Parri Zangeneh Highlights the Essential Need for Understanding and Acceptance of the Blind in Iran + Audio

According to Rokna’s social reporter, Pari Zangeneh is an artist whose name is linked not only to music but also to courage and determination. Having lost her vision in the prime of her youth, she chose not isolation but the grand stages of international opera, bringing Iranian cultural expression to audiences worldwide through a classical lens. By combining Western vocal techniques with indigenous melodies, she developed a unique style that remains unparalleled in the history of Iranian music. Beyond her artistry, she has long played the role of a social activist, demonstrating that a true artist’s responsibility extends far beyond standing on stage.

In the interview, she spoke about the hidden struggles of blind individuals, who often must rely on passersby to cross the street safely, and the lack of societal awareness about how to interact with the blind—with respect rather than pity.

The conversation with Zangeneh would not be complete without discussing women and music. When asked how she perceives women’s voices, she paused and said: “A woman’s voice is like a lullaby—gentle and kind, yet beneath it lies a power of art and liberation.”

Pari Zangeneh: Social Understanding and Acceptance Are the Blind Community’s Most Important Needs

Rokna Reporter: Ms. Zangeneh, you are one of the most recognized artistic figures not only in Iran but internationally. Alongside your remarkable contributions to music and vocal arts, you have long worked extensively in support of blind and visually impaired individuals—an effort less widely discussed. Having been personally in close contact with this community and experiencing their challenges firsthand, what are the main challenges facing the blind in Iran today? How marginalized are they, and what needs remain unmet?

Pari Zangeneh: As you know, I was not born blind. I had full vision until I was around 27 or 28, but I lost my sight in a car accident when glass struck my face. From the first days of adjusting to this new reality, I encountered a remarkable mentor, the late Dr. Mohammad Khazaeli, whose support was pivotal. He never neglected the blind community in Iran, and I always proudly speak of him whenever I can.

Dr. Khazaeli lost his vision at 18 months due to smallpox, yet he pursued education through memorization techniques and achieved a doctorate in literature and law. Fluent in Persian, Arabic, French, and English, he dedicated most of his life to improving the situation for blind individuals in Iran, founding educational centers and publishing multiple journals and books.

Despite his blindness from childhood, Dr. Khazaeli achieved the highest academic levels and even served in Parliament. He stood alongside the blind, closely monitoring their challenges and taking major steps to resolve them. We were always under his guidance and protection. After my accident, I was hospitalized at Moorfields, one of Europe’s leading eye hospitals, where many doctors, learning I was from Iran, recognized Dr. Khazaeli’s work for the blind in our country. This was inspiring. Upon returning to Tehran, I began collaborating with him. He opened the path for me to engage with the blind community, and I have since maintained constant contact with them. Alongside my artistic career, I have strived to contribute—even in small ways—to improving their conditions.

On the Current Situation of the Blind: Today, as elsewhere in the world, science and technology offer new opportunities for the blind. Their population in Iran has grown, and a significant number of blind students now navigate education and employment using modern tools and technologies. Numerous associations support them, and many have achieved independence in life and work.

Yet, one persistent problem is not the lack of resources or technology but societal awareness. People fortunate to have sight often lack familiarity with the lives and needs of the blind. Our core problem is not “lack of tools” but “lack of understanding.” Society must show interest and genuinely seek to understand how blind people live and what they need.

I wrote an extensive book years ago, Beyond Darkness, chronicling the life of a blind person from childhood to great achievements. If the book is not readily available, I urge its reprinting. Knowing the real-life story of a blind person can shift society’s perspective far more effectively than any campaign or slogan.

With modern medical advances, even during pregnancy, it is possible to anticipate a child may be born blind. Families, doctors, and society must be prepared from the outset. Fortunately, blind individuals today are more skilled than ever with assistive technologies, managing their daily lives independently. The challenge lies not with them but with others who often do not know how to interact respectfully with the blind. Even small, unintended missteps can cause distress. Proper understanding and respectful communication can resolve many issues. I have seen how capable blind students are. While I entered this community later in life, the new generation of blind individuals grows up skilled and independent from the start.

On Accessibility in Cities: One major challenge for people with disabilities, whether blind, deaf, or physically limited, is navigating urban spaces. Cities in Iran must be “ready” not only technically but also culturally and mentally. Society must view the presence of blind individuals as natural. Acceptance itself is the most significant support. People should be prepared for blindness, as no one is immune. Age, accidents, or illness can bring this challenge to anyone’s life. Government institutions must provide proper training and awareness programs. Many blind individuals are already well-prepared and technologically capable, but society must grow alongside them. People should not feel alienated when encountering a blind person; they should offer assistance and companionship sincerely.

On the Primary Demand of the Blind: Their foremost need is understanding. Real understanding and acceptance solve many other challenges automatically. Even at over 80 years old, I see myself as a newcomer whenever I meet the public and never tire of raising awareness. Everyone confronting blindness should educate others, preparing society to embrace it. Blind individuals must advocate clearly and proudly for their needs; this encourages society and authorities to provide support.

On Women and Music: The first sound any human hears is a mother’s lullaby. Mothers worldwide sing lullabies, so how can we deny the right of women’s voices to be heard? Hiding lullabies conceals the roots of music and compassion. Cultural and artistic authorities must recognize this and allow women to sing. When women can sing lullabies, all other doors open. Singing is not mere entertainment; it can be a prayer, a dialogue, or a solace for the soul. People—both men and women—have often responded with admiration to our art.

Fortunately, some progress has been made, allowing women to perform in fields like opera, though restrictions remain. As a child in Kashan, I saw how singing played a key role in our cultural traditions. Carpet weavers would sing while working, even teaching children through song. If women’s opportunities in vocal arts expand, I firmly believe both men and women will embrace it, as music is deeply tied to our emotional memory.