Gordafarid stands as Iran’s first female “Naqqal,” a traditional epic storyteller of Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh (The Epic Book of Kings). Since 1998, she has excelled in reviving and performing Naqqali, the age-old art of narrating Persian epic tales, with extraordinary skill and dedication. Her commitment extends beyond performance; she has meticulously collected narratives from across Iran, pursuing the legacy of this dramatic tradition by studying with the masters of the craft.
With unwavering resolve, Gordafarid has challenged deep-rooted norms that once confined Naqqali to male performers in public venues such as local coffeehouses. Her trailblazing journey was honored by Morshed Torabi, the most esteemed Naqqal of Iran, who symbolically gifted her his cane, a powerful endorsement of her impact on the art form.
For over a decade, Farhang Foundation has proudly featured Gordafarid as the headline performer in our annual Shab-e Yalda celebration. Her unforgettable performances have not only captivated sold-out audiences but have also become a cherished part of our Yalda history, earning lasting admiration and praise.
