Tehran- IRAF- Mohammad Arzagani, a distinguished Afghan migrant calligrapher, said in an exclusive interview with IRAF, on International Mother Language Day: “For every human being, the mother language is delightful and beloved, because we experience our first words and sentences through it.”
Persian; A Reason for Migration to Iran
Referring to the shared language between Afghanistan and Iran, Arzagani stated: “The common language between Afghanistan and Iran is one of the most important reasons for Afghans migrating to Iran.”
He added: “Our mother language is so significant to our community that when we migrated, we chose a country that shares our language.”
Arzagani noted that a shared language provides a strong foundation for empathy. “When people who speak the same language confide in one another, they understand each other’s feelings better and can empathize more deeply than those who speak different languages.”
Artists as Cultural Ambassadors of the Persian Language
Highlighting the role of artists in fostering empathy between the two nations, he said: “Artists can create the ground for cultural interaction and artistic exchange. Art is one of the most important tools for transmitting culture. In this sense, artists can be considered cultural ambassadors of the Persian language.”
Referring to the art of calligraphy, he emphasized: “Calligraphy has played a prominent role in the history of the Persian language. From ancient times until today, the transcription of Persian works and writings has been the responsibility of scribes and calligraphers.”
Arzagani said: “The act of transcription ensured that subjects were recorded and preserved from harm. The fact that today we have the legacies of our ancestors is thanks to writing and calligraphy.”
Referring to Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh, he stated: “The Shahnameh of Ferdowsi, which is one of the most important works of the Persian language, has reached us through this tradition of transcription. Had it not been for writing and calligraphy, perhaps we would not have the Shahnameh today.”
Calligraphy as a Means of Preserving Persian Heritage
He continued: “Beyond creating beauty, the art of calligraphy plays an important role in preserving, transmitting, and expanding various subjects for future generations.”
Referring to modern technologies, he said: “Although new tools and technologies have emerged today, calligraphy still maintains its special place.”
Arzagani concluded: “Throughout the history of the Persian language, scribes have played a historic role by transcribing works and safeguarding the language. Today as well, artists, by creating distinguished works, can help expand Persian culture and language.”
