TEHRAN – The cultural and artistic multimedia project “Twelve” has been launched to support the charity activities of the Khalizak Charitable Foundation, organizers announced at a press conference held in Tehran on Saturday.
According to Hamed Mokhtarani, the project’s initiator, all proceeds from the project will go toward supporting the foundation’s efforts.
The initiative, which began about four years ago, features 12 ghazals from Rumi’s Divan-e-Shams-e-Tabrizi, selected by Iranian philosopher and poet Seyyed Hassan Amin and recited by esteemed voice actor Nasrollah Medgharchi.
The project has evolved into a multifaceted performance, including musical interpretation and live performance, complemented by 12 calligraphy paintings inspired by each of the selected poems.
Prominent figures in Persian literature, including Shafiei Qadkani, have contributed to this effort, which also includes a documentary that captures the essence of the project.
This interdisciplinary undertaking aims to celebrate Persian literary heritage, in particular the poetry of Rumi, and promote cultural diplomacy on an international scale. This project consists of a music album, a documentary, and a calligraphy painting.
Mokhtarani created 12 musical tracks based on the Divan of Shams Tabrizi, whose lyrics were carefully selected and edited by eminent scholars. The song features Nei and piano, performed by Mokhtarani himself and esteemed musician Rasul Kerci.
In addition to the musical elements, Mokhtarani designed 12 calligraphy paintings, each corresponding to a musical piece. Made with acrylic paint and fine brush strokes on large canvases measuring 200 x 330 cm, these works utilize a minimalist black and white palette to visually embody the mood and meaning of each poem.
The project also includes a documentary featuring 27 prominent literary and cultural figures sharing their views on Rumi’s legacy, with English subtitles. In addition, two music videos and a promotional trailer were created to introduce “Twelve” to a global audience.
This initiative marks an important cultural milestone, showcasing Iran’s artistic talent and reaffirming the country’s rich literary and artistic heritage on the world stage. “Our duty is to preserve this precious cultural heritage for future generations,” Mokhtarani asserts.
Mokhtarani stressed that the unveiling of the artwork and album is scheduled for Friday at the Niavaran Cultural and Historical Complex in Tehran, where it will be on display for a week.
In particular, he added, 100 percent of the proceeds from this exhibition will be donated to the Kalizak Charitable Foundation.
He said the project will also include performances at various historical sites across Tehran, including Saadabad Palace and Golestan Palace, as well as a performance at Esteghlal Hotel and a grand unveiling ceremony at Milad Tower.
After these events, the tour will be expanded to major cities such as Isfahan, Shiraz and Tabriz, and international tours in European and Asian countries are also planned, he said.
Featuring the voice of Medgulchi and the compositions of Mokhtarani, the album “Twelve” is designed to resonate deeply with listeners and evoke empathy and connection with Rumi’s poetry. This multimedia project aims to contribute in some small way to the appreciation of Persian poetry.
Mokhtarani also pointed out that the choice of Medghulchi as a reader was intentional. “His ability to evoke the spirit of Rumi through his recitation style is considered essential to creating a deep listener experience.”
Looking ahead, Mokhtarani mentioned an upcoming project entitled “Seven,” which will focus on the works of Hafez and Saadi, and will also include performances at historical venues in Tehran.
Despite the high cost of such projects, no financial support is sought from sponsors. Rather, he explained, this partnership is built on goodwill and community support.
The fusion of traditional Persian instruments such as the ney and Western piano symbolizes the bridge between Eastern and Western music, he added.
Mohammad Ali Ahmadi Tonekaboni, public relations manager for the Kafrizak Foundation, said the foundation is a non-profit organization supported by charitable donations for over 53 years and serves as a refuge for the elderly and people with disabilities. He stressed that Kalizak is committed to supporting cultural initiatives without seeking pity. Instead, it aims to empower its residents through the arts.
He concluded that the presentation at Niabaran will be especially special because it will also include the participation of people with special needs, and will demonstrate Kalizak’s commitment to inclusivity in the arts.
SAB/