Transforming Lives: Cultural Initiative 'Twelve' Unveiled to Boost Charity Through Art and Poetry

In a remarkable effort to blend culture and charity, the “Twelve” multimedia project has been launched to benefit the Kahrizak Charity Foundation. This initiative, revealed at a press conference in Tehran, aims to support the foundation’s charitable activities while celebrating the rich heritage of Persian literature.

The project, which has been in development for nearly four years, features twelve ghazals from Rumi’s celebrated work, “Divan-e Shams-e Tabrizi.” These selections have been curated by the esteemed Iranian philosopher and poet Seyyed Hassan Amin, and are narrated by the acclaimed voice actor Nasrollah Medghalchi. The essence of this project highlights the beauty of Persian poetry and its cultural significance.

The “Twelve” initiative encompasses a variety of artistic expressions, including:

A music album featuring twelve musical tracks inspired by Rumi’s poetry.
A documentary that captures the spirit of the project and includes insights from 27 prominent literary scholars and cultural figures.
Calligraphic paintings that bring to life each selected poem, enhancing the visual experience.

According to Hamed Mokhtarani, the creator of the project, “All proceeds from the project will be allocated to support the foundation’s initiatives.” He emphasized the importance of preserving this cultural legacy for future generations.

The musical component of “Twelve” features unique compositions that blend traditional Persian instruments, such as the ney, with Western piano elements. This fusion symbolizes a bridge between Eastern and Western musical traditions. The tracks have been meticulously crafted, with lyrics selected and edited by distinguished scholars. Mokhtarani and renowned musician Rasul Kerchi perform the compositions, creating a harmonious experience for listeners.

In addition to the music, Mokhtarani has crafted twelve calligraphy paintings on large canvases measuring 200 by 330 centimeters. Each artwork is designed to embody the mood and essence of its corresponding poem, utilizing a minimalist black-and-white palette to emphasize the artistic interpretation of Rumi’s work.

The documentary created as part of “Twelve” provides valuable perspectives on Rumi’s legacy, further enriching the project’s cultural depth. It features English subtitles, making it accessible to a global audience. Enhanced by two music videos and promotional trailers, this multimedia initiative seeks to introduce Rumi’s profound poetry to the world.

Mokhtarani stated, “Our duty is to preserve this invaluable cultural legacy for future generations.” The unveiling of the artworks and music album is set for Friday at the Niavaran Cultural-Historical Complex in Tehran, accompanied by a week-long exhibition. Notably, 100 percent of the sales from this exhibition will be donated to the Kahrizak Charity Foundation, reinforcing the project’s commitment to charity.

Additionally, the project will feature performances at various historic sites throughout Tehran, including the Sadabad and Golestan Palaces. A public performance at the Esteghlal Hotel and a grand unveiling at Milad Tower are also scheduled, followed by a tour extending to major cities such as Isfahan, Shiraz, and Tabriz. There are aspirations for international tours in European and Asian countries, showcasing the richness of Persian culture globally.

The “Twelve” album, featuring Medghalchi’s voice alongside Mokhtarani’s compositions, aims to resonate with listeners, fostering empathy and a connection to Rumi’s poetry. Mokhtarani believes that Medghalchi was the perfect choice for the reader, stating, “His ability to evoke Rumi’s spirit through his reading style is deemed essential for creating a profound listener experience.”

Looking to the future, Mokhtarani has plans for another project centered around the works of Hafez and Saadi, titled “Seven.” This upcoming initiative will also include performances in historical settings in Tehran, continuing the celebration of Persian literary heritage.

Despite the high costs associated with such artistic endeavors, Mokhtarani clarified that no financial support has been sought from sponsors. Instead, the project has been built on goodwill and community support, emphasizing the importance of collective effort in promoting cultural initiatives.

Mohammad Ali Ahmadi Tonekaboni, the Public Relations Manager of the Kahrizak Foundation, highlighted the foundation’s commitment to cultural initiatives and its role as a refuge for the elderly and individuals with disabilities. He stated, “Kahrizak is committed to supporting cultural initiatives without seeking sympathy; instead, it aims to empower its residents through art.” The unveiling at Niavaran will also showcase participation from individuals with special needs, further demonstrating Kahrizak’s dedication to inclusivity in the arts.

In conclusion, the “Twelve” project not only celebrates the timeless poetry of Rumi but also serves a greater purpose by supporting the Kahrizak Charity Foundation. This initiative stands as a testament to the power of art and culture in bridging communities and preserving legacies.