Iran’s Ministry of Culture: We Are Working to Lift Shajarian’s Ban

Farzad Talebi, Director General of the Music Office at Iran’s Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance, announced that he is making every effort to remove obstacles to Mohammad Reza Shajarian’s activities so that his works reach his audience.

According to a report by “FCN” citing IRNA news agency, following the release of a video file of Nowruz greetings by Mohammad Reza Shajarian and announcement of his illness, a new wave of reaction to the ban on this master vocalist began. Although public and media campaigns against Shajarian’s ban intensified suddenly, it ultimately led to reactions from state media and the Ministry of Culture.

During the Nowruz period, state media reported on Mohammad Reza Shajarian’s health condition and discussed artistic programs of this master vocalist in Iran. Subsequently, the Minister of Culture sent a message wishing Shajarian good health. Alongside these matters, a piece of news circulating on social media was the Ministry’s move to publish Mohammad Reza Shajarian’s works and hold his concerts.

On Saturday, April 2, Farzad Talebi, after two terms serving as Acting Director of the Music Office, was finally appointed Director General of this office by the Minister of Culture. In his first interview regarding Shajarian’s activity status and publication of his works, he said: “We will make every effort to remove obstacles to Master Shajarian’s activities so that audiences have the opportunity to access his works.”

Mohammad Reza Shajarian has had no activities in Iran’s formal music space since 2009, and his audio and video content is not broadcast on state media.

Source: Al Arabiya Farsi