about wildlife but to see them in their natural habitat places a whole new perspective on respecting life.

What did you walk away with from your trip to Africa? When we finished the shoot, I knew that my mission to help save our endangered wildlife was the right choice. I walked away with a much different respect for living creatures.

When was the last time you visited Iran? I have never been to Iran

What does being Iranian-American mean to you? I feel that I have become a citizen of the world.

What's your favorite Iranian dish? Kabob

Did you own a salon before launching this product? No I have never owned a salon but it might be something in my future.

How has life changed for you since launching your natural hair-care line? I have become more conscious of the environment and ingredients. A lot of my free time is spent reading about new ingredients and environmental issues.

How did you learn that Volcanic Ash from the Vanuatu Islands - can help restore hair? Kate and I have been studying new ingredients for a very long time. We came across Volcanic Ash through research. It is great for adding body and fullness.

What are your favorite pieces from the line? How can a parent pick one child over the other? I love them all!

What are Kate’s favorite pieces from the line? Kate loves the Bohemian Beach Spray. When I can’t do her hair she sprays it on and viola! Her hair looks very Bohemian.

Which ones are currently in your shower? Of course, my Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner along with the Amplifying Shampoo and Conditioner is always in my shower. I love to switch off. Sometimes I mix them both for a special treatment.

Who is your favorite hair stylist? My mom is definitely at the top of my list.

Who are your top favorite clients to work with? They are all at the top of my list.

Which hair creation of yours - that’s been featured in magazines – would you consider a favorite? I love my latest cover of Vanity Fair with Angelina Jolie. But all my covers carry their own style and statement.

What's the hottest hair color to have this summer? Your natural color with natural Sunkist highlights

What's the cut to have this summer? I am a firm believer in having a cut or style that best suits you. Having a cookie cutter style just because it’s in does not make for a flattering style. Instead, I always recommend that women look at celebrities and their hairstyles. They spend a lot of money on their hair and have the top stylists doing it for them. If you like a bang on someone but the layers on someone else, combine these to create your own look.

What's your favorite hair color? I love all hair colors. It’s what looks best on a woman that makes it my favorite on them.

Which products do you suggest for Persian women to use from your line? David Babaii for WildAid is perfect for all hair types. [Persian women] have lusciously beautiful thick hair that will benefit from all the natural exotic ingredients in my line.

We'd love to see you as a judge on BRAVO's Shear Genius, are you entertaining any offers? Funny you ask, I have filmed a segment for Shear Genius to air in August 2008.

Which city did you have the most fun in when doing promotional work with Kate? We did our launch in New York and it was highly successful. Kate and I appeared on CBS, Extra, The View, Access Hollywood, Hollywood Green, numerous televisions stations across the country plus several radio shows such as Ryan Seacrest and Billy Bush. We ended our launch with a huge party at ABC Carpet & Home with over 150 beauty editors in attendance. We had a great time spreading the word.

Why should people buy your line? My line is a labor of love for animals, humans and my profession. I want to provide people with professional quality hair care that has eliminated many of the harmful ingredients and most important of all, no animal testing. My campaign states, “It’s Beautiful to be Good” now people everywhere can purchase great products knowing they are also contributing to a great cause while doing something good for themselves.

Where can consumers purchase David Babaii for WildAid products? We should be in over 25,000 stores by the end of this year in the US. But anyone can buy on line at www.db4wildaid.com

bruno

Jujunaz — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 17:25:28 +0000

Booyakasha - Bruno's on the Prowl

Jujunaz — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 17:37:02 +0000

Our favorite Iranian-Jewish-Actor-Comedian is at it again.

Apparently while taping scenes for his latest movie Bruno in Arkansas, Sacha Baron Cohen's fake promise of a cage fight and beers for a dollar - entitled "Red, White and Blood Cage Fighting" - turned into exactly what he wanted: a spectacle.

But we're sure the creator of the widely successful Borat got all the material he needs for his upcoming movie.

Watch videos of Bruno in action here.

beckham_googoosh_small1

Jujunaz — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 11:09:26 +0000

Hamsafar: Victoria Beckham and Googoosh??

Jujunaz — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 11:29:12 +0000

Victoria beckham's stroll through London's Heathrow Airport on Tuesday July 8th, 2008 was captured by the paparazzi, but what we can't get over is...

...that Googoosh look-alike in the shot.

[Image: Perezhilton.com]

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Fashion Minute: Hood Trend Influenced by Iranian Girls' Headscarves?

Jujunaz — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 13:36:23 +0000

Have you noticed the sudden surge in hoodies and scarves in the fashion industry in the past few years?

We realize that the hood has been a fashion "accessory" for a while but, the current overload in images of girls running about in Tehran with their colorful headscarves - which could double for the trend of trends: the hood - makes us wonder whether our eternally fashion-sensible compatriots in Iran, have had an unmentioned hand (or head) in all this.

We may not agree with forcing women to cover their heads for any reason, by anyone, however we can't help but think that the hoodie (also known as the hood) could be the answer to hair & scalp presevervation and protection against the sun as global warming looms above and threatens us all. Covered or not.

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Jujunaz — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 16:51:24 +0000

David Ackert on the set of Unfinished Life - Photo: Brad Brizendine

Q&A with Iranian-American Actor: David Ackert

Jujunaz — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 17:06:00 +0000

[caption id="attachment_339" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="David Ackert on the set of "Unfinished Life" - Photo: Brad Brizendine"][/caption]

You asked for it. And you got it. We got you an exclusive Q&A with Iranian-American Actor: David Ackert. Busy as ever, David takes a moment to give us an inside look into his life and box of projects. Enjoy!

Click here to watch the trailor of David's upcoming movie: La Linea, costarring Andy Garcia and Ray Liotta.

What is your full name? Ramin Stephen Ackert

When did you leave Iran? 1979

Your grandfather was the legendary Iranian composer Ruhollah Khaleghi, did he influence you in any way that you can share with us? He died before I was born, but his presence was always very powerful in the family. His memory was honored by my grandmother, and especially my mother. She and my father are also musicians, so I grew up with an artistic legacy in a household that supported creative vocations. As a boy, when I told my mother I wanted to be an actor, she was thrilled. When my little brother told her he wanted to be an electrical engineer, she said, “can’t you do something a little more artistic?”

At what age did you first get into acting? I first decided I wanted to be an actor at the age of 11. I had just switched elementary schools in Virginia in '79. Being the new kid in my sixth-grade class, my teacher introduced me as the "new Iranian student who just came over from where the hostages were, and might be able to answer any questions..." Some of the other students saw me as a scapegoat from that moment on. There was teasing and fighting. I quickly came to perceive school as a life-threatening place. One day I decided to play sick – I told my mother I had terrible stomach pain. After a couple of days, she took me to the doctor, who diagnosed me with appendicitis. But the “pains” kept getting worse. Eventually I ended up in the hospital – far, far away from school. I had managed to conjure up an acting performance that fooled even the most sophisticated of doctors. Later that I realized that my lies had caused my parents a financial burden, so I promised myself never to do something like that again, but I knew that when I grew up, I would be an actor - someone whose job it is to pretend circumstances convincingly.

Have you had any classical training? Yes, I studied at the Folger Theater in DC before it became the Washington Shakespeare Theatreand trained at Carnegie Mellon University’s BFA conservatory program as well as Ithaca College’s drama school. Even now, I still take acting classes. I find there is always something more to learn. Ironically, it is often the same lessons I thought I had learned before, now relearned.

What's something your fans would be surprised to know about you? I’m getting a masters degree in Spiritual Psychology. That’s pretty unusual. [caption id="attachment_340" align="aligncenter" width="211" caption="David Ackert"][/caption]

Who is your biggest inspiration? It changes every day – I’m most inspired by the things people do in the moment. Sometimes it’s the stranger on the street who bothered to give me a genuine smile. Sometimes it’s a friend’s thoughtfulness, my wife’s courage, my brother’s generosity, my father’s faith or my mother’s kindness. Sometimes it’s my own persistence. Whenever I feel I am disciplined or focused, I become inspired to be more so.

What is La Linea? “La Linea” is a feature film that is due to be released later this year. It’s a story about rival drug cartels in Tijuana and stars Andy Garcia, Ray Liottaand a bunch of other very macho guys. I play an Afghani farmer who tries to maintain his dignity as he sells poppy to drug lords.

What did you like about the character? I like how the character struggles with his own integrity. He knows he’s compromising his ethics in order to make his fortune. He finds little ways to recover his dignity, but in the end, they are only cosmetic gestures. He has sold out and he knows it. It is the classic tension between a short term gain and the long term impact on one’s integrity. I am often tempted by whims (usually breaking a promise to myself) and whenever I succumb I know it’s eroding my self-esteem. And I always feel a kind of victory when I choose the high road.

What was it like to shoot the film? Action movies are always more intense on set. Guns. Bullets. Shouting. People are amped up. Egos are part of the story being told. So in some ways it’s more exciting. But oftentimes I am less at ease when shooting something like this as opposed to a courtroom drama or a comedy.

Describe life as an Iranian-American actor. There is a small community of working Iranian-American actors in my age range, and I feel that a bond has developed between us over the years. We all go out for the same parts and see each other at the auditions. Earlier this month I was at an audition for “House” and ran into Anthony Azizi, Maz Jobrani, Navid Negahban, and a bunch of other familiar faces. We were all competing for the same role, but there was a wonderful camaraderie between us all. I didn’t get the part. But with that group of talent, I know that whoever did get it will deliver a hell of a performance.

Word is that you're working on a pilot, can you tell us a little about it? I’m writing and producing “Unfinished Life,” a web series that will be released later this year. In it, I play a con man who has to atone for the people he’s hurt along the way. Similar to my character in La Linea, this is a man who is working hard to do the right thing in spite of his flawed nature. I am drawn to characters like that – they reflect the way I often experience my own life.

How can your fans stay updated on your pursuits? www.davidackert.com.

hpnva

Jujunaz — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 20:54:43 +0000

rezapeyk3

Jujunaz — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 16:08:21 +0000

New Persian Comedian on the Scene: Interview with Reza Peyk

Jujunaz — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 16:15:23 +0000

[caption id="attachment_532" align="aligncenter" width="225" caption="Reza Peyk"][/caption]

It's been a hot summer and we're about to make it scorching-hot for you!

Check out our recent interview with the handsome and funny Reza Peyk, a young Canadian-Iranian comedian working his way up the comedy ladder - as we speak.

We know Maz Jobrani is at the top of your list, but give his up and coming entourage - who are following suit - a chance too.

Enjoy!

PE: What is your full name? RP: Seyed Abdolreza Peyk, which is a wonderful name to travel with! Where were you born? Tehran, Iran When was the last time you were in Iran? I have yet to return since my departure in 1995 Where did you grow up? Mostly in Tehran and the rest of this ongoing process is in Vancouver, BC What's a funny childhood story you can share? I used to love to dance at family gathering and as you know the elders hand out money to the kids that dance. Well this one night I made some heavy cash and my cousins got a little jealous and gave me a good old beating for the money afterwards! I don't know about your wonderful readers but I've always found that pretty funny! How did you get into comedy? I've had a passion for comedy from an early age. I first got to try my had at stand-up when I hosted a Xmas party for my work when I was about 19 years old. I've been addicted ever since! Were your parents supportive? They have always been extremely supportive with me being a comedian but I'm sure Doctor would have been nice too! When was the first time you were on stage - and how did you get there? Like I mentioned, It was through my work's Xmas party at the time. My boss had a talk with me afterwards and made sure I continue doing this. What's the most high-profile event you've done? It was a Vancouver show with the great Maz Jobrani. What's the biggest venue you've performed in? 2000 people Who is your favorite Iranian-American comedian? Maz Jobrani who is a extra funny comic and a great person to top it off. He's a wonderful role model. [caption id="attachment_533" align="aligncenter" width="225" caption="Reza Peyk"][/caption] Who is your favorite American comedian? Chris Rock Who is your favorite classic Iranian comedian? Samad! What are your top three favorite comedy movies of all time? Dumb and Dumber, Borat and the 1st Rush Hour Do you act as well? I've started to try my hand at it. I enjoy it very much so far Do you feel that there is a character - that's already been created - that you were born to play? Yes, Superman! How is life treating you as an Iranian comedian? Life as an Iranian comic as been very good to me. The downsides are this brand of comedy is still very fresh and it takes sometime for people to get to understand us. Having said that this same disadvantage works in our favor by bring something new and fresh to the table. Have you played any parts in TV or movies? Not at this time. Do you have a comedian idol - someone whose career you envy? Maz Jobrani, I don't envy him. I'm happy and extra proud of his success. It's a great goal for me to work towards. What do you hope to accomplish in your career? I hope I can put a smile on as many people's face as possible. We live in very tough times and if I could try to take people away from that and have them laugh with me for a while, that equals a successful career for me. [caption id="attachment_531" align="aligncenter" width="225" caption="Reza Peyk"][/caption] What does being Iranian mean to you? I'm so proud of my Iranian heritage and its rich culture. We have some of the greatest people in the world. I'm also proud to be a Canadian. Canada has given me the opportunity to pursue my passions and dreams without any limitations and that's how life should be. Gojeh-sabz or Zoghaal-akhteh? Gojeh Sabz What's your favorite Iranian dish? Khoreshte Bademjoon Can you cook Persian food yourself? I wish What's your favorite Persian restaurant? Shiraz What's your favorite thing about being Iranian? Our culture and how deep we are as people Are you single? Haha... yes, I'm happily single at this time! What are you working on currently? I'm constantly working on new material and trying to improve myself as a performer What's on the agenda to come? We have some things lined up for Vancouver, Toronto, LA and Dubai. Please feel to free to check my website for updates on that: www.rezapeyk.com Where can your fans stay up to date about your upcoming projects? Through my website www.rezapeyk.com and join my mailing list and you'll be the first one to be notified about shows in your area. I promise! *Photos: Tom Hawkins

new

Jujunaz — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 16:14:30 +0000

Poll: Hottest Iranian-American Actress

Jujunaz — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 16:18:32 +0000

[polldaddy poll="837272"]

irannba2

Jujunaz — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 14:06:27 +0000

Contact

Jujunaz — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 14:54:12 +0000

For general inquiries, please fill out the form below or contact: info@persianesque.com.

Journalists and writers looking to contribute to our online publication; Persianesque.com: Modern Iranian Online Magazine, is always looking to hear from bright and innovative people. If you love to write and want to write for us about Iranian affairs: lifestyle, culture, and/or community and beyond, we want to hear from you.

Contact: info@persianesque.com

Send your work to: submissions@persianesque.com

irangirlpe

Jujunaz — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 22:03:31 +0000

Persian Rugs for World Peace: Iranian Artists Get Busy

Jujunaz — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 11:33:28 +0000

[caption id="attachment_644" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Cyrus the Great's Cylinder"][/caption]

Some Iranian artists are planning on weaving a Persian Rug for world peace.

The intended Persian Rug is said to be designed after broad-minded Persian King, Cyrus the Great's Cylinder.

The handwoven rug will have the great Persian King's proclamation written in cuneiform ("slim triangular or wedge-shaped elements, as the characters used in writing by the ancient Akkadians, Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, and others") incorporated into it.

The Cyrus Cylinder is known as the first charter of human rights, in the world.

iranbasket

Jujunaz — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 13:23:50 +0000

unityincomm

Jujunaz — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 14:25:43 +0000

hamed

Jujunaz — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 12:46:38 +0000

exiled

Jujunaz — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 12:36:29 +0000

tparsi5

Jujunaz — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 18:04:56 +0000

tparsi21

Jujunaz — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 18:06:23 +0000

"Treacherous Alliance": Exclusive Interview with Political Power-Player - Dr. Trita Parsi

Jujunaz — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 18:32:41 +0000

[caption id="attachment_800" align="aligncenter" width="197" caption="Treacherous Alliance: The Secret Dealings of Israel, Iran, and the U.S. - By: Dr. Trita Parsi"][/caption]

By: Sanaz Khalaj-Santos

Washington, DC -- The last time, which was years ago, we interviewed Trita Parsi, author of the prestigious Council on Foreign Relation's Arthur Ross Silver Medallion award-winning book 'Treacherous Alliance: The Secret Dealings of Israel, Iran, and the U.S.' - which unravels what he felt was an "understudied" and "sensitive" troika of nations - and HuffingtonPost contributor, we found him to be a considerate, focused, and hard-working visionary.

Last week, as we sat down to have lunch with now Dr. Trita Parsi, we realized not much has changed... except for the fact that the world now knows his name.

"The times when war led to peace, are long gone." Says Dr. Trita Parsi. Referring to his time in Israel as "easy" and approaching elite decision-makers with a mere, "Do you have time to chat?", Parsi's quick-wit and grounded worldly-charm has surely had a helping hand in his ability to accomplish what wanna-be-politicos hope to do in a lifetime: administering the largest Iranian-American community-based non-profit organization in the US; the National Iranian-American Council (NIAC), tackling the delicate undertaking of interviewing high-ranking state-officials in Iran, Israel, and America, and/or holding joint conferences with Hans Blix - in fractions of the time.

Dr. Parsi's ability to motivate, inspire, and connect with people can easily be compared to that of presidential-candidate, Barack Obama. Inviting and open to suggestions, is the feeling one gets when communicating or working with him (the basic qualities of a great leader).

However, as every job has its ups and downs, Dr. Parsi's occupational hazard has shown up in the form of Iranian-American compatriots whose baseless accusatory punches are ceaselessly thrown at the seasoned professional. (We doubt they've even read his book.) And as we tend to opt for solidarity and facts, not conflict and haphazard image-tarnishing, without proof, we've been hesitant to follow the outrageous labeling the Iranian-American "media" has gifted Dr. Parsi with. Read his investigative study and make your own decision.

To set the record straight in regards to some of the unwarrented speculation about Dr. Parsi's position on some major issues of concern for certain sects of the Iranian-American community, and more, we've gone straight to the source for some answers.

Enjoy our exclusive one-on-one Q & A with possibly, the most notable character in Iranian-American civil affairs, today. Or ever.

[caption id="attachment_802" align="aligncenter" width="185" caption="Dr. Parsi: Born in Ahvaz, Iran and raised in Uppsala, Sweden"][/caption]

SKS: Where did you go to school? TP: Sweden mostly. Have a MA in Political Science from Uppsala University, Sweden's oldest University, an MSc in Economics from Stockholm School of Economics, and a PhD in International relations from Johns Hopkins SAIS. When was the last time you were in Iran? 2004, I was doing interviews for my dissertation that later became a book. What led you to write this book? I started doing my PhD at SAIS in late August 2001. I wanted to write about Afghanistan. I had worked on Afghanistan in the Security Council in 1998, and wanted to write about this much neglected country. But about two or three weeks later, 9/11 happened and all eyes turned towards Afghanistan – overnight, everyone in Washington had become an Afghan expert. So I decided to predict what the next likely conflict the in region would be and write about that instead. And Israel and Iran stood out. Almost nothing had been written about their relationship, very few people had dared to address this issue. So I decided to give it a try. What was the biggest challenge in writing your book, 'Treacherous Alliance'? There was so little written about this subject, the two countries were so secretive so it was difficult to piece everything together for such a long period. I had to do more than 130 interviews, many of them more than 2 hours long. What similarities/commonalities amongst the 3 nations you've dissected, stood out for you? Did you find any? There are tremendous similarities, yet sharp differences as well. The most striking one is the sense of loneliness that both Israelis and Iranian[s] have, as well as their deep suspicions and distrust of the outside world. Israelis have it due to the experience of the Jewish people, particularly the Holocaust. Iranians have it due to decennia of foreign intervention as well as a sense of betrayal by the international community during the Iraq-Iran war. How did you manage to secure such high-profile interviews? It was quite difficult, but I had a lot of help from my professors at SAIS. And a lot of tenacity I guess. I spent more than a year identifying the people to interview, tracking them down and securing a "yes" from them. What will happen if we continue on without engaging one another? Who will benefit? No one benefits in the long run from the absence of dialogue and communication. We are reaching a geopolitical climax in the region, fueled by geopolitical tensions at the global level due to a sharp decline in US power and maneuverability. This climax will likely not be peaceful unless there is some communication. What would the aftermath of an American strike on Iran look like? I wrote a piece with Israel's former foreign minister, Shlomo Ben Ami, for the Christian Science Monitor recently. There we pointed out that the military option almost certainly will not destroy Iran's nuclear program, but that the first victim of a strike would be the pro-democracy and human rights movement in Iran. It was a critique of the current mentality in Washington which treats the consequences of a military operation with the greatest amount of optimism, and the challenges of a diplomatic approach with the greatest amount of skepticism.

What would the other scenario then look like? The diplomatic approach? Would that mean that the regime would remain exactly as it is for the Iranian people? I believe that diplomacy would significantly reduce the risk of war. This would, in my opinion, also greatly benefit the pro-democracy movement in Iran who have screamed that the tensions between the US and Iran have rendered their work all the more difficult. People like Shirin Ebadi and others have argued over and over again that the tensions benefit hardliners in the Iranian government and undermine the pro-democracy movement. The idea that improved relations between the US and Iran would guarantee the regime's survival is misplaced, in my assessment. The faith of Iran and its regime is not in the hands of the United States, it's in the hands of the Iranian people. Remember, the Shah of Iran had excellent relations with Washington, yet he was unseated through a popular revolution. Friendship with Washington is by no means a guarantee for political survival. On the contrary, many argue that reduced tensions will give pro-democracy activists greater maneuverability to push for human rights and democracy in Iran. Is it the people or the governments that are suffering the most from a lack of dialogue? Everyone suffers from the lack of dialogue. But if the lack of dialogue leads to war, the ordinary people in Iran will be the greatest victims. Do you think the fact that most people in the US making decisions about Iran are unqualified - for the sole reason that they haven't even traveled there? It is extremely sad to see the lack of expertise on Iran in the United States. It's partly a result of the lack of dialogue, and it has hurt both sides. It has hurt the US in the sense that it often times miscalculates and misreads Iran, which complicates the process of securing US interests. It has hurt Iran too because it is more difficult for Tehran to declare its intentions. How can the Iranian-American community help their own and Iran's future? We have to contribute to our democracy here in America. The more we participate, the more we can internalize democratic values and help reform our own culture in a democratic direction. Long-term, it can [be] a situation in which the democratization of the Iranian-American community can be helpful in assisting, but not leading, democratization in Iran. But as long as we do not participate and contribute to the American democracy, we miss this opportunity to adopt democratic values, and that hinders us from assisting in Iran’s democratization. You can't be an agent of democracy unless you’re democratic yourself. How do you feel about the negative press you've been receiving from some Iranian-American media-outlets? I feel it's a sign of desperation, as well as a fundamental lack of understanding and appreciation for what democracy means. I can understand that some pro-confrontation and pro-war elements are upset that NIAC has become a strong force, [but] if they oppose us, they should do it in a democratic process and not through defamation, slander, and character assassination. They should debate, not curse. *To learn more about Dr. Parsi, please visit: TritaParsi.com

Iranian Character Navid Shirazi on Beverly Hills 90210 Premiere

Jujunaz — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 12:00:17 +0000

Did you watch the premiere episode of the much-hyped-about Beverly Hills 90210 on The CW?

We did. And... we weren't as impressed as we had hoped to be.

The show was noticeably inferior to Gossip Girl (we were hooked on that one from episode one!) although they seem to be attempting to follow in GG's Louboutin heels by giving Erin Silver - played by the pretty Jessica Stroup - the role of West Beverly High's v-logging scandalmonger... albeit not-so-anonymously.

On to the reason why we even watched the show to begin with: Navid Shirazi, played by Michael Steger. It would have been perfect if they had chosen to a real Iranian to play the part. Nonetheless, we were curious about the intended overall image portrayal of the main cast's only Persian character on the show (considering that even the maisons in Beverly Hills -- and much of Greater-LA -- have been dubbed "Persian Palaces" due to the intensely dominating Persian population there). And, naturally, we were slightly confused by the notion that Navid's Dad is the world's biggest "porn producer".

Let's see what else comes out about Navid's background, because if his parents are both meant to be Iranian... then we highly doubt that a true Persian Princess would be willing to marry a porn-mogul. No matter how much of his money she'd be able to blow. After all, what would that do to her aaberoo/reputation?

We'll give the show a C- for the time being.

[polldaddy poll="900700"]

memphis218_53834

Jujunaz — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 15:50:00 +0000

aaa

Jujunaz — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 17:42:05 +0000

Iranian-American Comedy Central: Max Amini

Jujunaz — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 15:07:04 +0000

By Sanaz Khalaj Santos

Are you ready for another one?

We are! And we're about to share the laughter with you.

As part of Maz Jobrani's famed Axis of Evil Comedy Tour, Max Amini's witty comedic style stands out in stand up.

A couple of weeks ago, we had the fun pleasure of getting to chat with Comedy Central's Mind of Mencia recurring-role-holder, Max Amini on his career and life as an Iranian-American comedian working the mainstream entertainment circuit.

Below is a transcript of our quick chat for your reading pleasure.

Enjoy!

SKS: What is your full name? MA: Max Amini.

Where were you born? Tucson, Arizona.

Where did you grow up? When I was 7 years old my parents moved back to Iran and I grew up there till I was 18. Then moved back to the states and lived in Washington D.C. for a few years. After I finished community college in Maryland, I [transferred] out to UCLA's theater program, and moved to Los Angeles and have been here since.

When was the last time you were in Iran? January 2008.

Do you speak, read, and/or write in Farsi? Speak, read and write it.

What's a funny childhood story you can share? Well I was always thinking of a way not to go to school. I [would] pretend I was sick so my Mom would let me stay in. After a while I had run out of tricks and my Mom had become a lot more trained as well. So one day it dawned on me [that] if I put the thermometer over the stove and raise [its] temperature then I can pretend I have a fever and stay home. But, I had not yet learned about mercury and how it would expand and blow up so my Mom would give me the thermometer and come back and see [it had shattered] to pieces! I kept coming up with excuses of how it broke. Finally, I learned how to do it and it starting to work and I tricked my Mom and stayed home a few times. This continued to work till the day I broke my [sister's] Barbie and she blew my cover! Oh well... moral of the story "don't break Barbies"!!!

How did you get into comedy? I got accepted to [the] UCLA Film and TV program and moved to Los Angeles in 2001. That summer I decided to keep busy before school [started] and try something I always thought highly of... "Stand Up Comedy". So I took a workshop and got myself involved. [The] workshop was 4 weeks long and at the end of the 4th week, you [got] to showcase at a comedy club in front of a live audience of a 250-seater house. It sounded pretty exciting. The first 3 weeks, my material was the worst in class. Finally, the last week before the showcase, I pulled it together. The showcase went so fantastic that it [gave] me a lot of motivation to continue my dream in becoming a Stand-up comedian!

Were your parents supportive? My parents have always been very supportive and [thought] for once, I made the right decision. My dad said, "the family's trouble maker finally became professional at what he's best at!" They truly believe in me and I feel very lucky to have their support.

What's the most high-profile event you've done? Did a show in Dubai and I think as far as the venue and the crowd I'd say it's probably one of the most high-profile venues I've done.

What's the largest venue you've performed in? Axis of Evil show at the Wilshire Theater in Beverly Hills. It was a 2500-seater house.

Who is your favorite Iranian-American comedian? Maz Jobrani is my favorite and he's a good friend of mine and we do a lot of events together. I enjoy him on, and off stage.

Who is your favorite American comedian? I like different comedians for different reasons. But over all I'd say one of my favorites is Lewis Black.

Who is your favorite classic Iranian comedian? Mr. Bean... oh wait he's not Iranian he is just classic! Well then, Arham Sadr... I think that's how you spell his name :)

Do you act as well? Yes.

Have you played any parts in TV or movies? I play the recurring Middle Eastern guy on the Comedy Central show "Mind of Mencia ".

What do you hope to accomplish in your career? My goal is to be able to communicate love and peace through my comedy... gosh that sounded like the Miss Universe's answer. But I really hope to be able to send positive [messages] out with my work.

What does being Iranian-American mean to you? It means: an Iranian who lives in America. One who's most identifiable by his Iranian cultural views and beliefs.

Lavaashak or Gojeh-Sabz? Lavaashak Fo' Sho'!

What's your favorite Iranian dish? Khoreshteh Bademjooooon.

Can you cook Persian food yourself? Are you kidding? That's a whole career of its own!

What's your favorite thing about being Iranian? The strong sense of spirituality that lives in our culture.

Are you single? Yes.

Do you prefer Iranian girls/women to non-Iranians? I don't know... still trying to figure that one out.

What are you working on currently? Had an event at the Laugh Factory on August 26th "Comics without Borders". Also writing a feature film.

How can your fans stay up to date about your upcoming projects? By visiting: MaxAmini.com

far-cloon

Jujunaz — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 16:31:39 +0000

M. A. Fardin and George Clooney

Honorary Iranian-American Male: George Clooney

Jujunaz — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 16:48:34 +0000

: M. A. Fardin and George Clooney

Haven't you always questioned George Clooney's possible Iranian-ness? His Farsi accent may not be up to par - judging from what we heard in Syriana (directed by the brilliant Steven Soderberg) - or not quite Iranian, or Tehrooni enough for our standards, but we don't care! We think the Fardin look-alike fits the bill as our honorary Iranian-male-bachelor: Hospitable. Playful. Taarofi. Verbally complimentary. Well-mannered. Sharply-dressed. Smooth, with uber-ultra-mega-sexy looks to boot. George Clooney's Persianesque-charm has us enchanted!

saratabrizi221

Jujunaz — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 19:07:01 +0000

ava

Jujunaz — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 17:10:30 +0000

ABC for Children: Learning Farsi Alphabet

Jujunaz — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 13:22:12 +0000

Looking for a way to start teaching your kids the Persian language?

Try this book: 'ABC for Children: Learning Farsi Alphabet' by author Maryam Mizrahi. Sent by: Shohreh Elghanian

max23

Jujunaz — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 11:20:52 +0000

meleny1

Jujunaz — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 14:57:19 +0000

MTV's Super Sweet Meleny: Exiled in Peru

Jujunaz — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 15:07:39 +0000

Persian girls "do" spoiled really well, don't we? Compare MTV's Super Sweet 16 girl and fan-favorite, Meleny's facial expressions from before and after her Baba told her she was going to Peru, "in deh mountains" to be exact. Click here to see how Meleny has changed, since she finished taping Exiled.

sara-shahi44

Jujunaz — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 13:30:24 +0000

Iranians on Tv: Sarah Shahi's Life

Jujunaz — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 13:58:47 +0000

Born on January 10th, 1980, the hypnotizing Persian-bombshell Sarah Shahi - whose real name is Aahoo Jahansouz Shahi (Aahoo is a Persian name meaning deer) - is back in your life and on your Tv screen!

Her renewed show on NBC, Life, is back for another cop-tastic season.

Once a cheerleader for the Dallas Cowboys, Sarah Shahi plays the role of female police officer, D. Reese -and she's pretty good!

Catch the show every Friday, 10/9c on the peacock-channel.

Click here to watch previous episodes.

Beverly Hills 90210: Navid Shirazi

Jujunaz — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 15:37:28 +0000

So, our new favorite character to watch - in an attempt to guage the authenticity of the Persian-ness attributed to him and his image for wider audiences to judge - Navid Shirazi (played by Michael Steger, the non-Persian actor that plays the Persian role) finally said "yes" when asked whether he was Persian or not.

And... we're underwhelmed.

Can't they come up with anything more interesting?

Is Navid supposed to be the only "Persian" at West beverly High? How true to life.

With our rich and ancient history, we find it hard to believe that the producers and writers have done so little research on our culture. That's what it seems like to us anyway, otherwise they would have given Navid more air-time and storylines. Right?

OK. Yes. It's true. Our boys/men love fast cars and fast women - until they're ready to get married of course, then, they want an "untouched" Persian girl with a PhD. - but, Navid being picked up by three cranially-challeneged models just didn't impress us. Wouldn't it make more sense to have Navid hanging out with porn-stars and flying with Baba's jet to party in Vegas, Mallorca, or Dubai? After all, his dad is supposed to be the "biggest porn-producer in the world". (See why we're wanting more?)

We realize that the show is not called "Tehran Hills 90210" (maybe next time, especially since Persians practically rule Beverly Hills) but, with Iran being in the news so much, we think that it would be relevant enough for the young and savvy audience to learn more about Iran, Iranians, and the Persian culture.

oscar202

Jujunaz — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 12:48:42 +0000

West Bank Story: Interview with Anthony (Eslam) Shams

Jujunaz — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 14:33:44 +0000

By Sanaz Khalaj Santos As part of the cast in the Academy Award winning film West Bank Story, Anthony Shams is one of the nicest, funniest, and most genuinely down to earth Iranian-American comedians we've come across, to date. His unassuming charm and warm smile are just a couple of things we really liked when we sat down to have lunch with the actor/comedian. If you haven't gone to see Anthony Shams perform live yet, then you're missing out! Enjoy our exclusive interview below.

How did you get into stand up? I played the role of stand up comedian in a play I had written, produced, directed and acted called "A Beginning To An End". One night the two actresses in the play were not feeling to well that week, if you know what I mean, so I decided to stretch my stand up and people loved it. When I realized I can make people laugh all by myself, I decided to open the stand up chapter in my life. Also we, Iranians, did not have Stand Up Comedy in our culture. Some may disagree with me but I do not consider telling Rashti or Torki, etc. jokes as Stand Up Comedy. That is just plain racism against the Tork and Rashti people. How have Iranian-American audiences been reacting to your bit? Iranian-American audiences have been more than complementary and over generous with their support. Iranians who have not opened their luggage and refuse to learn English ( Still after 30 years thinking they are going back to Iran for the next Norooz), They have occasionally been problematic. They complain about the 40% English language I use in my show which I have a good reason for. Everyone knows my target audience speaks Farsi and English. It is printed in BOLD on my poster & tickets. [caption id="attachment_1185" align="aligncenter" width="451" caption="Anthony Shams at The Palace of Fine Arts (San Francisco)"][/caption] How have non-Iranian audiences been reacting? Words cannot begin to describe. Americans go to a comedy show knowing they are there to laugh. However; some, not all, Iranians go to comedy shows and create] the following situations: A) Some act like they are attending a funeral and do not laugh. B) Some sit there and look at others and as soon as others laugh, they say stuff like, "Looook at heeem, heeez mout is open like a donkey" C) Some go to a comedy shows and make it a challenge against the comic and say, "Let us see if he can make us laugh first!?" But I welcome all because they create a challenge for me and that is when I am at my best. Who are your favorite Iranian-American comedians? Omid Jalili and Maz Jobrani. [caption id="attachment_1217" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Anthony Shams with Maz Jobrani"][/caption]

Who are your favorite American comedians? Robin Williams, John Leguizamo, and Jay leno. Who is your favorite old-school Iranian comedian? I do not have any. When was the first time you were on film as a paid actor? 1986. I played the role of a florist in [the movie] No Way Out with Kevin Costner, Gene Hackman. It was filmed in the old post office building in Washington D.C. My only line in the movie ended up on the cutting room floor just like Kevin Costner's first acting debut in The Big Chill. You only see a 4 second shot of his hand as a dead person. How did you land the role in the Academy Award winning film: 'West Bank Story'? By auditioning the hell out of it with the director Ari Sandel. I found out about the movie [through] Noureen Dewulf, an actress who played the role of my daughter [a] commercial and the role of Shohreh Aghdashlou's daughter in American Dreamz. I guess [through the] magic of movies, Shohreh and I are married and share a daughter together named Noureen (just kidding). What's a story you can share with us from the set? There were no funny stories. My friend's daughter was visiting from Germany and she asked if she could be in the movie. I mentioned it to Ari and she was in as an extra. Since there was no pay involved, at the end of the shoot, I gave a $20 bill to Adam the assistant director to give her as a token of his appreciationfor her hard work. She has framed that $20 bill in her room in Bremmen as a sign of being in a movie that won the Academy Award. What's a touching or life-altering moment you experienced on the set of "West Bank Story"? A powerful line written by Ari Sandel and delivered by Fatima (Noureen DeWulf) to the Palestinians and Israelies who are fighting each other. She says, "Is this what you really want? Is this how you want to live the rest of your lives? Then you deserve each other." What's the most controversial thing you've said on stage? And did it get you into trouble? I questioned why Farsi speaking Iranians of Aryan race hit themselves with fists and chains for Arabs!!! And why do Arabs not return the favor by hitting themselves with fists and chains for Iran?!! (Read between the lines). Oh My God!!! Some religious fanatic Persians immediately called me Kaafar (Atheist) . You do ten good things, nobody notices. But God forbid, you say one thing that is against their "khoraafaat", then you are the devil. Don't get me wrong, I have respect for people who are Moteddayen (religious) not Mote'asseb (Fanatic) in any religion. There is a big difference. Can you tell us a funny joke? Roses are reddish, violets are blueish, had it not been for Jesus... we would all be Jewish Have you had roles on TV? Yes. Which did you like the most and why? A letter To the Homeland. It dealt with clash of cultures. What is your favorite comedy movie of all time? All of them because laughter is essential to one's health. What is your favorite thing about being Iranian? Just the word Iranian says it all. There is no other thing in the world that compares to it. I am proud of being a Farsi speaking Person of Aryan race. Chello-Kabob or Ghormeh-Sabzi? Both in double portions. Humm. . . Who am I kidding? I eat anything that is not bolted to the ground. Are you currently working on any projects your fans would like to know about? My stand up shows are on going. If anyone [wants to see my act], they can send me an email with their email address and the name of their state only so they can be added to our email list. I also have started my new one man play called "A Kotak Moment" which is about life, love, and relationships. Where can your fans see your tour schedule? I am Facebook & Orkut under Anthony Shams.

sshahi22

Jujunaz — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 18:24:06 +0000

NBC's Life: Sarah Shahi

Jujunaz — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 18:25:22 +0000

Have you been watching Sarah Shahi as the uber-life-like "D. Reese" on her second season of NBC's Life? We're really starting to appreciate her believable performance as a tough-chick cop. And it must be said that: it's due to her super-powerful-yet-natural acting chops, although her beauty can be quite distracting - as her magnetism is penetrating enough to pull one through the tv screen - Sarah Shahi is further proof that Persian girls can do it all. We remember that she spoke Farsi on the show during its first season, so naturally we're waiting to hear some more. Keep watching! [polldaddy poll=1026542]

maz2

Jujunaz — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 13:08:12 +0000

Beverly Hills 90210: Navid Shirazi's Crush

Jujunaz — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 17:42:49 +0000

Finally!

It seems as though Navid Shirazi might be getting some more storylines.

Last night on Beverly Hills 90210 (2.0), Persian character Navid Shirazi confessed his love for his middle-school crush, the rehab-visiting "Adriana". This - we hope - means that there will be more to come for Navid. In an effort to cheer "A" up, Navid delivered some goodies, including a bath-set that his "mom suggested", to his new eshgh (love), all the way to the rehab facility his Baba paid for her to stay in. We must admit, the grand financial gesture, is definitely a Persian move. And, well, if a male who gives you a gift saying "my mom suggested it" isn't Iranian... then he's probably adopted. Maybe the producers and writers have actually started doing a little research after all. Stay tuned!

sarah2

Jujunaz — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 12:58:46 +0000

Sarah Shahi Update: Life - New Night

Jujunaz — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 13:01:23 +0000

Insiders are said to be super-pleased with ratings for Sarah Shahi's hit show on NBC, Life. In fact, they're so happy with Life that the network has moved the show from its Friday night time-slot to the more coveted Wednesday night line-up. The Lipstick Jungle cast is probably not too happy about this, but hey... that's showbiz!

Business: Iranian Entrepreneur Expands with Hotels

Jujunaz — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 20:13:32 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P5uw2QCEl_I] Skip to the 2:14 mark to watch "the Emperor of Cool" himself: Sam Nazarian, founder of Sammy Boy Entertainment (SBE) and ruler of the LA restaurant and lounge scene, dish about his new ventures with Starwood hotels, famed Spaniard and DC Chef: Jose Andres, and more. With all that Nazarian's got going on, we're not sure why Speidi(Spencer Pratt and Heidi Montag) has somehow gained the reigns in branding for his company: SBE. Being on The Hills means free advertising, sure... but even McCan't moved on from these two attention-whores. We just don't see how exclusive and luxury - which are Nazarian's core asthetique - can be equated with ess-peidi. Lose the losers agha.

hillsa

Jujunaz — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 13:46:57 +0000

shohreh

Jujunaz — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 15:00:28 +0000

Iranians on Tv: Shohreh Aghdashloo - From House to House

Jujunaz — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 15:04:44 +0000

We're glad to see Shohreh Aghdashloo maintain a steady career in Hollywood after her Oscar-nominated performance in "House of Sand and Fog" in 2003. The baritone-voiced Aghdashloo, shines in her most current role (and perhaps the ticket to her first Emmy nod) as Saddam's first wife, Sajida Khairallah Talfah Hussein, on HBO's four-part miniseries: House of Saddam. House of Saddam premieres Sunday, Dec. 7th, 2008. Be sure to tune in. We have a feeling this is going to be another HBO hit!

Beverly (Tehran) Hills 90210: Navid's Persian Family

Jujunaz — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:21:03 +0000

Did you watch 90210 last night? We were wearing our "persian-critic" glasses as we watched, and to our super-duper pleasant surprise... we got to hear some Farsi, - yes, even a simple Khorresht (stew) and Tonbak (persian drums) mention counts in our book - see Navid's family, and get a sense for some Persian hospitality. Adriana, Navid's new girlfriend, showed up to Navid's parents' gigantic Persian-Palace in an effort to spend some time with Navid, and ended up meeting his whole family, including his mom Atousa (whose accent is more Greek sounding than Persian), dad, sisters, and cousins: Alex, Iraj, Anoush, et. al. As you can tell, we were loving the mentions, but the Arabic music in the background and Navid's proclamation that he's a virgin (yes, virgin) did throw us off the authenticity bus a little, but... don't get us wrong we definitely appreciate the effort 90210's producers are now making, really, we do! Keep it up. You've got our Persian audience hooked!

amirekbatani1

Jujunaz — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 13:19:34 +0000

Original Photo Via: LA TIMES

Iranians in Sports: Amir Nicholas Ekbatani

Jujunaz — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 13:21:49 +0000

Have you heard of Nick Ekbatani? Well, now you have! Amir Nicholas Ekbatani is yet another half-Persian football player on the rise. At 6'5" Ekbatani is a lineman for UCLA. Be sure to tune in and watch him play this season.

malak1

Jujunaz — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:06:29 +0000

Original Photo: Chris Kilkus

Iranian or Not: Jessie Malakouti

Jujunaz — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:11:29 +0000

With a last-name like Malakouti... we're inclined to think that the 'Trash Me ' singer, Jessie Malakouti is lucky enough to be Persian. At least in part. (The better part of course.) So, is she or isn't she? [polldaddy poll=1117906]

Iranian Myspace Celebrity - Metal Sanaz

Jujunaz — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 13:53:08 +0000

Born in Iran and a celebrity in her own right, Metal Sanaz is a regular on the metal-music scene and she's got something to say. Recently we got to chat with the metal goddes herself on her life, work, and daily adventures. Enjoy! Were were you born? I was born in Iran. When was the last time you visited Iran? Last time I went there was about 8 years ago. Do you speak and/or write Farsi? Yes I speak and write, I actually graduated there! What was the first metal song you heard, and how old were you? It was Ozzy at his concert in Dallas TX when I was 7. What was the first metal album you bought? Hmmm, I actually took all my step dad's tapes. I think it was Ozzy, AC/DC and a few more. How did you get into the metal scene? Well my first show at 7 was when I became very interested in the whole scene.

When did you get into the metal scene? Well, as I grew older it became more and more a part of my life and it never went away. As the time went by, I just wanted and needed it more in my life. Who are your favorite top 3 bands? Well my all time favorites that I loved since childhood were: Iron Maiden, Metallica, and Slayer. What do you hope to accomplish in your career? Biggest goal is to connect fans with bands, give smaller bands a chance to show their talent, help and promote the metal scene in any way possible... and what ever else that it takes. What's your favorite Persian dish? Yummmy, I love a dish called Ghormeh Sabzi... [if you haven't tried it and] if you have a Persian restaurant, make sure you try the dish. What are your upcoming appearances? Well I have my own line of iPods and Nano's that are coming out, so we are planning on a party for the release, but not sure of the date yet. What was your favorite live show ever? Black Sabbath, first show that I saw. The show was soo amazing that there was no turning back. Do you play any instruments yourself? No, but I am very good at pushing the play button. Do you style your own look all the time? Oh yes.

Do you sing? I did a track with Scum Of The Earth, that was my first time ever, and I would love to do more. Can you share a favorite story about an interview you conducted? I think the most important interview I ever did was the first time I met my god: Kerry King. I was very nervous and almost backed out because he was having a drink talking to a friend and I had to interrupt him for the interview. But after talking to him and seeing how humble and down to earth he was, [it] changed a lot of things in my head and I will never forget things like that. He is truly an amazing guitarist and person. Is Dave Navarro as hot in person as he is on the screen? Oh yeah, he is and very fuckin' cool as well. I just love Dave and its always a pleasure hanging out with him. Will we ever see you on network Tv? Maybe even a reality show just for kicks? Yes, it's all in the works as we speak but I do want everyone to know that it isn't going to be a nonsense dating show cause that is NOT what I am about. So it will be [something related to] METAL! How can your fans stay current on your adventures? For now the best way to keep in touch with what I do is to check my myspace page because I post just about everything that is going on with me. My website is being redone and soon everyone can go to my site and enjoy things that they have never seen on myspace. Click here for more info on Metal Sanaz.

metalsanaz3

Jujunaz — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 14:57:13 +0000

david

Jujunaz — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 20:22:26 +0000

ava2

Jujunaz — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 12:44:31 +0000

golzar

Jujunaz — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 15:42:11 +0000

Iranian Actor: Brad Golzar

Jujunaz — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 15:43:08 +0000

As Iran's "Brad Pitt", Iranian actor Mohammad Reza Golzar, is one of modern Iranian cinema's elite. Super popular amongst Iranian girls, Brad Golzar (as we've nicknamed him) has played in quite a few "hit" movies in Iran. We wish him the best in the motherland, but... we wouldn't mind seeing him in hollywood either. [polldaddy poll=1158374]

Persian Porn: Avizoon.com

Jujunaz — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 15:59:42 +0000

Avizoon.com -- Sent by: Persianesque.com reader, Kamkam.

chopshop_pc_frontsm

Jujunaz — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 21:18:36 +0000

Nominated: Director Ramin Bahrani - Chop Shop

Jujunaz — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 21:32:25 +0000

Congratulations to Iranian-American director Ramin Bahrani for receiving a "Best Director" nomination to compete in this year's IFC Spirit Awards. Also amongst the 2009 Spirit Award nominees is Neda Armian; named under the "Best Feature" tab for producing the movie Rachel Getting Married starring Anne Hathaway. _____ Best Director Nominees: - Ramin Bahrani for Chop Shop - Jonathan Demme for Rachel Getting Married - Lance Hammer for Ballast - Courtney Hunt for Frozen River - Thomas McCarthy for The Visitor Best Feature Nominees: - Ballastproduced by Lance Hammer, Nina Parikh - Frozen Riverproduced by Chip Hourihan, Heather Rae - Rachel Getting Married produced by Neda Armian, Jonathan Demme, Marc Platt - Wendy and Lucyproduced by Larry Fessenden, Neil Kopp, Anish Savjani - The Wrestlerproduced by Darren Aronofsky, Scott Franklin

lime1

Jujunaz — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 11:38:53 +0000

Lime: Persian Variety

Jujunaz — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 11:42:16 +0000

Did you know that you may be eating Persian lime, outside of Iran? Chances are: you are. The current lime industry in Florida (citrus central) is based on a variety known as Persian. And there's more below the US border. Cítricos Cadillo S.A de C.V., a Mexican company established in 2000, specializes in "seedless lime of the Persian variety with approximately 15,000 tons per year which are totally exported to US (13000 tons), Europe (2750 tons) and Japan (500 tons)". The fruits of Persian lime are said to be "larger than Mexican limes, approximately 2.2 inches in diameter, and have a thin, smooth, light yellow rind at full maturity. The seedless flesh is pale greenish-yellow, acidic, juicy and finely-textured. Once Persian limes reach full maturity, usually late autumn to early winter, they drop from the tree."

bff_hearts

Jujunaz — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 17:11:08 +0000

golnazfathi

Jujunaz — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 15:53:19 +0000

Contemporary Iranian Artist: Golnaz Fathi

Jujunaz — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 15:55:49 +0000

[caption id="attachment_1514" align="aligncenter" width="400" caption="Artist: Golnaz Fathi"][/caption] By: Nazanin Lankarani Iran, internationally isolated since the 1979 revolution, has recently started to open to the world through the work of contemporary artists, some in exile, who are helping to reshape perceptions of their country while forging their own identities. Propelled onto the international art market by the growing clout of auction houses in neighboring Dubai, these artists have been gaining recognition since 2006, largely as a result of speculative trading in the Gulf region. Recently, galleries working with Iranian artists have multiplied farther afield, and Iranian contemporary works are selling at auctions in London and, this month, in Paris - though it remains to be seen how the market will weather the global economic slowdown. Nadia Ghiaï-Far, an abstract painter working in Paris, left her native Iran when she was 8 years old. Now 38, she has never been back. Educated in France, Ghiaï-Far is an example of an artist in the Iranian diaspora who straddles two cultures without belonging to either. "In the eyes of others, I am immediately identifiable as Iranian by my name and my physique," Ghiaï-Far said in an interview. "But I am more a product of Western culture with something Eastern in my soul." Click here to read the rest of this great article. ***For more information on Golnaz Fathi and other modern Iranian artists click here.

Independent Film: “ARUSI PERSIAN WEDDING”

Jujunaz — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 13:38:46 +0000

“ARUSI PERSIAN WEDDING” TO HAVE ITS BROADCAST PREMIERE ON THE PBS SERIES INDEPENDENT LENS ON MARCH 20, 2009 (San Francisco, CA) Filmmaker Marjan Tehrani chronicles her brother’s journey to Iran, their father’s birthplace, as he travels with his American wife to have a traditional Persian wedding ceremony and explore his lost heritage. Weaving together historical footage that illuminates the complex history of America’s relationship with Iran with the young couple’s personal story, ARUSI PERSIAN WEDDING goes behind the curtain of political tension to offer a rare glimpse of both modern and traditional Iran. ARUSI PERSIAN WEDDING will have its broadcast premiere on Tuesday, March 20, 2009 at 10 PM (check local listings) on the PBS series Independent Lens, hosted by Terrence Howard. Brooklyn filmmaker Marjan Tehrani and her brother Alex were born in America and raised in Berkeley by their Iranian father and Jewish mother.. They grew up during the Iranian Islamic Revolution, when the Shah was expelled and anti-American sentiment exploded, resulting in the infamous hostage crisis of 1979 and setting in motion decades of miscommunication, threats and vitriol between the American and Iranian governments. Through a very personal story, ARUSI PERSIAN WEDDING explores the complex and troubled relationship between America, the country of Marjan and Alex’s birth, and Iran, the country of their heritage. Marjan and Alex’s father Reza had a deep love for his country but emigrated to the U.S. in the 1970’s to find his fortune. Following the revolution, complications with visas prevented him from bringing his children with him on his frequent return trips back home. But in 2005, in the midst of the Iraq war, Alex and his American wife Heather announced that they were going to journey to Iran to have a traditional Persian wedding —an arusi. Marjan and Reza accompanied Alex and Heather on the journey for the huge family reunion and traditional wedding. But this was no simple MY BIG FAT PERSIAN WEDDING. As we see, Heather’s conservative Christian father was not pleased by the idea of his daughter’s immersion in Muslim culture and traveling to a country he considers part of the Axis of Evil. When Heather’s parents meet Alex’s Dad and stepmother, the lovely dinner party escalates into an uncomfortably heated conflict about politics. Those tensions, combined with the arcane marriage negotiations they must perform in the company of an imam in the U.S., Heather’s increasing culture shock, and the complications involved in traveling to a Muslim nation in the middle of the war, threaten to undermine the journey but the love between Alex and Heather proves amazingly resilient. Marjan Tehrani’s film is many things at once: a story of love, a story of family and a story of a country at odds with itself and the world. Iran itself is a character in the film, a proud figure looming over every scene. What emerges is a much more nuanced portrait of Iran, one than Americans rarely see. To learn more about the film, visit the ARUSI PERSIAN WEDDING interactive companion website (pbs.org/?) which features detailed information on the film, including an interview with the filmmaker and links and resources pertaining to the film’s subject matter. The site also features a Talkback section for viewers to share their ideas and opinions, preview clips of the film, and more. * * * About the Filmmaker Marjan Tehrani is an independent director and producer from Berkeley, California. She founded the production company Tru Films and has since directed and produced, Her Israel, which premiered on the Sundance Channel in 2004 and ARUSI PERSIAN WEDDING. In addition, she is currently producing P Star's Redemption, a feature documentary that follows a 13-year old female rap star phenomenon as she fulfills her father's deferred dreams of making it in the music business. Beyond her independent work, she has produced several original series for television, including dLIFE TV on CNBC and the Emmy-nominated AFTER SCHOOL on PBS, which featured celebrity alumni such as Harvey Keitel and Tim Robbins, returning to their urban high schools as role models. Through Tru Films, Tehrani is dedicated to promoting dialogue between cultures, sharing the intricate and subtle aspects of identity and capturing the transformative moments of the human About Independent Lens Independent Lens is an Emmy® Award-winning weekly series airing Tuesday nights at 10:00 PM on PBS. The acclaimed anthology series features documentaries and a limited number of fiction films united by the creative freedom, artistic achievement and unflinching visions of their independent producers. Independent Lens features unforgettable stories about a unique individual, community or moment in history. Presented by ITVS, the series is supported by interactive companion websites and national publicity and community engagement campaigns. Further information about the series is available at www.pbs.org/independentlens. Independent Lens is jointly curated by ITVS and PBS, and is funded by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), a private corporation funded by the American people, with additional funding provided by PBS and the National Endowment for the Arts. The series producer is Lois Vossen.

farzin1

Jujunaz — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 13:03:22 +0000

Iranian-American Musician: Farzin Farhadi

Jujunaz — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 13:27:53 +0000

[caption id="attachment_1536" align="aligncenter" width="291" caption="Original photo by: Paris Ghaderi"][/caption] By: Persianesque.com Staff You're probably already familiar with the trance-inducing musical style of Iranian-American musician, Farzin Farhadi, but get ready for more. We got you an exclusive Q & A with the talented sax-player. Enjoy! What is your full name? Farzin Farhadi. When did you leave Iran? 1981. Where did you grow up? Northern VA. What was the first instrument you played? Saxophone. How many instruments do you play? Three. Have you ever been in a band? Many many times. [caption id="attachment_1537" align="aligncenter" width="417" caption="Photo: Paris Ghaderi"][/caption] What are you currently working on? [Writing and producing] three different records. How is the LA music scene treating you? Cannot complain. How would you describe your sound? World/Jazz What is your favorite Farzin Farhadi song? A song called BEDTIME STORY. Who is your favorite musician? John Coltrane. Do you have an Iranian musical idol? No. What are your top three favorite songs of all time? I cannot say. Who do you think your listeners are? Music lovers aged 30-70. What do you hope to say with your music? Peace and unity. How has being Iranian-American influenced your work? Enriched it. What's your favorite Iranian dish? Loubia polo. Where do you draw inspiration from? Where ever i can get it. How long does it take you to write a song? From a minute to never. Do you have any rituals that you perform before getting into writing mode? Yes. Meditation. What time of day do you find yourself feeling creative? In the morning. What's in store for the future? I wish i knew. How can your fans stay up to date on your adventures? Check my myspace page.

shohreh_hbo1

Jujunaz — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 13:51:18 +0000

House of Saddam: Shohreh Aghdashloo as Sajida

Jujunaz — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 14:00:07 +0000

[caption id="attachment_1544" align="aligncenter" width="417" caption="Original Photo: HBO"][/caption] Did you watch the premiere of the Shohreh Aghdashloo-starring four-part HBO miniseries: House of Saddam? We did. And we loved Ms. Aghdashloo's portrayal of the calculating first wife of Saddam Hussein: Sajida. We sticking to our Emmy predictions for her. What about you? [polldaddy poll=1181042]

aref21

Jujunaz — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:35:20 +0000

Optical Illusions: Mehrdad Aref-Adib

Jujunaz — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 13:40:03 +0000

[caption id="attachment_1554" align="aligncenter" width="422" caption="Khatami vs. Spielberg -- Rafsanjani vs. Penn"][/caption]

Wow. The resemblance.

Click here to check out Mehrdad Aref-Adib's clever collection of cool pictures.

hypernovaplayboy

Jujunaz — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 16:51:19 +0000

Iranian or Not: Jon and Pete Najarian

Jujunaz — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 14:29:07 +0000

Pictured above are trading gurus, ex-Chicago-Bears-linebacker Jon Najarian and his brother Pete Najarian (also a football-player at some point and staple for CNBC's Fast Money.). As if these two weren't busy enough, they've co-founded: optionMONSTER. It's not just their lastname the makes us want to claim them as Iranians. It's their drive for success and ability to achieve it, that makes us a believer. [polldaddy poll=1204347]

zandi

Jujunaz — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 19:58:33 +0000

Prince of Persia: Prince David Zandi?

Jujunaz — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 20:21:35 +0000

Is this guy for real?

Maybe.

Maybe not.

His bio on IMDB says: "According to historical records he is one of the last male members of the Zand dynasty which [ruled] the Persian Empire [from] 1747 to 1779. His great, great, great grandpa' was Karim Khan Zand. "

ABC News reporter, Sheila Marikar, writes, "According to an official-looking poll obtained by movie news service IESB.net, Zandi is the peoples' choice to play the lead role in 'Prince of Persia'. Asked which of nine actors they would pick to play the prince based on their photos, close to 12 million of the 17 million voters chose Zandi, who with his dark hair and brooding eyes could be the digital hero's twin.

If the poll is to be believed, Zandi crushed the competition, blowing away hunks like[Orlando] Bloom, James McAvoy, Milo Ventimiglia and Zac Efron."

We're not sure if we believe this guy's "royalty" claims because we know quite a few Iranians with the last-name Zand. In fact, it's very much a common surname in the Persian community and we bet that if you're Iranian, you know an "aghaayeh" or "khanoomeh" Zand. (And if you don't, your parents do.).

However, he would make a perfect fit for the upcoming bolckbuster, Prince of Persia: Sands of Time - based solely on his photo - rather than the less-Persian looking yet-still-attractive, Jake Gyllenhaal.

[polldaddy poll=1205380]

google20874d6dc993ace8.html

Jujunaz — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 14:33:36 +0000

woper

Iranian-Americans in Politics: Interview with Supervisor Ross Mirkarimi

Jujunaz — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 15:21:08 +0000

You know his name. But how well do you really know him? Check out our exclusive interview with charming Iranian-American and San Francisco elected official: Supervisor Ross Mirkarmi. Where were you born and raised? Chicago, (while attending unversity, my father, Hamid, met my mother there) [raised in] Rhode Island. What schools have you attended? Washington University/SLU in St.Louis/Monterey Institute of International Studies/University of San Francisco What was your field of study? Political Science; Russian Literature and Language; Graduate/Post - Environmental Science; Economics. Do you speak and/or write Farsi? Little. Who has inspired you the most in life? Women...no matter the culture, they still struggle and lead even when unnoticed. What's a favorite work/life experience you can share? As an elected official I get great satisfaction in empowering the people; witnessing the dividend, especially on behalf of vulnerable and impoverished people is an experience worth repeating. What's your favorite book of all time? Toss-up: One Hundred Years of Solitude and The Grapes of Wrath. What book(s) are you reading now? "The Ayatollah Begs to Differ" by Hooman Majd, and "How Fiction Works" by James Wood. How did you get into public service? My advocacy on behalf of progressive issues (environment, energy, anti-war, green, civil rights and social justice, etc.) and politicians led to my candidacy for the first time in 2004. I ran for office against 21 other candidates. What world political leader (in history) do you admire the most? There are many, here's one: Benjamin Franklin. Which American politico comes to mind, when you think of a role model for yourself? President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Bobby Kennedy, Susan B. Anthony, President-elect Obama. What do you hope to accomplish in your career? No one can answer this question without sounding cliche...make it better for community and country and mother earth. Why should the Iranian-American community become more involved in civic affairs, in your opinion? The choice is clear: Either help influence the agenda or let the agenda be dictated for us. What's your favorite Persian dish? Pomegranate Chicken, Abgoosht Morgh, BBQ Kebob (chicken). What does a day in your life entail? Let's say a Monday. Coffee, followed by 9 hours of meetings ranging from constituents to government, followed by community events, then dinner, usually late. What are your thoughts on this year's historic election? True validation of this election depends on how bold the Obama administration acts, congress too. What are the priority projects that are on your desk currently? Reconciling a $500 million budget deficit for San Francisco; tackling poverty and the political correctness that hides it. What three words would describe you best? Tenacious, Pragmatic and Honest We have a feeling you're "the type of guy you want to have a beer with" as Obama has been said to be, are you? Yes. This is the unspoken layer of where good listening habits build trust and friendship. What's the highest level of pulic service you're willing to campaign for? I am completely open to this question and challenge. How can one stay current on your work and causes? For newsletter email us: ross.mirkarimi@sfgov.org or www.rossmirkarimi.com

Sports: Iranian Basketball Player Hamed Haddadi Recalled

Jujunaz — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 12:57:33 +0000

[caption id="attachment_1709" align="aligncenter" width="223" caption="Hamed Haddadi in Action -- Original Photo: Joe Murphy "][/caption] Our favorite (and only) Iranian NBA member, the Persian-baller that is Hamed Haddadi has been recalled by the Memphis Grizzlies. After a brief stint with the Dakota Wizards of the NBA Development League, our Hamed is once again on the road to scoring more points for the Memphis Grizzlies. Play on, player! Click here to view a schedule of the Grizzlies' upcoming games and watch Hamed in action.

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Jujunaz — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 13:14:58 +0000

ball-copy

Jujunaz — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 13:25:32 +0000

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Jujunaz — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 12:19:33 +0000

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Jujunaz — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 16:25:47 +0000

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Jujunaz — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 19:24:59 +0000

Beverly Hills 90210: Navid Shirazi's Girlfriend Pregnant

Jujunaz — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 19:26:34 +0000

[caption id="attachment_1747" align="aligncenter" width="296" caption="Photo Via: Gustavo Caballero"][/caption]

We didn't see this one coming.

In the last episode of 90210, Navid Shirazi's girlfriend, Adrianna, was told that she was "pregnant" as she waited to hear the results of her HIV test. Most Iranian guys would rather father their own kids, but we're sure there are the rare exceptions out there as well. And since Navid hasn't been portrayed as the "typical" Iranian male, we have a feeling he may stand by his GF through this tough time in her scripted life. Click here to watch a preview of next week's show, "Love Me or Leave Me". What do YOU think? [polldaddy poll=1257820]

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Jujunaz — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 13:27:55 +0000

Iranian-American Filmmaker Debuts at SLAMDANCE 2009

Jujunaz — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 13:30:04 +0000

Park City, Utah – Every January the film industry gathers in Park City. The feeding-frenzy of distributors, critics and journalists comb both Sundance and Slamdance Film Festivals looking for the next indie-blockbuster. While there is undeniable talent waiting to be noticed amidst these feature films, what about the hundreds of short films that exist in their shadows?

The art of short filmmaking is truly it's own medium. Faced with minute budgets and resources, short films not only showcase concise storytelling that should engage and compel you in just minutes. These films also demonstrate the resourcefulness of their filmmakers, young unknown artists who are often doing things with their own bare hands, whatever the cost. One such short film selected for Slamdance this year is SIX AND A HALF. Written an directed by Iranian/American filmmaker Ana Lily Amirpour, SIX AND A HALF takes us on vivid journey into childhood and the sometimes brutally capricious nature of children, and all in just 5 minutes. The film is about a six year old girl, played by Harley Graham (The Bold and the Beautiful), who tries to catch a frog in a pond and when she's hurt in the process, blames the frog for her accident and goes back for revenge. Amirpour crafts the tale with subtlety through beautiful imagery, innovative use of sound and non-dialogue driven storytelling. The film tackles the notion of 'power' and the fact that there is always someone bigger, or smaller, than we are. Described by the festival programmers as 'Joyous' this is one short film not to be overlooked. On the horizon for Ana Lily Amirpour is her debut feature film, THE STONES, a volatile drama about youth culture in modern day Tehran. Winner of the 2007 Bluecat Screenwriting Competition and 2009 Sundance Lab Finalist, the project is being produced by Gordy Hoffman (LOVE LIZA) and is slated for production in 2009 with Amirpour attached to direct. Producers Ehren Parks and Sina Sayyah are currently shopping the feature comedy, THE BALLAD OF GUNNER BLEU, set in the world of the Texas music industry. A short prequel was shot this fall on location in Austin, starring country music legends Dale Watson and James M White. SIX AND A HALF screens with feature film NOT FORGOTTEN, the highly anticipated thriller starring Simon Baker and Paz Vega and directed by Dror Soref. 2009 marks the 15th anniversary of the Slamdance Film Festival. When/Where: 2009 Slamdance Film Festival, Treasure Mountain Inn, Main Screening Room, Park City, Utah. Saturday January 17th at 8:30pm and Monday January 19th at 6pm.

Persian Lounge Music: Interview with Jhanvieh

Jujunaz — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 15:12:44 +0000

[caption id="attachment_1731" align="aligncenter" width="360" caption="Persian Musicians: Sam and Anahita of Jhanvieh"][/caption] By Sanaz Khalaj-Santos

WASHINGTON, DC - The word Jhanvieh is the Persian-version of the French word for January: Janvier. The group Jhanvieh however, is nothing but Persian-musicality in raw and unique form. With Thievery Corporation-esque production quality and originality, Jhanvieh is the first Iranian-electro-classical band with "all Farsi lyrics".

Jhanvieh was created through Anahita and Sam's - a singing and songwriting duo - yearning to work on a Persian-based band. And with their training in both Classical Eastern and Western music, in addition to FX-production and recording, together they are the circuit-bending: Jhanvieh.

Enjoy our chat with Sam - who once played a private concert for the legendary Iranian musician; Anoushiravan Rohani - and his bandmate Anahita -- whose vocal stylings easily surpass her predecessors' -- and get to know this brand-new and brilliantly-delicious Persian-lounge-fusion band & their avant-garde yet underground-indie sound.

To "come together as one while sharing our intellect with the world" is what Jhanvieh strives to do, and we think they're doing just that!

So, if you like the Brazilian Girls or Federico Aubele... then don't miss out on Jhanvieh's audio-genius and their first-ever album: Abrisham.

Enjoy.

SKS: Where were you born? S: I was born in Tehran A: I was born in Utah, USA Where did you grow up? S: Iran, Europe, & America A: USA What did you study? S: I studied music, literature, & biology A: Music and psychology When did you leave Iran? S: 1985 Are you guys related? No Are you both classically trained in music? S: Yes. I learned to play music under Arthur Davis (John Coltrane's bassist), Zakir Hussain, and Siamac Pouian. A: I study classical guitar under David Grimes and am a classically trained vocalist. Do you write, perform, and produce all of your music? S: Yes...we do it all. How many instruments to do you play? Which ones? S: We play Tar, Setar, Tabla, Congos, Guitars, Cello, Bass, Drums, Keys, Piano, live FX modulation and we are Circuit Benders. What's your favorite instrument? S: We love Tar, Guitar, Cello, and Circuit Bending/Modulating What three words describe your sound best? S: Intelligent, passionately-eclectic, and avant garde. Who are your top musical influences? S: Ours, Brazilian Girls, Portis Head, Googoosh, and Nirvana. How did the decision to mix all your mediums to create your unique sound come about? S: We quite frankly got tired of hearing the same beats and melodies in contemporary Persian music. We originated a formula for fusing contemporary Persian poetic meters with Western rock music as well as flamenco and other forms of gypsy music that compliment traditional Persian folk and classical music. We want to contribute to the evolution of Persian culture as well as to represent the power, intellect, and grace of the Persian culture. We also want to bring a positive message of peace, love, and unity underneath a psychedelic and responsible music backdrop. What book(s) are you reading now? S: Poetry by Hafez and Sadi. The Singularity is Near, The Emperor's New Mind, Collections by Faulkner What has brought you to this place and time of your life? S: Too many things to even mention, but we've both lived a complex life and our art and passion reflect what we have been through as symbols of strength, like everyone else, especially immigrants and refugees all over the world. What are a few names that come to mind when thinking of Iranian musical greats? S: Daruish, Shajarian, Tehrani, Shahyar Ghambari, Alizadeh, Googoosh... What's a favorite work experience you can share? S: Well, as a team, our experience playing at the Mehregan Fall Festival was pretty amazing. There were so many people there and we had to work really hard and fast to set up, play, and tear down. It was like playing a show on fast forward, but we were so impressed with the support of our friends and the Persian as well as global communities. We hope to tour soon. Who has inspired you the most in life? S: For both of us, our Mom and Dad What do you hope to accomplish in your musical career? S: Our main goal is not self motivated. We want to add a new direction of Persian music. A new genre. We want to show the world that we can do it all, in the Persian community. Is your music sold in Iran? S: Not yet. Who do you think your listeners are? S: Young to surprisingly older – 12-60something. What time of day do you find yourself to be the most creative? S: 4:00am A: 1:00am Which American musician's career comes to mind, when you think of a role model for yourself? S: Jimi Hendrix and Kurt Cobain A: Jimmy Gnecco and Eddie Vedder What do you hope to say with your music? S: That there is a place in our minds that is magical, safe, and warm. And as for inside of our hearts: everyone is welcome! What's your favorite Persian dish? S: Fesenjoon with duck. A: Joojeh Kabob! What does a day in your life entail? S: Coffee, work, school, study, ditch class to jam, leave work early to produce and practice music, get in trouble the next day at school and work for leaving early. Gojeh Sabz or Zoghaalakhteh? S: Mmmmmmm, BOTH! A: I don't like sour things. Tehran or Tehroon? S: Tehroon! How can one stay current on your work and upcoming shows? S: Just check out our website at www.jhanvieh.com or www.myspace.com/jhanvieh What do you hope to say to the world with your music? S: That the Persian culture is alive, well, and on the brink of evolving. What is the message of your music to the new generation of Iranians? S: Don't get caught up in the past, who cares what people think, look ahead, evolve, and improve!

paris

Jujunaz — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 14:39:22 +0000

18827, LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - Friday November 30 2007. Paris Hilton leaves Crimson nightclub after a night out with friends. The Heiress was sporting some suspiciously swollen lips, maybe a result of too much kissing! Photograph: Josephine Santos, PacificCoastNews.com ***FEE MUST BE AGREED PRIOR TO USAGE*** UK OFFICE: +44 131 225 3333/3322 US OFFICE: 1 310 261 9676

Iranian Plastic Surgeon Diagnoses Paris Hilton

Jujunaz — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 14:45:57 +0000

Renowned Iranian-American Beverly Hills surgeon, Dr. Payman Simoni was quoted on foxnews.com yesterday, saying, "It seems that Paris Hilton has done what is one the most common cosmetic procedures after breast implant, and that is the lip enhancement."

"One tell-tale sign is the white shine at the borders of her upper lip which is usually achieved by injection of Hyaluronic acid commonly known as Juvaderm or Restylane," the Iranian doctor said. "In this case of Paris Hilton, her lips would have been more improved if the physician enhanced her cupid bow. But overall, she had a great (apparent) lip enhancement."

Paris's rep denied the claims of course. "She did not do anything to her lips. She has never had any type of plastic surgery whatsoever," chimes Paris's manager.

And... we believe... aghaayeh-doctor!

ITVS Community Cinema Presents: ARUSI PERSIAN WEDDING

Jujunaz — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 16:55:41 +0000

ITVS Community Cinema presents: ARUSI PERSIAN WEDDING.

Filmmaker Marjan Tehrani chronicles her brother’s journey to Iran, their father’s birthplace, as he travels with his American wife to have a traditional Persian wedding ceremony and explore his lost heritage.

- Sunday, February 8 at 5 PM, Busboys and Poets (1025 5th Street, NW at K)

- Sunday, February 15 at 3 PM, Washington DC Jewish Community Center (1529 16th Street, NW at Q)

Reserve by email at persianwedding@communitycinema-dc.org or call 202-939-0794.

Space is limited.

Free film and discussion

Persianesque.com: Modern Iranian Online Magazine is a community partner for the Washington, DC Community Cinema screenings of ARUSI: PERSIAN WEDDING. Visit www.pbs.org/independentlens/getinvolved for more information.

Be sure to check back soon to read Persianesque.com's exclusive interview with Marjan Tehrani, in our upcoming posts.

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Jujunaz — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 17:17:10 +0000

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Jujunaz — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 14:34:04 +0000

Sarah Shahi: AskMen.com's 2009 Top 99 List

Jujunaz — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 14:36:26 +0000

[caption id="attachment_1869" align="aligncenter" width="360" caption="Original Photo: Mark Sullivan/Wireimage"][/caption]

Check out your girl, Miss Sexy Persian herself: Sarah Shahi's ranking on AskMen.com's annual Top 99 list for 2009.

If we had any say in all this, we would have given her the number one spot.

[polldaddy poll=1298982]

Be sure to tune in this Feb. 4th to NBC @ 9:00pm to watch Sarah strut her acting skills all over your tube. Click here to check your local listings.

ARUSI: PERSIAN WEDDING - Interview with Director Marjan Tehrani

Jujunaz — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 16:33:08 +0000

By Sanaz Khalaj-Santos

WASHINGTON, DC - As Iran’s colorless headline-led image blisters on, Iranian-Americans prove to be (more now than ever before) feeling the responsibility of correcting what is conceivably an unjust and stained perception of themselves. Through her film, ARUSI: PERSIAN WEDDING, which is an absolute optical delight, Iranian-American director Marjan Tehrani, unobtrusively shoots the attempts of her prédécesseurs… out of focus.

Tehrani, who confesses to having “felt an itching desire to study documentaries”, ended up having her first film “Her Israel” - a documentary revolving around three immigrant women; a Russian, an Israeli, and a Palestinian who are similar in age and living in Tel Aviv with very different realities - air on the Sundance Channel in 2004. And now her second film, ARUSI: PERSIAN WEDDING, will air on PBS on March 17th, 2009.

In ARUSI: PERSIAN WEDDING, the brilliant indie-filmmaker gives people outside of Iran a close and insightful look into the country and its people. The movie, which chronicles her brother Alex’s journey to Iran with his American wife, Heather, to have their own Persian wedding, is in essence, a love story. However, Iran is noticeably one of the main characters and Tehrani magically manages to surface the taboos and extent of misinformation that can lead to emotionally-charged dialogue (or no dialogue at all, on a grander scale) between Iranians and Americans, by means of her transparently-lucid lens.

ARUSI: PERSIAN WEDDING is a movie for all audiences. Everyone should experience Marjan Tehrani’s recherché ability to combine her unfeigned vision, while staying true to her brother’s story, with such balance and unexampled expertise. The universally-human and powerful message(s) in this film can only lead some would-be viewers to shed a tear or two. We know we did.

Enjoy our exclusive interview with the Aabgoosht-from-scratch-making Ms. Tehrani about her timely and highly-poised gem of a film.

*If you live in the DC-Metro area, click hereto see how you can get tickets to watch this movie at its Washington DC screenings in Februrary. Click here to watch the trailor for ARUSI: PERSIAN WEDDING.

[caption id="attachment_1951" align="aligncenter" width="497" caption="Marjan Tehrani and Heather Tehrani - Iran"][/caption]

Sanaz Khalaj-Santos: Where were you born and raised? Marjan Tehrani: I was born in Berkeley, and raised in California until I moved to New York.

SKS: Where did you go to school? MT: Berkeley high school. We had four-thousand students and it was very diverse. I also went to UC Santa Cruz where I studied Community Studies and Activism – it was a mix of working within the community and studying social change, and I got my MFA from CUNY in documentary films.

SKS: What was it like growing up half Persian? MT: Well, I have a very interesting background. My mother passed when I was eight - my dad and mom split and he was in Iran a lot - but when she died, my father moved in. And, even though I had already experienced Persian culture, it came in quite heavy with him. He was very open with us, my brother and I, and had been in the states for so long but we had a very different reality inside our home vs. outside. It was interesting to try and acclimate. I learned how to cook when I was young , and took in Persian culture mostly through food, events, and parties.

SKS: How hard was it to start your own film production company, Trufilms? MT: It’s still hard today having a film production company but I just, have gone for it, each step. The way I work is: I’ll have an idea, then I’ll start something, and you know, it has generally fallen in place, but I’m continuously building it up. It’s a lot of work because you have to balance the business side and work on production at the same time. There are inherent challenges in that.

SKS: If you had to describe the message in your movie in a few sentences, how would you word it? MT: The film, for me, is really about the personal identity struggles people experience, and how we bring that with us once we’re in relationships with one another. Being Iranian-American is like being of any mixed-background. You have access to two cultures. Being Iranian-American has specific challenges. There’s no place where you belong at the end of the day and the history is so weighted on the personal, it’s constantly in your face. ARUSI is a love story about intercultural marriage. It’s about Alex as an Iranian-American who has always felt the weight of the larger history of these two countries. I had many different people tell me that they identified with his character’s struggles.

SKS: Can you share any highlights or experiences from making this film? MT: Well, I actually ended up interviewing three of the candidates that were running in the election that year: Larijani, Rafsanjani, and Rezaii in Iran during the filming of Alex and Heather’s story. Though when I went back to Iran - I wanted to do some follow-up shooting - a guy named Ahmadinejad got elected. I got some great footage, but ultimately I wanted to make the film. All the history was starting to take over. Nevertheless, I got this incredible material about their policy and what they planned to do. What was fascinating was that they all said pretty similar things. I talked to them about missed opportunities with the U.S. and major pivotal moments, starting with Mossadegh and the Shah, and they began to talk about how we’re talking about the same thing over and over. It’s programmed dialogue. I will say that one of the craziest experiences of my life was that I was the first woman to film on the soccer field at Azadi Stadium. That was pretty interesting. I was naïve and nonchalant about my access. It was pretty intense.

SKS: Can you read and write in Farsi? MT: No. I’m sad about it. I took Farsi classes and learned quite a bit – everybody thought I was so cute, because people really want to help. Iranians really want to help you when you want to learn Farsi.

[caption id="attachment_1950" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Alex Tehrani and Mr. Tehrani at Alex & Heather's Wedding Celebration - Caspian"][/caption]

SKS: How were you able to get permission to tape in Iran? MT: I worked with an incredible production coordinator named Tahoora Abolghassemi. She had worked with so many filmmakers in Iran like Dariush Mehrjui, and I was lucky enough to get her info and she helped with the permit, and any situation that came up; guards stopping us, anything. She was just incredible.

SKS: How did making this film change your perception of Iran? If at all. MT: I would say by no means have I bought into the propaganda, and it’s been very frustrating growing up here, but, just going there and really getting to be with the people – the youth… there are so many similarities that it helped me shift my view. There are so many wonderful aspects that you have no exposure to here. Going to Esfahan takes your breath away, you can’t even explain it to anyone.

SKS: What do you hope your audience walks away with, after seeing your film? MT: I really hope that, they walk away with a clear understanding of past events between Iran and the US and, with that clarity, realizing that there’s not necessarily one side to blame. You can’t blame one side. There have been events that have happened on both sides that are complicated. This has been the reason for stunted dialogue for so long. Let’s move forward and create a new relationship for these two countries. I want for people to really experience Iran... for them to meet the people Alex met and, for them to see a different perspective of Iran.

SKS: Who should see your movie? MT: Anyone. Of course I’d love for Iranian-Americans to see it because they can identify with it - but I would really like Americans to see this film. Especially because now all you hear are news stories that have nothing to do with the Iran I experienced.

SKS: What do you hope to accomplish in your career? MT: I hope to continue to make more films and tell more stories that really touch people and shift people’s thinking about certain things.

SKS: What’s your favorite Persian dish? MT: That’s a hard one. Tahcheen. A good tahcheen. Oh, and ghormeh-sabzi and fesenjoon – I love them all but am deprived.

SKS: Any other projects on your desk, currently? MT: We have a film that I produced and my husband directed, “P-Star Rising” and we’re excited about it. It’s about a family, a girl, raised by a single father who decides to be a rap star. The film covers a four-year journey about the ups and downs of life and intimate family dynamics: growth and transformation. We also have a hand-full of projects on the table about Iran and the coup d’état. We are working with a fictional script.

SKS: How can we stay current on your work? MT: Visit: Trufilms.com or visit our ARSUI: PERSIAN WEDDING fan page on Facebook.

90210: Navid on the Prowl

Jujunaz — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 15:10:33 +0000

While Adrianna reveals her pregnancy to all of West Beverly... Navid moves on. "You'd be really beautiful, if you didn't have that bad hairdo," Navid told some girl at the Peach Pit. And as if that wasn't enough, in another scene he starts to ramble like a struggling-geek to Nika Raygani - presumably his new love-interest - played by Noureen Dewulf (who is of Indian origin) but, to his surprise, she's a geek too. We just hope her character doesn't turn out to be Persian. Why? Because we would prefer a real Iranian to play the part, and well, a real Iranian girl would have a better nose job. [polldaddy poll=1340618]

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Jujunaz — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 14:31:18 +0000

Grammy Awards: Kid Rock Flashes Iranian Flag

Jujunaz — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 14:33:49 +0000

Kid Rock's performance at the 2009 Grammy Awards was good (as far as we could tell) and rock-like, his stage set-up... not so much. Resembling Madonna's "Confessions Tour" a bit - stage aesthetics wise - the current version of the Iranian flag was shown, amongst a few others, during a photo-montage on giant screens behind Kid Rock as he jammed to his song 'Amen'. We're just happy that the usual negative and deceiving images weren't used. [polldaddy poll=1354503]

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Jujunaz — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 15:02:07 +0000

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Jujunaz — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 13:52:35 +0000

Iranian Metal Band: TarantisT - Interview with Arash Tarantist

Jujunaz — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 14:23:33 +0000

[caption id="attachment_2079" align="alignnone" width="486" caption="Arash Rahbary -- Photo: pArshAyA"][/caption]

By Sanaz Khalaj-Santos

WASHINGTON, DC - As a metal rock band whose founder, lead-singer, and bassist: Arash TarantisT admits to not having a “stable genre,” because they play “whatever feels good” to them, TarantisT is not your average post-revolutionary Iranian rock band.

Playing at the famed Whiskey-a-Go Go after only being in the US for a month-and-a-half while managing to become the muse for LA-based and Iranian-owned print-design house: Modern Prophecy - inspiring a set of custom-made t-shirts - Iranian punk-rock band TarantisT is taking a big bite out of the metal-rock scene.

With their album, Tarantism, now available for purchase on iTunes, we were delighted to catch Arash during a respite from writing his music, for a charming and enlightening chat.

Enjoy!

Sanaz Khalaj-Santos: Where were you born? Arash Rahbary: Shiraz SKS: Where did you grow up? AR: Shiraz, Tehran. SKS: When did you leave Iran? AR: March 2008. Our paperwork however, didn’t come together as soon as we had hoped and unfortunately, because of the delay, we had to pull out of 20 concerts that we were scheduled to partake in. The concerts are still listed on our site, that’s how sad we are about this. SKS: How did TarantisT form? AR: My brother, Arsalan, and I formed it some 8 or 9 years ago with great support from our parents. Our mom was our manager. SKS: Is the whole band related? AR: No. My brother and I are. The other guys are friends. SKS: What are their names? And what instruments do they play? AR: Arsalan, my brother, plays the guitar. Bahman plays guitar and does back-up vocals. Reza plays the drums. SKS: What's behind the name TarantisT? AR: The word means someone who has been bitten by a tarantula and gets a form of “dance-madness” as a reaction to the poison of the tarantula. Head-banging, to us, seemed like this human reaction to want to take this poison out of one’s body through dance – and so we related our head-banging to this dance. SKS: Who were your first metal influences? AR: Slayer, Metallica, Black Sabbath, and Ozzy… were probably my first influences. But my mom always listened to very different music. She listened to Pink Floyd, Rolling Stones, Hendrix, etc., and as I was in her belly, I would listen – or head-bang - to it. So you could say that my ear got used to good music early on. And when you’re into music, you always search out. SKS: Did you ever play in Iran? If so, is there a large metal following in Iran? AR: Yes and Yes. We had some underground and on-the-ground shows, even some gigs in festivals! There is a huge rock and metal scene in Iran. We actually started playing and practicing in a basement – two floors underground – in Iran so as to ensure going unnoticed by the moral police. Metal music has many fans in Iran. In the bigger cities it was more prevalent before but now, kids know what’s up. There’s a large group of followers in Shiraz, Mashhad, and Esfahan as well. SKS: Who did you listen to as a teenager in Iran? AR: Well, in childhood I was deafened by the sound of war planes and their bombing, later, I heard the rhythm of the city, birds singing, neighbors suffering, and the others laughing... SKS: Who is your favorite metal musician? AR: Me.

SKS: Who are your top 3 favorite Metal bands? AR: Old Metallica, Slayer, Testament.

SKS: What's your favorite TarantisT song? AR: When you picked your favorite child, then I will answer. SKS: Are you classically trained in music? AR: Yes, since I was 6 years old.

SKS: Do you write, perform, and produce all of your music? AR: Yes, we all do. Essentially, I write the music and the lyrics, and the rest of the guys and I go over it, then it will grow from there, and sometimes they make changes – but there are generally no complaints. SKS: How many instruments to do you play? AR: Santour, Guitar, and I play Bass in TarantisT. SKS: What's your favorite instrument? AR: Definitley Bass guitar. SKS: Has your metal sound been influenced by Iranian music in any way? AR: Yes, via ghere kamar. SKS: Who has inspired you the most in life? AR: My Mother. SKS: Is your music sold in Iran? AR: No. SKS: What time of day do you find yourself to be the most creative? AR: Hard question... it comes to your mind at different times and situations but, early mornings and late nights for writing, and after 11am for music. SKS: What's your favorite Persian dish? AR: My Mother's cooking. SKS: Gojeh Sabz or Zoghaalakhteh? AR: Vaay... Gojeh Sabz. SKS: How can one stay current on your work and upcoming shows? AR: The pretty girls can stay current by calling me on my cell! The others, can visit us on: Myspace and Facebook.

irangreencar1

Jujunaz — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 15:26:08 +0000

Iranian Green Energy: Iran Unveils World’s Most Powerful Green Car

Jujunaz — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 15:35:51 +0000

[caption id="attachment_2140" align="aligncenter" width="450" caption="Original Photo: AP"][/caption]

As the biggest automaker in the Middle East (yes you read that correctly), Iran Khodro unveiled the release of the world's most powerful natural gas-using car.

The engine of the car is said to be "installed on Iran Khodro’s newest product Samand Soren ELX."

tom2

Jujunaz — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 13:59:23 +0000

tom21

Jujunaz — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 13:59:46 +0000

tom3

Jujunaz — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 14:00:41 +0000

Images from Iran: Interview with American Artist Tom Loughlin

Jujunaz — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 14:01:34 +0000

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="600" caption="Pictures of You - By Tom Loughlin"][/caption]

By Sanaz Khalaj Santos

WASHINGTON, DC - As a hardcore Iranian (whatever that means) and connoisseur of all art forms, we tend to think that some Americans don't necessarily love "eye-ran" because, well, we live in the US and read the "news" here too -- and have been aware of all the negative point-of-views and dehumanizing media descriptions of our people and country -- but as we knowingly spew the wrong in an attempt to defend Iran, we're quickly righted by yet another amazing artist that manages to bridge the pseudo-facts that decorate the newspapers (and our dinner-party conversations) with the beauty of human life... as it is in Iran, and has brought us back to: love.

Meet Tom Loughlin, a philanthro-artist whose eh-sauce (emotion)-inducing multimedia installation: Pictures of You - Images from Iran features "portraits and photographs showing Iranians in everyday life," and opens the conversation door to differing thoughts and beliefs (or misbeliefs) pestering between Iranians and Americans for the past thirthy years. Artistic expression has long been a way to depict political undercurrents, and Tom has managed to bring light to a dark situation, and culturally enlighten others (say in the Midwest) by using his photographs and recreating his insight on sheer sheets of fabric; helping others experience Iran in a unique way. His work can only be described as relevant-yet-modern and penetratingly influential.

Enjoy our interview with an American whose tasty travels through Iran touched him enough to inspire him to express his appreciation for Iran and Iranians, on an enchantingly visionary platform.

SKS: What was the inspiration for this project? TL: The roots of this project go back a long way, but the immediate inspiration was the kindness and hospitality I encountered traveling through Iran in 2006, and my wish that every American could have a chance to travel to Iran to see it for themselves.

What audience is this project intended for? We hope to show the installation to people from all walks of life in the United States. The show just doesn’t work if it’s cloistered in art galleries or museums. It needs to be out on the American landscape and open to the public, and we need to document how Americans respond to it. The documentation is critically important, because ultimately we want to invite people in Iran and around the world to look at how this show was received in by Americans, and to think about what that means about the United States.

Were you able to obtain a visa for travel to Iran easily? There’s a formal process that must be followed, but so far I’ve applied for three visas and received them all.

What was your impression of Iran, the country? I could write a book in response to this question! One thing that really struck me is the way each region’s architecture and culture resonated with the landscape, such as the ingenious use of water, wind, and shade in Yazd. It’s fascinating to travel around a country where you can witness the results of 3000 years of human creativity.

What was your impression of the people of Iran? I guess this would be volume two of my book. My overall impression was that Iranians and Americans have an enormous amount in common. I was also struck by how relevant poetry is in Iran. I happen to believe that Rumi, Hafez and Saadi have a lot to say which is deeply relevant to modern life in the United States as well.

What places/cities did you get to travel to while you were in Iran? Not nearly as many as I would have liked, but I was able to visit Tehran, Yazd, Shiraz, Isfahan, Kerman, Natanz, and Shomal.

What has your general audience response been? Overwhelmingly positive. Everyone has strong opinions, and a few of them are quite negative. About five percent of our visitors want to explain in great detail why they think I’m horribly misguided. Just about everyone else seems to leave with a strong sense of the humanity of Iranians and the beauty of Persian culture. They may have different ideas about what the right foreign policy should be, but they agree that it should be rooted in compassion.

How many places has your installation been showcased? So far we haveshownit in two locations: Denver, Colorado (during the Democratic National Convention) and Crested Butte, Colorado, the small town in the Rocky Mountains where I live. We’re hoping to go to Los Angeles next, and a whole host of venues after that, but it is all contingent on fundraising.

Would you like to return to Iran someday? Why? I would love to return to Iran for so many reasons. There are so many other parts of the country I would like to explore, and so many people I would like to spend time with.

Did you make any friends while you were in Iran? Dozens! There was one group I got to be particularly close with in Tehran, and I miss them greatly. On one of my last nights in Tehran in 2008, I told my friend Mohammed about how much I appreciated the warmth with which he had welcomed me, and how much I admired the depth of his love for his friends. He observed that friendships in Iran may be stronger than friendships anywhere else in the world, and I think he’s right.

What would you say to Americans that support a military-strike against Iran? I would echo what my friend Mansour said to me: Behesht-e Zahra is full of peace-loving young men who may not have agreed with everything their government did, but who fought to the death to protect their beloved homeland. I might also throw in a little Saadi: Your body is strong and you have powerful forces But do not take them into the opponent’s territory Because he will take refuge in a high fortress And a guiltless country will suffer the consequences.

What do you hope to get across to people with your pictures? I want them to understand that Iran is a nation made up of human beings who laugh, cry, try to be the best people they can be, and love life. Dehumanizing the people of another country not only leads to misguided foreign policy decisions, but is also contrary to the tenets of every religion I am aware of. Conversely, I take it as an article of faith that if the American people know in their hearts that Iranians are human beings, our democratic process will infuse that compassion and wisdom into the actions of our government.

From your personal point of view, do you believe that the media-created image of Iran and Iranians is correct? How could it be? I was in Iran shortly after the movie 300 was released. I found myself being asked repeatedly why Persians were so demonized in the film. The more I tried to describe American audiences’ hunger for narratives with a good guy defeating a bad guy, the more deeply I understood Iranian’s concerns.

How long did it take you to get your whole installation together? The photography and audio recording required three trips to Iran. The creation of the physical structure took about eight months from conception to completion, and depended on the help of a large group that included architects, engineers, custom metal fabricators, the world’s finest commercial print shop, and a whole bunch of people with sewing machines.

How were you able to fund such a costly piece of multi-dimensional art? My wife and I have poured a considerable amount of our life savings into the project. We believed that it needed to happen, and we understood that it would be easier to fundraise once people saw what we had built. Can you imagine the looks I got when I tried to describe this idea to people?

What was your favorite thing about Iran, the country? The people who live there.

What’s a favorite story you can share about your time in Iran? On my first night in Shiraz during my first trip to Iran, I persuaded some of my American fellow travelers to wander out of our hotel in search of a billiard hall we had heard about. This was definitely NOT on the government-approved itinerary, and we weren’t quite sure what we were getting ourselves into. We ended up spending the evening playing pool with a group of young Iranian men. There were no tense standoffs, no cultural misunderstandings, no secret police bursting through the door—just young men playing together and enjoying a few laughs. I’ve forged much deeper connections since then, and the idea that Iranians and Americans can be friends is familiar to me now, but at the time it felt as though we were standing on the moon playing foosball with E.T.

Did you learn any Farsi on your trip? Bale, amma Farsi khub balad nistam.

Favorite Persian food? If any. Anything home-cooked and/or involving pomegranate. If I had to pick one thing, I would say khoresh fesenjun. Definitely not doogh.

What do you hope happens to future of US-Iran Relations? In the immortal words of Hafez: Why just ask the donkey in me To speak to the donkey in you, When I have so many other beautiful animals And brilliant colored birds inside That are all longing to say something wonderful And exciting to your heart? Let’s turn loose our golden falcons So that they can meet in the sky Where our spirits belong.

***Click here for more information on artist Tom Loughlin.

iranian-women-art

Jujunaz — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 14:49:33 +0000

Porochista Khakpour: Islamic Revolution Barbie

Jujunaz — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 12:42:03 +0000

[caption id="attachment_2257" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Original Image: Ruth Gwily"][/caption] By Porochista Khakpour

New York - In the days leading up to Barbie’s cougariffic 50th birthday — today — most everyone has had a story to tell. Mine begins in 1958 in one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, Hamedan, Iran, and it begins with my mother, then just a small girl, and Barbie’s international predecessor and antithesis: the porcelain baby doll.

My mother used to break her porcelain baby dolls — a luxury among her friends, who grew up with mother- and sister-manufactured rag dolls — constantly. One day my grandmother, the teacup-sized trophy wife of the president of the National Iranian Oil Company of Hamedan, took my mother to the local toy stores in search of the routine replacement. To their horror, there were no dolls to be found.

The burden was then placed on a clueless male cousin en route from Europe to bring my mother a new doll. When it arrived, the new doll was everything the other doll was not — here was a foot-long, fussy thing, half the mass and a quarter of the weight of the old clunky ceramic suckling. Some parts were molded (earrings, lashes, breasts); others simply painted on (made-up face, polished fingernails, side-scoping eyes), and the doll donned grown-lady garb. It was the German Bild Lilli doll — the prototype that Ruth Handler used to create the American Barbie in 1959 — the postwar, sugar-daddy-mongering vixen of German comic strips.

My mother’s reaction: puzzled. How do you play with this? It’s a woman, not a baby! In the end, my grandmother had to take Lilli and my mother to the store, where my mother gave her up for yet another infinitely breakable, but round and cradle-able, infant, the type my mother could more comfortably mother.

•

Twenty years later, at a time when Cher was her icon, my mother finally got Barbie. In my infancy in Tehran, I was awarded my first Barbie, a beaming blonde Malibu or SuperStar decked out in a disco metallic bikini. My mother was in love and as soon I was old enough to register playthings, so was I. From then, it was perpetual Barbie season.

Until we had to flee Iran, that is. When my family left Tehran almost overnight at the advent of the Iran-Iraq war in 1980, we left behind an entire room full of expensive toys; the casualties included my beloved Barbie posse.

The transition to another life was made easier, I think, by the realization that it was a small world, especially when it came to Barbie. On one of our first refugee days in Paris, I shrieked my family to a dead halt in front of Galeries Lafayette. There in the department store’s window display was Pink ’n’ Pretty Barbie. My mother, trying to save every penny for an uncertain future, turned to my grandmother for doll help once again. And as she had so many years ago in Hamedan, she caved. I was elated; Barbie was everywhere, eternal and universal no matter where you were ...

Once we settled in Los Angeles, I was allowed, over the years, to build up the battalion with Great Shape, Dream Date and Rocker Barbies, plus some Vettes and the Dream House. But toward the end of elementary school, Barbie started to make me feel uneasy. I started to look in the mirror. I began Sharpie-ing the hair on my Barbies black (like mine) and calling them Persian names: Bahareh, Banafsheh, Skippareh. I even attempted to “tan” Peaches ’n’ Cream Barbie’s skin for hours one day, praying for her lotion-slathered skin to turn brown like mine, which it never did. I started to realize the one thing worse than being a foreigner was being a foreigner girl.

•

Just as Barbie was coming to mean less and less to me, she was coming to mean more and more to the folks back in Iran. In the still shiny and new Islamic Republic, Barbie was spotlighted as a national threat of Jane Fonda magnitude. Wary of Western influences and her nation-corrupting pulchritude, the government battled the presence of Barbie in bazaars — the Institute for the Intellectual Development of Children and Young Adults developed sibling dolls named Sara and Dara, Muslim versions of Barbie and Ken, with headscarves and prayer books in lieu of convertibles and boomboxes. The government also raided stores that carried Barbies — but this mostly resulted in black stickers on the packaging to hide the dolls’ calamitous contours.

The battle continues to this day. Last April, Iran’s prosecutor general, Ghorban-Ali Dorri Najafabadi, warned Iranians about the culturally “destructive" consequences of importing Barbies and again promoted Sara and Dara as ace alternatives. And yet, at three times the price, and mostly a black market moll, Barbie manages to reign supreme in the Islamic Republic.

In fact, Iran may be the only place where Barbie has got that somethin’-somethin’ to capture young hearts — and apparently enflame adult minds. Now, 100 careers, 50 nationalities, 40 pets, a billion pairs of shoes, 50,000 makeovers later, Barbie came, conquered and the only place she can go is somewhere else — at least judging from her United States sales, which have been falling for years.

•

Why did my Barbies end up dismembered, naked, pierced and slashed in the toy-dregs mausoleum of dusty closet crates? Apparently girls do this, according to research from the University of Bath, as a “rite of passage.” For me though, I had additional ire — by my pre-teenage years, I felt sure Barbie was in cahoots with my mother: impossibly beautiful plus an extra dose of bossy, someone who would chase me around the house with lipstick before an “event.”

For one brief phase, though, she got me. In New York, without family, without an Iranian in sight, I took to filling myself in and out, like a coloring book. My makeup palette turned all multichromatic madness and for exercise I simply raved away at nightclubs: Patricia Field stilettos, iridescent body shimmer, sparkly hot pants and sky-high afro — all hot pink, pleather and prattle.

My mother, that summer: What have you become?

During that era, my daylight hours were all crummy cubicle life in an office where I was the sole “ethnic person.” One day, I found myself at lunch with the usual group of middle-aged, disgruntled co-workers, all women. One hairy-eyeballed my big container of dressing-less salad and Diet Orange Sunkist — either that or my gold glitter French manicure — and muttered under her breath “Persian Barbie.”

She left before I could jump out of my seat and give her the hug of my life.

Porochista Khakpour is the author of the novel “Sons and Other Flammable Objects.”

Source: The New York Times

Comedy Relief - Persian Style: Interview with Maz Jobrani

Jujunaz — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 14:00:07 +0000

By Sanaz Khalaj Santos

WASHINGTON, DC -- The first time we had the pleasure of meeting the Parviz Sayyad of our generation (after-all, he did drop-out of a PhD. program in Political Science from Berkeley), our absolute favorite and wildly-brilliant actor/comedian: Maz Jobrani, it was in 2003 after he had finished his press tour for the movie 'Maryam' (directed by Ramin Serry and co-starring David Ackert) and was making his first appearance at the DC Improv. (However, it must be mentioned that our all-time-favorite-Maz-role-to-date has been: Moly in the movie; 'Friday After Next' - his use of the word "buddy" in that film, definitely set off an early trend that's still around.) His flying success and rightful popularity, as an Iranian comedian, is unprecedented. And the most parallel sensation that remains is that this is all, still, just the beginning of a long journey for him.

Maz Jobrani's comedic genius has placed him firmly in the hearts, minds, and talking-tongues of Middle Easterners of all origin, as well as the mainstream "American" crowd. Proving the stretch of his audience and perhaps the result of his many tours, including one in the Mid-East, even a Lebanese friend of ours (who lives in Lebanon most of the year, and saw Maz's show in Beirut) knows all his lines and imitates him while in hysterics.

Maz's subtle-but-smart style and flash-wit characterizes Iranians as soft and humours again, as he's single-handedly summed the Persian manor down to one proclamation: "meow" [Insert come hither motion using paw-like hand gestures] and add: "I am Perrr-zhi-ann," for the full effect. Repeat.

Maz Jobrani has been really busy the past, um... well, for as long as we've known him, but he's now juggling being a baba too, in addition to all the movie roles, Tv shows, and tours. His new recurring-role on ABC's comedy series: Better Off Ted, starring Ellen Degeneres's gorgeous wifey; Portia De Rossi - starts airing on Wednesday, March 18th, 2009 on ABC. Check your local listings and be sure to tune in!

Enjoy our exclusive interview with your number-one Iranian comedian, Maz Jobrani as he deliciously lets us in on how life is going for him!

SKS: What's new in maz's world these days? MJ: ON TOUR WITH MY SOLO TOUR - "MAZ JOBRANI; BROWN AND FRIENDLY." ACTUALLY, IT'S NOT SOLO AS I'VE GOT A GREAT YOUNG COMEDIAN, K-VON OPENING FOR ME. BUT I GET TO DO AN HOUR TO AN HOUR AND A HALF EVERY NIGHT AND IT'S BEEN GREAT FUN. WE'RE HAVING A WONDERFUL TIME!

How is life as a dad? BEST THING IN THE WORLD. WHEN YOU GET THOSE LIPS AROUND HIS CHEEKS AND GIVE HIM A BIG KISS THERE'S NO BETTER PLACE IN THE WORLD.

Would you be OK with it, if your son wanted to follow in your footsteps and become a comedian? I WILL SUPPORT HIM IN WHATEVER HE CHOOSES TO DO. I'M THINKING IRANIAN/INDIAN - HE'S GOTTA COME UP WITH SOME SORT OF WEBSITE OR SOMETHING, NO? DADDY'S GOTTA RETIRE!

How has touring in the Middle East been for you? THE MIDDLE EAST HAS BEEN WONDERFUL. IT'S AMAZING HOW SMALL THE WORLD IS THESE DAYS WITH THE INTERNET. WE WOULD TELL JOKES IN EGYPT ABOUT SOMETHING THAT HAPPENED IN THE US A DAY OR TWO BEFORE AND THEY WERE TOTALLY ON TOP OF IT. PLACES LIKE JORDAN HAD ALL OUR DVDS AND OTHER HUGE FILMS OUT ON BOOTLEG. A LOT OF GREAT PEOPLE ALL OVER THE MIDDLE EAST.

Did you get culture shock? NOT REALLY. MANY OF THE COUNTRIES HAVE THAT SMELL OF GASOLINE THAT YOU SMELL WHEN YOU TRAVEL TO IRAN OR MEXICO. JUST DIFFERENT THINGS TO GET USED TO - LIKE NO 7/11 OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY FOR YOU TO GRAB A SNACK IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT.

Where did you go? SINCE MY FIRST TRIP TO THE REGION IN LATE 2007 I'VE DONE SHOWS IN DUBAI, ABU DHABI, BEIRUT, CAIRO, KUWAIT, AMMAN, DOHA, AND BAHRAIN. ALL BEEN WONDERFUL.

What Mid-East country would you say was most hospitable? THEY ALL WERE. IT'S PART OF OUR CULTURE. TRY PAYING THE BILL IN ONE OF THESE COUNTRIES. ONE TIME IN DUBAI I RAN INTO A GUY I'D MET ONCE AT A CAFE. I SAID HELLO AND WENT ON TO EAT MY BREAKFAST WITH MY FRIEND. WHEN THE GUY WAS LEAVING HE STOPPED BY AND SAID GOODBYE. I THOUGHT THAT WAS IT. WHEN MY FRIEND AND I WERE DONE EATING LATER AND ASKED FOR THE BILL THEY SAID THE GUY WHOM I'D MET ONCE HAD ALREADY TAKEN CARE OF OUR BILL. I MEAN COME ON!

Did you guys perform your bits in English while touring the middle east? ALL IN ENGLISH. I DON'T SPEAK ANY ARABIC SO THERE WOULDN'T HAVE BEEN ANY OTHER WAY. IN SOME PLACES THEY SPOKE BETTER ENGLISH THAN YOUR AVERAGE AMERICAN TEENAGER.

Any crazy moments on your mid-east tour you can share? ALL CRAZY AND FUN. WE WENT ON A SAFARI OUTSIDE OF DUBAI (WHICH IS FUNNY BECAUSE THEY PICK YOU UP IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT IN AN SUV. IT'S SUPPOSED TO BE AN AUTHENTIC EMERATI EXPERIENCE, BUT THE DRIVER WAS TURKISH, THE FOOD INCLUDED PASTA WHICH IS ITALIAN AND THE BELLY DANCER IN THE MIDDLE OF THE DESERT WAS RUSSIAN.) GOOD TIMES!

What is 'Comics Without Borders'? THIS IS AN ORGANIZATION STARTED BY A LADY NAMED GHAZALEH TAJBAKSH. SHE'S A WONDERFUL LADY WHO'S BEEN ORGANIZING COMEDY SHOWS FOR CHARITIES OVER THE PAST YEAR IN LA. SHE CAME UP WITH THE NAME AND ROTATES COMICS WHO PERFORM FOR HER.

How has Jimmy Vestvood been doing? Is he staying out of trouble? JIMMY'S DOING WELL. THE ECONOMY HAS HIM DOWN A BIT. HE HAD 1 SHARE OF APPLE AND NOW IT'S ONLY HALF AN APPLE. BUT HE'S HOLDING ON TO THE SEEDS FROM THE OTHER HALF AND PLANTING THEM. HOPEFULLY ONE DAY HE'LL HAVE AT LEAST 3 APPLES.

How long will 'Brown and Friendly' tour for? WE HAVE DONE ABOUT 10 CITIES SO FAR AND HAVE ANOTHER 4 OR 5 SCHEDULED. WE WILL ADD A FEW MORE. I'VE SHOT THE SPECIAL ALREADY AND WE HOPE TO SELL IT TO COMEDY CENTRAL OR ONE OF THE NETWORKS.

How has the broader audience reacted to your show? IT'S ALWAYS GREAT TO HAVE A MIXED CROWD. RIGHT NOW I'D SAY IT'S ABOUT 70% PERSIAN AND 30% OTHER. THE OTHERS SEEM TO BE HAVING A GREAT TIME. I THINK TO END UP AT MY SHOW YOU HAVE TO BE OPEN TO OTHER CULTURES, BUT YOU ALSO SEE THAT MY CULTURE IS PARTLY THE AMERICAN CULTURE.

With Obama in office now, and the aroma of reconciliation in the air, do you think you may be able to perform in the motherland someday? I THINK I'M FAR FROM IT, BUT HOPE THAT DAY COMES.

What are your plans for this Persian New Year? SABZI POLO MAHI!

As your popularity has grown over the years, have you had issues adjusting with the issues that come along with that? I'M HANDLING IT FINE. THE ONLY THING I'VE GOT TO LEARN TO DO A BIT IS TO DELEGATE SOME OF THE WORKLOAD. THAT'S THE MAIN THING - REALIZING YOU HAVE MORE THINGS TO DO SO YOU CAN'T REALLY ANSWER EVERY MYSPACE MESSAGE LIKE YOU USED TO.

How hard is it to keep your material fresh after touring for so long? I'M ALWAYS TRYING TO WRITE NEW MATERIAL AND EXPAND UPON OLD MATERIAL. WHEN I'M IN LA I GO TO THE COMEDY STORE AND TRY OUT A NEW JOKE OR TWO EVERY WEEK. BEING ON TOUR AND DOING AN HOUR TO AN HOUR AND A HALF HAS KEPT MY SET PRETTY SET (FOR LACK OF A BETTER WORD). BUT EVERY ONCE IN A WHILE YOU COME UP WITH SOMETHING NEW ON THE TOUR TOO.

Any new movies coming out? DID AN INDEPENDENT FILM CALLED "OVERNIGHT" LAST YEAR. NOT SURE WHAT ROUTE IT WILL TAKE (THEATERS, FESTIVALS, DVDS, ETC.) ALSO DID A STUDENT FILM CALLED "IN THE DARK" THAT'S DOING FESTIVALS RIGHT NOW.

Any other cool projects you're involved in? I HAVE A RECURRING PART ON A TV SHOW ON ABC CALLED "BETTER OFF TED" THAT COMES OUT IN MID-MARCH.

***For more info on Maz Jobrani and his Tour Dates, please visit: mazjobrani.com

maz11

Jujunaz — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 14:21:15 +0000

Modern Furniture Design: Pouyan Mokhtarani's Ruby Rocking Chair

Jujunaz — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 15:39:50 +0000

Looks pretty anotomically-intense doesn't it?

The Ruby Rocking Chair, designed by Iranian designer Pouyan Mokhtarani is a highly-modern and futuristic version of the classic; rocking chair.

The uber-bahaal looking sandali-taabi, is said to allow its users to "experience the sense of power".

The "experience" is further mentioned as being "synonymous to that of a super metaphysic human who can control every surrounding matter."

We'd buy it. Maybe in a less flesh-like color, but we'd definitely rock it.

[polldaddy poll=1451881]

Bravo's Millionaire Matchmaker: Interview with David Golshan

Jujunaz — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 14:16:37 +0000

Do you watch Bravo's Millionaire Matchmaker?

Neither do we.

But, we did catch the episode featuring the Persian moneybags known as: David Golshan, who was discovered at an L.A. lounge by a Millionaire Matchmaker casting director.

His onscreen antics suaded even comedienne Chelsea Handler to send a warning to him, "you give your people a bad name." When we asked David what he had to say in rebutall to the Chelsea Lately host, he had this to say: "Chelsea Handler, she has a book called 'My Horizontal Life: A Collection of One-Night Stands'. What? The title 'I'm a F%$#ing Whore' was taken?"

"But really it's an honor to be talked about by somebody that's been fingered more than Eddie Van Halen's guitar," he goes on. Ending with, "when did sitting around with other unfunny comedians, reciting canned jokes from the [nineties] get you your own show? Then I found out she was dating the owner of E!, plus, the funniest thing to come out of her mouth is Jimmy Kimmel's penis."

Ouch!

What we've learned however, is that Chelsea's silver-fox of a boyfriend, Ted Harbert, is not just the "overseeing big-wig" at E!, he is the President and CEO of Comcast Entertainment Group. (Nice catch Chelsea.)

Given, Millionaire Matchmaker is a reality-television show, and savvy watchers know that editing can help portray a person or situation in certain ways, so maybe David's character was slightly pushed over the taaze-be-doroon(nouveau riche) cliff a tiny bit too? We may never find out.

"My parents wanted me to be a brain surgeon or lawyer and I took alcoholism in college instead and since I enjoyed it so much, I made a career out of it. I took a class in Vodka, and a couple of courses in Martini and Tequila," admits the young millionaire.

And... judging from that statement alone: we think Chelsea and David have a lot more in common than possibly perceived by either side.

Below is Persianesque.com's exclusive interview with David. Enjoy!

***

PE: Where did you grow up? DG: I was born in NY and raised right here in the mean streets of Beverly Hills. Did you know, unfortunately 1 out of every 3 children grows up here with a cappuccino machine. How did you get involved in the show? I was at a lounge on Sunset Blvd. doing what I do best (drinking alcohol), there was an attractive woman with a little bit of that LA attitude in the corner. I wanted to crack her up so I walked right over to her and said “Hey, you have two choices. You can either stop staring at me or I can call security and have you taken out of here.” She laughed. That woman was the casting director for the show. What are your thoughts on the Matchmaker herself? Patti is definitely off her rocker. She can definitely get along with people at an insane asylum. But she is entertaining and carries the show along. I admire that. Do you feel as though you were portrayed correctly? Lets see, I was portrayed as a rich outrageous jerk who made a miraculous transformation in 50-minute plus commercials... hmmmm. Did you really choose those girls or were you forced to choose a couple for the show's sake? I really did choose Katy. She was sweet and funny, JUST like me. How do you feel about Persian girls? Too much to handle? What? I love Persian girls. We probably have the sexiest women of any ethnicity (Brazilian is good too). But back to Persian. As long as you’re not a "born again virgin" or F.O.B, im totally in. Sign me up! What do you do? Im a fashion man. I own a retail fashion company. We sell through catalogs, I'm really into it. Where can our single readers who may be interested in you stay updated on your life adventures? Check out my Facebook page. But don’t send me invitations for Hilla’s 21st Birthday party 10 times a day! Should we expect to see you on any other reality shows coming up? Haha. I'm not a reality show whore! But I will be in a romantic comedy about finding the highest quality woman in the shortest amount of time! It will shoot this summer. Hopefully, you’ll like it!

Norooz: Persian New Year Traditions - Chahar Shanbe Suri

Jujunaz — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 15:41:17 +0000

[caption id="attachment_2383" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Original Photo: Ali Rafiei"][/caption]

Happy Chahar-Shanbe Suri!!!

Will you be out with your family and friends jumping the Aatish (fire) tonight?

You should be!

To get your Chahar-Shanbe Suri knowledge on, check out this informative article on the symbolic Persian New Year ritual of jumping over fire, by Massoume Price from The Circle of Ancient Iranian Studies.

khatami-mehdi-ghasemi

Jujunaz — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 16:13:56 +0000

Happy Persian New Year: Norooz 1388

Jujunaz — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 16:12:24 +0000

Just hours away, the Persian New Year: Norooz is approaching fast! So get ready to start collecting some Eid-ee money and get your Eid-didani on!

Persianesque.com wishes you and yours a wonderful year ahead, full of love, laughter, peace, and prosperity!

Norooz: Message to the Iranian People from President Barack Obama

Jujunaz — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 10:22:04 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HY_utC-hrjI]

Check out a Norooz/Nowruz/Norouz message from the President of the United States of America: Barack Obama!! He quotes Sa'adi, and even sends us an "Eid-eh shoma moBARACK". (Although, Noroozetaan Pirooz would have been more authentic in language... but we're not complaining, just hoping that maybe next year they'll leave the Arabic word; mobarak out.)

Google who?? Doodle what??? That's right Google, we don't care about your insistance on not recognizing our ancient holiday. Not anymore at least. We got Barack!

Warring Factions: A Documentary by Justin Mashouf

Jujunaz — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 19:32:41 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbXke8-CFlI]

Check out this clip featuring Iranian-American break-dancer (beat boy) and filmmaker: Justin Mashouf. His film, 'Warring Factions' is Mashouf's "first feature length documentary."

Shot in Iran and the US, Mashouf's journey throughout the film uses his love for break dancing as a way of bridging an American culture with Iranian youth. Additionally, he becomes a student of the traditional Iranian martial art of "Varzesh Bastani" and seeks to understand the sentiments of the religious conservative generation of Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution.

***If you're in New York, don't miss the upcoming screening at NYU.

When: Wednesday March 25, 2009 at 7:30PM Where: Annual New York University Shuruq Festival 245 Sullivan Street Furman Hall, room 214 (Furman Hall is located at 245 Sullivan Street, between Washington Square South and West Third Street. It is two blocks east of the West Fourth subway station (A,C, E, B, D, F and V lines). Minetta Parking is the nearest parking facility (122 W. 3rd St. between 6th Avenue and MacDougal St., 212-777-3530), however here is a link to additional nearby parking garages: http://www.nyu.edu/about/parking.html ) When: Wednesday March 25, 2009. 7:30pm

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

***The film is having its Los Angeles premiere this coming Saturday, May 2 at 2:00pm during the 2009 Noor Film Festival in Beverly Hills. Where: Fine Arts Theater 8556 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA 90211 When: Saturday May 2nd, 2009 @ 2:00PM Cost: $10 *Followed by Q&A session with filmmaker Justin Mashouf.

afshin

Jujunaz — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 20:14:06 +0000

Fashion Elite: Interview with Iranian Designer Afshin Feiz

Jujunaz — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 20:19:16 +0000

[caption id="attachment_2461" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Afshin Feiz Collection -- Original Photo: Charlene Davies"][/caption]

Iranian fashion designers are a budding breed and a creative force to be reckoned with. Designing visionary, Afshin Feiz leads the pack with his ultra-feminine and crisp designs.

His cuts are flattering and progressive, and his aesthetic is ethereal and richly classic all at the same time. Afshin's tasteful use of flowing fabrics float down the catwalks of all the fashion capitals across the globe, and yet we still can't get enough of his art.

Even the most influential fashion-mavens would agree that "Fashion" is probably one of the toughest industries to break into, and sustain oneself in. Outside of the copy-cats and holier-than-thou attitudes, there's a whole layer of creative chaos in addition to the highly-competitive business crust. Having successfully pushed through these, and other, barriers Afshin Feiz sparkles amongst his peers.

His designs are sophisticated enough that the stylists and wardrobe department of shows like Gossip Girl, should consider taking note and dress Blair and Serena in Afshin Feiz haute couture to give the show's fashion-followers a new reason to shop!

Enjoy Persianesque.com's exclusive chit-chat with the best thing that has happened to Iranians in fashion since Behnaz Sarafpour: Afshin Feiz.

***

Where were you born? Tehran, Iran Where did you grow up? Iran until I was 6, then Switzerland until I was 10, then between England Holland and Spain as my parents were divorced and I was in boarding school so Id split holidays between them. Then I moved to Vancouver Canada when I was 17 and finished high school there before going to university in the States in Portland Oregon. After that I stayed in Vancouver for a few years before moving to Paris. Where do you currently live? I am based in London When did you realize you wanted to get into fashion? I have always been interested in fashion but was not particularly encouraged to pursue it. I finally knew that this was what I wanted to do after leaving university when I was 21. How did you enter the world of fashion? I attended the avant garde fashion school Studio Berçot in Paris and started interning at Thierry Mugler as well as working as a model. Have your parents been supportive of your decision to become a designer and not a "doktor"? Not initially but once I had done university they were very happy for me to pursue it and are very proud of what I have achieved today. Do you design and make all the clothes yourself? I design everything 100% myself but I do not have time to make the clothes. I have a team of pattern makers etc for that. Where do you get your inspiration from? I am very inspired by love, nature and spiritually related themes. My first ever collection for Spring/Summer 2005, named ART AS FLIRTATION AD SURRENDER was inspired by 13th Century Persian Poet Rumi whose references to butterflies and candles were synoymous to lovers and their beloved. The quest for love despite its dangers. My last collection for Spring 2009, SOMETIMES YOU JUST HAVE TO LET GO was inspired by Buddha’s Silent Sermon where he finds beauty and meaning in the simplicity of a flower. What time of day do you feel most creative? It changes all the time. It really depends on my mood. Sometimes I wake up in the middle of the night and start drawing!! How does a design go from an idea in your head onto a model on the catwalk? I often make lots of notes and little sketches in my pad or on a piece of paper depending on where I am from whatever comes into my head. Then I sit down and develop these ideas into real designs. i then give the sketches to my pattern maker with instructions of proportions, lengths, fit, anything that will enable her to work accurately. She makes a muslin out of this and I do a fitting on my house model and make any necessary changes. Sometimes this stage gives me new ideas and I adapt the design. Then the pattern is adjusted and we make the piece in the real fabrics. What's your favorite Iranian dish? Albaloo Polo :) How has your Iranian heritage influenced your work (if at all)? Because of my international background I am influenced by many cultures rather than one specific one and so the needs of different women fom different cultures all find their way somehow into my work. What's your favorite color? Old pink What's your favorite fabric to use? Silk charmeuse What are your favorite silhouette? This changes depending on my mood for each season Do you have a signature cut or style that we should look out for? I use a lot of curved seaming that make the clothing fit the body in a very flattering way rather than playing on cutting the fabric on the bias as some designers like to do. Who are your clothes designed for? Women who are feminine and flirtatious, sexy but not vulgar and most importantly, fashion conscious and literate. If you could have any model in the world in your clothes for a day, who would you choose? Lily Donaldson Who are your favorite designers? Tom Ford, Stella Macartney, Phoebe Philo, Proenza Schouler and Sonia Rykiel How does it feel to be the recipient of the "visionary of the year" award? Very exciting to be recognized. Do you speak, read and/or write Farsi? Yes though my reading leaves much to be desired. Where can one buy your pieces? London, Riyadh, Dubai, New York, Washington DC, California Tokyo, Moscow to name a few. What advice do you have for younger Iranian designers out there working hard to make a name for themselves? It is 95% hard work and 5% glamour so you had better love doing what you do. Do you make your own clothes as well? I wish!! I don't have the time... Will you ever do a men's line? I would love to eventually do a [men's] line but I have plans to develop accessories for women and maybe a second cheaper women's line first. What's next? Winter 2009 Collection and a few projects too early to talk about.

chair-muscleman

Jujunaz — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 23:31:34 +0000

Iranians in Design: Arash and Kelly Introduce "The Muscle Man" Seating System

Jujunaz — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 11:54:17 +0000

Recently, Teimory Industries, Iran’s most renowned furniture producer, joined forces with designers Arash and Kelly to work on a new system of contemporary contract furniture. Their first piece is called: The Muscle Man.

The Muscle Man is a multifunctional, modular seating system.

Easy-to-build components and mechanisms offer flexibility, while seating layouts can be adapted and updated easily to meet the demands of the environments they serve.

This concept sits snugly within the Teimory ethos of providing well-conceived, high quality, and long-lasting solutions.

Teimory Industries was established in 1950. Since its establishment its products have furnished leading universities, municipal libraries, as well as major galleries and Mosques all over Iran.

Prototypes of "The Muscle Man" will be available for viewing in Spring 2010 in Iran and will be on show in the UK in the Fall of 2010.

[polldaddy poll=1488024]

Max Amini: Comics Without Borders

Jujunaz — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 15:49:05 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zo_MCqPuQ6Y] Check out this video featuring clips of Iranian comedian Max Amini at the "Comics Without Borders" comedy show. Don't miss cameos by Axis of Evil Comedy alum: Ahmed Ahmed and ex-MadTv-staple; Bobby Lee. Did you catch Persianesque.com's interview with Max Amini a few months ago? Not to worry. Click here to check it out!

sacha

Jujunaz — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 22:17:14 +0000

Sacha Baron Cohen: Bruno Strikes Again!

Jujunaz — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 22:18:39 +0000

Your half-Iroonie bro: Sacha Baron Cohen is still busy working on his mockumentary named after his gay-tastic character; Bruno. So with the popularity of his previous work, how has he been able to continue to make movies in the same fashion as he made the unhingingly funny film Borat? He's resourceful, that's how. His Persian-Jewish business-skills and thinking-out-of-the-box approach have led him to hire a slew of lawyers - probably his cousins - so as to make sure he legally pursues his intent of outing the fundamentalists and racists of the world (well, America to be exact). Cohen's tactic has been to create fake companies in order to score interviews and beyond. At least he's not running some "insurance scam". We can't wait to see Bruno on the big-screen! [polldaddy poll=1491300]

sharamjey

Jujunaz — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 17:03:44 +0000

zoraster-temple

Jujunaz — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 17:39:40 +0000

Isfahan: Iran's Hidden Jewel - By Andrew Lawler

Jujunaz — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 17:51:54 +0000

[caption id="attachment_2516" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Zoroastrian Fire Temple (near Isfahan) - Original Photo by: Ghaith Abdul-Ahad"][/caption]

Four hundred years ago, Isfahan was larger than London and more cosmopolitan than Paris. The city's most famous bridge, Si-o Seh Pol (Bridge of 33 Arches) is nearly 1,000 feet long and 45 feet wide.

***

The courtyard is coated in a fine brown dust, the surrounding walls are crumbling and the flaking plaster is the same monotonous khaki color as the ground. This decrepit house in a decaying maze of narrow alleys in Isfahan, Iran, betrays little of the old capital's glory days in the 17th century. Suddenly, a paint-splattered worker picking at a nearby wall shouts, waves his steel trowel and points. Underneath a coarse layer of straw and mud, a faded but distinct array of blue, green and yellow abstract patterns emerges—a hint of the dazzling shapes and colors that once made this courtyard dance in the shimmering sun.

I crowd up to the wall with Hamid Mazaheri and Mehrdad Moslemzadeh, the two Iranian artist-entrepreneurs who are restoring this private residence to its former splendor. When these mosaics were still vibrant, Isfahan was larger than London, more cosmopolitan than Paris, and grander, by some accounts, than even storied Istanbul. Elegant bridges crossed its modest river, lavishly outfitted polo players dashed across the world's largest square and hundreds of domes and minarets punctuated the skyline. Europeans, Turks, Indians and Chinese flocked to the glittering Persian court, the center of a vast empire stretching from the Euphrates River in what is today Iraq to the Oxus River in Afghanistan. In the 17th century, the city's wealth and grandeur inspired the rhyming proverb, Isfahan nesf-e jahan, or "Isfahan is half the world."

After a brutal siege shattered that golden age in the early 18th century, new rulers eventually moved the capital to Tehran, leaving Isfahan to languish as a provincial backwater, which not incidentally left many of the old city's monuments intact. "One could explore for months without coming to an end of them," marveled British traveler Robert Byron on his 1933-34 journey across Asia. That artistry, he wrote in The Road to Oxiana, "ranks Isfahan among those rarer places, like Athens or Rome, which are the common refreshment of humanity."

Today, however, the city is mainly known abroad as the site of Iran's premier nuclear research facility. What once was a sleepy town has emerged as the country's third largest metropolis, surrounded by expanding suburbs, belching factories and the choking traffic of more than three million people. Nothing symbolizes Iran's disconcerting modernity more than its launch, in February, of a satellite named Omid (Hope). In Isfahan, however, hope is a commodity in sharp decline. The elegant urban landscape that survived invasions by Afghan tribesmen and Mongol raiders is now threatened by negligence and reckless urban development.

Mazaheri and Moslemzadeh are members of a new generation of Isfahanis who want to restore not just buildings but their city's reputation as a Persian Florence, one they hope will one day enthrall Westerners with its wonders once again. Inside the cool and dark interior of the house that is their current focus, the freshly painted white stucco ceiling bristles with scalloped stalactites. Delicate gilded roses frame wall paintings of idyllic gardens. (Paradise is a Persian word meaning "walled garden.") Above a central fireplace, hundreds of inset mirrors reflect light from the courtyard. "I love this profession," says Safouva Saljoughi, a young, chador-clad art student who is dabbing at a faded painting of flowers in one corner of the room. "I have a special relationship with these places."

The house may have been built in the 17th century by a wealthy merchant or prosperous government official, then remodeled to suit changing tastes over the next two centuries. Even the fireplace damper is shaped in the delicate figure of a peacock. "Ornament and function together," says Mazaheri in halting English. Located just a short walk from the medieval Friday Mosque, the house is of classic Iranian design—a central courtyard surrounded by rooms on two sides, a single entrance on the third and a grand two-story reception room with large windows on the fourth.

Rocket attacks during the war with Saddam Hussein's Iraq in the early 1980s emptied this old neighborhood, and the house was badly vandalized. As Moslemzadeh guides Saljoughi's careful restoration effort, Mazaheri nods toward gaping holes in the reception room, which once held oak-framed stained glass that bathed the interior in a rainbow of vivid colors. "There are still a few masters left in Isfahan who can rebuild such windows," he says. Just repairing the elaborate stucco ceiling took five professionals on scaffolding more than a year.

Trained as a specialist in conservation techniques, the lean and energetic Mazaheri, 38, says he has built a restoration business that tackles anything from old ruins to 17th-century wall paintings. Together with his colleague Moslemzadeh, who is 43 and studied art conservation in St. Petersburg, Russia, they are investing their time and profits to convert this wreck of a home into a teahouse where visitors can appreciate traditional Isfahani crafts, music and art. Like many Isfahanis I meet, they are welcoming to foreigners, refreshingly open and immensely proud of their heritage. Without a trace of irony or discouragement, Mazaheri looks around the half-finished reception room and says, "It may take five more years to finish fixing this place up."

Isfahan's history is an epic cycle of fabulous boom and calamitous bust. Here a road traveling across the Iranian plateau east to the Mesopotamian plain meets a path connecting the Caspian Sea to the north with the Persian Gulf to the south. That geography linked the city's fate to the merchants, pilgrims and armies who passed through. Blessed with a pleasant climate—the city lies at nearly the same altitude as Denver and has relatively mild summers—Isfahan evolved into a bustling township at ancient Persia's crossroads.

Click here to read the rest of this insightful (and delightful) article.

iranian-soccer1

Jujunaz — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 20:02:38 +0000

Movie Trailer: Sacha Baron Cohen's Bruno

Jujunaz — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 21:26:11 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q0dh8N3ATRk] It's finally here! Click here to watch the official trailer for Sacha Baron Cohen's much-anticipated movie: Bruno.

neshat-kami2

Jujunaz — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 22:31:46 +0000

Magical Nights in Dubai: Gala and Contemporary Art Auction - Hosted by Maz Jobrani

Jujunaz — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 22:38:26 +0000

[caption id="attachment_2535" align="aligncenter" width="400" caption="Images by: Shirin Neshat & Y.Z. Kami"][/caption]

Magic of Persia’s fundraiser for 2009, Magical Nights in Dubai, will take place on Saturday 11th of April and Sunday 12th of April 2009. The highlight of the events as always will be the grand Gala and Contemporary Iranian Art Auction on Saturday 11th April 2009 at the Emirates Towers in Dubai, when guests will have the pleasure of receiving an address from His Highness Sheikh Nahayan Bin Mubarak Al Nahayan, who is an ardent supporter of Magic of Persia.

Funds raised during the auction gala will benefit the Magic of Persia education programme, the Future Centre for special needs, and Omid-e-Mehr charitable foundation. There will be an auction preview of the art from Monday 6th to Thursday 9th April at B21 and Total Arts Galleries in Dubai.

Guests can also look forward to a celebrity line-up. Maz Jobrani, Iranian-American comedian, will be this year’s Master of Ceremonies and Gerard Senehi aka The Experimentalist promises to deliver a mind-blowing performance.

Most importantly, Jussi Pylkkänen, President of Christie’s Middle East and Europe, will oversee the auction of magnificent artworks which have been created by generous leading lights from the contemporary Iranian art scene.

On Sunday 12th April 2009 there will be a VIP evening for all the artists, sponsors, buyers, Magic of Persia’s Trustees and guests who have traveled from abroad to attend the Auction Gala.

The cost of tickets for this event is USD $375.

All funds raised shall ensure the continuity of Magic of Persia’s invaluable projects, designed to provide a lasting contribution to the future development of Iranian art and culture.

*** For further information please Contact Magic of Persia: Tel: 02072358026 Fax: 02072596417 Email: info@magicofpersia.com Funds raised during this event will benefit:

Magic of Persia Education Programme Magic of Persia, in partnership with major institutions and museums, is committed to developing youth focused education programmes, gallery visits, workshops and Persian family days. Magic of Persia is launching the first Contemporary Iranian Art Prize, a global prize intended to recognise and reward talented and emerging Iranian artists. The prize will contribute to the advancement of Iranian art and culture worldwide.

Omid E Mehr Charitable Foundation Established in 2004 as a privately-funded charity, Omid E Mehr aims at providing emotional and practical support for severely disadvantaged young Iranian and Afghani women (aged from 15 to 25) in Tehran. These women face emotional and financial deprivation, are desperately vulnerable to anti-social influences, and struggle to remain engaged in society.

The Future Centre for Special Needs, Abu Dhabi The Future Centre for Special Needs in Abu Dhabi is an institution dedicated to providing relevant education programmes and rehabilitation services to more than 170 students with special needs. The Future Centre is committed to equip individuals with disabilities with necessary knowledge and skills. Enabling them to realise their full potential, and lead fulfilling and joyful lives.

Hot Iranian Men: Iranian Soccer Players

Jujunaz — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 17:01:59 +0000

So, we may have gotten an ulcer from the most recent 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifier-game the Iranian national team played against Saudi Arabia , but we also got ourselves a tooth ache!

Persian women aren't the only hotties around. Check out our favorite and your sexy-as-sin Iranian soccer players: (clockwise) Zandi, Teymourian, Nekounam, Kazemian, Madanchi, Rahmati, and Hosseini.

We're kind of glad that the newly-toppol (chubby) Ali Daei was given the pink slip and fired right after the loss against an old regional rival, especially since he's putting all the blame on the players, and not taking any responsibility as a "coach". (Well, former-coach!)

“It is not your place to tell me to stay or leave,” he told reporters. “I was appointed by another entity and I am here to stay for now. It was not Ali Daei who lost the match but the national team. We (the coaching staff) had given our plan to the players but when the players don’t execute there is not much I could do. After we scored, we didn’t want to back off from attacking but the team leaders failed. I can’t go in the middle of the field and play…I can only direct.”

Instead of selling out his players, he could have emphasized - as Fox Soccer Channel anouncer Behrooz Afrakhan did -the fact that our capable and handsome players never practiced together nor played a "friendly" in hopes of learning one another's soccer style. Not to mention the fact that quite a few of the Iranian players, play for other teams abroad, whereas the Saudi players all play for Saudi Arabia solely and had at least 90 days of training behind them.

We just hope that a solid, caring, and less self-consumed coach is hired to lead our hot-to-trot players to the 2010 World Cup Games in South Africa.

Doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo... IRAN!

Video: Billy Bob Thornton vs. Jian Ghomeshi - Take One

Jujunaz — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 15:03:36 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJWS6qyy7bw]

Angelina Jolie's ex-husband, Billy Bob Thornton gives Canadian-Iranian Radio and Tv-personality: Jian Ghomeshi some major - and unnecessary - attitude when Jian mentions Billy Bob's acting and screen-writing tenure as "context" of their radio-interview.

Click here to watch the drama take place. We give Ghomeshi credit for his ability to make Billy-Bob look/sound like a khar (donkey) with such subtlety and class.

Lesson learned: never second-guess a Persian!

iaab

Jujunaz — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 10:53:12 +0000

Iranian Alliances Across Borders: Fourth International Conference on the Iranian Diaspora

Jujunaz — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 10:57:34 +0000

By Leyla Serway

Iranian Alliances Across Borders (IAAB) was pleased to present the Fourth International Conference on the Iranian Diaspora the weekend of April 4-5, 2009 in Berkeley, California. The conference brought together scholars, students, journalists, activists, and a number of other leaders from across the globe for an engaging weekend of education and networking.

Iranian Alliances Across Borders (IAAB) IAAB is a 501(c)(3) non-partisan, non-profit volunteer organization with a young, dedicated staff spread across the United States, Europe and Iran. The mission of the organization is to address issues of the Iranian diaspora community while raising awareness of the Iranian community, promoting leadership, and connecting Iranians across borders. Prior to the Fourth International Conference this April, IAAB proudly hosted its first conference in 2004 at Wellesley College in Boston, Massachusetts, the second in 2005 at the University of Maryland, College Park, and the third at New York University in 2007.

The fourth installment of the bi-annual conference, IAAB’s first West Coast event, was hosted by the Iranian Student Alliance in America (ISAA) at the University of California, Berkeley, and brought together an impressive number of speakers, panelists and over 200 attendees. The panels, thoughtfully crafted from over 80 submitted abstracts, varied among topics of race and ethnic identity, culture, tradition, global perspectives, expression through media, and more. Attendees heard from prominent members of the Iranian-American community in a Roundtable Discussion, and also attended workshops led by various speakers from organizations such as PAAIA, NIAC, PARSA, and Amnesty International.

Staying true to its mission of empowering and connecting Iranians and ultimately promoting Iranian culture in all its forms, IAAB partnered with Shabeh Jomeh in presenting a Networking Social on Saturday evening, April 4, bringing another dimension to connecting Iranians at the conference. Additionally, IAAB proudly presented Fared Shafinury & Tehranosaurus as well as Sholi – two young, distinct and extremely talented up-and-coming musical ensembles. IAAB consistently aims to feature new Iranian talent in the “live performance” portion of the International Conference. From Haale in 2004, to Maz Jobrani in 2005, to Hypernova and the Abjeez in 2007 – all of the talents showcased at past conferences have gone on to do amazing things and achieve greater levels of recognition in the Iranian diaspora community.

IAAB’s Fourth International Conference was made possible with the support of several organizations, including Iranian Student Alliance in America (ISAA); Public Affairs Alliance of Iranian Americans (PAAIA); Iranian American Bar Assocation (IABA); PARSA Foundation; Shabeh Jomeh; Amnesty International; the Berkeley Persian Center; Javanaan Magazine; and the many individuals and conference attendees who supported IAAB and the Fourth International Conference on the Iranian Diaspora.

For more information regarding the upcoming and previous conferences, please visit: iranianalliances.org/conference.

Britain's Got Talent: Iranian Contestant - Shaheen Jafargholi

Jujunaz — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 13:34:02 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yVU4IkzMNIo] You MUST check out little Shaheen Jafargholi sing his heart out on Britain's Got Talent!

ericsm3

Jujunaz — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 14:23:28 +0000

Eric Esmailzadeh Parnes - Photographed by: SKS

New Abjeez: Tu Me Haces Falta

Jujunaz — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 15:50:24 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3VdEw1WdnQg] Check out Tu Me Haces Falta/Jaayeh to khaalieh by our favorite Persian cante-jondo experts: Abjeez. The charming track is from their new album: Perfectly Displaced.

How to Win a Cosmic War: Reza Aslan on John Stewart's Daily Show

Jujunaz — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 16:04:17 +0000

Did you see Reza Aslan on the Daily Show? Click here to watch the ultra-witty and khoshteep (handsome) author of How to Win a Cosmic War: God, Globalization, and the End of War on Terror, Reza Aslan, on the Daily Show with John Stewart. So when is Reza getting his own show? He's exactly what we need: a new breed of young, hot, intellectuals with progressive thinking to spread knowledge - not hate - via multiple media platforms. [polldaddy poll=1565529]

Modern Art: Interview with Iranian-American Artist - Eric Esmailzadeh Parnes

Jujunaz — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 18:55:42 +0000

[caption id="attachment_2585" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Eric Esmailzadeh Parnes at the Hirshhorn Museum, Washington DC -- Photo: SKS"][/caption] Art is up for interpretation. So what would you discern from a series of paintings featuring covered women in action?

The reactions are mixed, but some are just surprising. Eric Esmailzadeh Parnes' work is current and partly draws inspiration from ideological-iconography in some places. One of his works - which sold for $8,000 - of a woman dressed in a chador while holding a gun, now sits above the bed of one of his customers, whose perception of the piece was in one word: "empowering."

Eric, initially taking the academic route, soon realized that art was his passion. Lucky for us that he did, as we now get to lay eyes on his sometimes shocking yet tamely provocative pieces. He dares to push the brush, and it shines through as layered art.

Enjoy our exclusive one-on-one interview with the modern-artist.

Where were you born? I was born in exile in Baltimore, Maryland. Have you ever been to Iran? Alas I have not, although I have traveled to and around Iran, I am planning to go as soon as I can make preparations anyone want to host me? What was the first piece of art you made? I believe the first official piece of artwork was a masterpiece of contemporary work crafted at a mere age of 2 that was first shown in a gallery known as my mother’s refrigerator. I am still waiting for the commission split from that… When did you realize you wanted to be an artist? I think it’s been more of a battle internally. It’s something that compelled me, and it’s the way I output the thoughts in my mind. Looking back to my youth it’s clear that I was always leaning toward visual art, but defining it as a career has taken a long and windy path. Today everyone is an artist, and in that we are encouraged in this culture to be creative, but defining a career around that premise is more challenging. It’s been something that I knew I was How does your family feel about your work? Extremely encouraging. But let’s face it, good Persian families don’t want their children to be artists. Maybe doctors, lawyers or engineers. But my family has enough of them. As a result I think it made my work more meaningful in that I have had to fight to bring myself to choose a path that is more challenging. Where do you get your inspiration from? I have disowned my television, and only look to the news, books, and the internet. It can come from traveling, and from trying to understand how the history and the present interrelate. While I try to create things of beauty, I want things that are layered intellectually. Why can’t I have both. One thing I can’t stand about the art world is the pseudo intellectual aspects of conceptual works. In that I am proud that I did not attend art school. [caption id="attachment_2577" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="McDonald's - Acrylic on Canvas"][/caption] What was it like growing up half-Iranian? Is this part of my therapy session? Well technically according to Iran, I’m classified as Iranian, but for our purposes I will say that it was difficult. While my upbringing was quite cosmopolitan (we always traveled) by growing up in a removed urban environment I was always considered “exotic” by the seemingly white American culture in Charm City (Baltimore). I was embarrassed to have anything to do with the Middle East, and would lie about my family or my background. Does I’m Italian or Greek sound familiar? Now of course I know it’s not me that should be embarrassed. I have a diversity and cultural complexity that makes my outlook on life more enlightened and I am glad I have a relationship to a culture that has a rich past. Do you relate more to being Iranian or American? I think I enjoy the status of a being a citizen of the world so to speak. The ability to be accepted on a certain level and at the same time not when it comes to American culture. What's your favorite Iranian dish? Since I was a kid, Zulbia or Bomia… I know its not a dish but its something I can’t resist. I don’t eat sweets but I will get a massive sugar high off of it any time it’s in front of me. What genre would you say your work falls under? Contemporary political, but politics is limiting in its term. I will say contemporary enlightened. How tough is it to keep from being imitated in the art world? Imitation is unavoidable; I just put my work out so people know I did it first. I am not afraid of creating more. If you let that influence your work then you will never be known. What do you want your art to say to the world about Iran? Iran is not a singular isolated entity. Its influence for better or for worse in the view of the west is what makes it so meaningful. Its cultural legacy has influenced the West in ways most are unknowing of, and its contemporary influence can serve as a artistic body of work on its own. What has the non-Iranian reaction to your work been? Overly positive. How have Iranians responded to your pieces? Overly, overly positive. [caption id="attachment_2578" align="aligncenter" width="499" caption="Starbucks - Acrylic on Canvas"][/caption] What was the crowd like at your show? Diverse? It’s typically made up of non Iranians, but somehow at every recent show, Iranians have sprung up and have made their appearance, like moths to a flame. Where have you showcased so far? In New York, but I just finished an “art tour” during the major art fairs in Berlin, Miami, and New York. Where can fans purchase your pieces? Through STILLLIFE gallery or smaller works at ericrobertparnes. What's your career goal as an artist? To actually have a career... but seriously, to create a discourse, and an esthetic that is objectively beautiful, and to be remembered for that. Our time is short here. What's next? A big secret in New York, and large paintings on commercialism in Saudi Arabia, you know it’s just across the Arabian Gulf from Iran. Just kidding.. it’s always been the Persian Gulf. --------------------

6-Year Old Iranian Kid: Soccer Guru

Jujunaz — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 16:57:17 +0000

What a cutie! Click here to watch six-year old Iranian football/soccer-guru, Mohammad Parsa share his thoughts on Iranian, and world, soccer.

justinmashouf

Jujunaz — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 18:18:05 +0000

Warring Factions: Iranian-American Break Dancer Defies Homeland Security With Film

Jujunaz — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 18:21:07 +0000

Los Angeles, California -- May 2, 2009 -- Iranian-American filmmaker Justin Mashouf will be screening his feature-length documentary, "Warring Factions," on May 2nd as a part of the 3rd Annual Noor International Film Festival—the largest Iranian film festival in America. After screening the 70-minute documentary, Mashouf will speak about his experiences in Iran, his detention by Homeland Security and the confiscation of his video footage on suspicion of terrorism.

"Warring Factions" is 24-year-old Mashouf's first feature-length documentary. Filming began in April 2007, capturing his experiences as a multi-ethnic Iranian-American exploring his Muslim identity in a post-9/11 world. In the wake of rising international tensions, he is cornered into answering the question, "Where is your loyalty, America or Iran?" Shot in both countries, Mashouf's journey throughout the film uses his love for break-dancing as a way of bridging an American culture with Iranian youth. Additionally, he becomes a student of the traditional Iranian martial art of "Varzesh Bastani" and seeks to understand the sentiments of the religious conservative generation of Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution.

As voices in the Obama administration deliberate their official Iran policy and media outlets have fueled the perception of a nuclear standoff, "Warring Factions" is a call to (dis)arms. By combining documentary and studio reenactments, Mashouf looks at the blurring of world borders, and the looming threat of another war in the Middle East.

When: Saturday May 2, 2009. 2:00pm

Where: Fine Arts Theater 8556 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA 90211 TEL: 310-281-5575 FAX: 310-826-3716

zagross

Jujunaz — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 20:23:35 +0000

BRAVO's Millionaire Matchmaker: Zagros

Jujunaz — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 21:59:10 +0000

Did you watch the not-so stud-like Zagros, who emphasised his "Kurdish-Iranian" roots to Millionaire Matchmaker Patty as a desired element for his "match", on BRAVO? If you did... then you can understand why we're at a loss for words. We're leaving this one completely up to you! [polldaddy poll=1574686]

persian_girlj-sks

Jujunaz — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 13:55:47 +0000

My Persian Girl: A Novel by Jonathan Rush

Jujunaz — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 13:58:12 +0000

Thirty years after the Iranian Islamic revolution comes a new novel, My Persian Girl, which describes the momentous events in 1979 through the eyes of an Englishman, involved in a dangerous relationship with the wife of one of the Shah of Iran’s senior secret police officers

Swirling unseen currents of religious, ethnic and social tensions lie under the surface of Iran’s booming capital, Tehran, in 1978 when unsuspecting Englishman, James Harding, arrives to take up a new job. James eventually meets up again with Shahnaz, a former close girlfriend, who he has not seen for ten years when she was the sister of a fellow engineering student in London. Shahnaz is now married to one of the rising stars of the Shah’s notorious secret police, Savak. Assassinations in Paris and Iraq, demonstrations by millions of people, and the slaughter of protestors culminate in the fall of the Shah, the arrival of Ayatollah Khomeni, and the arrest of Shahnaz’s husband. The revolution forces the fates of James and Shahnaz together as they battle to survive hatred and betrayal. My Persian Girl is the first novel of author Jonathan Rush who experienced at first hand the Iranian Revolution. According to Jonathan Rush: “I always knew that I would write a book about the incredible scenes I witnessed in Tehran in 1979. I just didn’t know it would take thirty years. When I eventually got round to writing, I decided to describe the relationship between three people, hoping I could convey in an easy to understand way the explosive politics of Iran. Many of the issues I include such as nuclear weapons, the tension between moderates and extremists, Israel, and Western involvement in the Middle East are just as topical today.” What some reviewers have said: "Imagine Gone with the Wind mixed with Casablanca and you'll get a feel for My Persian Girl's drama and excitement". Mark Bolland, London’s Evening Standard and former press adviser to the UK’s Prince Charles.

"Behind the romance, My Persian Girl describes in everyday language some of the major issues challenging the Middle East,” Stephen Cole, Al Jazeera TV news anchor.

"The impact on us all of the world's first major Islamic revolution, vividly described by someone who was there", Elaine Thomas, BBC World Service producer.

“I was moved by the love and bravery of Shahnaz and James as they battle together through violence and intrigue in this compelling story of passion and politics,” Sharon Kendrick author of The Sheikh's English Bride, Mills & Boon.

"An exciting mix of love, betrayal and Iranian politics, particularly relevant today", Guy Black, former UK Conservative Party communications chief and director of the Press Complaints Commission.

arashandkelly_illuminatiposter

Jujunaz — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 14:38:57 +0000

Modern Lampshades: Arash + Kelly Offer Free Illuminati Lights

Jujunaz — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 14:39:27 +0000

Being full of ideas to make things, and with the current downturn being so turbulent, Arash & Kelly are offering three lampshade designs for you to spend time making, hacking, modifying and improving... free of charge!

You download the plans and make the lightshades using an A1 sheet, scissors, stapler, and ruler.

Trace the designs and make them in your own time, with your own hands for free for yourself, loved ones, and friends.

Download this Poster Light and enjoy making your very own Arash and Kelly lampshades.

Beverly Hills 90210: Navid Shirazi Proposes Marriage

Jujunaz — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 16:15:40 +0000

Finally! Navid gets some more airtime, and we get to hear more Farsi - even if the accents aren't perfect - on Beverly Hills 90210.On last night's episode, Navid took Adrianna home to tell his parents that he was going to marry her. His Persian parents reacted unlike any Persian parents we know - especially for hearing that their 16-year old son/heir is planning on getting married to his teen-aged pregnant girlfriend - but hey, it is television.

As Navid broke the news, his parents were shocked for a minute, but then began to make arrangements for the care-taking of the baby that they thought was their "blood", because "family takes care of family".

But once Navid mentioned that he was not the biological father of his girl's unborn child, his parents just called him "divooneh" (crazy).

In the end, Navid was in for a surprise himself as he found out that the baby's real father is Ty, and not someone from Adrianna's rehab facility stay. But his Persian-boy passion drives him to slam the door in fury, bring Adrianna to heavy tears with a few words, and yet after the fourth door-slam, come back to put a ring on her finger; telling her to "never take it off".

[polldaddy poll=1579322]

nadine-rajabi

Jujunaz — Sat, 02 May 2009 21:28:03 +0000

Nadine Rajabi: Female Persian Comedienne

Jujunaz — Sat, 02 May 2009 21:28:55 +0000

[caption id="attachment_2724" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Original Photo: Nadinerajabi.com"][/caption] Don't miss rising Iranian female comedy star, Nadine Rajabi, on Showtime's Hot Tamales Comdey Special hosted by Kiki Melendez!

Be sure to tune in!

Sources tell us that you won't want to miss it.

(Check your local listings.) On Showtime 05/05/09 at 12:00 AM On Showtime Too 05/06/09 at 12:00 AM On Showtime 05/08/09 at 11:00 PM On Showtime Showcase 05/09/09 at 11:35 PM On Showtime Too 05/10/09 at 2:00 AM On Demand Available from 05/06/09 to 06/02/09

ma

Jujunaz — Tue, 05 May 2009 14:03:14 +0000

Iranian Jewelry Designer: Mona Assemi

Jujunaz — Tue, 05 May 2009 14:09:24 +0000

[caption id="attachment_2731" align="aligncenter" width="450" caption="(L to R) Giuliana Rancic (nee Depandi), Brooke Shields and Mona Assemi"][/caption]

By Rosanna Akhavan-Merhebi

Accessories are vital in bringing life to any outfit. Accessories can add color, style and create a certain look you want to achieve. My personal favorite is accessorizing with jewelry, but not just any jewelry, an up and coming designer Mona Assemi. She designs an array of unique and stylish pieces to compliment any look.

Mona Assemi is a New York city based independent Jewelry designer who began her career in Washington D.C. She began sketching up ideas of necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings, after her frustration with the choices when shopping for accessories when she was a buyer for high-end boutiques. She started out just messing around making her own jewelry. After so many compliments and people asking her to make her a ring or bracelet, she decided to take her hobby to another level. Now many boutiques in Washington DC, New York, Los Angeles just to name a few are carrying her jewelry. Her designs are impressive and very original pieces altogether. She uses her background of being Persian for inspiration to create her chic baubles. Whether she uses coins from Iran, evil eye beads, or various pieces from all over, she has her way of spicing up her designs in a unique aesthetic.

When I asked her where her Inspiration comes from, she said “My dreams usually...the 3 seconds before I fall asleep I have the most vivid and creative ideas.” Hence the sketchbook she keeps on her nightstand every night. Mona’s latest designs have been inspired by architecture, the shapes of different buildings altogether have helped her design a new innovative upcoming collection. The materials consist of 14 kt gold plated, 14 kt solid, sterling silver and a variety of gems. Her prominent lines that most boutiques carry are: The Knot -- a variety of different types of knots [that carry the tagline] "The beauty lies within the flaw", The Good Fortune collection -- an array of different lucky charms like the Iranian gold coins that symbolize, joy, light and prosperity thrown as tradition at wedding ceremonies in addition the blue ceramic Persian evil eye bead, The Crystal collection -- an evening-inspired collection for balls, galas, and events, The Infinity Collection -- the infinity sign within the jewelry is meant to symbolize love to carry out within infinity, The Mr. Magoo collection -- inspired by her angel of a pug that tends to adorn the delicate pieces on a daily basis which are more staple, everyday pieces, [lastly] The Stardust collection -- the materials are all incandescent, luminescent, [glittery], and more of a conversation piece.

I asked Mona what advice she would give someone who had dreams of being a designer, she replied “I‘d tell them that they should have an incredible amount of passion for designing to truly make it successful and that it is a lot more work than you would think. Yet, people are always thinking, I'll do it when the time is right, or when this happens or that happens, I think its better to just go ahead and start it , do a couple sketches, be on your way to doing what you love to do.” When I asked her what is in store for the future of Mona Assemi as a designer, she answered “I hope to launch the dress line I’ve been working on in Spring/Summer of 2010."

Many celebrities have taken a liking to Mona’s jewelry; Actress Brooke Shields, E Host Gulianna Depandi/Rancic, Princess Pahlavi, and actress Carly Steel (just to name a few). Mona’s ornate and one-of-a-kind designs have gained popularity amongst many fashion forward individuals. Mona has also participated in many area fashion shows, trunk shows, and charity events. Mona’s move from the DC area to the fashion capital, New York is sure to bring her more success. Be sure to check out Mona’s jewelry in Washington DC boutiques: Saks Jandel, Hysteria, Sangaree, Tabandeh and check out her website that will be launching soon.

Don’t forget to complete your outfit with one of Mona Assemi’s fabulous accessories! This is a designer to keep an eye on as she expands her designs into other areas.

nima

Jujunaz — Tue, 05 May 2009 14:43:43 +0000

Persian Entrepreneur: Nima Nabavi - Digital Gravel

Jujunaz — Tue, 05 May 2009 15:03:47 +0000

[caption id="attachment_2736" align="aligncenter" width="450" caption="Sexy Superstar and Logo T-shirt Designs - DigitalGravel.com"][/caption] Looking for a place to buy cool t-shirts? Then check out DigitalGravel, an online store that carries so many designs... we stopped counting.

Having been in business since 1999, Digital Gravel proves to be a leading hub for t-shirt lovers and fashion fanatics from around the world.

"Digital Gravel features designs by independent artists," says founder and Persian entrepeneur Nima Nabavi who gives aspiring print-designers a platform to reach out to their would-be audience(s) while making some money at the same time, via his virtual boutique.

Click here to visit Digital Gravel and start shopping today!

rooftops_cover1

Jujunaz — Wed, 06 May 2009 15:47:27 +0000

New Book: Rooftops of Tehran

Jujunaz — Wed, 06 May 2009 15:56:17 +0000

Click here to buy your copy of Mahbod Seraji's compelling book: Rooftops of Tehran. Be sure to check back soon to read Persianesque.com's exclusive interview with the Iranian author.

Animation: Rostam - Tales from the Shahnameh

Jujunaz — Wed, 06 May 2009 16:29:56 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=24j7F0Vlk8U] Check out this animated clip from the comic book series Rostam: Tales From the Shanameh by Hyperwerks. The Shahnameh (book of kings) which was "written by Ferdowsi over 1000 years ago [is about a] Perisan mythological hero, Rostam [who] battles his son, Sohrab." Click here to watch scenes from Book 2: The Return of the King. Click here to watch scenes from Book 3: Battle with the Deevs

Ay Yarom Bia (Remix)

Jujunaz — Wed, 06 May 2009 19:54:19 +0000

djferry

Jujunaz — Wed, 06 May 2009 20:09:06 +0000

Electro-Rap: Siamak Janjaali

Jujunaz — Mon, 11 May 2009 14:48:15 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pnYg8KlwGWs] Persian rappers, beware... you've got some major competition coming your way. Click here to watch Siamak Janjaali break it down like no other, as he freestyles his way into your head. [polldaddy poll=1611565]

roxanask

Jujunaz — Mon, 11 May 2009 16:24:57 +0000

** HOLD ** This undated photo provided Tuesday, March 3, 2009 by the National Press Photographers Association shows U.S. journalist Roxana Saberi. Iran's judiciary spokesman says Saberi, who was detained about a month ago, is being held in a prison north of the capital, Tehran. Ali Reza Jamshidi says 31-year-old Saberi is being held in Evin prison on a court order. He refused to provide further details in a press conference Tuesday March 3, 2009. Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Hasan Qashqavi said Monday that Saberi was engaged in "illegal" activities because she continued working in Iran after the government revoked her press credentials in 2006. Saberi's father, Reza, has said his daughter told him in a Feb. 10 phone call that she was detained after buying a bottle of wine. Reza Saberi, who lives in Fargo, N.D., said he has not heard from her since. (AP Photo/NPPA) ** NO SALES **

Freed: Roxana Saberi's Release Confirmed

Jujunaz — Mon, 11 May 2009 16:25:52 +0000

[caption id="attachment_2793" align="aligncenter" width="350" caption="Roxana Saberi, Iranian-American journalist to be released"][/caption]

"In consideration of this ruling, naturally she will be freed," said judiciary spokesman Alireza Jamshidi, without mentioning an official date for Roxana Saberi's release.

Click here to read Reuters' coverage of Iranian-American journalist Roxana Saberi and her journey to freedom. [polldaddy poll=1611862]

hamburg-film

Jujunaz — Tue, 12 May 2009 15:20:06 +0000

Hamburg Filmfest: Three Iranian Short Films Contend

Jujunaz — Tue, 12 May 2009 15:20:30 +0000

This year's Hamburg International Short Film Festival is set to feature three entries from Iran.

Reza Jamali's “Old Men Do Not Die”, Abdol Rahman Mirani's “Wood Carpet”, and Mehdi Jafari's “Dad Gave Water” are set to compete against 40 participating countries at the festival in Germany this June.

opec

Jujunaz — Tue, 12 May 2009 15:32:33 +0000

hoder

Jujunaz — Tue, 12 May 2009 16:34:10 +0000

Farzad

Jujunaz — Fri, 15 May 2009 14:34:35 +0000

Lounge Music: Youssou N'dour - Wake Up (ZAD Remix)

Jujunaz — Fri, 15 May 2009 14:40:40 +0000

Are you ready for another one?

We've got your summer 2009 lounge jam right here!

Click here to make a difference by listening to and voting for the Farzad Aghili (aka ZAD) produced and remixed lounge mix: Wake Up by Youssou N'dour.

The is ZAD's official entry for the Intrahealth Open Remix contest.

Let's take him to number... yek (one)!

Be sure to cast your vote!!

TsarsofEast

Jujunaz — Mon, 18 May 2009 12:27:58 +0000

Exhibition - Tsars and the East: Gifts from Iran

Jujunaz — Mon, 18 May 2009 12:31:32 +0000

[caption id="attachment_2831" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Dagger and Sheath - Helmet with Mask (Images: asia.si.edu)"][/caption]

"Organized by the Smithsonian Institution's Arthur M. Sackler Galleryin collaboration with The Moscow Kremlin Museums, this presentation features more than sixty exceptional objects that large embassies, diplomatic missions, and trade delegations from Ottoman Turkey and Safavid Iran offered to the tsars of Russia."

Sounds like a better attempt at maintaining relationships rather than sending bombs, doesn't it?

The luxurious pieces, on loan to the Sackler Museum from The Russian Kremlin Museums, are said to be "ranging in date from the early sixteenth to the late seventeenth century," After seeing the exhibition, we can't say that we were surprised to see the exactitude and delicacy that oozed out of the boxed-in Persian artifacts, after-all Persian artists were and still are world-renowned originators, but we were surprised at ourselves for wanting to touch something we're told not to, so much.

Beauty and extravagance are two constantly-creeping yet viable characters in Persian culture, and with one glance at the historical gifts, it's clear.

The dates for this must-see showcase are: May 9th-Sept. 13th, 2009.

Click here for more information on this exhibition, Tsars and the East: Gifts from Turkey and Iran.

Click here to buy the photo-book.

Iranian Women: Sufi Celebration in Iran

Jujunaz — Thu, 21 May 2009 16:34:47 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f01JZqCTtNM] Click here to watch this amazing video of how some Iranian Muslim-Sufi women celebrate the prophet Ali's birthday, with their palpitating daf skills. The energy of these women can be felt right through your screen! [polldaddy poll=1639887]

persia_sandals

Jujunaz — Sun, 24 May 2009 23:37:37 +0000

Fashion: Sandals Vying for "Persia"

Jujunaz — Sun, 24 May 2009 23:44:58 +0000

[caption id="attachment_2862" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Left, Style&co. "Persia" Sandal - Right, Calvin Klein "Persia" Sandal"][/caption]

You like?

So they're no Gucci or Louboutin summer-sandals, but we can't help but love the name the design-houses have chosen!

[polldaddy poll=1648277]

analilly

Jujunaz — Tue, 26 May 2009 13:35:30 +0000

TFI Adrienne Shelly Foundation Screenwriting Fellowship Goes to Ana Lily Amirpour

Jujunaz — Tue, 26 May 2009 13:45:21 +0000

[caption id="attachment_2866" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="L to R - Actress Emily Deschanel (Bones), Tribeca Film Institute CEO Brian Newman, Ana Lily Amirpour, and founder of the Adrienne Shelly Foundation, Andy Ostroy"][/caption]

As part of the Adrienne Shelly Foundation’s mission to aid in the advancement of talented women filmmakers, the foundation has teamed with the Tribeca Film Institute to form the TFI Adrienne Shelly Foundation Screenwriting Fellowship.

The fellowship will be awarded to one selected Tribeca All Access filmmaker to further her career and creative projects. A total of $5,000 will be awarded in addition to support and mentorship throughout a 10-month period. The late actress’ husband Andy Ostroy, who also serves as Executive Director of the foundation, and advisory board member Emily Deschanel presented the award to Ana Lily Amirpour for “The Stones,” in which class, tradition and love all violently collide in modern day Tehran, as a young working class girl embarks on a forbidden love with a wealthy young man with fatal consequences.

"I wanted to write a story about what it's like to be young in Tehran today, because we hear so much about Iran's nuclear debate, politics and islamic hardliners, but there are is a new generation of progressive young people who live amidst this volatile regime and their stories are going unnoticed. I'm thrilled that this script has gotten such recognition and support from organizations like Adrienne Shelly Foundation and the Tribeca Film Festival, and we'll be shooting the film early in 2010, which is incredible. It really says a lot about the interest in global cinema today. That this type of story would get so much support in America is a wonderful thing," Amirpour tells Persianesque Magazine exclusively.

“It is truly an honor to be partnering with the Tribeca Film Institute on this new fellowship,” said Ostroy. “Adrienne lived and worked in Tribeca, so it’s an especially meaningful addition to her growing legacy that the foundation that bears her name will be helping other talented women achieve their own filmmaking dreams through TAA.” Ostroy is producing Ms. Shelly’s follow-up script to her 2007 hit film WAITRESS, SERIOUS MOONLIGHT, which is directed by Cheryl Hines, stars Meg Ryan and Tim Hutton, and has its world premiere April 25th at the Tribeca Film Festival.

*Jurors for this year included Annie Sundberg, Michelle Byrd, and Adam Brightman.

**For more info contact:

Sina Sayyah sinasayyah@gmail.com 310.717.1709

Poll: American Idol Runner-up Adam Lambert the Next Freddy (Farrokh) Mercury

Jujunaz — Tue, 26 May 2009 18:55:43 +0000

[caption id="attachment_2873" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="L to R - Adam Lambert, Freddy Mercury"][/caption]

Born Farrokh Bulsara on September 5th, 1946 in Zanzibar, Queen front-man and musical-legend: Freddy Mercury is of Persian (Parsi) origin and practiced Zoroastrianism growing up. Parsis are known to "descend from a group of Iranian Zoroastrians who emigrated to Western India over 1,000 years ago."

Recently the blogosphere and entertainment magazines have been likening the sounds of American Idol's Adam Lambert to the iconic Freddy Mercury.

Even Queen guitarist Brian May told Rolling Stone magazine that the band is considering the idea of Lambert becoming Queen's new frontman!

Exciting. But is it a good move?

Says May: "[We] definitely hoping to have a meaningful conversation with [Lambert] at some point. It's not like we, as Queen, would rush into coalescing with another singer just like that. It isn't that easy. But I'd certainly like to work with Adam. That is one amazing instrument he has there."

Physically, there may not be too close of a resemblance, but the vocals can be considered comparable.

What do YOU think?

[polldaddy poll=1652569]

adam-freddy

Jujunaz — Tue, 26 May 2009 19:03:29 +0000

aslan

Jujunaz — Wed, 27 May 2009 13:46:54 +0000

Britains Got Talent 2009: Shaheen Jafargholi - Semi Final 3

Jujunaz — Thu, 28 May 2009 16:24:47 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AhBM7lvTDro]

Watch our little Iranian-Brit, 12 year-old Shaheen Jafargholi, receive rave reviews from Britain's Got Talent judges.

Said judge Piers Morgan, "The best performance in the semi-finals." While the usually-blunt and snarky Simon Cowell told Shaheen the he's "a real contender now to win this competition."

Shaheen ability to sing and outshine fellow contestant Susan Boyle, the made-over initial crowd-favorite, has apparently made Susan quite upset. She was so bothered that she's threatened to quit the show and even cursed at some people over the judges' overwhelmingly positive comments about Shaheen.

Cosmic Wars: Exclusive Interview with Iranian Scholar - Dr. Reza Aslan

Jujunaz — Thu, 28 May 2009 21:29:24 +0000

[caption id="attachment_2884" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Photo by: Hilary Jones"][/caption] By Sanaz Khalaj Santos

WASHINGTON, DC - From the release of Iranian-American journalist Roxana Saberi (who is incidentally half-Japanese) to the elections in Iran, Iranians continue to be quite the headline-nabbing theme du jour. And we've got another one for you to add to the list of Iranian notables: Dr. Reza Aslan. An assistant professor of creative writing at the University of California, Riverside, Aslan is a coveted commentator on CNN, CBS, NPR, and a member of the Council on Foreign Relations.

Reza Aslan, who calls legendary Iranian-singer Leila Forouhar: "khaaleh" (aunt), is not your archetypal Iranian-American overachiever. He is, as we see it, an unequivocally profound-thinker and indispensable intellectual who clearly wants to give back to the global community by publicizing unambiguous facts about the roots of terrorism, religious extremism, and the hovering (and perhaps sometimes intentionally-ignored) constituents of warmongering.

Dr. Aslan, who in addition to writing for some of the world's leading publications, is the author of No God But God:The Origins, Evolution, and Future of Islam (his first book) - which was translated into thirteen different languages and received multiple awards - has blessed us (and your library) with yet another must-have book, How to Win a Cosmic War: God, Globalization, and the End of the War on Terror. In the book, Aslan emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and "addressing grievances" - from both sides - as it is a requisite in moving forward and/or recovering from any sort of conflict: international or domestic.

The easy-to-read and comprehensible book - which took eighteen months to complete - landed the subject-matter expert even more tv-appearances on politics-centric shows like: The Jon Stewart Show and Realtime with Bill Maher (still available On Demand). Reza's passion and distinctly razor-sharp responses aren't the only reasons why we see his thinking-fashion and writings as a sort of referential epi-source, more-so, it's his uncanny skills in discussing decidedly-emotionaland largely-misconstrued topics without being offensive to either side. In a segment on Maher's HBO show, and in response to Maher's implication that "stoning [due to religious beliefs is common in the Middle East]", Dr. Aslan rebutted: "People kill people [not religion(s)]." If Dr. Aslan's charm and approachable demeanor doesn't result in Hollywood taking notice and giving him his own talk-show, then we'd like the Obama-Administration to hire him as their enlightener (and therefore saviour in this "war on terror" which is still very much alive, despite the current administration's choice to discontinue the use of the terror-inducing and oxymoron of a phrase) by making him a leader in the decision-making process as it pertains to foreign policy. How productive has having people in charge who probably haven't even traveled to Iran been so far? Not very. The "decider" - whose retaliatory approach only made America a contributor to the escalation of strife, not the diffusion of it - is probably playing golf somewhere while his even more shamefully-reckless friend, Dick, is still aimlessly shooting at something. So, bring on the "enlightener" Mr. Obama. We're waiting.

Conflict is sometimes derived from miscommunication, and just like so many of you, we question: "Why does religion, the one thing that's supposed to bring us closer together, tear us so far apart?" Well, to continue on with our attempts at puns, How to Win a Cosmic Waris the answer to all your prayers and questions on the matter. Buy your copy and give yourself the chance at a better understanding of the clashes that have resulted in so much unnecessary hatred and destruction.

The style in which Aslan's equiangular insight decoticates the copious (and often overlooked) layers of interwoven components that are involved in the creation, existence, and strengthening of religious fundamentalism (and therefore elements of war), is appealing, impactful, inspiring, and inimitably his own. His ending line in the epilogue portion of his highly-acclaimed book, How to Win a Comsic Wars: Gold Globalization and the War on Terror, which some are predicting is on its way to becoming a best-seller and is certain to make you start thinking differently, he quotes, "E pluribus unum universitatum. Out of one, many." Now, if only our world-leaders would follow these few but eternally-relevant words that decorate the Seal of the United States, we might be on our way to evolving as a civilization. We look forward to the day. (Should it happen in our lifetime.)

The handsome media-personality's humorous, likeable, and relatable attitude all increase the likelihood that Dr. Reza Aslan is (and will remain) an influential member of our society for a long time to come. Enjoy our exclusive one-on-one interview with the impressive and delightful Dr. Reza Aslan. Click here to follow him on Twitter.

***

SKS: You mention in your book that you too felt the aftereffects of 9/11 - as far as treatment by other Americans - can you share a specific story that stands out in your mind? RA: There is not a specific story. It was more of a sense that I was being looked at differently. Friends would call or shoot me emails, asking me if I was OK, or if there was anything that they could do for me. I couldn’t figure out what they meant until it suddenly occurred to me that they were recognizing what I was slower to recognize, which is that an us versus them mentality was starting to form in the United States. And immigrants like me, who felt like neither us nor them, were stuck in the middle.

Have you been to Iran? Sure, my last trip was in 2005.

How was that experience for you? It was remarkable. It was an amazing trip. I went there for about 8 weeks and saw all of my family, traveled all around the country, did a lot of writing. I reconnected to a world that I had missed but which had always been a big part of me. I can’t wait to go back again. I’ve been trying to go back for about a year now, but haven’t had the chance or the time to do so. But I really hope to go back real soon.

What is your personal impression of the Iranian people? The ones that live in Iran? It’s funny. They get all the satellite stations based in WestwoodandBeverly Hills. They understand the attitude of Iranian-Americans towards them and towards the country. And to be perfectly frank they’re somewhat dismissive of it. They enjoy the music. They enjoy the videos. As you know entertainment is in such short supply in Iran. But the political messages, the revolutionary messages that filter through to Iran from these incredibly wealthy Iranian-Americans who’ve spent three decades living in places like Hollywood and Beverly Hills seems so disassociated from the reality faced by most Iranians in Iran that it’s almost comical. When you ask Iranians what they believe “the problem” is, rarely do they say, “the problem is Islamic law” or “our problem is the mullahs”, or “my problem is that I have to wear a veil when I go outside the door”. What they usually say is: “the problem is the economy.” I mean when you see Iranians with three degrees driving a cab for a living, you realize that the only way to “fix” Iran is through engagement and economic development, something a lot of the older generation of Iranian-Americans among the exile community here in the United States are not interested in.

Is the Iranian-American voice important in improving relations? It’s relevant so far as it focuses on what Iranians want and need, not we think they want and need. We, in the exile community have to put aside all of our ideological reservations, just as the cleric regime has to put aside its ideology in order to better Iran. We have to focus on the material needs of our families back in Iran. Instead we spent our time talking about stirring up revolution amongst the young people in Iran. To be honest with you when I talk to young Iranians about how they feel about that kind of sentiment, their answer is: “screw you guys and your Persian palaces. Get us jobs!”

Ultimately, we’re all human beings. So, do you think that Iranians and Americans are more alike than they are different? I think that of any culture in the entire Muslim world, the one that has most in common with American culture is the Iranian culture. I have traveled throughout this entire country giving lecture after lecture, and inevitably, somebody comes up to me afterwards, some American, and says, “I just came back from Iran. I went there on a tourist trip.” And they always say the exact same thing: how much Iranians love America and American culture, and American traditions, values, customs, and ideals. The thing that I think Iranians and Americans have most in common is that they both understand religion to be very much a part of one’s culture and national identity. There is no more religious country in the developed world than the United States. In many ways, Iranians and Americans speak the same cultural language, we see the world very much in the same way. Did you meet any Iranian-Israelis on your trip to Israel? No. Most of the Iranian-Jews I know live next to me in Los Angeles. But I will say that it was a strange experience trying to get into Israel with an American passport that said I was born in Iran. They were very suspicious about what I was doing there, and why I was there. They wanted to know who my father was, who my grandfather was, where did they live, when was the last time I was in Iran, etc. etc.

Are you proud to be Persian/Iranian? Are you kidding? Of course I’m proud to be Iranian. It’s formed everything about my personality and my culture, and who I am as a human being. I define myself according to my Iranian national identity. It’s an extricable part of who I am as a person.

What does being Iranian-American mean to you? The great thing about being in the United States is that our national identity is so malleable and so infinitely hyphen-able. There are very few places where you feel comfortable saying I am Iranian-slash-whatever. I find absolutely no contradiction between my American and Iranian identities. I feel very comfortable with both of them. My Iranian identity informs how I feel about being American, my American identity informs how I feel about being Iranian.

Havetheeffects of the “war on terror” been counterproductive? No question. Partly because it has become infused with what I call a Cosmic War mentality. At this point “war on terror” has become synonymous, in much of the world, with “war on Islam” – and so in a sense it’s just backfired, making any attempts to reach out and forge alliances with the international community that much harder. I, for one, am glad that the Obama Administration decided to drop the phrase. Good riddance.

Why is Iran involved so heavily in the fight for Palestinian freedom and Arab nations aren't? The Palestinian situation has become a universal symbol, a rallying point around which a transnational identity is being formed. And Iran, which sees itself as a superpower, a power that represents not just Iranians or even Shiites but the larger Muslim world, is going to try and use Palestine as a means of exerting its influence. Frankly, it’s worked. When you go to some of these Sunni-Arab countries, they think very highly of Ahmadinejad and Iran. But this is a strategic issue as well. Iran sees Hamas as a kind of insurance policy against an Israeli attack on Iranian soil. There’s a real strategic reason for Iran reaching out to Hamas and Hezbollah.

How do you feel about these terms: third-world country and/or developing country? I certainly prefer “developing-country”. Obviously, when you talk about first—world or third-world, you’re applying value-judgments which show how you think about the world. So I would use terms like “developed-world” and “developing-world.”

Why do you think Pakistan is seen as an ally and Iran isn’t? After all, Pakistan has nuclear arms and they are openly in communication with Al-Qaeda? What makes them an ally, as far as the US is concerned, is whether they agree with American Foreign Policy. And Pakistan does. Thanks to, at this point $12 billion, over the last decade, in funding.

You say that "religious transnationalist movements cannot be contained within any boundaries," does that mean there’s no formula to solve this problem? There is a formula. It’s actually a well-written formula that has been put to use defusing other transnationalist movements. You address the grievances that fuel the movement thereby making the movement irrelevant.

American culture is an individualistic one, do you believe that being so consumed with work and monthly bills has anything to do with Americans’ lack of effort in learning more about the Middle East? I think there are a couple of things. One, it’s the pursuit of the American Dream, which is such an individualistic idea, and the other is the media in this country: it’s a commercial enterprise. They’re there to sell you a product. And as everyone knows, what sells products is sex, violence, terror, and fear. The media is, in its own self-interest, going to promote a more fear-mongering, terrorizing section of the world. Finding the truth starts with recognizing that you are being fed a message. You can’t just toss out the media, you just have to understand the message through the filter. Once you see the filter, then you can get a much better sense of what’s going on. Also, cross over to other media sources that don’t function on a commercial platform; that would provide a much more objective view of the world, like NPR and BBC.

Do you think it’s easier to be African-American or Iranian-American in America? I don’t know. I don’t know what it’s like to be African-American. I’m satisfied being an Iranian-American as it is.

On page 59 of your book, you write about Bush’s use of the word “crusade” and Bin Laden’s statement: “he took the words right out of our mouths,” – does the word crusade have a legitimate place in 2009? No because this is no simple word. This is a word that is viewed with very real connotations of religious warfare and more specifically, the word in Arabic means “war of the cross.” This is a word that is infused with a cosmic war mentality.

Do you think that the ones who benefit from the "business of war", people whose names we may never know, are the ones stirring the pot? Well, there’s no question that there are forces on both sides of this conflict that benefit from an escalation not just of the rhetoric, but of the military component as well. War is a profitable enterprise. So in a sense we have to recognize that there are people who do have certain advantages in making sure that this conflict continues to escalate. But, we also have to recognize that the only way to create a sense of global peace and security that is so necessary, not just for our well-being but for the pursuit of our national security and economic interests, is to scale back on the never-ending eternal conflicts like the “war on terror”.

America is made up of so many different cultures why is the Christian intent so amplified? Doesn’t democracy mean: "for the people"? Or does it mean: “for some of the people”? Look 80% of this country defines itself as Christian. 50% define themselves as Evangelicals. That’s a 150 million people. It’s crazy to think that in a democratic society the morals and values of the majority wouldn’t have a role to play in the way in which a country defines itself as a nation. We have issues that should be purely legal issues like: gay marriage or abortion. Rarely do we talk about them as matters of law. We talk about them as matters of morality; specifically Christian morality.

How do you feel about the reports that the US military is handing out bibles in Iraq and Afghanistan? We’re engaged in a conflict with a transnational movement that believes that this is a war between Christianity and Islam. I’ve been told that soldiers on the ground in tanks and hummers are passing out evangelical literature, passing out New Testaments translated into Arabic and Urdu. This is just proof of what al-Qaeda is saying: that is a religious war. This is hurting our interests. This is a cancer in our armed forces that has to be taken care of, otherwise these wars are going to go on forever. My organization the Military Religious Freedom Foundation has been working diligently for the past five years to try to get the Senate or the House of Representatives to launch an investigation into the armed forces and see how evangelical groups have infiltrated the US Military.

What about the environment? Is any of this going to matter if we’re all dead? There are obviously much larger issues that are truly existential. Far more important that the threat of terror is the threat of global warming.

Favorite Iranian food? I could live off of tah-deeg [crunchy rice at the bottom of the pot] for the rest of my life. If I had nothing to eat from now to the day I die except tah-deeg, I’d be happy.

What’s next? I’ve got a book that’s coming out next fall called: Words Without Borders. It’s an anthology of literature: fiction and non-fiction poetry from the Middle East. It’s translated to English from Urdu, Turkish, Hebrew, and Arabic. It’s sort of an attempt to tell the stories of the last century in that region. I’m really excited about that.

MTV Movie Awards: Bruno vs. Eminem

Jujunaz — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 13:59:00 +0000

At the 2009 MTV Movie Awards, hosted by SNL comedy-genius Andy Samberg, British-Iranian Sacha Baron Cohen "sat" on controversial rapper, Eminem's face!

Hung from the ceiling, Bruno flew in strapped in wires chanting, "Ich bin Bruno."

As he was seemingly headed towards the stage at the Gibson Amphitheatre in Universal City, CA, Bruno (Sacha's latest outlandish movie character) hit a bump and landed on Eminem's lap, upside down.

Enimen and his bodyguards then started to beat Bruno and swing him around before they stormed out and left the awards show.

It seems odd to us that Eminem, who makes fun of practically everyone, would take such offense. Sure, it was really awkward what Sacha/Bruno did, but Eminem's reaction just made us like him less. Celebrity ego is a phenomenon we don't care to dissect, but if you want to sell records, you may want to consider not taking yourself so seriously.

Click here to watch it happen.

UPDATE: Eminem was "in" on the prank. In a new interview with RapRadar he says, "Sacha called me when we were in Europe, and he had an idea to do something outrageous at the Movie Awards. I'm a big fan of his work, so I agreed to get involved with the gag. I'm thrilled that we pulled this off better than we rehearsed it."

What do YOU think?

[polldaddy poll=1668441]

Rostam

Jujunaz — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 15:44:21 +0000

Persian Mythology: The Shahnameh Project - Interview with Cameron Douraghy

Jujunaz — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 16:27:35 +0000

[caption id="attachment_2988" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Rostam: Tales from the Shahnameh"][/caption]

The Shahnameh (Book of Kings), was written by Persian literary-master: Ferdosi (also spelled Ferdowsi). The Persian literary masterpiece, amassed over several decades in the tenth and eleventh centuries, is a collection of some 60,000 couplets full of Persian Miniatures created to illustrate scenes from the Persian epic, and has now reemerged in the form of HYPERWERKS' highly-entertaining comic book series: Rostam - Tales from the Shahnameh.

Born in Tus, Khorasan, Ferdosi/Ferdowsi was the son of a wealthy landowner. Encyclopedia Britannica notes: "The Persians regard Ferdowsi as the greatest of their poets. For nearly a thousand years they have continued to read and to listen to recitations from his masterwork, the Shah-nameh, in which the Persian national epic found its final and enduring form. Though written about 1,000 years ago, this work is as intelligible to the average, modern Iranian as the King James version of the Bible is to a modern English-speaker." While Wikipedia notes that one of the many sources for Persian pride: The Shahnameh, "was originally composed for presentation to the Samanid princes of Khorasan, who were the chief instigators of the revival of Iranian cultural traditions after the Arab conquest of the seventh century."

Enjoy our chat with Cameron Douraghy who tells us that his comic book series is made for "all Iranians growing up in diaspora who want to get back in touch with these great stories, parents who want to introduce the stories to their teens for the first time, comic book fans who appreciate great stories, and comic art fans who appreciate great art."

And although your kids, nieces, and/or nephews may benefit from (and be entranced by) the Book of Kings comic book version, Cameron says that the series is ”primarily enjoyed by adults, as they cover mature themes and stories."

Click here to buy your copy(s) of the revitalized version of the epic tale that is sure to enhance you library!

Click here to watch a compilation of the series' animated video-shorts.

***

When did you come up with this concept of bringing Rostam to virtual-life via a comic-book style series? In 2000, while working on the “Truth” anti-smoking campaign, we created a customized comic book targeting Asian American teenagers who smoke. The project proved to be very successful with more than a million issues being printed and distributed. It was during the execution of this project that we decided to express the action adventure stories we had grown up with from the Shahnameh, into this art form.

What made you decide to use Persian sound-text-effects? We knew that a large number of our fans would be Iranians living and growing up in diaspora. It was our intention to insert some small morsels into the books which would give them a little extra entertainment over the non-Iranian reader.

The use of the Persian language is noticeably apparent in the series. What has the audience reaction been to this added feature/language lesson? The reaction has been overwhelmingly positive. Mostly people have been amused by it as it brings a smile to their faces when memories flood back.

How much research would you say has been involved in this project? Much more than we thought! But it has be a joyful journey.

What do you hope the Shahnameh series will do for Iranians, or the world? We hope that we can do our small part in getting additional exposure to the works of Ferdowsi to a much wider audience, and to dispel the many common myths about us and our culture. It is important for Iranians to tell their own story rather than have others give us their (sometimes misinformed) versions.

Why is this series important? It is important because the Shahnameh is not only a cultural gem for Iranians but also a cultural gem for the world.

Who would this series be a good "read" for? Everyone of course! :)

How long did it take from start to finish - to complete this project? Technically, each book (and we are working on book 4 right now) can be produced within a 4 month time period. However, our production cycles are taking longer because of the need to fund raise. We have been blessed by a couple of grants in the past, but with every new book there is a need to fund raise again. Do you know anyone who is interested? :)

There's kabob and rice being served on the table in one scene. Where did your illustrator draw inspiration from to showcase such intricacies? The three of us art-direct and edit all of the comic books; that is where he gets direction and guidance.

How were the faces of the characters decided upon? Our illustrator Karl, does an incredible amount of research but of course in the end, he must draw upon his feelings and inspirations after reading the Shahnameh stories we select. He then, comes up with the look and feel of the characters, which we will review (and modify where necessary) and finally approve.

Is the series sold in Iran? Not yet.

Has Hollywood knocked to start making the blockbuster version yet? Not yet, but we certainly hope they will.

If you were making the movie version, who would you cast as the main characters? Rostam: Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson Sohrab: Ali Golzar Rodabeh: Shohreh Agdashloo Zal: Behrooz Vosoughi Tahmineh: Sara Shahi Soudabeh: Shiva Rose Kai-Kavous: Omid Djalili Afrasiab: Maz Jobrani Princess of the White Castle: Nazanin Boniadi

What is the Westen equivalant of the Shahnameh? I truly believe that there isn't a western equivalent that comes close to the Shahnameh. To imagine an equivalent to this violent and beautiful work, think of an amalgam of Homer’s Iliad and the ferocious Old Testament book of Judges and then add in the complete works of Shakespeare.

Where can people buy this set? The best place to buy the books [is] on our website: theshahnameh

zarif2

Jujunaz — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 18:08:21 +0000

Music: British-Iranian Singer - Zarif

Jujunaz — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 18:10:27 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3012" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Zarif - Original Image: Sony BMG"][/caption] England's newest singing-sensation, Zarif, is the daughter of an Iranian-Jewish mother and Scottish father.

Zarif, whose name means "delicate" in Persian, is signed by Sony BMG and is arguably as good as (if not better than) the forever-intoxicated British pop/jazz-artist: Amy Winehouse.

Currently touring with Beyonce, the half-Iranian songstress's style is described as "pop/funk/soul" - and soul... she's got!

Seriously, the girl can sing! (Which is more than refreshing when one considers the "talent" that America pumps out and sells to us as "singers" like: Katy Perry, Jessica Simpson, and Britney Spears who quickly come to our mind.)

Click hereto watch a video of Zarif's live performance of her hit song (and our personal favorite): "Over."

Click here to download your free acoustic version of 'Let Me Back', her debut single.

Follow her on Twitter or add her on Myspace.

Iran Special: Shabnam Rezaei on PBS

Jujunaz — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 13:24:11 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YZkMYtmgD7w]

Watch this great clip featuring Editor in Chief of Iranian Magazine: PersianMirror, (and our favorite Iranian female entrepreneur), Shabnam Rezaei on PBS affiliate-station: KOCE, based in Orange County, CA.

Be sure to check out Shabnam's NoroozProductions!

mm copy

Jujunaz — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 12:01:27 +0000

Iranian Election 2009: Campaigning Online

Jujunaz — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 13:14:06 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iTeBwQJAsow]

So much for banning online social-networking site: Facebook and the video-sharing site; Youtube!

Check out a Mousavi campaign-video featuring Iranian stars supporting the Iranian Presidential candidate, whose campaign revolves around "ta'a-gheer" (change).

Sounds familiar doesn't it?

Click here for a look at a Karroubi/Karbaschi clip.

Click here for another Karroubi/Karbaschi clip.

[polldaddy poll=1696640]

yasmina

Jujunaz — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 21:48:33 +0000

The Apprentice UK Winner: Yasmina Siadatan

Jujunaz — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 21:49:18 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3064" align="aligncenter" width="450" caption="Yasmina Siadatan"][/caption]

British-Iranian contestant Yasmina Siadatan is a marathon runner, a restaurant owner, and now... she's the winner of The Apprentice (UK Edition)!

The London-based daughter of an Iranian father, Yasmina Siadatan was born in Great Britain but has lived in Los Angeles and Iran. Her father, Medi Siadatan famously (and tatelessly) once tried to "persuade British courts to recognise his three wives."

Classic!

Click here to watch Yasmina get hired by Sir Alan Sugar!

iranelection

Jujunaz — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 18:22:23 +0000

Setting the Scene: Iran’s Presidential (S)elections

Jujunaz — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 18:22:50 +0000

By Karim Sadjadpour

Though Ahmadinejad has profoundly mismanaged the economy—Iran’s 30 percent official inflation rate is one of the highest in the world—the incumbent has never been defeated in a presidential election since the advent of the Islamic Republic.

As Iran's presidential campaign heads into its final stretch before Friday’s elections, the candidates are ratcheting up their criticism of current President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Former prime minister Mir-Hossein Mousavi poses the strongest challenge to Ahmadinejad, attacking the incumbent's management of the economy and his confrontational foreign policy. Mousavi hopes to capitalize on the country's staggering inflation and popular discontent, but an incumbent has not lost an election since the Islamic Revolution and Ahmadinejad is believed to have the support of the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei.

Iran’s tenth presidential elections since the 1979 revolution are scheduled for June 12. A candidate must receive 50 percent of the vote to win in the first round. If this threshold is not reached, a runoff is held one week later between the top two vote-getters.

This year, only four candidates were permitted to run by the Guardian Council: current president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad (age 52), former prime minister Mir-Hossein Mousavi (age 67), former speaker of the parliament Mehdi Karroubi (age 72), and former Revolutionary Guard commander Mohsen Rezaii (age 55).

All four are well-known figures in the Iranian political establishment. The three opposition candidates have criticized Ahmadinejad’s economic, foreign, and nuclear policies, vowing to take more measured and prudent positions.

An architect by training, Mir-Hossein Mousavi is considered Ahmadinejad’s strongest challenger, thanks in part to the endorsement of popular former president Mohammed Khatami. One of the few politicians in Iran with a reputation for being a competent manager, Mousavi is credited with keeping the economy stable during the 1980 –1988 Iran–Iraq war.

Mousavi may have the broadest constituency of any candidate. He appeals to the urban middle classes, professional elite, and youth who have chafed under the economic populism and political and social restrictions of the Ahmadinejad era. Aside from the support of Khatami, Mousavi’s wife, former university chancellor Zahra Rahnavard, has proven an effective asset in helping to attract female voters. And as the only ethnic Azeri candidate (Azeris constitute around a quarter of Iran’s population), the backing of the northern province of Azerbaijan could play a decisive role.

***Click here to read this article in its entirety.

Iran "Elections" 1388: Iranian-Americans Voting in US?

Jujunaz — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 22:29:28 +0000

Some Iranian-Americans are getting involved in the voting process here in the US. (Apparently, all you need is your Iranian passport or birth-certificate.)

Good idea?

Doesn't the choice belong to Iranians who live in Iran?

Aren't they the ones dealing with a suffering economy, lack of freedom, major human-rights issues, and much more?

Given, if you own a business (or property/assets) in Iran, or if you are moving there, then it makes a little more sense for you to vote than the average Iranian-American, otherwise... maybe your support would be put to better use in other ways.

Most Iranian-Americans already voted for their president, and his name is Obama.

[polldaddy poll=1698147]

World Cup 2010 Qualifier: Iran vs. UAE

Jujunaz — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:10:38 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3110" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Ali Karimi - Image via FSC"][/caption]

UAE has never beaten Iran in an international soccer match.

And so the trend continues.

With Rahmati's great goal-keeping and the Iranian national soccer team's determination to participate in the 2010 World Cup games in South Africa, Iran won against UAE: 1-0 during their "qualifier" game at Azadi Stadium in Tehran.

The game should have ended with a much bigger gap in the final score, like: 8-0; considering all the solid (but sloppy) attempts that the Iranian team made. In the second-half soccer-star Ali Karimi scored the only goal for the Iranian side.

Still it seems as though Ali Daei's replacement: Afshin Ghotbi is working out pretty well for fans of the Iranian soccer team.

The Fifa 2010 World Cup will take place in June of 2010 in South Africa; will Iran make it?

We sure hope so!

Doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo... IRAN!!!

iransoccer

Jujunaz — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 01:18:46 +0000

iranelect

Jujunaz — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 15:58:11 +0000

Politics: How Diplomacy with Iran can Succeed

Jujunaz — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 16:02:57 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3123" align="aligncenter" width="400" caption="Iranian girls showing their support for Mousavi in Tehran"][/caption] By Dr. Trita Parsi and Jeremy Ben-Ami

As Iranians go to cast their ballots in Friday's elections, it is much more than just Iran's future that is at stake. The White House is closely following the elections, as is Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The Israeli Prime Minister may be watching Washington's reaction to the results more than the results themselves since his meeting with President Barack Obama last month confirmed that they are likely to bring different approaches to the critical problems facing the Middle East. While the President will base his Middle East policy on diplomacy to resolve conflicts, particularly with Iran, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will be pressing for tight timelines on diplomacy and for tough action sooner rather than later.

The President would be well advised to pursue his chosen strategy with the intent to succeed -- not fail -- and the most critical factor will be time. There are those urging hard and fast deadlines on the President for diplomacy with Iran -- both here and in Israel -- who do not aim to see diplomacy succeed but to use its failure to justify harsher measures.

One cannot help but be reminded of recent examples when a failure to provide adequate time damaged U.S. policy in the Middle East. In the rush to war in Iraq in 2002, despite pleas from UN inspectors to give weapons inspections time to prove they were in fact working, President Bush called for the removal of international inspectors to make way for "shock and awe." Allowing time for the non-military option to work could have saved tens of thousands of lives, hundreds of billions of dollars and the international reputation of the United States.

Similarly, the lack of adequate time to prepare and pursue diplomacy was one reason why President Clinton's push for Israeli-Palestinian peace failed under tight time constraints at the end of his term.

History argues strongly for President Obama to resist pressure to set arbitrary deadlines for diplomacy with Iran - as he did again on Monday. While we agree with the President that talks cannot be open-ended, the focus should be on how to make diplomacy succeed rather than debating when to declare it a failure. Successful diplomacy will require international cooperation -- with Israel and with other actors -- and an exquisite sense of timing as to when to push, when to listen and when to wait.

Failure to give diplomacy the attention and time it needs could have dire consequences for key U.S. interests: the stability of Iraq and Afghanistan, the global nonproliferation regime, and the prospects for peace between Israel and its neighbors. That is why the administration's diplomatic approach towards Iran must be designed to ensure success, not just to position us for other steps after an eventual break-down.

Similarly, efforts to impose new sanctions on Iran even before diplomacy has begun will only undermine President Obama's agenda in the Middle East. Sanctions can play a role in our approach to Iran, but they should not be permitted to interfere with and complicate the diplomatic path President Obama has set forth. We applaud the clear message sent by Foreign Affairs Chairman Howard Berman when he promised not to move new sanctions legislation through the House in the near future.

Just as no President would take America to war without being fully committed to leading the country to victory, neither should diplomacy be embarked on without America's complete commitment to that strategy.

Diplomacy with Iran will not be easy, but it is necessary. Iran rests at the nexus of many of the complex problems facing the Middle East and American interests there. The various conflicts in the Middle East cannot be compartmentalized. Each affects the other, and, as President Obama has recognized, a comprehensive solution is needed.

With so much riding on this difficult challenge, America must realize that missing the opportunity to find a diplomatic solution is not an option. The elections result may help pave the way. Fortunately, even if the election results are not to Washington's liking, there is nothing about the challenge posed by Iran that should preclude a diplomatic solution. The trick, we must realize, will be to avoid setting up roadblocks to our own success.

Rooftops-Pic copy

Jujunaz — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 19:50:07 +0000

Iranian Elections: Ahmadinejad "Wins" - Protests Begin

Jujunaz — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 12:08:33 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tKqgiN5YZaQ]

"[If] an Iranian dies, the public will not accept it," and "I will kill, who kills my brother," are just a couple of examples of the chants during protests in Tehran on Saturday June 13th, 2009 aimed at Iran's election results.

Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has won a "decisive victory" in Iran's presidential election. Mousavi however is protesting the results and claiming that voting fraud has occured. He's also promised to resist a "dangerous manipulation" of the balloting.

"I'm warning that I won't surrender to this manipulation," Mousavi said in a statement. Calling the results "treason to the votes of the people," and that Iranians would not "respect those who take power through fraud."

In addition to the intended halt in technology-based communication methods (i.e. text messages, phone calls, et. al.) electricity is said to "go out" as well.

Click here for another video.

ap2 copy

Jujunaz — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 18:28:13 +0000

Iranian Election Uproar: Mousavi Arrested

Jujunaz — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 18:29:31 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_vZLMJxDras]

Mousavi was arrested on his way to see Khamenei, who some sources are saying has issued a statement claiming that the "coup" is being lead by him to "save" the Islamic Government. UPDATE: The Washington Post says: "A senior official in Mousavi's campaign said reports that Mousavi was under house arrest were false."

"Iran's Election Commission, [has] called the [results] fraud and [is] calling for [a] new election. They pointed to the suspension of text messaging Thursday night and the disruption of phone service for the campaigns and others, and ballot shortages. Ahmadinejad's campaign is rejecting the claim of fraud and dismissed the committee as pro-Mousavi."

Click on the links below for more videos from the demonstrations:

Video 1

Video 2

Video 3

Iran Election Outcome: Iranian-Americans Protest in DC - "Where's my vote?"

Jujunaz — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 20:57:34 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3166" align="aligncenter" width="450" caption="Iranian-Americans gather in front of the Iranian Interest Section in Washington, DC"][/caption]

While Iranians around the world are protesting in solidarity with their compatriots in Iran, Iranian-Americans in Washington, DC show their support by protesting in front of the Iranian Interest Section on Wisconsin Ave in NW.

Meanwhile Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton said the U.S. hopes the outcome of the election reflects the "genuine will and desire" of the Iranian people. Also keeping a close eye on the alleged irregularities in the tallying of votes is the U.S. administration, said White House press secretary Robert Gibbs.

"At a joint appearance with Clinton, Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Lawrence Cannon said his country was 'deeply concerned' by reports of irregularities in the election."

dc

Jujunaz — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 21:00:00 +0000

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Jujunaz — Sun, 14 Jun 2009 17:40:45 +0000

Iranian Election Coverage: CNN vs. Twitter

Jujunaz — Sun, 14 Jun 2009 17:41:14 +0000

On the second day of protesting the legitimacy of Iran's elections, CNET's Daniel Terdiman writes: "Even as Twitter became the best source for rapid-fire news developments from the front lines of the riots in Tehran, a growing number of users of the microblogging service were incredulous at the near total lack of coverage of the story on CNN, a network that cut its teeth with on-the-spot reporting from the Middle East."

Click here for real-time tweets about the Iranian Election.

For most of Saturday, CNN.com had no stories about the massive protests on behalf of Mir Hossein Mousavi, who was reported by the Iranian government to have lost to the sitting president, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. The widespread street clashes--nearly unheard of in the tightly controlled Iran--reflected popular belief that the election had been rigged, a sentiment that was even echoed, to some extent, by the U.S. government Saturday.

Yet even as word of the urban strife, seemingly led by those posting to Twitter, spread next around the world on news networks like the BBC, NPR, and the Times, CNN remained mostly mute. Even when the network's Internet site finally posted a story late Saturday, the network's first "story highlight" was, "Ahmadinejad plans rally after winning second presidential term."

Increasingly, Twitter has become the go-to source for breaking news about any kind of notable event, be it an earthquake, terrorist attacks in Mumbai, or post-election riots in Tehran. Yet many Twitter users found CNN's lack of attention to what could end up being one of the biggest stories in years appalling.

Click here to read this article in its entirety.

Video: Iranian-Americans Protest in Washington, DC

Jujunaz — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 13:32:18 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U1LL8M6zTQM] Click here to watch a video of a Tehran University dorm destroyed by the violent backlash to student protesters. Click here for another video of the TU dorms.

Headlines: Iran in the News

Jujunaz — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 14:09:04 +0000

mousavi3

Jujunaz — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 15:33:31 +0000

Iran Massive Rally: Mousavi Sighting

Jujunaz — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 15:36:54 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3215" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Image Via BBC"][/caption] Iranian presidential candidate Mir Hossein Mousavi finally makes an appearance during the rally in Tehran on Monday June 15th, 2009 attended by hundreds of thousands of Iranians. UPDATE: BBC is reporting that shots have been fired at the rally in Iran. UPDATE 2: MSNBC is now also reporting that shots have been fired, death has occured, and shows images of the wounded. UPDATE 3: Click here for a video of a young Iranian man who's been shot! Click here for a video of the rally in Tehran's Azadi (Freedom) Square. Click here for another video. And... another. [polldaddy poll=1708191]

Press Release: RALLY Monday, June 15th @ 6PM IN WASHINGTON D.C.

Jujunaz — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 18:45:12 +0000

Iranian-Americans demand of a new election - massive fraud reported in the elections in the past 24 hours. IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Sara Sarkhili 617.901.9445 Babak Talebi 202.340.0408

DC-area Iranian Americans will be rallying on Monday, June 15 at 6:00pm in front of the Iranian Interest Section at 2209 Wisconsin Ave NW in protest of the recent outcome of the Iranian elections claiming an Ahmadinejad victory. This event follows two previous rallys and a march that took place over the weekend attracting 600+ people.

The expected crowd of several hundred will be standing in solidarity with Iranians around the world in demand for the real vote of the people be counted. Iranian Americans reject the 'official' count being reported by the Iranian interior ministry and demand a full investigation of the election fraud as well as demanding a new election be held.

We ask that mainstream U.S. news outlets refrain from recognizing the 'official' results and stand with the Iranian people in demanding accurate results. Iranians have been protesting the results with massive demonstrations throughout the country which have been cracked down violently by the riot police. Various forms of communication are being restricted including mobile phones, internet, websites, social groups like facebook, and youtube which have been an important means of communication in the current situation. We ask that the voice of Iranians living here in the US be heard and reflected by the mainstream US media.

Reza Aslan: "Iran's Military Coup"

Jujunaz — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 19:17:52 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3242" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Image via CNN"][/caption]

"The Iranian election was bald-faced election fraud perpetrated by a powerful intelligence unit known as the Pasdaran," writes Dr. Reza Aslan for The Daily Beast.

During his appearance alongside Iranian-American author Afshin Molavi on Fareed Zakaria's GPS on CNN Sunday June 14, 2009, Iranian-American scholar Dr. Reza Aslan said, "Iran, believe it or not feals threatened by the united states. Afterall we literally surround Iran with american troops. We have encircled them basically."

Crediting the obama administration's new approach and tone, Aslan points out that Ahmadinejad wasn't able to use the "so-called national security pawn: 'we're under a threat' [because it just] "didn't work." Aslan went on to say, "in that regard, the Obama strategy was very sopihsiticated."

"But whats' really fascinating about this election," he continued, "is that the united states was really not an issue in any way, which again makes the ahmadinejad victory that much more unbelievable, because he certainly could not rely on the economy which by all accounts has been a complete disaster."

Video: Girl Shot at Iran Rally

Jujunaz — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 22:05:11 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=inEpnZIYVAQ] This video was just sent to us and it's just so disturbing. Click here for a video of "Baseej shooting into crowd with AK47 from a rooftop."

tehranprotest

Jujunaz — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 22:36:40 +0000

Hundreds of thousands of Iranians gather at Azadi Square in support of Mousavi

Obama's Reaction to Iranian Election: "Iranian voices should be heard and respected"

Jujunaz — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 23:05:54 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3258" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Hundreds of thousands of Iranians gather @ Azadi Square in Tehran -- Image via AFP"][/caption]

Finally reacting to the Iranian election aftermath, President Obama said, "obviously all of us have been watching the news from Iran and I want to start off by being very clear that it's up to Iranians to make decisions about who Iran's leaders will be... we respect Iranian sovereignty and want to avoid the United States being the issue inside of Iran - which sometimes the US can be a handy political football - having said all that, I'm deeply troubled by the violence that I'm seeing on television."

Addressing the Iranian nation's 70 million people President Obama said, "I think that the democratic process, free speech, the ability of people to peacefully dissent - all those are universal values and need to be respected. And whenever I see violence perpetrated on people who are peacefully dissenting, and whenever the American people see that, I think they're rightfully troubled - my understanding is that the Iranian government says that they're going to look into irregularities that have taken place, we weren't on the ground we did not have observers there, we did not have international observers on hand so I can't state definitively one way or another what happened with respect to the election but what I can say is that there appears to be a sense on the part of people that were so hopeful, and so engaged and so committed to decomracy who now feel betrayed and I think it's important that moving forward whatever investigation take place are done in a way that is not resulting in bloodshed."

Going into futher detail President Obama mentioned that, "the world is watching and inpired by [the Iranians'] participiation [in the electoral process] regardless of what the ultimate outcome of the election was, and they should know that the world is watching ."

His specific message to the Iranian youth, "we do not want to make any decisions for the Iranians but we do believe the Iranian people and their voices should be heard and respected."

dc-protest

Jujunaz — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 13:13:37 +0000

Iran Election: Iranian-Americans Stand United in Showing Support

Jujunaz — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 13:14:44 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3279" align="aligncenter" width="490" caption="Iranian-Americans rally in DC - Photos by: Imants Mohseni"][/caption]

By Soraya Cochran

Iranian unity is alive!

While the Iranian people continue to deal with the turmoil following the recent Iranian election, a concerned group of Iranian-Americans (and some non-Iranians) gathered for the second day in a row on Monday June 15, 2009 at the Iranian Interest Section in Washington, DC to show their support for their fellow countrymen and women. "Iranians from around the world are standing shoulder to shoulder in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Iran asking for a new vote, the release of all prisoners, opening of all communication, and a national investigation into the election fraud," said rally organizer Babak Talebi.

Green-clad Iranian-Americans carried slogan-filled posters, wore red-stained shirts replicating the bloodied shirts of their hamvatans (compatriots), and held up peace signs. One poster said, "we reject the current results and demand re-election" and asked mainstream media to "refrain from recognizing official results, stand with Iranians in demanding their true votes."

Iranians living outside of Iran have been peacefully protesting around the globe to show their support on multiple platforms: some on the streets of major cities around the world, i.e. Paris, London, Los Angeles, New York, Rome, Stockholm, et. al., while others have been dedicated and sleepless cyber-soldiers working around the clock to spread information, pictures, videos, and witness accounts of on-the-ground happenings coming in from Iran. Iranians' collective virtual activism has been the livelihood of major media outlets' coverage. In fact, CNN has been following and getting their Iran reportage not only from renowned Iranian journalist Christiane Amanpour, but from the passionate cyber activists that have been updating their Twitter and Facebook statuses every minute. (One Facebook user even complained of getting warning messages from Facebook that their account would be shut down if they didn't lessen their use.)

As President Obama phrased it, "the violence that has taken place" has also brought out the show of solidarity from non-Iranians as well. People who value freedom and are heartbroken over the disturbing images/videos that have made their way to us via a globalized and connected Earth, have been changing their Facebook and Twitter profile pictures to green (the Mousavi campaign's trademark color, and perhaps now also the color of support for a free Iran and the physically battered young generation). In a show of distaste for the inhumane way that the people have been treated for expressing their opinion(s) some supporters have even been guiding Iranians break Iranian government enforced internet filters and helping them get online via international hosts.

Welcome to the cyber-revolution... Viva Iran. Viva humanity. Viva freedom.

If YOU want to stand united with Iranians, tint your profile picture green or copy the image below and use it to change your your profile picture, make stickers, t-shirts, or just wear green.

Iranian Election Recap: Christiane Amanpour Reports from Tehran

Jujunaz — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 14:02:45 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2zktmKVjItA]

Watch Christiane Amanpour's Iranian election aftermath recap shown on CNN from June 13th, 2009.

Click here to watch a video of Iranian doctors and nurses protesting outside a hospital in Tehran. One nurse holds a sign that reads, "28 shot, 8 dead".

Headlines: Iran in the News

Jujunaz — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:28:33 +0000

**Click here for Guardian reporter Matthew Weaver's Live Blog on Iran

iran

Jujunaz — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 21:13:52 +0000

Trita Parsi: Who's Fighting Who?

Jujunaz — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 21:14:13 +0000

By Dr. Trita Parsi

We're told that a young and restless Facebook generation has arisen in Iran, text-messaging and [Tweeting] away at the fabric of a conservative clerical rule that it is no longer willing to accept

Ranged against it are the dogged defenders of a decrepit regime that has outlived its purpose, surviving only through brute force and its ability to convince the unsophisticated, mostly rural poor folk in their ragged suits and black chadors that President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is their champion against corrupt politicians and the treacherous intellectuals and amoral rich kids who support them.

Obviously these are stereotypes — and highly misleading ones at that. The schism in Iran is not reducible to social class, ethnicity, region or generation. A simple glance at the crowds over the past week reveals women in black chadors on both sides of the divide, and women in makeup too. Many kids whose parents were poor have themselves managed to get university degrees as a result of the revolution's largesse — Ahmadinejad may be a populist, and he may emphasize his humble origins, but he's proud of his Ph.D. (His supporters call him "the Doctor.") And many children of rural poverty who are now educated and living in the cities, though still of limited means, don't necessarily share the outlook of their parents. Absent a proper tabulation of the actual vote on June 12, we'll never know the exact distribution of political support to each candidate across the regions, social classes and age groups. But even in the rallies in support of the candidates before and after the election, it's plain that the country can't be neatly divided along the lines of those categories.

Ahmadinejad clearly has a political base. He may have won votes from as many as 10 million people motivated by alienation from the political establishment and a belief that they have been cut out of the spoils of the Islamic revolution. The President has assiduously courted these constituencies by recklessly throwing money at them through unvetted infrastructure projects and social spending. Some government employees have doubled their income on Ahmadinejad's watch. And, of course, many Iranians are so resentful that they've enjoyed Ahmadinejad's naming and shaming of members of the political establishment he accuses of corruption. Many feel that most of the leaders of the Islamic Republic have betrayed the revolution that propelled them to power and made it harder for its foot soldiers to get ahead. In opposition candidate Mir-Hossein Mousavi, Ahmadinejad's supporters see the epitome of the parasitic political class the President has railed against.

But Mousavi's support ranges from the urban middle class, students and the intellectuals who previously brought the reform movement to power to many people of humble backgrounds, for whom Ahmadinejad's triumphalist economic claims simply don't ring true. They know the economy has gotten worse on his watch because they have been the most vulnerable to its downturn. Ahmadinejad may go on TV and cite statistics to prove that things are getting better, but they're the ones who are unable to marry because they can never afford to get their own homes. So there's no easy demographic breakdown between the two sides.

What's often forgotten amid the genuinely awe-inspiring spectacle of hundreds of thousands of long-suppressed people risking their lives on the streets to demand change is the fact that the political contest playing out in the election is, in fact, among rival factions of the same regime. Ahmadinejad represents a conservative element, backed by the Supreme Leader, that believes the established political class has hijacked the revolution and enriched themselves and is fearful that the faction's more pragmatic inclination toward engagement with the West could lead to a normalization of relations that will "pollute" Iran's culture and weaken the regime. Mousavi is not really a reformer so much as a pragmatic, moderate conservative who has campaigned with the backing of the reform movement because it recognizes that he has a better chance of unseating Ahmadinejad than one of their own would have. (The reformists' own economic performance, during their eight years in power from 1997 to 2005, unfortunately also left much to be desired, and was a key reason for Ahmadinejad's election to the presidency.)

Source: Time.com

ghalamnews

Jujunaz — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 21:35:21 +0000

Glenn Greenwald: The "Bomb Iran" Contingent's Newfound Concern for the Iranian People

Jujunaz — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 21:41:14 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3313" align="aligncenter" width="435" caption="Image via Ghalam News"][/caption] By Glenn Greenwald

I'm going to leave the debate about whether Iran's election was "stolen" and the domestic implications within Iran to people who actually know what they're talking about (which is a very small subset of the class purporting to possess such knowledge). But there is one point I want to make about the vocal and dramatic expressions of solidarity with Iranians issuing from some quarters in the U.S.

Much of the same faction now claiming such concern for the welfare of The Iranian People are the same people who have long been advocating a military attack on Iran and the dropping of large numbers of bombs on their country -- actions which would result in the slaughter of many of those very same Iranian People. During the presidential campaign, John McCain infamously sang about Bomb, Bomb, Bomb-ing Iran. The Wall St. Journal published a war screed from Commentary's Norman Podhoretz entitled "The Case for Bombing Iran," and following that, Podhoretz said in an interview that he "hopes and prays" that the U.S. "bombs the Iranians." John Bolton and Joe Lieberman advocated the same bombing campaign, while Bill Kristol -- with typical prescience -- hopefully suggested that Bush might bomb Iran if Obama were elected. Rudy Giuliani actually said he would be open to a first-strike nuclear attack on Iran in order to stop their nuclear program.

Imagine how many of the people protesting this week would be dead if any of these bombing advocates had their way -- just as those who paraded around (and still parade around) under the banner of Liberating the Iraqi People caused the deaths of hundreds of thousands of them, at least. Hopefully, one of the principal benefits of the turmoil in Iran is that it humanizes whoever the latest Enemy is. Advocating a so-called "attack on Iran" or "bombing Iran" in fact means slaughtering huge numbers of the very same people who are on the streets of Tehran inspiring so many -- obliterating their homes and workplaces, destroying their communities, shattering the infrastructure of their society and their lives. The same is true every time we start mulling the prospect of attacking and bombing another country as though it's some abstract decision in a video game.

Source: Salon.com

jonstewart

Jujunaz — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 22:23:37 +0000

Iran Bound: Jon Stewart's "The Daily Show"

Jujunaz — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 22:24:22 +0000

Jon Stewart's Daily Show is set to air a segment next Monday June 22nd, 2009 where one of his show regulars: Jason Jones "will venture into Iran to 'search for human decency in a nation most commonly know for hating western civilization' in Jason Jones in Iran: Access of Evil," writes Perez Hilton.

The week long segment will feature Jones and producer Tim Greenberg visiting destinatations throughout the Republic. Including Tehran, Qom and the Imam Mosque in Esfahan.

The Daily Show duo will attend a speech given by President Ahmadinejad, along with speaking to a cross-section of Iranian society including a Zoroastrian priest, an Iranian family, an underground rapper, a feminist blogger, former Vice President of the [Islamic Republic], cleric: Hojjatoleslam Mohammad Ali Abtahi and former Foreign Minister and aide to Ayatollah Khomeini, Dr. Ebrahim Yazdi.

Source: Perezhilton.com

World Cup Qualifier Iran VS. S. Korea: Iranian Soccer Team Goes Green

Jujunaz — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:44:28 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3329" align="aligncenter" width="450" caption="L-R, Javad Nekounam, Ali Karimi -- Image via FSC"][/caption]

Iran vs. South Korea: Players of the Iranian national soccer team (Team Melli): Kaebi, Mahdavikia, Nekounam, Aghili, and Karimi wear green wrist and arm bands in solidarity with the color du jour symbolizing support for the upheaval in their homeland due to the outcome of the Iranian election.

8:51 AM EST - It's over. The game ends in a tie: 1-1

8:38 AM EST - WTF! South Korea scores. Score: 1-1

8:08 AM EST - Shojaie scores the first goal! Score: 1-0

7:43 AM EST - Score: 0-0

sabaz-soccer

Jujunaz — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:48:31 +0000

esfehan

Jujunaz — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 13:59:42 +0000

Meir Javedanfar: Iranian Elections Reflect Ambitions of the Supreme Leader

Jujunaz — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 14:03:33 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3363" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Naghsh e Jahan Sq. - Esfehaan, Iran"][/caption]

By Meir Javedanfar

"Ensuring that Ahmadinejad continues as president and that a coalition of powerful figures and reformers does not gain power is an overwhelming concern for the Supreme Leader, which may explain his actions surrounding Iran’s most controversial elections to date."

The recent presidential elections in Iran have proven to be the most controversial since the start of the revolution. With demonstrators taking to the streets of Tehran, many are seeking to understand the cause of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s controversial victory. To find the answer, we must look at the short- and long-term aspirations of Iran’s most powerful man, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei.

Since becoming Supreme Leader of Iran in 1989, Khamenei has maintained cohesion amongst different political factions through a system of checks and balances. Almost like a trapeze artist, he has survived domestic challenges and threats of foreign-backed regime change by giving each major political faction a say in a different part of the system. For example, as means of keeping the conservatives happy when the reformists won the elections in 1997 and 2001, he allowed the conservatives to run the judiciary and the media. To maintain cohesiveness when the conservatives retook power through Ahmadinejad’s election in 2005, he allowed the president’s chief opponent, Ayatollah Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, to run the Assembly of Experts as well the Expediency Council.

When Khamenei wanted to divest power from a group in the past, he did it in a very gradual manner. A chief example is his goal to wrestle political and economic power away from the clergy and hand it to non-religious conservatives, whom he views as being more loyal and capable of running the country. Since 2001, he has been carrying out this process, slowly and meticulously.

However, his support for Ahmadinejad before and after the elections, together with what many believe to be overwhelming election fraud that he has sanctioned, is almost out of character for Khamenei. Such moves are very sudden and extreme, unlike the punctilious way in which he has maneuvered around important issues and decisions in the past. They are also very provocative, not just for supporters of reformists, but because they are clearly efforts to isolate other powerful figures. These leaders include Rafsanjani and Karroubi, both of whom have vast business connections and are politically well-connected.

One possible reason for Khamenei’s recent decision is that he realized that unless he intervened, the reformists would win the elections. What concerned the Supreme Leader even more is the fact that the clergy, both right and left, were turning against the president, and ultimately, against him. Recently, for instance, the Society For Combatant Clergies, a powerful conservative group belonging to the clergy in Qom, decided “not to support any candidate in the presidential elections.” This was a politically correct way of saying that they would not support Ahmadinejad. As someone who has supported Ahmadinejad throughout his career, Khamenei took their decision as a rebuff against his own political ambitions.

A victory by the reformists, in cooperation with the clergy and Rafsanjani, would have created a powerful front against Khamenei. Instead of being loyalist soldiers like Ahmadinejad, they would have challenged his views in important areas, such as dealing with the United States. With Khamenei already viewing Obama’s positive overtures as a threat, any more internal dissent would have boosted Washington’s position against Iran in the negotiations.

There is also the question of Khamenei’s succession. In Iran, the choice for president is not the most important political decision; the choice for the next Supreme Leader is. This is a decision which according to the country’s constitution has to be made by the Assembly of Experts, an 86-member body comprised of clerics whose religious rank must be at least Hojatoelslam, if not Ayatollah. In reality, however, the choice for next Supreme Leader is one which the Assembly of Experts usually rubber stamps. This is what happened when Khamenei himself was elected to the post; the decision belonged to his predecessor, Ayatollah Khomeini. Khamenei would also like to exercise this choice. Otherwise, Rafsanjani, the current head of Assembly of Experts, may make this decision. As the two have been rivals for many years, Khamenei would be right to be concerned.

A coalition of reformers and clergy, with Rafsanjani’s backing, could have challenged Khamenei’s choice for the next Supreme Leader. This concerns Khamenei not simply as a threat to his prestige, but also to his family’s welfare and political ambitions. Some analysts believe Khamenei wishes to secure his family’s well-being by appointing his son Mojtaba to replace him as Supreme Leader. Khamenei has been described as “Ali of the age” more and more in the Iranian media. This is a reference to Imam Ali, the first Shiite Imam who passed on the reigns to his son Hassan. It is very possible that the reason Khamenei is being referred to as the current version of Imam Ali is to prepare the ground for him to pass on power in the same manner.

Even if Mojtaba, who is considered a shrewd behind-the-scenes political operator, is not appointed, Khamenei will still want someone who will protect his family’s business and political interests. Otherwise, they may end up isolated like Khomeini’s family.

Ensuring that Ahmadinejad continues as president and that a coalition of powerful figures and reformers does not gain power is an overwhelming concern for the Supreme Leader, which may explain his actions surrounding Iran’s most controversial elections to date.

Source: Mideastprogress.org

iran-girl

Jujunaz — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 15:55:59 +0000

Press Release: NIAC Condemns Post-Election Violence

Jujunaz — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 15:57:09 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3369" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Original Photo Credit: OLIVIER LABAN-MATTEI/AFP/Getty Images)"][/caption] Human Rights of the Iranian people must be upheld. For Immediate Release Contact: Goli Fassihian Tel: (202) 215 0998

The National Iranian American Council condemns the Iranian government's use of violence against demonstrators in Tehran and cities across Iran. "We condemn the violations of the human rights of the Iranian people," said NIAC President Trita Parsi. "The people's right to freedom of expression must always be respected."

The violence ensued after elections widely perceived to have been either rigged or stolen. Credible reports and footage from Iran have shown security forces using brutal and sometimes lethal force to break up demonstrations across the country.

The Iranian government is obligated under international law to respect the civil and political rights of its people under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

"We unequivocally demand that violence against protesters be immediately halted," said Dokhi Fassihian, member of NIAC's board of directors.

*** For more from NIAC, check out their LiveBlog coverage.

Video: Struggle Within Iranian Elite

Jujunaz — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 18:48:28 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCF3d-8AAtU]

Video: Silent Opposition Rally in Tehran - June 17th, 2009

Jujunaz — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 19:51:36 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CLo_6Qp1eTk] Click here for another video from the silent rally. And... another.

Video: Day 7 - Million Plus Demonstration in Tehran

Jujunaz — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 19:03:44 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cgXGP2zrTFg]

Headlines: Iran in the News

Jujunaz — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 13:15:46 +0000

mass_demonstration79

Jujunaz — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 18:01:32 +0000

Mass demonstration in Iran - 1979 --- (Image via Marxist.com)

Reza Aslan: Spirit of '79 in Iran

Jujunaz — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 18:02:46 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3411" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Mass Domenstration in Iran (circa 1979) - Image via Marxist.com"][/caption]

By Dr. Reza Aslan - Time

For those of us who lived through the Iranian revolution, which toppled the government of the Shah and paved the way for the creation of the Islamic republic in 1979, there is a dreamlike familiarity to the massive riots roiling the streets of Tehran. I remember the seemingly spontaneous rallies that brought the country to a screeching halt. The young, fearless protesters daring the security forces to make them martyrs in the cause of freedom. The late-night call-and-response of Allahu akbar (God is great!) echoing from rooftop to rooftop. The strange confederacies between young students and elderly clerics, military men and intelligentsia, conservatives and reformists, all united by a common cause.

Never in the 30 years since that revolution has Iran experienced anything like the popular protests that we have seen in the past week. By now, the accusations of election fraud are fairly well known. It is implausible that President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad won in a landslide re-election. It is doubtful that he not only took the capital city, Tehran — the heart of the reformist movement — by a staggering 50% but also managed to win in Azerbaijan, the birthplace of his chief rival, Mir-Hossein Mousavi, by a 4-to-1 margin. (As an Azeri friend of mine said, this would be akin to Senator John McCain winning the African-American vote against Barack Obama.) It seems odd that the election was called so soon after the polls had closed, despite the many millions of ballots still to be counted, most of them by hand.

The young and the middle class are not the only ones outraged by these election results. Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, perhaps the second most powerful man in Iran and certainly the richest, and former President Mohammed Khatami, by far the country's most popular statesman, have both thrown their support behind the protesters. Two of Iran's highest religious authorities, the Grand Ayatullahs Hossein Ali Montazeri and Yousof Sane'i, have issued fatwas condemning acts of election fraud. Even Ahmadinejad's conservative rival, Mohsen Rezaei, a former Revolutionary Guards commander and a far more hawkish figure than Ahmadinejad, has claimed the election was rigged.

The simplistic paradigms of "reformist vs. conservative," "secularists vs. theocrats," "young vs. old" that have colored so much of the Western media's perception of Iranian politics no longer apply. The unrest now taking place in Iran is about far more than a stolen election. It is about the future of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

I've heard some in the media compare the events in Iran with the "Tehran spring" of 1999, when hundreds of thousands of young Iranians, buoyed by the reformist policies of then President Khatami, poured onto the streets to demand greater freedoms, only to be brutally beaten back by the country's security forces. Others point to 1989 and the Tiananmen Square massacre in Beijing for a suitable historical analogy for the antigovernment demonstrations that have rocked Iran. Yet for me and millions of my fellow compatriots — both inside and outside Iran — it is the memory of 1979 that most keenly informs our perception of what's taking place in our home country. The similarities between today's protests and the events of 1979 suggest that this election represents a real turning point in Iranian history.

All of this is not to say that another revolution is afoot in Iran. The Iranian regime, despite all its multiple and often competing poles of power, is far too entrenched to be so easily dislodged. Still, whatever happens, whoever ends up leading the country, however this crisis of legitimacy is resolved, one thing is certain: Iran will never again be the same. For better or worse, a new Iran is emerging. Whether it will be more isolationist and militaristic or more accommodating and democratic remains to be seen.

Reza Aslan is the author of, most recently, How to Win a Cosmic War: God, Globalization, and the End of the War on Terror

Source: Time.com.

Biyaa: New Abeez Song in Support of Unity

Jujunaz — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 21:49:57 +0000

Our favorite Persian-princesses delight again! Click here to listen to Abeez's newest song -- created in support of unity -- the super-cool Persian-reggae-lounge jam : Biyaa (Come)

BIYAA-small

Jujunaz — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 22:28:10 +0000

Video Poetry: Where is this?

Jujunaz — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 22:53:11 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2oM6l9PO6Yo] Read the translatation below: It's Friday 29th of Khordaad 1388 (June 19, 2009), tomorrow is Saturday - tomorrow is a destiny-building day Tonight the sounds of Allah-o-Akbar (God is great) are being heard louder than the previous nights Where is this? Where is this... that all [the doors] have been closed to it? Where is this? Where is this that people are only calling God? Where is this that sounds of its Allah-o-Akbar get louder and louder everynight? Every day I wait to see if the sound of "allah-o-akbar" gets louder or not My body shakes I don't know if god shakes too Where is this that we've been caught [in such a vulnerable state]? Where is this that no one is supporting us? Where is this that we are now sending our voices to the world through our silence? Where is this that the blood of its young is split and people go and pray on the street They stand on that same blood and pray Where is this that [inaudible] Where is this? You want me to tell you? [This is] Iran. It's my homeland and yours [This is] Iran.

Song for Iranian People: Hamed Nikpay - "The Owner of this Land"

Jujunaz — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 03:51:59 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HqONCJoADtQ]

unity3

Jujunaz — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 12:44:01 +0000

Op-Ed: Letter to the People of Iran - "Stay Safe, Stay Strong, and Take Care my Friend"

Jujunaz — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 12:45:40 +0000

By Persianesque.com reader

My dear Iranian friend, I hope you are safe as you read this [letter].

Although the communication from inside Iran has been constrained by the [leaders of your country]. Some brave and clever people have managed to send us some news about the happenings in Iran. Although the news, photos, and vidoes we receive are limited, the entire world is witnessing the attacks of the Basij, the bravery of the young men and women, the marches and protests. Since you may not have news from the outside world (censored by your government) I am writing this note to you to let you know… that: most nations and leaders around the world are worried about your situation. People all over the world support the people of Iran. Major media all over the world (TV, newspapers, etc.) are all covering your news as much as they can. EVERYONE SUPPORTS YOU. The entire world is supporting you. We believe in your [movement]. We support you. We worship your courage. We celebrate your cause. We respect your religion. We adore your culture. We mourn with you in the loss of your brothers and sisters. We feel your pain. We are very concerned about your safety. We hope through all [these] struggles you will remain safe. May all this violence end immediately. May the will of the People of Iran prevail. Stay Safe, Stay Strong and take care my friend!

Today I too am an Iranian.

Video Campaign: "Today, We Are All Iranian"

Jujunaz — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 14:47:02 +0000

"Today, We Are All Iranian" - "Emrooz, maa hameh Iraani hasteem"

Click here to follow TWAAI on Twitter.

********************************************************************************

This is NOT a political campaign. This campaign is NOT affiliated with any political or national parties.

********************************************************************************

Here as global citizens interested in expressing our support for the people of Iran - regardless of their political viewpoints - via a grassroots video-campaign. The goal of this campaign is to tell Iranians that they're not alone, and that the world is watching and supporting them.

Today, We Are All Iranian is a campaign designed to show support from all over the world for this fundamental right to choose.

Want to show YOUR support?

All you need is a video-recorder, an internet connection, and some compassion.

Here's how you can participate:

1- Create a short video (1-2 minutes long) introducing yourself , what city you are recording from, and an expression of your support for the people in Iran.

2- Upload your video to YouTube and e-mail it to us at twaaicampaign@gmail.com along with your YouTube url.

3- We will add it to our YouTube channel and regularly select one video to publish on Persianesque.com.

TWAAI-Posterflag2

Jujunaz — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 17:48:40 +0000

Wyclef for Iran: Emergency Concert for the People of Iran

Jujunaz — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 16:59:40 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sDamiltM56A]

karimi

Jujunaz — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 17:39:00 +0000

Iran Bans Iranian Soccer Stars Who Wore Green Wristbands

Jujunaz — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 17:39:12 +0000

The Guardian is reportingthat Iranian soccer stars Ali Karimi, Mehdi Mahdavikia, Hosein Ka'abi, and Vahid Hashemian have been "retired" from soccer after wearing green wristbands during their world-qualifier match against South Korea last week.

"Most of the players obeyed instructions to remove the [wristbands] at half-time, but Mahdavikia wore his green captain's armband for the entire match. The four are also said to have been banned from giving media interviews.

The fate of the other two players who wore the wristbands is unknown. None of the team members were given back their passports upon returning to Tehran after the match, which ended in a 1-1 draw – a result that ended Iran's hopes of qualifying for next year's tournament.

Karimi is one of Iranian football's best-known stars, having played for the German club Bayern Munich. Ka'abi played for Leicester City for several months during the 2007/8 season. Hashemian and Mahdavikia play for the German teams Bochum and Eintracht Frankfurt."

So much for our dreams of a World Cup 2010 win for Iran.

Click here for the full article.

Rooftops of Tehran: Interview with Iranian-American Author - Mahbod Seraji

Jujunaz — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 14:21:44 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3134" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Rooftops of Tehran - By Mahbod Seraji"][/caption]

By Sanaz Khalaj-Santos

Washington, DC -- Anyone who has seen the aftermath of the Iranian election on the news or online, has been undeniably rocked to their human core by the violent backlash Iranians have received for speaking up and asking for their long-overdue freedom(s). Yet, the original party-people and poets of the world: the Iranians, have taken their rebuttal to Ahmadinejad’s statement about the people who protested the outcome of this year's Iranian election (and his “presidency”) to a new, perhaps romantic level.

“Lower than dirt... is you”, “I am the light, I am the aching lover, I am the power” are a few lines from the poem/chant - which ends with the line, “I am the owner of this land” - that was written in response to the now infamous-amongst-Iranians phrase: "Khas-o-Khaashaak".

(Click here to download Iranian musician: Hamed Nikpay's song-version of the people's rebuttal: "Malek-e in Khak" - "Owner of this Land".)

As widely reported, Iranians have resorted to their rooftops – a place where some middle-class Iranian families used to spend quality time enjoying the night sky and stargazing during the summer - in an attempt to be heard while crying out to God every night. “Allah-o-Akbar” (Arabic for God is greatest) is the verbiage heard in Tehran, nightly.

Feeling trapped in one's homeland is not something most people would choose for themselves, as a way to live, but oddly enough… this is not the first time this has happened in Iran, and to Iranians.

Mahbod Seraji’s debut novel: Rooftops of Tehran is a crucial read for people who are looking to understand the aftereffects of this type of movement in a country that was once the largest empire in the world. Seraji’s insightful look into the climate of 1970’s Iran, and the 1979 revolution, is real and penetrating, which now makes this book important, timely, and enlightening.

Rooftops of Tehran is a story about love, passion, life, and the struggles of young man who has to grow up fast due to a looming revolution that ultimately alters his life forever, as it has for Iranians around the world. If you’re looking for a good book to help calm your emotions about the current situation in Iran, Rooftops of Tehran is the novel for you!

Enjoy our interview with Iranian-American author whose delicate and piercing approach to writing and Iran, will send you in a dazed world of emotions and thoughts: compassion, reality, love, guilt, history, and dream... all at the same time.

****

Pe: Where were you born? MS: I was born in Bandar Anzly/Pahlavi in Iran in 1956

Where do you currently live? In the San Francisco Bay area

What is your academic background? I have a BS in Civil Engineering, an MA in Communications (Broadcasting and Film) and a Ph.D. in Instructional Design and Technology – all from the University of Iowa – Go Hawks!

What was the inspiration for this book? The inspiration for the book came from childhood memories, and people who either by direct association or through their lives had a profound impact on me. For example I didn’t know Khosrow Golesorkhi personally but his trial touched me deeply as a teenager. So he’s in the story. Although I have changed his trial date to suit the narrative – I’ve also given fictional names to neighborhoods, villages, alleys, etc., like Kolahdasht – I don’t think there is a village in Iran called Kolahdast, is there? By the way, many of the characters in the story would recognize themselves if they read the book – although I have to emphasize that this is primarily a work of fiction and not a memoir.

How long did it take you from start-to-finish to write Rooftops of Tehran? It took a little over 3 years. I think I started writing the story at the end of 2000 or beginning of 2001 and finished the submission version at the tail end of 2003 or beginning of 2004.

What audience is this book intended for? Rooftops of Tehran is intended for anyone interested in Iran and its culture, traditions, and politics. It’s also a touching love story. We’re unfortunately living in an era when Iran is portrayed and regarded as the enemy. And my intention was to tell a story of friendship, love, humor and hope. Universal experiences cherished by people of all cultures, religious background and political inclinations. I wanted to show a side of Iran that seems to have been pushed into oblivion: its funny, wonderful, warm, hospitable people. I wanted to show that despite our vast cultural differences, we're all humans regardless of our countries of origin.

When was the last time you were in Iran ? The last time I visited Iran was March of 2009. My father lived there until just recently and I helped him move here to the United States – hopefully, permanently now.

Your book is a novel, not a memoir, but with such vivid detail, is it safe to assume that you have used some personal experiences as inspiration? Absolutely. And that’s a great observation in your part. The story is based on highly fictionalized personal experiences.

In 1970’s Iran , lots of changes took place. Do you think people are still sleeping on rooftops in Tehran today? No way. I think Iran has become a much more closed society since the revolution. On one of my visits back, I went to the old neighborhood to see my best friend Ahmed. When I told him I wanted to go on the roof, he chuckled. He said he couldn’t remember the last time he was up there. Anyway while on the rooftop, I noticed that the people who had moved into our old house had covered the yard with some sort of vinyl type material. You couldn’t see inside the yard because it was totally covered. It was the strangest thing. I doubt sunlight could creep through, and my old house looked so dark and depressing. I guess they do that to ensure privacy for the female members of the family who may be in the yard without head-covers!

Why is it important that there is literature on Iran besides topics that revolve around the Hostage Crisis? For many good reasons. First of all that’s a part of our history that shouldn’t be forgotten. Unfortunately, many people don’t remember the secular Iran. They don’t remember that we weren’t socially repressed under the Shah, just politically. I also think by concentrating only on one point in our history such as the hostage crisis, we perpetuate the negative stereotypes of Iran and Iranians. This is like saying anything written about Japan should be centered around one single political or historical event such as the Pearl Harbor bombing… nothing else matters! I don’t think that’s right!

Why do you believe the Iranian-American voice is important? I guess that’s what democracy and freedom is about. I have the right to express myself, and shame on me if I don’t, especially when I have the opportunity, the tools, and the platform to do it. In recent years the Iranian – American voice has been heard loudly around the globe. We have great Iranian scholars, writers, scientists, artists - - I’m personally very proud of that heritage.

How would you describe your book? I think as some reviewers have pointed out Rooftops is a historical and political novel about a critical moment in Iran’s past. Many of my American readers have commented that it’s full of vivid cultural descriptions that are fun to learn about. I think beyond all that it’s also a story of hope and the indomitability of the human spirit and the universality of humanity and human experiences. In Rooftops of Tehran I’m suggesting that as human beings we are not that different from one another. Or as one of my readers wrote to me in a wonderful email “it’s exactly those differences that make us all, One!”

What is your favorite destination in Iran? Northern part of Iran by the Caspian Sea area. I have traveled to many countries around the world for work or on vacation and Iran’s Northern provinces are some of the most stunning on this planet.

What has your general audience response been? The reviews have been great. I haven’t seen any sales numbers yet since the book came out less than two weeks ago. But I’m keeping my fingers crossed. But I’ve also received some very kind emails from some of my readers.

Do you plan on translating your book into Farsi? Oh, there is a great story here worthy of a book. I tried. As you know there are no copyright laws in Iran. So literary work developed outside the country can get easily translated into Persian without the permission or involvement of the author or the original publishing company. But you also face incredibly interesting challenges as you deal with the Ministry of Ershad (The Ministry of Guidance) who heavily censors anything that is not consistent with this government’s definition of moral values, e.g., a boy and a girl holding hands, drinking beer, cussing. I learned that even making fun of the teachers or the clergy can be a challenge in getting your book published. My book has lots of those kinds of scenes. So, at this point, things are in the air. We’ll have to wait and see. Would you like to return to Iran someday? Why? I love Iran – Yes, probably for visits but not to stay there forever. I have been living in the States for over thirty-three years now – The logistics of uprooting my entire life at this stage can be a bit challenging. Are you working on another book/project currently? Yes, I’m about 250 pages into my second book. It’s called, at least for now, Squawk of the Crows, but that’s probably going to change! How does your book differ from other books written by Iranian-Americans about their view of Iran ? I think most of the recent literature has covered the Iran of post revolution. The Blood of Flowers by Anita Amirrezvani (a lovely novel) focused on the 17th century Persia. So I think Rooftops of Tehran is a bit different in the sense that the story covers the Shah’s era. And again the focus here is on the brighter side of our culture and ways of life. I also think that most of the literary fiction work that has been published by the main stream publishers has been written by extremely talented female writers. The male voice has been noticeably less prominent. I think it’d be great to have both. What advice do you have to give aspiring Persian writers? Writing is hard and writers live a hectically lonely existence – it’s many hours behind the computer alone. You got to get used to do that and be okay with it. You have to love to write. And then you must be open to others’ feedback. Be flexible, listen and use the criticism to improve your work. Set your ego aside and don’t assume that you know best. If others see flaws in your work, there are probably flaws in your work – so don’t dig in your heels – you only hurt yourself and your career. It takes a lot of people to publish a book – and all of them have to love what they’re publishing! How can people stay up to date on your work? Visit mahbodseraji.com and people can send me emails on that site. Or through my agents Danielle Egan-Miller and Joanna McKenzie at: Browne & Miller Literary Associates.

Video: Montage of Zahra Rahnavard's Artwork

Jujunaz — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 15:58:55 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-RiIJ61bB0]

Today We Are All Iranian Campaign

Jujunaz — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 16:18:16 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=un6sVomPVg4] Check out this video made for the "Today We Are All Iranian Campaign" in solidarity and support of the people in Iran. Speak up! Get involved. Make your own short-videos and let the Iranian people know that they are not alone, and that the world is watching. Click here for details.

Stand By Me: Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora, and Andy Sing for Iranian People!

Jujunaz — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 14:47:31 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EW6zJ3B-uos]

You MUST check out this video and watch Bon Jovi show his support for the people of Iran by singing parts of the song 'Stand By Me' in Persian, along with bandmate Richie Sambora and Andy!

It's so nice to see people stand up for one another and... stand by one another when it counts the most!!

Bon Jovi's lyrics in Farsi are:

dast beh dast (hand in hand)

hamsedaa (sharing a voice)

to baa man hamvatan (you and I are compatriots)

dardeh to (your pain)

dardeh man (my pain)

ba man bassh (stand by me)

iran-time

Jujunaz — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 01:10:53 +0000

Press Release - Iran vs. Iran: A Public Conversation

Jujunaz — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 01:21:35 +0000

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="400" caption="Time Cover - June 2009"][/caption]

Weigh in, tell us what you think about the momentous events taking place.

We have all been following the extraordinary events in Iran with rapt attention, and we are all keen to show our support for the people of Iran in the most visible manner possible. It has become clear that the protracted conflict between voters and the regime will continue and no one knows the outcome. However, the people of Iran need to know that the world is watching.

This is a forum for dialogue among those of us who are in support of freedom and human rights in Iran. To begin posting, create a log-in identity by going to the upper-right-hand corner of our site.

When you sign up with your name and email address, you'll be able to access more content as well as begin posting to a vibrant and diverse community that shares your interest in the Middle East.

And save the date of July 1st, when we’ll host a public forum at Levantine Cultural Center, featuring special guest speakers, including artist and activist Amitis Motavalli, who just returned from Tehran, and historian/author Mark LeVine, whose latest book is Heavy Metal Islam:Rock, Revolution and the Struggle for the Soul of Islam.

Levantine Cultural Center 5998 W. Pico blvd Los Angeles, CA, 90035 7:30-9:30 pm 310-657-5511

Click here for more info.

kim-kardashian

Jujunaz — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 01:54:00 +0000

Unity: Kim Kardashian Supports Iranian People

Jujunaz — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 01:56:19 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3532" align="aligncenter" width="415" caption="Image via KimKardashian.com"][/caption]

While most American celebrities could care less to vocalize any support for the current condition of the Iranian people, Kim Kardashian steps up to show her support for the people of Iran.

"I admire the Iranian people for fighting for their freedoms," writes Kardashian on her official site.

The beautiful 'Keeping Up with the Kardashians' star who received an email from an Iranian-American fan, Shima, about "what's going on in Iran", says, "As an Armenian-American, I definitely feel this is something that should be addressed."

"If you've seen any of the shocking videos online of the police violence against the protesters (I've seen pics but I can't bring myself to watch the videos) you've seen how the Iranian people are protesting for what they believe in, fighting for their freedoms and being brutally punished and attacked for it by police. This kind of violence against innocent civilians is sickening. "

"I just hope the people or Iran will some day soon have the right to [enjoy the freedoms Americans do]," quips the curvacious Kardashian.

Now if only others would follow her lead!

Freedom Glory Project: "Freedom, Glory, Be Our Name"

Jujunaz — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:01:31 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BrsSt0i5vTE]

You MUST watch this just-released video featuring Raam of HYPERNOVA along with a few other artists whose collaboration has left us speechless.

This song was written by Johnny B and performed by: Johnny B (Lead Vocals/Guitar) Ali Eskandarian (Lead Vocals/Guitar) Raam (Lead Vocals) Esfand (Daf/Vocals) Doug Wright (Bass) Shamloo poetry read by Shoja Azari Chorus: Arooj, Roja, Ana, Pooya, Andre Produced By: Freedon Glory Project and Andre Fratto Engineered by Amos Halfi Recorded at Skyline studio Video: shot, edited and directed by Nariman.

Solidarity: U2 Shows Support for Iranian People

Jujunaz — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 19:44:15 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PR8d1qM-GqE]

Philanthro-artists, the legendary musicians known as U2 show their support for the Iranian people at a concert on July 2nd, 2009 in Barcelona, Spain while singing their song: Sunday Bloody Sunday.

Flashing the now-symbolic color of green in solidarity with the Iranian movement, U2 even shares some words (or perhaps a poem) in Farsi with the world and Iranians, on their cylindrical screen on stage.

And to Bono and his bandmates we can only say: You Rock!

Sunday Bloody Sunday lyrics:

I cant believe the news today Oh, I cant close my eyes and make it go away How long... How long must we sing this song? How long? how long... cause tonight...we can be as one Tonight... Broken bottles under childrens feet Bodies strewn across the dead end street But I wont heed the battle call It puts my back up Puts my back up against the wall Sunday, bloody sunday Sunday, bloody sunday Sunday, bloody sunday (sunday bloody sunday...) (allright lets go!) And the battles just begun Theres many lost, but tell me who has won The trench is dug within our hearts And mothers, children, brothers, sisters torn apart Sunday, bloody sunday Sunday, bloody sunday How long... How long must we sing this song? How long? how long... cause tonight...we can be as one Tonight... Tonight... Sunday, bloody sunday (tonight) Tonight Sunday, bloody sunday (tonight) (come get some!) Wipe the tears from your eyes Wipe your tears away Wipe your tears away I wipe your tears away (sunday, bloody sunday) I wipe your blood shot eyes (sunday, bloody sunday) Sunday, bloody sunday (sunday, bloody sunday) Sunday, bloody sunday (sunday, bloody sunday) (here I come!) And its true we are immune When fact is fiction and tv reality And today the millions cry We eat and drink while tomorrow they die The real battle yet begun (sunday, bloody sunday) To claim the victory jesus won (sunday, bloody sunday) On... Sunday bloody sunday Sunday bloody sunday...

Survey: NIAC Wants Your Opinion on U.S. Response to Iran

Jujunaz — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 18:39:33 +0000

The National Iranian American Council (NIAC) is surveying Iranian Americans as well as the broader American public to get a better understanding on where people stand on the Iran issue in the aftermath of the elections.

Non-NIAC members are encouraged to participate as well, with the understanding that membership views will naturally take precedent in influencing how the organization moves forward. We highly encourage non-members to join and become part of the dialogue.

Click here for the survey.

Contact Goli Fassihian with any questions at: gfassihian@niacouncil.org.

Click here and get your Iran updates via NIAC's official blog.

survey

Jujunaz — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 18:51:11 +0000

Michael Jackson Memorial: Shaheen Jafargholi Sings "Who's Lovin' You"

Jujunaz — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 20:34:42 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0nW9mNb6bRc] Check out Mr. Cutie-patootie himself: Britain's Got Talent alum, Shaheen Jafargholi as he sings "Who's Lovin' You" at the Michael Jackson Memorial. The half-Iranian 12-year-old covered one of the Jackson 5's many hits, alongside other stars in attendance who performed like Jennifer Hudson and Usher.

makhmalbaf

Jujunaz — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 12:29:30 +0000

Makhmalbaf Speaks About the Future of Iran's Democratic Movement

Jujunaz — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 12:32:39 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3577" align="aligncenter" width="446" caption="Original Photo via Makhmalbaf.com"][/caption] By Julie Jigsawnovich

On July 9th, 2009 Iranian filmmaker Mohsen Makhmalbaf spoke about Mir Hossein Mousavi and Iran's Democratic Movement during a conference call hosted by The Huffington Post and Where Is My Vote?-NY.

July 9th marked the 10th anniversary of the 1999 "18th of Tir" protests in Iran, during which students protesting the closing of the reformist newspaper Salaam were attacked. Protests continued for six days, culminating with thousands of Iranians demonstrating for democracy and civil rights. At the time, it was the biggest display of popular discontent in the Islamic Republic's history.

Below are transcribed parts of what Mohsen Makhmalbaf said during the live call:

"Mousavi is under threats to his life right now. In case Mousavi is imprisoned, we are prepared to think of Mousavi as one link in this chain. In case we lose him, the chain will not be lost. We will continue. We believe every Iranian inside iran is a campaign supporter, and every Iranian outside Iran is an ambassador to this group. Participants in this movement do not need Mousavi's permission for their actions."

"I spoke (part 2, part 3) [on July 8th 2009] at the European Parliament, asking them not to recognize Ahmadinejad as President. I demanded them to consider the nuclear and the Democratic issue as one issue--not as two, because we are facing one dictator government in Iran. We ask the European Union to punish NokiaSiemens for selling spy equipment to the Iranian government," Makhmalbaf continued.

"We need everybody's help, as part of humanity," said the impassioned filmmaker. "If a hijaker takes the passengers hostage, will they consider it an internal fight--or will they help the passengers? Ahmadinejad and Khamenei have taken the Iranian people hostage. Will you sign oil treaties with this government, or will you side with the Iranian people and help fight injustice? I think that the fate of democracy in Iran and the fate of world are tied together."

On Obama he said, "Obama has said there is no difference between Ahmadinejad and Mousavi. If so, there is no difference between Bush and Obama."

As one of Iran's best directors, Makhmalbaf recalled, "Mousavi is an experienced politician, but mousavi's art spirit dominates his politician's character. Iranian cimena was founded during Mousavi's Premiership, and backed by him. I'm a filmmaker who made several films that were openly critical of his government, and he is the one who was for these movies coming out and being seen. Movies were openly critical of his government, but he allowed them to be released. One day, with more time, I would like to tell people about Mousavi's character and tell people what an honorable character is leading this movement."

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Jujunaz — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 13:38:56 +0000

IAAB's Camp Ayandeh 2009 - Photos by Leyla Serway

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Jujunaz — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 13:45:27 +0000

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Jujunaz — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 13:48:01 +0000

Camp Ayandeh 2009 Girls - Photo by Leyla Serway

Camp Ayandeh 2009: From Building Trust to Becoming a Team Leader

Jujunaz — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 13:49:18 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3584" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Camp Ayandeh 2009 - Photo by: Leyla Serway"][/caption] By Leyla Serway IAAB Staff Member

Games of vasati under blue skies, evening celebrations of Iranian holidays, and music of the Daf and Tombak - these activities only begin to describe the week at Camp Ayandeh 2009.

The fourth installment of Camp Ayandeh, Iranian Alliances Across Borders’ annual summer leadership camp for high school students, was held June 28- July 5, 2009 in Hinsdale, Massachusetts at Duquette Sports Academy. In alignment with the mission of Camp Ayandeh, students spent the week engaged in a number of different activities that encouraged them to explore their Iranian-American culture and identity, as they discovered the importance of the Iranian-American youth as our community’s future leaders, all while having fun along the way. Activities for each day of the week were structured around five main themes including: Building Trust, Understanding Self, Understanding Others, Teambuilding, and Aspects of a Leader.

[caption id="attachment_3585" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Camp Ayandeh: Games - Photo by Leyla Serway"][/caption]

The energy was high from day one when campers arrived at Duquette Academy, over half of which were new to Camp Ayandeh this summer. Campers, new and old alike, happily greeted one another and participated in various “ice breakers” and games of the “Human Knot”. As the week began, fun team-names were eagerly created among counselor groups, including Team Faloodeh, Team Lavashak (Take a bite out of that!), Shiraneh Iran, Pesteh Divooneh (Crazy Nuts!), Team Tahdig, Pishee Pishee Meow Meow (We’re Persian, like the cat!), Too Gooze for You (a play on “Too Good for You”!) and T-Raghs. Each team crafted their own team chant, which were performed at any given opportunity and often brought all the groups together in unison! With high morale and an excited group of campers, counselors, and staff, the week was off to a great start.

[caption id="attachment_3586" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Camp Ayandeh 2009 Girls - Photo by: Leyla Serway"][/caption]

The week progressed with a number of diverse activities. Throughout the week, three Iranian holidays were celebrated including Shabe Yalda, Chahar-shanbe Soori and Norouz. During the day, campers participated in various cultural booths, including Iranian cinema, literature, games, music, life in Iran and public speaking. College workshops focusing on high school academics, SATs, the college application process, college life and majors, and daily culture discussions among counselor groups were also a part of the program. The annual Ta’arof Tournament was an exciting event for all, as well as the much- anticipated Talent Show on the last evening. Once again, a memorable Camp Ayandeh proved to be the “highlight of the summer” for everyone.

For more detailed footage from throughout the week at Camp Ayandeh, including daily blogs, podcasts, video and pictures, please visit our interactive camp website at www.campayandeh.org. For information regarding Camp Ayandeh 2010, we encourage you to check back to the IAAB website later this year. See you next summer!

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Jujunaz — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 16:09:40 +0000

Gorg: Jhanvieh Releases New Album

Jujunaz — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 16:29:03 +0000

Your favorite Persian circuit-bending-lounge-musicians: Jhanvieh release their new album titled; "Gorg" (Wolf).

Jhanvieh band-members Sam and Anahita, who chose to delay the release of their first single from their new album Gorg, Khoon-Asham(Vampire) - an intense mix of electro-guitar sounds and Farsi lyrics that is sure to earn your respect and send you into a retrospective trance, making you reflect on it all - until what they felt was a more "appropriate time", tell us that their songs were written "before the events that occurred in June 2009 in Iran," and that their album was written as a general call to awareness in the "constructs of democracy and freedom".

Click here to download “Khoon Asham” for free!

Visit Jhanvieh's Myspace page to listen to their other tracks.

Video: Sacha Baron Cohen's "Bruno" on Ahmadinejad

Jujunaz — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 13:49:11 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p6RnsNw8YBQ] In a new interview for his just released film, Bruno, Sacha Baron Cohen's uber-gay character is asked: "If you had a chance to go on a date with Kim Jong -il or Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, who would you choose and what would you do?" And he chooses Ahmadinejad! Watch this clip to get a good laugh as the half-Iranian comedian's daring Bruno, goes on about Ahmadinejad's "taxi-driver-chic" style.

Op-Ed: Reflections on Iran

Jujunaz — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 16:37:04 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3655" align="aligncenter" width="473" caption="Candlelight Vigil Union Square, NYC "][/caption]

By Taraneh Zaman

Not surprisingly, the phrase “the dog days of summer” never translates well into Farsi. June 12, 2009 jolted the passions of [the] Iranian community and others like no other in recent memory. Across the spectrum, the election and its aftermath took the political experts by surprise, though no clear consensus [has] emerged about what the images exposed through Twitter, Youtube, and Facebook signified.

I visited Iran for the first and only time in November 2005. President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad had only recently been sworn into office, yet his infamous rhetoric, particularly regarding the Holocaust, had already made waves in American media. Admittedly, I am in no position to compare the situation that I observed with that of the Mohammad Khatami era. No one whom I met believed that Ahmadinejad was legitimately elected, given that he unexpectedly won in a run-off against Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani. Though innately skeptical, some people were willing to give the new president a chance, citing his populist rhetoric and anti-corruption platform.

With recent elections having been anything but free and fair, most people seemed simply resigned to accept the results, for better or worse. As an American, I quickly grew disheartened by the apathy that I sensed among the population. People I met wanted change, but seemed reluctant to sacrifice. Young women discussed brand-name clothes rather than political debate, much less democracy. Too many people - most painfully, many of the country’s youth - grew accustomed to the denial of freedoms, and along the way became savvy schizophrenics with expertise in bribery and authentic looking Fendi bags. As those with the ambition and the means to do so had left Iran long ago, my short time in Iran convinced me that progress there would not occur in the near future.

So what made 2009 different than 2005? Why had election fraud suddenly grown egregious? What made the Iranian people, who just four years ago appeared to me so passive, become modern day freedom fighters? The answer is a matter of opinion, but by many accounts and various measures, conditions in Iran during the past four years deteriorated in a way that few of us fully understand.

Interestingly, Iran’s presidential election was held during the anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre in China. The world once again bore witness to the demonstration of a permanent incumbent crushing opposition with a deadly iron fist, scornful of the public displays of outrage. For the outside world, the Tiananmen milestone also provided an opportunity to evaluate China’s progress. Since 1989, the Communist Party cleverly co-opted the rebellion’s inclinations towards increased intellectual, political, and economic freedoms by positioning them within China’s explosive economic growth, resulting in relative political stability.

In response to massive protests, the state apparatus often unifies against the reform movement, quickly restores law and order, and offers immediate social gestures and political reconstruction in the hopes of placating the people’s demands for reform. In Iran, however, the survival of now-illegitimate Ahmadinejad depends on the support of the country's senior most religious leaders to validate his victory and blame the turmoil on the opposition and the “trouble makers”. Meanwhile, Mir Hossein Mousavi, refers to the Basij and military as “our brothers” and the “protectors of our revolution and regime”, predicted that “the system is going to the slaughterhouse”. Ultimately, intransigence is creating yet another tragic era in which democracy is cynically purported to be simply a means of legitimizing predetermined conclusions.

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Jujunaz — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 18:07:27 +0000

Modern Art: Dax Foundation Presents "Not Man Apart: Pericles Redux" Directed by John Farmanesh-Bocca

Jujunaz — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 18:08:16 +0000

The Dax Foundation - Performing Arts Charitable Trust presents: Pericles Redux by Not Man Apart , a physical-theatre ensemble founded and directed by Iranian artist and Julliard Fellow, John Farmanesh-Bocca.

The ensemble was formed and directed by John Farmanesh-Bocca and is said to create "adrenilized stage works in a host of different styles and genres, [by] mashing-up techniques of the past to find an altogether new voice for the future of Physical Theatre in America."

The play, "Perciles Redux" which is described as a "radical adaptation of Shakespeare's adventure play Pericles, Prince of Tyre," is performed by a cast "whose bodies transform the space into the vast and mythic backdrop of a timeless story, [and] in the artistic tradition of Grotowski, Pilobolus, Felini, Cirque du Soleil and Monty Python comes an innovative brand of storytelling."

Get your tickets now at: CTG Box Office Hotline - 213.628.2772 or visit: WWW.PERICLESREDUX.COM.

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Jujunaz — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 20:53:26 +0000

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Jujunaz — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 21:15:01 +0000

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Jujunaz — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 23:23:33 +0000

Christiane Amanpour Interviewed by Rita Wilson for Harper's Bazaar

Jujunaz — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 23:24:12 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3628" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Original Photos by: Martin Schoeller"][/caption]

The wife of Tom Hanks and Harper's Bazaar writer, Rita Wilson interviews one of the smartest journalists of all time, the ultimate Iranian female role model: Christiane Amanpour.

In the introduction, Rita writes about Amanpour's "iconic style of safari jackets, shiny hair with heavy bangs," while naming her "fierce intelligence" as her most "prominent feature."

Amanpour goes on to divulge that her childhood nickname was "jagger-lips" (due to her big lips) and that she's a "no plunge, no puff" kind of girl when it comes to fashion.

And what's Amanpour's take on fashion in Iran?

"The great secret is that in many instances the Iranian women are so dressed up underneath that it's unbelievable. And beautifully coiffed, fantastically made up. It's their little piece of defiance."

Click here to read this article in its entirety.

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Jujunaz — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 14:08:48 +0000

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Video: Iran Friday Prayer - Masses Gather to Protest & Pray in Peace

Jujunaz — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 20:35:51 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zzZvFDT0QlA] "Zendaanieh Siaassi... aazaad baayad gardad" (Political prisoners... must be freed) is just one of the few chants heard in this video from Iran's Friday Prayer on July 17th, 2009 where men and women prayed next to one another in public for the first time. Click here for another video that shows masses of people walking the streets of Tehran in protest, on July 17th, 2009.

whereismyvote2

Jujunaz — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 21:01:25 +0000

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Jujunaz — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 23:18:15 +0000

Contemporary Art: Iran Inside Out

Jujunaz — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 23:49:07 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3666" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Saghar Daeeri, Shopping Malls of Tehran - Acrylic (Aaron Gallery)"][/caption]

By Julie Jigsawnovich

The few women wearing chadors who did allow me to photograph them were female artists creating traditional blue enamel bowls and vases, in Shiraz, Iran. What did they think about as they painted the tiny dots, swirls and figures day after day?

Blue patterns and the beckoningly tactile look of glossy paint in Negar Ahkami's May The Evil Eye Be Blind, echo Shiraz enamel work. But the content of this painting would have been [censored] had it been made in Iran. A large female figure in high heels, legs exposed, stands straddling a reclining [religious figure]. She stabs him in the eye with a jeweled dagger. Her crotch is covered by the concentric blue circles which symbolize protection from the evil eye. In the background, video crews film women in black chadors. One of the women extends a bare leg from her chador as a male kneels before her with his camera. Further in the distance, is a glitteringly debauched beach scene, and a roller coaster with loops in the shape of the word "Allah." Such heretical and politically potent themes could be cumbersome in the hands of a less talented artist. But, May The Evil Eye Be Blind, is dynamic, charged, and strangely beautiful while it is harsh.

Visiting the Islamic Republic of Iran this Spring, I wore hejab for the first time. The idea of covering up in order to draw attention to my mind was familiar. But, a fellow Chelsea Museum goer, viewing Negar Ahkami's painting confirmed, "That form of showing respect, when it is accompanied by enforcement of laws in Iran dictating that women cover their hair and dress a certain way, can become restrictive to the point of showing women disrespect." There are also practical, physical considerations. Persepolis was already well over 100 degrees F in the Spring. An ambulance arrived after a female tourist lost consciousness in the lesser heat of Esfahan. Some Iranian women allegedly wear barely anything under their chadors in order to deal with the heat.

Yet, installed in the Chelsea Museum near the phrase, "Section2: From Iran to Queeran and Everything in Between On Gender and Sexuality," is Abbas Kowsari's stunning photo [collection]: Women Police Series - 2007, which shows chador-wearing female police officers, guns drawn, shooting from police cars, and rappelling from buildings like Batman. A chador might not be the most practical crime-fighting gear, but it has undeniably intimidating aesthetic appeal. It's hard not to root for these scary female officers on some level, given that women find fewer jobs than men in Iran, even though there are more female college graduates than male. I found IRI government ladies attractive sometimes because of their seriousness and intensity, and when they are beautiful, it is without make-up. After confessing to a friend that I was secretly hoping one particular female Iranian airport security agent would search me, my friend pointed out that, "legal restrictions against unrelated men and women speaking to each other in public in Iran have probably resulted in an increase in same-sex experimentation and relationships."

Sex outside of marriage is a crime punishable by death in Iran. Yet, "There are more than 100,000 prostitutes in Tehran," according to Iran Inside Out co-curator, Sam Bardaouil. Given the high unemployment rate there, it is unknown how much sex work is performed due to economic desperation or as a rebellious expression of sexual power. Bardaouil mentioned that Shirin Fakhim's mixed media sculptures, Tehran Prostitutes, 2008, are installed in the exhibition in such a way that they "scrutinize the nudity of the man. This is a reversal." With tremendous self-abnegating charm, the painter of the aforementioned and "scrutinized" nude self-portraits, Darius Yektai, mentioned that the darkness of his work has sometimes led to it being referred to as, "Rembrandt with the lights out." And he thanked Bardaouil for, "hanging me from the ceiling," - meaning, presumably, his oil paintings: The Reveal: Day 1, Day2, Day 3, 2009.

Installed on the reverse wall behind Yektai's paintings, vivid full-color ads for prostitutes now have inky black hejab and chadors drawn on them by Shahram Entekhabi. Only their eyes and hands are exposed, while the ad copy blares that they are "Beautiful Busty Blonde", "Naughty But Nice...Spanking, Caning", etc. This work could be a reversal of censorship for privacy in the West, where a black bar may cover a person's eyes while the rest of their body remains exposed. But it also triggered sad memories of finding a video posted online by someone in Dubai, showing a young woman wearing only heels, bra, panties, and hejab covering her hair, mouth, and neck. She sat stiffly on a chair, her eyes expressing fear as the camera operator sized her up from different angles. Dubai is known for slavery. But there are reportedly many forced prostitutes throughout the world, even here in New York, who are not paid for their work. One can only speculate how many women shown in Entekhabi's piece actually chose their lifestyle.

With added pathos via juxtaposition, Ahmad Morshedloo's oil painting of a reclining male figure, Untitled, 2008, is installed below Entekhabi's piece. Morshedloo's male figure looks wan and spent, and there is an elegant sadness to this work, reminiscent of Picasso's blue period. This work's sharp sense of longing lingers in my memory, even though I gravitated to more sensationalist works while in the museum.

Female consumerist desire is portrayed as grotesque in Saghar Daeeri's series of acrylic paintings, Shopping Malls of Tehran, 2008. Smirking women with glittering claws grasp their purses or take clothes off hangers like meat from bones. A dripping pink ice-cream cone projects lewdly in the foreground. My friend responds, "The grasping shoppers look like the rich Northern Tehrani girls who have homes that are like fortresses, and they can do anything within their walls. They can bribe government officials. They can travel to other countries when they want to. They are fine with how things are. So they are a problem. They are not going to risk their lives protesting in the street. But look at the girl in corner of the painting, wearing a backpack over her manteau as she ascends an escalator. Look at the expression on her face. She is different from the other women in the mall. Women like her could be the future and the hope for Iran."

This is a small sampling of works on display by 35 artists working inside Iran and 21 artists working outside Iran, curated by Sam Bardaouil and Till Fellrath.

*Upcoming public programs at the Chelsea Museum relating to this exhibition include Iranian films, dance, and musical performances. Click here or more information. This exhibition closes September 5, 2009.

Nadine-felfeli

Jujunaz — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 13:41:52 +0000

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Jujunaz — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 13:51:29 +0000

Op-Ed in Farsi: Iranian Underground Music

Jujunaz — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 14:20:11 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3718" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Original Photo by Farhad Rajabali via Gooya.com"][/caption]

سخنی با "خس و خاشاک های" موسیقی جوان و غیررسمی ایران

By Nassir Mashkouri

این نوشته روی سخن بسوی موسیقی پردازان موسیقی هیپ هاپ، راک و آلترناتیو ایران دارد. جریان های موسیقائی نو-فرهنگی که برآمده از رویکردهای متجددانه و گرایشات جهان-فرهنگی بخشی از جامعۀ جوان امروز ایران است

در سالهائی که گذشت اکثر موسیقی پردازان در این جریان که گاه آن را موسیقی زیرزمینی نیز نامیده ایم کمابیش تجربۀ تلخ بالا و پائین رفتن از پله های وزارت ارشاد اسلامی و ملاقات های بی فایده و وقت گیر با مسئولین این اداره را داشته اند و به هر سانسور و خودسانسوری تن داده اند. اما می دانیم و بیاد داریم این تلاشها هیچگاه راهگشا نبوده و تنها موجب خستگی و سرخوردگی هرچه بیشتر آنها شده است

وقت آن رسیده تا پرده های ابهام را کنار بزنیم و آزادی بیان را بعنوان حق مسلم هنرمندان و تنها پشتیبان خلاقیت های هنری و فرهنگی خود بدانیم. بر این باور باشیم که هیچکس و هیچ وزارتخانه ای حق تصمیم گیری در ارائه و انتشار آثار هنرمندان را ندارد

وقت آن رسیده که وزارت –سانسور- ارشاد اسلامی را تحریم و خود را از زندان سانسور و خودسانسوری ها رها کنیم. وقت آن رسیده که هنرمندان ما با آگاهی از حقوق دمکراتیک خود وارد مرحلۀ جدیدی از دوران هنری و خلاقیت های هنری خود شوند و با بیان آزادانۀ آنچه که در دل و در ذهن خود دارند و آنچه گویای سلیقه، اندیشه و گرایشاتشان است، مشت محکمی بر دهان حاکمیت ضددمکراتیک کشورمان فرود آورند. وقت آن رسیده که از خواسته هامان، حقوق مان، زندگی مان، از امروزمان آنگونه که هست و از فردایمان آنگونه که می خواهیم باشد بنویسیم و آواز سردهیم. وقت آن رسیده تا ترانه های خشمناک، معترض و گویای امروزمان را متن آوای دیستورد گیتاربرقی و کوبش سنگین درامزهامان کنیم. وقت آن رسیده تا گزارش های روزانه از امروز خیابان های مان، درون خانه هایمان و میان جمع یارانمان را محتوای رپ-نوشته هامان کنیم. وقت آن رسیده تا همآوا با سه تار و قیچک و تار، فریاد آزادی سر دهیم. وقت آن رسیده آنچه دوست داریم و آنگونه که می بینیم و آنطور که می اندیشیم و در آن ترکیب و ساختاری که مایلیم آثارمان شکل بگیرند موسیقی خود را خلق کنیم. وقت آن رسیده که از حقوق خود به عنوان یک شهروند آزاده آگاه باشیم و بجای آنکه منتظر کسی باشیم تا حق ما را بدهد، حق خود را طلب کنیم و اگر هم از حقوق مان دفاع نکردند، خود از حق مان دفاع کنیم، آزاد زندگی کنیم و آزاد بی اندیشیم. وقت آن رسیده تا جنبش های خرده فرهنگی و نو-فرهنگی براه بی اندازیم و آزادی را در میان خود و نسل خود ترویج و تجربه کنیم. آهنگ بسازیم، آن را دست بدست و مثل همیشه از طریق اینترنت انتشار دهیم، مهمانی راه بی اندازیم و در مهمانی ها موسیقی مان را پخش کنیم. وقت آن رسیده تا محافل زیرزمینی برپا و اقدام به اجرای گستردۀ گردهمآئی ها و کنسرت های زیرزمینی کنیم. وقت آن رسیده تا از طریق موسیقی و ترانه هایمان اعتراض کنیم. وقت آن رسیده بجای آنکه گفته های تکراری و بدور از واقعیت امروزمان را دائماً نشخوار کنیم، حرف تازه با آوائی نو بسازیم. دگراندیش باشیم و نوپرداز، شاد باشیم و معترض، انسان باشیم و آزاده

دوران محافظه کاری و سازش بپایان رسیده است. باید زنده ماند و زندگی کرد. آزاد بود و در فضائی آزاد اندیشید و هستی را آزادانه تجربه کرد. باید بخشی از جنبش دمکراتیک و حق طلبانۀ ملت ایران شد و از حقوق مسلم مدنی مان دفاع کنیم

فراموش نکنیم منظور از "اعتراض" لزوماً ابراز افکار و اندیشه های سیاسی و اجتماعی مان نیست، بلکه بیان آزادانۀ آنچه دوست داریم و در چهارچوب سلیقه های شخصی و گروهی مان می گنجد. در واقع اگر جهان پیرامونی مان و هستی مان را آنگونه که خود می بینیم بیان کنیم و انعکاس دهیم، خود بخود زمانی که این نگاه در قالبی نو جای گیرد و در جامعه ای با معیارهای سنتزده و بسته مانند جامعۀ ایران ابراز شود، ماهیتی اعتراضی بخود گرفته و می تواند در صورتی که مخاطب پیدا کند باعث ایجاد جریانات متفاوت خرده-فرهنگی شود و فرهنگ متقابل ایجاد کند. حال می خواهد این اعتراض ها محتوائی اجتماعی-انتقادی داشته باشد مانند رپ نوشته های "سالومه" و "بهرام" و یا آنچه رپ خوان هائی مانند "ساسی مانکن" و "زدبازی" در وصف عیش و نوش و زندگی بی خیالی بخشی از جوانانمان ابراز می کنند. می تواند در گستاخانه ترین قطعه از حلقوم "نامجو" بیرون بریزد و یا بر شادترین ریتم ها با امروزی ترین ترانه های "آبجیز" باشد

فراموش نکنیم، باید آگاه از حقوق مدنی خود به عنوان یک شهروند باشیم. آزادی بیان حق مسلم همۀ ماست. این حق هر انسانی است. حتی ما خس و خاشاک ها

به امید روزی که در کشورمان آزادی بیان عنصری ملموس و حقیقی باشد و برای انتشار آثارمان و برپائی کنسرت های مان نیازی به وزارت سانسور و کنترل نداشته باشیم

**Nassir Mashkouri is a freelance music critic and former editor of Zirzamin.se Iranian online magazine. For more, visit: nassir-mashkouri.com.

Iranian Unity: Maz Jobrani's Message of Support

Jujunaz — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 16:11:38 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9mO5S1g7J4E]

Watch Maz Jobrani's message of support for the Iranian people as he urges everyone to get involved in the semi-synchronized worldwide rallies planned for this coming Saturday, July 25th.

The call for the "global day of action" on July 25th by united4iran.org, has had much viral success. Click here to find a rally in your area.

iranian-election-crying2

Jujunaz — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 14:18:28 +0000

IranNYC2

Jujunaz — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 15:02:33 +0000

Solidarity: Artwork Created During Hunger Strike at UN

Jujunaz — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 15:04:47 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3731" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Iranian artist Soheil Tavakoli at work during the hunger strike in New York - Photo by: Sara Rahai"][/caption]

By Julie Jigsawnovich

On July 22nd, during the first of the three-day of the hunger strike near the United Nations headquarters in New York City in support of Iranian protesters demanding democracy, freedom and human rights, Iranian Architect Soheil Tavakoli created a painting live, on site--combining imagery of Tehran's Azadi Tower, the UN building and protesters bearing signs including one that said, "I am Neda"--a reference to the the slain protest bystander who became a symbol of the movement. With characteristic Iranian forbearance, Tavakoli said he purposely left the work "unfinished so that it could be completed by other people's signatures."

Tavakoli has also designed a memorial for the contemporary Iranian poet, Shamlou, who, "during his life just talked about freedom." Tavakoli now plans to also include in the memorial the names of the many persons who have died in the violent crackdown on protesters following the recent presidential election in the Islamic Republic.

The hunger strike continues today and tomorrow, and Tavokoli will be there with fresh canvases and new designs. Hunger strike participants are invited to sign the work. Saturday, July 25th there will be a rally starting at Times Square at 12:30, marching to the Iranian Mission to the United Nations, and then on to the United Nations headquarters at 1st Avenue and East 47th St. Both events are hosted by the New York Chapter of Where is My Vote?

*For more information, see: strike4iran.com united4iran.com whereismyvote.org facebook.com/group.php?gid=88843365838 soheiltavakoli.com

Iranian American Comedienne: Interview with Nadine Rajabi

Jujunaz — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 15:11:19 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3675" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Persian Comedienne: Nadine Rajabi - Original Photo via Showtime"][/caption]

By Sanaz Khalaj-Santos

WASHINGTON, DC -- "We're kind of like UGG boots: brown, fury, and sweaty... and nobody can figure out why we're so damn trendy," quips the skiing/snowboarding Iranian-American comedienne and regular E! commentator Nadine Rajabi in a segment of her Showtime Comedy Special, Hot Tamales about being Persian. "I'm moving back home because my mom's been having trouble paying both [of] our rents," says the riotous and multitasking modern Persian-beauty.

Easily capable of sharing any stage (and then some) with some of the best Iranian-American comedians around, like Maz Jobrani and Max Amini, the part-time professor once took her aunt's best friend, Googoosh (yes, the real one) to a Gwen Stefani concert. (She had "pit" seats. Cue the visual(s) in your head.)

As the youngest paid "regular" at the Improv clubs - thanks to Improv manager Reeta Piazza who "found" her when she was only 19 years old, at a bar trying out jokes underage - the playful Rajabi, who tells us that she's trying to be the "Iranian Seacrest", can now add a "producer" title, for her work on MTV's Daddy's Girls (a spinoff from Run's House), to her overflowing resume. This California-raised Persian girl, is not just hilariously funny, but she's cool and smart. She's the type of "Persian-chick" you want to be friends with, whether you're female or male, Persian or not.

While contemplating a PhD. in the near future, Rajabi tells us that she started to feel an "insane sense of patriotism towards my culture," due to the on the recent events in Iran, and that she was disappointed at the media for "letting the Michael Jackson story take over the headlines completely, it became, Iran who?" She says. "At first all my American friends were "green" and out there attending the protests, then Michael Jackson's death seemed to take away from that energy and focus on Iran. I just wish we could do more."

Enjoy our chat with the deliciously raw and first Iranian-American comedienne, Nadine Rajabi whose edgy and unfiltered comedic style (and Gucci shoes) is bound to send you into an uncontrollable and perhaps teary (or snorty for some) daze of gut-busting laughter. We know we did!

* Nadine will be in Vegas tonight until Sunday (July 21-26) at the Harrah's Improv at 8:30 and 10:30. Next she'll be at the House of Blues Houston on August 1st, and at the House of Blues Dallas on August 2nd. The House of Blues shows are with the Hot Tamales from the Showtime Special.

***

SKS: Where did you grow up? NR: Orange county California, product of southern California – there weren’t many Persians and I went to catholic school because [my parents] thought they should send me to private school. Took years for Iranians to take over the OC.

When did you move to the US? I was born in La Alamitos CA andraised in Anaheim Hills, my grand parents raised me, because my parents were studying. I was also my grandparents' translator.

Have you been to Iran? Went to Iran once 2 years ago, I wasn’t used to it but had such a great time. I was scared to go to Iran because of what I saw on TV, when I got there I had to cover. I’m loud and I have no censor and was constantly thinking, “what if I say something and get in trouble?” It was amazing though. And if you go to the "baazaar", it’s like a training camp for business.

When did you realize comedy was your calling? Grew up watching Benny Hill, I was always such a fan, at 8 I wanted to be on Saturday Night Live (SNL). I was a huge Chevy Chase and Gilda Radner fan. I was 14 when I saw my first stand-up show, I had never laughed so hard for an hour, and wanted to make people laugh too. That’s when I felt most present andwanted to give the same to others.

What else have you done/do besides comedy? I started stand-up when I was in college and of course was a biology major because my parents wanted me to be a doctor, but I always knew that wasn't my path...so, as soon as I graduated I started doing stand-up full time, and had a copy writing job. I was writing all the trailers for movies and doing promos for TV shows, but my dad wanted me to go back and get my Master’s when he realized I wasn’t going to be a doctor, just so that they could say their daughter had a Master’s. He still wants me to go back and get my PhD, which is a whole other story. So basically he said go back and get your Master’s and you can do you comedy, you can do whatever you want. So I went and got my Master’s, andwhile I wasn’t studying, which there really isn’t that much studying in a Master’s program, just a lot of papers--so that gaveme an opportunity to hit the road with my stand-up. So I was on the road and doing a lot of stand-up and as soon as I graduated, within that year I got a radio show on XM. And I started off being the Gossip Girl where I was making fun of celebs. I did that for a year because I had no radio experience but they just liked me as a personality and then they gave me my own 3-hour show, Monday-Friday - although right now we’re on hiatus - which is crazy because I’m not a journalist, just a stand-up and I can talk to a wall pretty much. So I did that, andI still do a lot of stuff for E!, where I’m just doing a lot of the commenting and making fun of people on the countdown shows. And in between that I had a deal with Fox, where I was at a think-tank, where I would literally sit in this conference room every week and I would give them my show ideas and or fix shows that needed help. I was one of the voices in the think tank, coming up with TVshow ideas for them. I had this idea about these shallow girls doing a news show and they said, “why don’t we do this for the web, we want to expand our web business,” so I said, “Ok.” They gave me a digital show, "The Skinny Fat-Free News" this past year and they built the whole digital studio after my show and now they’re doing a bunch of web shows. And I’ve been doing stand-up this whole because I was getting so much other work and I had the radio show everyday and I was kind of bored of stand-up. They say it takes 10 years to become a known name. And I never really realized that because I think I started so young and got so much attention so quickly, I was like “oh that’s not my road, that’s not my path,” but guess what? I’m going on year 9 now. And it’s crazy because it really has taken that long. Then, when I was asked to do the special (Showtime’s Hot Tamales Comedy Special) and I kind of felt inspired again to do stand-up. Even though I was doing stand-up the whole time, I felt I wanted to go back to the art form that I started out with, because you get lost when you’re doing radio and interviewing everyone. [caption id="attachment_3677" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="L to R: Snoop w/ Nadine, Nadine w/ Jason Statham"][/caption]

Has your Persian family been supportive of your choice to go into comedy? Yes. Especially after I got my MBA. And I;m really glad that I did because now I see myself more as a business versus just going out there and telling jokes. I think everything has a business side to it. They didn’t support it at first. They wanted me to go to med school, but when they finally saw that I was getting some attention, they loved it. I teach a college class one semester a year because I like to give back. And you know it’s funny because when my family introduces me they’ll say “she’s a professor,” and I’m like “I make a lot of money being a comedian.”

What class do you teach? I teach copy-writing and storyboarding and I teach kids how to write ads, or now due to new media: how to do brand-integration, and how to write for that. I also teach how to write trailers for movies. A lot of broadcast advertising and web stuff, because it was day job for so many years. And I love it. It’s really fulfilling.

What's been the reaction from the Iranian-American community? Well, you know I’m loud, and have generally what’s funny to me, I talk about drinking and like to tell fart jokes… and within the IA community there’s a certain generation where that laughter in that ends. In fact I did this show at The House of Blues and it smelled like a cologne factory in there first of all, and it was a mixed crowd but the older crowd was talking back to me in my act, as if I’m talking to them, and I’m like, “no, no, no, this is a stand-up show. You’re supposed to listen to me,” They weren’t heckling me. I was talking about my mom naming me Negar (pronounced neh-gaar), and that’s really a good name in English, and the lady in front goes, “Aakhay, mashallah, that’s so cute. I love that name,” I think they’re just not used to seeing a female comedian. It’s funny because my mom’s the same way. When we had people visiting from Iran, she said to me “don’t tell them what you do. They’ll think you’re a dalghak (clown),” Meanwhile I was going to a lot of shows and spending a week or so at my parents’ house while her visitors were there and I’d leave every night and I’d come home at 2:00 AM, and the next day we’d be having breakfast, and they’d ask me, “what did you do last night?” and I’d say, “work,” so then they’d ask, “what did you do at work?” and I’d reply, “nothing,”. They must think I’m a prostitute.

How have general audiences reacted? They love it. My voice in my stand-up, I don’t make fun of Iranians because I’m one of them (at least on paper) but in my mentality I’m so much an American because I was raised here. I’m able to make fun it without crossing the lines. And let’s face it people like to laugh, and a lot of the non-Iranians will be like, “Oh my gosh, my best friend’s Persian. I can so relate.” But I would love to be introduced to the Persian community. That’s my dream.

Do you act as well? My goal was to be on SNL for so long, but I was getting so many jobs just being me, though nobody really knows me yet even though I have been working for so long. I have been taking acting classes and have really enjoyed it. My goal however, is to have my own late night talk-show within 10 years. I do have a half-hour show that goes out to all the colleges for National Lampoon once a week. And it’s great training for me. I do a lot of celebrity interviews and feel that I have all the tools, now it’s just getting my name out there. This is the age of being female and ethnic and I think that people embrace that, and America needs it.

If you could play any role in a movie, what would it be? I always see myself playing the wacky neighbor, or the crazy stalker. I don’t know why I think those awkward characters are really funny. How hard is the comedy biz to break into, as female, and as an Iranian? In the beginning, I got a commercial agent and he said, “you know you should change your last name so you don’t get type cast,” and that was the age we were living in, but he was an old agent. Now my manager tells me, “never change your last name.” It was very scary after 9/11, we all became Mexicans or Italians. My had a flag on every window of her car to prove she’s an American. I do think though that now people are a little more aware and knowledgeable about the Middle East, but yes, it is a little hard. In general it’s hard being a female in this business and I think you’ve got another strike against you. People either love it or they hate it. I’m not going to change who I am even though I’m an American, this is also my culture.

How did you get involved with Hot Tamales? It started at the Improv, and I’m one of the original members. I’m also the youngest member of the show. Kiki Melendez started this thing with Eva Longoria – this is before Eva was on Desperate Housewives – in 2003 or 2003. I remember the manager at the Improv, Rita, said, “Hey there’s this all-girl ethnic show they’re doing. You’d be great for the Persian.”And I didn’t have that much business being on stage then because I was still new, but Kiki really embraced it. Of course when Eva got the part on Desperate Housewives, she became less involved though is still a huge supporter of the show. Ultimately, it’s Kiki’s baby and she always supported me and put me on every single one of the shows. The show itself is really great. We have a lot of diversity. I’m really proud of being a part of it. I love every single one of those girls. I think they’re all so amazing, great, and powerful, They all have such a unique voice, and that’s what so amazing about the show.

Can you share with us a funny story about the the earlier "Tamales" days? When Eva was on the young and the restless, my mom and my grandmother came to the show but didn’t watch any of it because they were too busy staring at the whole cast of The Young and the Restless, who would come out to support the show and Eva. What advice do you have for other Iranian girls that aspire to be comediennes? The biggest thing is to learn to be yourself. It’s hard because you want to censor yourself because you worry about what everyone’s going to think, and what your family is going to think. Still to this day, when my mom brings her friends to the shows she says “harf-haayeh bad nazani,” (don’t say any bad words). So I’d say, really, don’t censor yourself. Don’t try to be anybody else because that’s what makes every comedian unique. You don’t want to be the next Chapelle, you want to be you. Find your own voice. How has your Iranian background influenced your work and success? I think so, because without all that hair on my body, I would not be that funny. I went to Catholic School in Orange County, and when I would bring my friends home, I would ask my mom not to cook Ghormeh Sabzi, because I always just wanted to fit in so bad. And the way I’d fit, in my mind, was comedy, humor, and making fun of myself: being self-deprecating. I am very proud of Persian, but as kid, not so much. Now, though since I travel a lot, I just feel really connected to the world because of it, and feel that I have a place.

What's your favorite Persian food? I love Fesenjoon, and I love a traditional Soltani Kabob. It’s my favorite thing in the whole world. I can’t get enough of it.

Do you have any role models? I love Amy Sedaris. She is so funny to me and is absolutely my favorite. I also love Chevy Chase, and if John Ritterwere alive, I loved Jack Tripper. And I also loved Gilda Radner and Benny Hill.

Any Iranian comedian role model? Parviz Sayyad. He was like the Iranian Charlie Chaplin. I grew up watching Samad.

Are you going to be going on tour? I think we’re going to be on tour with the Hot Tamales Show. I try to stay in LA as much as I can because of work, but I know I’m going to be hitting the road soon. My schedule is always up on nadinerajabi.comand myspace.com/nadinerajabi.

What do you hope to accomplish in your career in entertainment? I think being an Iranian female comedian, I feel I’m a pioneer as it is, and I would like to be the person that can inspire people to, especially females, go for it and hopefully open doors for other Iranian females. My biggest goal is to give back that way and maybe pave the way a little to make it easier for people, because it hasn’t been easy. You just got to keep going. If you’re a good person and do good things then everything will come.

What next? I’m going to be hosting an internet talk show for Improv. Which should be up on their site this summer. Go to Improv to see it.

Activism: Iranian Artists Gather at UN Hunger Strike

Jujunaz — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 15:24:48 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_PaNNttlaU]

Watch famed Iranian musician, Faramarz Aslani sing one of his classic songs in New York amongst Iranian-Americans who gathered at U.N. Headquarters for a hunger strike in solidarity with Iranians in Iran. According to CBS News, "[Five-hundred] protesters gathered."

This protest was organized by Googoosh and was supported by some of Hollywood's elite: Robert Redford and Sean Penn.

What are they asking for?

They're officialy asking "for the release of Iranian activists, a condemnation of the violent reaction to protests in Tehran, the repudiation of the June 12 election, and the appointment of a Special Envoy for Iran by U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon."

prince-of-persiaFinal

Jujunaz — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 17:29:33 +0000

Jake Gyllenhaal: Prince of Persia

Jujunaz — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 18:16:40 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3742" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Jake Gyllenhaal as Prince of Persia poster via Empire"][/caption] Check out the new poster that was released this week for Disney's movie: Prince of Persia (opening May 2010) starring Jake Gyllenhaal.

Gyllenhaal looks good, and Persian enough, but we still would have preferred a handsome Iranian actor (which reminds us: we need more active male Iranian actors in the US) to play the part. Someone like Mohammad Reza Golzar or Bahram Radan would have been ideal. (If only they were available.)

We're probably going to watch the movie anyway.

What about you?

[polldaddy poll=1806183]

Reza Aslan: Message of Support

Jujunaz — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 13:09:35 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s1bRZlKCcqc] Watch Iranian scholar, Dr. Reza Aslan's message of support for the people of Iran. (He's also got a little request for you!)

Dr. Aslan (click here to read our recent interview with Reza Aslan) wants you take part in tomorrow's "global day of action" in showing solidarity with the Iranian people, their inspirational energy, and their noble fight for freedom, by attending a rally near you tomorrow: Saturday July 25th, 2009.

Go to United4Iran.org to find out more! [polldaddy poll=1808098] *Send us your best rally photos for publishing eligibility.

jeanrem-gda2

Jujunaz — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 12:48:19 +0000

Human Rights: Global Day of Action - World Rally in Solidarity for Iran

Jujunaz — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 12:50:48 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3770" align="aligncenter" width="450" caption="World rally in support of Iranians: Paris, France -- Photo: Jean Rem"][/caption]

As an Iranian, we're just as proud of our people for their bravery and fight for freedom as you are, but we are now also super-impressed and highly appreciative of our fellow compatriots (and non-Iranian friends) around the globe, who united for Iran at countless rallies in numerous cities held on July 25th.

We just love that our global Iranian-community has found a cause to agree on.

Don't you?

We're beyond energized by the fact that the Iranian diaspora is giving unity a chance, and working together to show their support for Iranians in Iran.

Viva Iran! Viva Irani!

Thanks to United4Iran.org for the call to action and compassionate people, from all over the world, who came out to support Iranians and and stood united with the people of Iran yesterday.

Check out these videos to rallies in the following cities:

(Have cool pics or video from a rally you went to? Send it to submissions@persianesque.com, along with your name and rally location, for posting eligibility!)

Toronto -

Paris -

Brisbane, Australia -

totti

Jujunaz — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 15:42:24 +0000

Francesco Totti - Original photo via DailyMail

International Support for Iranians: Italian Soccer Player Francesco Totti Sends Message

Jujunaz — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 15:43:21 +0000

As international support for the people of Iran continues to increase every minute on an array of platforms - online, fashion runways, music concerts, and world rallies - one of the world's biggest soccer stars Francesco Totti joins the pack.

The Rome born and rasied AS Roma team leader Francesco Totti -- known for his "cucchiaio goalscoring technique" -- sends his Iranian fans a message in Farsi during a "difficult" time for their country.

His message?

"Doostaaneh azizeh Iraani, dorood bar shoma." (Dear Iranian friends, greetings upon you.)

Click here to watch the video.

*Skip to the 33 second mark to hear the Italian football player's message to the Iranian youth.

Video: Iranian Election Aftermath - Iranians in Mourning

Jujunaz — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 17:48:28 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SrO_JJ0kP_Y]

One of the first chants heard in the video above is: "Iraani mimirad, mellat nemipazirad!" (An Iranian dies, the public does not accept!)

In this video, a group of Iranians are seen at Iran's largest cemetery Beheshteh Zahra (Heavan of Zahra) to mourn the death(s) of their loved ones.

Located in southern Tehran, Beheshteh Zahra is where Neda Agha Soltan is buried along with an unfathomable amount of soldiers from the Iran-Iraq war.

Click here for another short video of Iranians gathered at Beheshteh Zahra on July 30th, 2009.

And click here for another video.

And another.

And one more.

Video: Sohrab A'arabi's Mother and Brother Speak to Crowd at Tehran Cemetery

Jujunaz — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 18:32:16 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=scGQ7ar2_44]

In this video, Sohrab A'arabi's mother and brother speak to a large crowd gathered around Sohrab's grave in Beheshteh Zahra cemetery in Tehran.

"Our children were unlawfully killed in the fight for freedom," says the slain 19-year-old student's mother. "They were all our children," she says of all the young men and women who lost their lives last month due to the brutal attacks made on Iranian protesters.

"Our children our alive, they're known by the world now, and this [outcome] shows that we don't have the freedoms we want in this country."

Tehran: Iranians Protest Against the Government

Jujunaz — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 18:45:36 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ryXI0FhR7Q4] Nedayeh maa namordeh, in dolateh keh mordeh." (Our Neda has not died, it's the government that has died.)

Iran Wahl Medien Neda KORR

Jujunaz — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 19:55:52 +0000

International Solidarity with Iranians: Italy Names Street After Neda

Jujunaz — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 19:56:25 +0000

On July 29th, 2009, Rome's mayor Giovanni "Gianni" Alemanno named a street after Neda Agha Soltan, a prominent symbol of the Iranians who lost their lives during the massive protests (some claim 3 million protesters were out on the streets in Tehran on one particular day) against the Iranian election results.

The city's council voted on this motion presented by council-member Alessandro Onorato.

We're not sure if any country has shown their support for Iranians and their fight for freedom, as much as Italy has. And for that, we are thankful and forever grateful.

Next time you're in Rome, be sure to check out Neda St., we know we will.

Viva Iran... Viva Italia!!!

iran-election-baby

Jujunaz — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 17:22:22 +0000

Nobel Laureates' Message to Iranians: "Do Not Lose Hope"

Jujunaz — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 17:22:38 +0000

Yesterday, AFP reported that Nobel Peace Prize winner Elie Wiesel (and 44 other Nobel prize winners) showed support for Iranians and their efforts, telling them: "Do not lose hope."

The message, delivered via an open letter in The New York Times, as a full-page advertisement. A multitude of Nobel laureates signed the letter, including Bishop Desmond Tutu of South Africa and Iranian Nobel laureate Shirin Ebadi.

"We, the undersigned Nobel laureates, strongly condemn the flagrant human rights violations in the wake of the recent presidential election in Iran," it said.

"For me, the worst torture is to feel you have been abandoned," Weisel, a Holocaust survivor, said. The intent of this letter is to make sure that Iranian protesters do not "feel abandoned."

ballet-persanspost

Jujunaz — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 15:24:34 +0000

Persian Ballet: Symphony of Elegy in Green

Jujunaz — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 15:26:29 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3844" align="aligncenter" width="460" caption="Elegy in Green - Le Ballet Persans"][/caption]

Iranian artists in the diaspora are getting creative in showing support for their fellow compatriots back home. Based in Sweden, Iranian dancer/choreographer Nima Kiann has created Elegy in Green, described as a "contemporary dance drama", exclusively for participating members of his Le Ballet Persans Dance Company-sponsored group: the European Youth Dance Project (EYDP). And he's dedicating it to democracy, peace, and freedom.

Symphony of Elegy in Green, which premieres December 4th, 2009 in Stockholm, Sweden, is based on the "master piece music of Alexander Rahbari", and choreographed by Nima Kiann.

Watch the promo-clip for this production.

SHOPNOW

Jujunaz — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 22:28:14 +0000

TRASHLUX

Jujunaz — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 23:12:29 +0000

Hafez: Depeche Mode Display Persian Poetry at Concerts

Jujunaz — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 14:57:29 +0000

Depeche Mode was precious in the 1980's, but they still have massive appeal and end-of-rainbow reach, including in Iran.

With a substantial following amongst Iranians in and out of Iran, Depeche Mode's Iranian fans couldn't be more thrilled with this move by the band whose song "Precious" has become the default outlet for their shout out to Iranians.

"We love to have support from the world's best talent. We are in a tough position. We've lost friends. It's nice to know that people care about us," a girl named Leila told a source in an email in response to the news that Depeche Mode is dispalying Hafez poetry at their concerts during their LiveNation tour this year.

"Everyone loves Depeche Mode here in Iran. Hopefully one day, they can have a concert in Iran."

We hope so too!

The poem exhibited?

Shiraz-born Iranian poet (and world-treasure) Hafez's "I Have Learned So Much", translated by Daniel Ladinsky.

I Have Learned So much from God That I can no longer Call Myself. A Christian, a Hindu, a Muslim, A Buddhist, a Jew. The Truth has shared so much of Itself With me That I can no longer call myself A man, a woman, an angel, Or even pure Soul. Love has Befriended Hafiz so completely It has turned to ash And freed Me Of every concept and image My mind has ever known

dmhafez

Jujunaz — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 14:58:22 +0000

Ardeshir TV: Iranian Singers' Weird Titles

Jujunaz — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 16:15:55 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jAHkJjU5TeA] You MUST check out Ardeshir Ahmadi's latest comedy clip. In this video, the man behind the cute Esfehooni accent and highly-entertaining Vancouver-based Ardeshir TV, parodies Iranian singers like: Homeira, Kamran & Hooman, Faramarz Asef, Afshin, and more! Click here for another one of our Ardeshir-TV favorites. Enjoy!

iran-face-seraji

Jujunaz — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 14:32:22 +0000

An injured supporter of defeated Iranian presidential candidate Mir Hossein Mousavi covers his bloodied face during riots in Tehran on June 13, 2009. Hardline incumbent Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was declared winner by a landslide in Iran's hotly-disputed presidential vote, triggering riots by opposition supporters and furious complaints of cheating from his defeated rivals. AFP PHOTO/OLIVIER LABAN-MATTEI (Photo credit should read OLIVIER LABAN-MATTEI/AFP/Getty Images)

Deja Vous: "Thirty Years Later..."

Jujunaz — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 14:33:18 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3881" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Photo: Oliver Laban-Mattei for AFP/Getty"][/caption]

BY MAHBOD SERAJI

As the 40th day of Neda's death was commemorated in Iran a few days ago, and [I learned] that a staggering number of 4,000 people were detained in protests that followed June's disputed presidential election, I was reminded of my years there as a high school student just before the Islamic Revolution subdued the country and cast it into a nightmare from which it is still trying to awaken 30 years later.

Chants of "death to the dictator," images of young men and women pounding their fists in the air, soldiers and agents in civilian clothing attacking crowds of protesters, were all stark reminders to me of that long-ago revolution gone awry, and of the innocent people who risked their lives to throw out a tyrant, only to fall victim to a more savage regime. The tragic death of Neda, the young woman whose last moments were captured by a cell phone camera and shown across the globe, struck a personal blow, and reopened in me a wound that I didn't realize had never healed.

My favorite teacher in high school was a man called Mr. Fatemi, who taught Persian literature. In his early forties, very tall with broad shoulders, he was one of the few teachers who inspired more in his students than a strong desire to nap. His willingness to entertain us, and his great sense of humor, might have encouraged lax discipline in his classroom, but given his massive size and notably decisive demeanor, no one dreamed of challenging his authority. With his eyes closed, he often recited Hafiz's poetry, walking down the aisle with one hand holding the book, the other beating out the rhythm like an orchestra conductor. His warm, resonant voice made listening to him an enchanting experience. Frequently he spoke of his son, Afshin, a young man who had just passed conquiere, the extremely competitive national exam for entering the university. In those days, thousands upon thousands of students participated in conquiere, but only the top one or two percent were admitted due to the university's limited capacity.

Mr. Fatemi's eyes sparkled with pride and delight when he talked of Afshin. He quoted Hafiz as a prelude to discussions of "the light of his eyes," his son.

Sweet dreams I had: Wine-goblet I retain

It's revealed now: That success I gain.

Then he smiled. "You can all do that, boys," he whispered, as his gaze panned across the room to ensure that he made eye contact with every single one of us. "And then your parents will talk about you as I talk about my Afshin."

He didn't need excuses to report on Afshin's progress. "He's gotten all A's this term.... He's taking the hardest classes.... His professors are encouraging him to continue beyond his undergraduate degree.... Dr. Fatemi? Yes, I like the sound of that."

Sometimes, he looked at me and winked, subtly reminding me of a conversation we once had, when he told me that if anyone in our class could do what his Afshin had done, it would be me. I was, in his eyes, the only one with enough of what took to be just like his son.

I didn't have to be older than I was to envision Mr. Fatemi's dreams for his son's future, and unfortunately, I also didn't have to be older to feel the pain he felt when the news of his son's arrest and execution rattled our neighborhood. Afshin was accused of being an activist, seen in student gatherings, and strongly suspected of association with a formidable opposition group threatening the rule of His Majesty, the King of the Kings, Mohammed Reza Shah Pahlavi. Afshin had been on the SAVAK's hunt list.

Mr. Fatemi never taught again. He faded into his private life, occasionally surfacing here and there in my school neighborhood, walking around aimlessly with a limp for which no one knew the cause. The lost look in his eyes once met mine, when I attended the gathering commemorating the 40th day of his son's death, and I noticed a momentary spark in his gaze and I almost cried, "No, no, no ... I'm not Afshin." But mercifully the flash disappeared quickly. I was off the hook, except that the burn I felt in my heart has been there for the last 30 years. When I saw Neda's eyes roll back in their sockets, I realized for the first time in my life that some wounds never heal, and I began to cry, desperately, because when Afshin died, I was too young and too proud to cry. But this time, I knew better; I cried for him, for Neda, for the brave citizens of Iran who fearlessly stood up for their rights, for the other 160 people who died in this struggle, but whose last moments were not captured on any cameras, for the senseless death of the young and the shattered dreams of their parents. When Afshin died, I thought he had sacrificed himself for a good cause - a real hero - but his death was in vain; I pray to God that Neda's was not!

Source: truthout

*Mahbod Seraji is an Iranian-American writer and author of "Rooftops of Tehran".

HUMANRIGHTS-SKS

Jujunaz — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 15:49:35 +0000

Best Defense: Engaging Iran on Human Rights?

Jujunaz — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 15:49:48 +0000

"With Mahmoud Ahmadinejad now inaugurated for another four-year term, President Barack Obama is surely tempted to go back to seeking negotiations with Iran about its nuclear program. But these negotiations will not yield results and will only strengthen Ahmadinejad's hold on power. Instead, the United States should try a radically different policy: It should propose a conversation with Iran about human rights," writes Alexander Benard, a New York attorney, who has worked at the Department of Defense and the Washington Institute for Near East Policy.

Noting that since the Iranian election, "Tehran has continued its ruthless crackdown on political dissent," Benard says, "The regime [has] initiated mass trials against more than 100 people associated with the post-election protests." And that conviction constitutes a "death sentence."

"In this context, negotiations about Iran's nuclear program would not only be inappropriate," suggests Benard, "they would also be counterproductive, Nuclear talks would allow Ahmadinejad to divert attention away from these fault lines and the grievances that caused them."

So what does Benard believe would be another platform of engagement that may actually result in a positive outcome for the people of Iran? A "conversation about human rights".

How would a conversation on human rights be implemented? "Under such a plan, Mr. Obama would announce that recent developments in Iran have sparked such concern about the basic rights of the Iranian people that he is setting aside talks about the nuclear issue to focus on talks about civil rights. He would propose a framework in which the U.S. would offer incentives—such as the gradual lifting of sanctions—in exchange for concrete steps towards greater protection of Iranian basic rights. The idea is similar in principle to Sen. Henry ("Scoop") Jackson's push for introducing human rights as a component of our negotiations with the Soviet Union in the 1970s."

The outcome, is this approach were to take effect? "Ahmadinejad would face a clear choice: Accept the framework and risk providing Iranians with the very freedoms that could undermine his totalitarian regime; or, more likely, reject the framework and incur the wrath of Iran's democrats."

Bratz vs. Barbie: Racism Against Iranians Cause of Trial Verdict?

Jujunaz — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 17:31:54 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3897" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="MGA CEO Isaac Larian -- Original Photo: WSJ"][/caption]

Last year, a juror in the Barbie vs. Bratz trial was removed for "making slurs about the ethnicity of Isaac Larian, the Jewish, Iranian-born CEO of MGA, maker of Bratz." The jury-member's hypocritcal verbal attack, calling Iranians: “rude” and “thieves” who have "stolen other person's ideas", leaves us pondering whether this juror should move out of their sheer glass house today... or tomorrow.

District Judge Stephen Larson oversimplified the remarks made during trial deliberations in 2008, and at the time, concluded: “Although the remarks offended and upset several of the jurors, the remarks did not, in any way, affect or influence the decision made by the jury.” Larian’s more recent response? “The verdict that was put against us was only based on racism,” he said. “I am saddened that today, in this day and age when for the first time in the history of America an African American is running for president, that there is still racism in this country.”

Now, the Anti-Defamation League, the Public Affairs Alliance of Iranian Americans (PAAIA), the Iranian American Jewish Federation (IAJF) and the Iranian American Bar Association (IABA) join MGA and Larian in appealing the case with Mattel. The National Law Journal reported that the group has filed an amicus, or friend-of-the-court, with the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in support of MGA Entertainment’s appeal.

“PAAIA is firmly committed to ensuring fair treatment under the law for Iranian Americans and combating all instances of bias or discrimination against them on the basis of ethnicity, national origin or religion," PAAIA Executive Director, Babak Hoghooghi, tells Persianesque.com exclusively.

"We strongly believe that the remarks of a juror during jury deliberations in the case of Mattel vs MGA [made about Mr. Larian] to the effect that Iranians are "rude" and "thieves of others' ideas", introduced bias in those proceedings and amounted to a denial of fair trial for the Iranian American defendant. PAAIA takes such matters very seriously and therefore joined with several other organizations to file a friend-of-the-court brief before the appeals court.”

The Iranian-American Bar Association, a signatory to the amicus brief, is also active in this legal battle.

"As a bar association whose membership consists of Iranian-American legal practitioners, the allegations regarding a juror’s anti-Iranian biased comments in the case of MGA Entertainment, Inc. et al. vs. Mattel Inc. obviously concerns the Iranian American Bar Association (“IABA”)," explains Salman Elmi, IABA's DC-Chapter representative.

"This is of course an issue of great concern due to the fact that in addition to the obvious bias of the juror against individuals of Iranian origin, the comments regarding Iranians being “thieves” and having “stolen other person’s ideas” go to the very issue being litigated. As a result of our concern for both the deprivation of Mr. Larian’s procedural due process rights, and our wish to put a halt to the tacit approval of such discriminatory remarks. It is IABA’s hope that the Court will grant Mr. Larian a new trial. It is only via the granting of a new trial—with a jury free from such discriminatory and potentially infectious remarks—that the judicial process can proceed in an untarnished fashion."

How do YOU feel about this case?

[polldaddy poll=1885087]

bratz-larian-wsj

Jujunaz — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 17:37:07 +0000

dinosaur-footprint

Jujunaz — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 18:36:31 +0000

Discovery in Iran: Footprints of 109 Million Year-Old Dinosaurs

Jujunaz — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 18:59:55 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3906" align="aligncenter" width="492" caption="109 Year-old dinosaur fossil found in Iran -- Original Photo via ArcheologyDaily"][/caption]

Northern Kerman is replete with fossil sites, and now, a 109 million year-old rock has been unearthed near Zarand, Kerman.

It contains 15 fossilized footprints of dinosaurs from the same time: the Cretaceous period, known in many languages (including Farsi/Persian; "doraaneh gachi") as the "chalk period". The footprints discovered are said to belong to a mother dinosaur and her young.

We bet paleontologists around the world are buyinf their plane tickets to Iran... as we type. We just wish others would have a little more respect for one of the world's most ancient (and targeted) landmasses.

NYCRally

Jujunaz — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 17:21:22 +0000

American Perspective: Iran and the Iranian Election

Jujunaz — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 17:30:03 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3924" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Photo by: Maryam Mikaniki"][/caption] BY JULIE JIGSAWNOVICH

NEW YORK--Going to Iran, seeing the presidential campaign, and transitioning from being a tourist into being a supporter of the rights of Iranian voters was an evolution in knowledge and feelings.

I was upset when the Taliban blew up the giant Buddhas in Afghanistan. I'm not religious, but I'm an artist and I care about history. Then the US military invaded Iraq, and their national museum got looted. I thought, "What could happen next? Israel has been threatening to bomb Iran for a while. Which places and things of artistic and historical importance could be at risk?"

Photos of extremely beautiful Iranian mosques and palaces beckoned on Flickr. "Cyrus created the first human rights document," announced a caption to a photo of his tomb on YouTube. I stumbled upon Hichkas' "Bunch of Soldiers" music video--and feared triggering a Dept. of Homeland Security file, so scary and nationalistic it was on first viewing. But after finding a version with English subtitles, I realized that Hichkas' lyrics showed insight and compassion, and he was advocating strength in defense--not adventurism. The music drew me in with a compelling combination of rap and traditional Iranian instruments. The shots of Azadi Tower were stunning. Tehran seemed so exciting--I had to see it in person!

Fear crept back onto me as further internet searches uncovered videos of Iranian women being arrested for revealing too much hair, prison guards whipping inmates, and [more]. I realized there were internal and external dangers, but I still wanted to visit Iran.

After warily reading the Iranian Constitution and penal code, I persuaded my best friend to vacation in the Islamic Republic [with me]. I mentioned the upcoming Presidential election, and suggested that the run-up to it could be an exciting time to visit. And it was! In Iran, we were thrilled to see supporters joyfully [and] openly handing out presidential campaign literature. We took photos of Mousavi, Karroubi, and Ahmadinejad election banners in Tehran, Shiraz, and Esfehan. Moussavi supporters repeatedly showed tremendous enthusiasm--and we even heard kind words for our own president, Barack Hussein Obama. His Norooz greeting had been well-received.

Although I was keenly aware of Sharia law, and felt an underlaying angst in Iran--at the same time I met such kind and charming people there and saw so much beauty, that I experienced unexpected culture shock upon returning home to New York City. I missed being around Iranians, and wondered where I could find some. I found them on the internet, and they showed me a side of Iran I hadn't seen as a tourist, or even as a YouTuber. On June 13th, the day after the presidential election, someone told me that Sepah had staged a coup d'etat in Iran. Having no idea what Sepah was, I struggled to comprehend the complicated system of Iranian politics, militias, religion, and civil rights. Within a week of the election, I attended a rally at Manhattan's Union Square in support of voters in Iran.

I brought a Mousavi poster with me. An Iranian journalism student asked to photograph me posing with the poster--from the front, with my full face showing. I declined with the sinking feeling that such a photograph could cause real problems for me if I ever returned to Iran.

President Obama hasn't [specified] a significant difference between Mousavi and Ahmadinejad regarding the nuclear issue. I felt certain there were considerable differences on other issues, however. Mousavi had set a precedent by campaigning with his wife, and he received strong support from women seeking more freedom. Hardliner Ahmadinejad cracked down on women during his first Presidential term, and he was closely aligned with the Basij.

Astonishing graphic documentation of injuries, wounds, and murder flooded the [web]. Horrifying and upsetting, the videos were also morally compelling and intimately human. People tried to rescue and treat the fallen, they cried, they screamed, putting their bloody hands in the air: seeking witnesses to the violence.

Next came thousands of arrests, documented prison torture and rape, and script-like "confessions" at Revolutionary Court show trials. In the midst of this I attended Iranian rallies, hunger strikes, teach-ins, panel discussions, and art exhibitions. Before the election, people in the Islamic Republic of Iran were full of energy, life, and hope. Many Iranians there, here in New York, and all over the world, still are. So, I resist reconciling memories of my wonderful vacation in Iran with the raw severity of the crackdown going on there now! I believe that cruelty carries the seeds of its own destruction. And I tremendously admire the brave Iranians who, undaunted, and in their own ways, support democracy, freedom of speech, and human rights.

* Julie Jigsawnovich is a freelance writer and artist from New York.

shirin3

Jujunaz — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 20:20:48 +0000

Shirin Askari: Project Runway Season 6 Premiere

Jujunaz — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 20:21:03 +0000

Be sure to watch Project Runway's season six premiere tonight, August 20th, on Lifetime at 10 pm et/pt, or you'll miss the very sweet Persian treat: contestant Shirin Askari.

"My name means sweet in Farsi," says the 23-year-old Iranian-American fashion designer on her audition tape. "I am, but if somebody says something stupid, I'm gonna' call'em on it." "I want to share my vision with the world," adds the University of North Texas BFA grad and former tech-designer for Fossil. So, will she use her Persian background for inspiration like season five's Korto Momolu did, with her African heritage, and please us? Guess we'll have to tune in and "watch what happens" on this season's Project Runway on its new home: the Lifetime network.

paaia-pe

Jujunaz — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 12:27:18 +0000

persepolis-NG-PEjpg

Jujunaz — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 14:44:52 +0000

Middle East Mystique: Cruising the Persian Gulf and Visiting Persepolis

Jujunaz — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 15:18:49 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3937" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Original Photo: National Geographic"][/caption]

CrystalCruises wants to take you on a "journey into the heart of ancient lands, where the Persian, Greek, Egyptian, Roman and Ottoman empires once ruled the world, and monuments to their great legacies still stand," via their cruise, World Voyage IV: Middle East Mystique.

The groundbreaking cruise will visit Crystal's first-ever port of calls in Iran, Kuwait, and Bahrain. From Bandar Abbas, Iran you can roam the ruins of Persepolis and the original wine-country's original wine-city: Shiraz (the same place where Shiraz/Syrah grapes grown around the world now, come from). Shiraz is also a city of gardens, poets like Hafez, and nightingales along with stunning architecture and colorful mosaics. (Mosaics are yet another Persian discovery.)

Persepolis, a UNESCO-declared World Heritage Site in 1979, is also known asTakht-e Jamshid (Throne of Jamshid) and Parseh, and contains remains from around 515 BC.

Pārsā, as it was known to the ancient Iranians/Persians, means "The City of Persians". The term Persepolis is actually the Greek version of the moniker. The Persepolis citadel

On this 13-day cruise which departs from Mumbai, India on March 2, 2009 , you'll also get see the Persian Isles like: Kish (pronounced keesh) which is "known for its cultured pearls, large aquaria, and scuba diving," as well as Hormoz Island, home to the 16th-century Hormoz Castle, remnants of the once dominated by Portuguese, and lastly; Qeshm Island where the Hara marine forest exists and an "estimated 1.5% of the world’s birds migrate."

CrsytalCruises describes the area where the center of the Persian Empire thrived as: "Located on the Straits of Hormuz, BandarAbbas is a busy port city, witha history of trade withIndia. More recently, it has been a draw for visitors who appreciate its many cultural and natural attractions. At the Anthropological Museum, for instance, those interested in ancient civilizations can survey artifacts found in the area, along with traditional clothing and old coins. Off the coast are several islands that are perfect for an introduction to the area’s ecology and history."

Click here for ticket price quotes and more.

Persian Rap: Zed Bazi - Koocheh

Jujunaz — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 19:07:45 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LcmpfID8Qn4] Check out our beloved Persian rap superstars, the super-duper talented, Zed Bazi song: Koocheh (street). We just can't get enough of these guys! Click here for another one of our Zed Bazi favorites: Zendegiye Mane (It's My Life).

Persian Tar: Metallica's Nothing Else Matters

Jujunaz — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 15:58:07 +0000

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GdUhhR6RUMg] Check out Metallica's song Nothing Else Matters in accoustic guitar and tar, both of which are Persian instruments.

greendays-hana

Jujunaz — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 17:18:03 +0000

Venice Film Festival 2009: Green Days by Hana Makhmalbaf

Jujunaz — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 17:20:09 +0000

[caption id="attachment_3957" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Original Photos: Makhmalbaf.com"][/caption]

The 66th Venice Film Festival's list of participating films has already been announced, yet festival director Marco Muller has decided to add a new film Green Days, made by Mohsen Makhmalbaf's daughter: Hana Makhmalbaf, to the festival's exciting lineup of movies.

Shot on the streets of Tehran during the days prior to the Iranian presidential election, Green Days' main characters are "the ordinary green wearing Iranian public."

"I am not a sociologist but my film is sociological," says the 20-year-old Iranian cinema royalty heir. "My camera works like a mirror to show you the Iranian society undergoing a revolution with all its hopes and doubts. I prefer not to explain this film as the people in the film paint a clear picture of their situation and themselves."

Hana's initial submission to the prestigious film festival was her first-ever "video-shot" film: The Day My Aunt Was Ill, (which she made when she was only 9 years old).

*Green Days is set to be screened on September 10th and 11th at 2009 Venice Film Festival.

Film Credits: Director & Scriptwriter: Hana Makhmalbaf Cinematographer: Mohammad Yazdi Soundman: Shahab Editor: Babak Karimi Music: Azad Aslani , Arman Aslani Production assistant: Ali , Mehdi Translator: Parandis Cast: Ava Nazanin Niloufar Rezvaneh Marziyeh Maryam Asghar Behjat Produced by: Makhmalbaf Film House Wild Bunch