Message of Condolence from the Secretary-General of Iran’s National Commission for UNESCO on the Passing of Master Shirmohammad Espandār
| The Secretary-General of Iran’s National Commission for UNESCO issued a message expressing his condolences on the passing of Master Shirmohammad Espandār, one of the most distinguished artists of Balochi folk music and a renowned player of the doneli, and paying tribute to his lasting contribution to introducing and preserving Iran’s musical heritage. |
The message from Dr. Hassan Fartousi, Secretary-General of Iran’s National Commission for UNESCO, reads as follows:
In the Name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful
The news of the passing of the distinguished Master Shirmohammad Espandār, a prominent artist of Balochi folk music, has deeply saddened the country’s cultural and artistic community.
Master Espandār devoted his fruitful life to preserving, promoting and passing on one of the most valuable expressions of Iran’s intangible cultural heritage. The enduring melodies of the doneli, brought to life through his gifted hands, told the story of the identity, history, natural environment and culture of the people of Balochistan, and stood as a symbol of the cultural diversity of Iran; a diversity whose safeguarding is among UNESCO’s foremost responsibilities in protecting the shared heritage of humanity.
Through his authentic artistry, he introduced Balochi music and the doneli to international cultural forums, earning respect and recognition both in Iran and abroad. In some cultural accounts of his participation in the Avignon International Festival in France, he was referred to as the “Pearl of the Ocean.”
Master Espandār’s artistic legacy is a valuable example of the musical knowledge and traditions of previous generations. Preserving and transmitting this legacy is a cultural responsibility for today’s society.
The passing of this artist is a loss for Iran’s regional music and intangible cultural heritage. Yet his name and art will continue to live on in the cultural memory of this land.
On behalf of Iran’s National Commission for UNESCO, I extend my heartfelt condolences on this loss to the family of the late Master Espandār, the culture-loving people of Sistan and Baluchestan, Iran’s music and artistic community, and all those who cherish the country’s cultural heritage. I pray to Almighty God to grant the departed soul His boundless mercy and the highest place in His grace, and to bestow patience and fortitude upon his bereaved family.
Dr. Hassan Fartousi
Secretary-General of Iran’s National Commission for UNESCO
