Kayhan Rahgozar

Kayhan Rahgozar was a highly regarded figure in the world of Iranian theatre, film and television, known for his contributions as a playwright, screenwriter, director, producer, and editor. His notable work includes writing and co-directing the acclaimed TV series "Sarbedaran" (Heads on Gallows), a period drama set during the Mongol Conquest of Persia in the mid-14th century and an Iranian movement to free the country from tyranny and oppression. Despite facing extensive censorship and arbitrarily removal of hours of finished content by the state TV, "Sarbedaran" remains a cherished and relevant series, showcasing Rahgozar's influence and creativity in storytelling. Furthermore, with his distinctive dialogue and portrayal of everyday Farsi during an era influenced by poets like Ferdowsi, Hafez, and Rumi, his innovative approach pioneered a new genre in period drama screenwriting in Iran. He continued this work with another acclaimed TV series, "Bu Ali Sina," depicting the life of the 11th-century philosopher and physician Avicenna, known as the founding figure of early modern medicine. Tragically, Rahgozar's promising career was cut short by a sudden heart attack in 1993 at the age of 46. His untimely passing left an irreplaceable void in the creative landscape, leaving behind a lasting legacy in Iranian television and artistic expression.