Culture

Experience the Magic: Ecuadorian Pan Flutist Leo Rojas Returns to Tehran for His 3rd Enchanting Performance!

February 14, 2025February 14, 2025

Get ready for an unforgettable musical experience as renowned Ecuadorian pan flutist Juan Leonardo Santillia Rojas, popularly known as Leo Rojas, is set to perform in Tehran next month. This much-anticipated concert marks his third visit to Iran, following successful performances in 2018 and 2019, and will take place at the impressive Grand Hall of the Interior Ministry, according to Honaronline.

Born and raised in a small village in the Andes, Leo Rojas developed a deep bond with nature and the traditional sounds that echo through his lineage. His upbringing in poverty shaped his connection to music, which is deeply interwoven with the spiritual values and stories of his culture. At a young age, Leo made a pivotal decision to leave Ecuador in search of a better life for himself and his family.

In 2000, Rojas moved to Spain and later settled in Germany. Living in Berlin with his Polish wife, he initially earned a living as a street musician, enchanting passersby with the soothing melodies of his pan flute. His music not only resonated with the essence of nature but also paid homage to his rich ancestral heritage. Despite the challenges he faced, Leo’s dedication to his craft never wavered. His life took a transformative turn when a stranger suggested he audition for the German TV show Das Supertalent, the German equivalent of Britain’s Got Talent.

In 2011, Rojas competed in the fifth season of Das Supertalent, captivating both judges and audiences with his stunning performance of “El Condor Pasa.” His genuine expression and natural charisma propelled him to the semifinals. Ultimately, he won the competition with a breathtaking rendition of “The Lonely Shepherd,” originally composed and performed by the legendary Romanian pan flute musician Gheorghe Zamfir in 1977. Leo’s triumph was not just a victory in the competition, but a testament to his profound passion for music.

Winning the show opened numerous doors for Leo Rojas. A renowned German producer and songwriter, D.B., took notice of his talent and produced his debut album, “Spirit of the Hawk,” which achieved remarkable success, earning him two gold records. The album climbed to number two on the German album charts and featured popular tracks, including the aforementioned songs, along with covers of iconic pieces like John Barry’s theme from the 1990 epic western film Dances With Wolves and German musician Martin Bottcher’s Winnetou.

Today, Leo Rojas stands as an internationally acclaimed musician, amassing over a billion views and more than 3.7 million subscribers on YouTube, in addition to over 3 million monthly streams on Spotify. His captivating music transcends borders, allowing him to tour globally and inspire audiences in countries such as China, India, Korea, Canada, and Brazil.

One of his most celebrated pieces, “El Condor Pasa,” encapsulates the essence of traditional Native American rhythms, serving as a bridge to his cultural heritage. Leo Rojas eloquently expresses, “The voices of my ancestors speak to you through my music, connecting us all to the soul of past times.” Through his art, Leo conveys a powerful message of unity with nature and humanity, resonating with hearts across the globe.

Leo Rojas will perform in Tehran next month.
He has previously performed in Iran in 2018 and 2019.
Rojas grew up in a small village in the Andes, deeply connected to nature.
He moved to Spain in 2000, later relocating to Germany.
Initially, he worked as a street musician in Berlin.
His career soared after competing in Das Supertalent in 2011.
His debut album, “Spirit of the Hawk,” achieved great success.
Today, he has over 1 billion views on YouTube.
He tours internationally, spreading his message of unity through music.

As anticipation builds for his upcoming concert, Leo Rojas continues to touch the hearts of many, reminding us all of the profound connection between music, nature, and the human experience.

Photo: Leo Rojas at his 2019 concert in Tehran

Tourism

Historic Yazd Passageway Revived at Tehran Fair: A Journey Through Centuries of Culture!

February 11, 2025February 11, 2025

The 18th Tehran International Tourism and Related Industries Exhibition has opened in Tehran, featuring a model of the historic “Gozar-e Yuzdaran,” or Cheetah Keepers’ Passage, which highlights Yazd’s rich cultural heritage. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Minister Seyyed Reza Salehi-Amiri inaugurated the event and toured the exhibits. The recreated passageway immerses visitors in Yazd’s traditional atmosphere and emphasizes its historical significance, including the endangered Asiatic cheetah. Yazd, known for its ancient architecture and harmonious coexistence of religions, continues to attract cultural tourism, showcasing its unique history and vibrant culture during such events.

Culture

Discover the Hidden Treasures: A Journey Through Tehran’s Vibrant Art Galleries

January 17, 2025January 21, 2025

Tehran’s art scene is buzzing with a variety of exhibitions showcasing remarkable Iranian artists. Notable exhibitions include Mehdi Farrokhi’s “Iranian Abstraction” at Gooya Gallery (until Feb 3), Reza Abdolhai’s “Based on A True Story” at CAMA Gallery (until Jan 22), and Mohammad Hassan Nematian’s “Eagerly Awaiting” at Adapa Gallery (until Feb 5). Other highlights are Ali Razavi’s “Raree Show” at Bashgah Gallery (until Jan 27), Tannaz Adli’s “Asleep” at Baam Gallery (until Jan 26), and Shirin Arabi’s “The Cave of Gods” at Asr Gallery (until Jan 31). Art enthusiasts are encouraged to explore these vibrant showcases.

Society

Tehran Municipality Sparks Debate: Controversial Funding for Ideological Projects Over Urgent Community Needs

January 23, 2025January 23, 2025

Tehran Municipality has controversially allocated 550 billion tomans to the “Arman Aliverdi” project, which aims to connect clerics with schools, despite claiming insufficient funds for the city’s aging transportation system. This initiative, named after a Basij member who died during 2022 protests, reflects a broader strategy to ideologically influence youth. Critics, including council member Nasser Amani, argue that these funds should instead address pressing issues like deteriorating school conditions and a severe teacher shortage. With high dropout rates and a growing disconnection between students and the education system, the municipality’s priorities have been called into question amid urgent infrastructure needs.

Culture

40th International Fajr Music Festival: Celebrating Global Talent with 6 Renowned Musicians and Bands!

January 25, 2025January 25, 2025

The 40th International Fajr Music Festival aims to enhance Iran’s musical artistry and showcase its rich heritage. At a recent press conference, festival officials emphasized their commitment to serious music and international engagement, with 1,464 musicians participating—a 40% increase from last year. The festival will feature 106 bands, including six international groups from Spain, the Netherlands, and more, across ten venues in Tehran from February 11 to 17. The event seeks to honor Iranian musicians, promote music appreciation, and preserve cultural identity, all while fostering international collaboration and competition. Anticipation is high for this vibrant celebration.

Culture

Han Kang’s ‘Greek Lessons’ Now Available in Persian: A Literary Journey Awaits!

January 29, 2025January 29, 2025

Tehran’s literary scene has embraced the Persian translation of “Greek Lessons,” a poignant novel by South Korean author Han Kang, translated by Fariba Arabzadeh. The story follows a young woman who, after losing her ability to speak, enrolls in an Ancient Greek class to reclaim her voice. Her relationship with her teacher, who is losing his sight, deepens as they confront personal struggles: her grief over her mother and custody battle, and his cultural conflicts. Han Kang’s narrative explores themes of loss, identity, and connection, resonating with readers and reflecting the strength found in vulnerability. The novel’s release in Iran allows a new audience to experience its emotional depth.

Politics

Tehran Rejects EU Parliament Resolution, Claims It Lacks Legal Foundation

January 25, 2025January 25, 2025

Marzieh Afkham, Iran’s Director General of Human Rights and Women, criticized the European Parliament’s recent resolution condemning Iran for systematic repression of rights, particularly women’s rights. She called the resolution unfounded and politically motivated, emphasizing the importance of respecting Iran’s judicial independence. Afkham defended the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as vital to national security and urged the European Parliament to reconsider its stance, warning against supporting violent groups that undermine peace. Her remarks highlight Iran’s resistance to foreign criticism amidst rising tensions over human rights and regional security, reflecting a broader narrative about judicial sovereignty.