Book Launch of Kamandi Zulf in Tehran

On 9 June 2026, the Cultural Institute of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), in cooperation with the Embassy of the Republic of Tajikistan in the Islamic Republic of Iran, hosted the launch ceremony of Kamandi Zulf (“The Lasso of Tresses”), a selected collection of poems by Tajikistan’s People’s Poet, Zulfiya Atoi. The event brought together prominent literary and cultural figures, as well as diplomats accredited in Tehran.

The ceremony commenced with opening remarks by Mohammad Hassan, Head of the ECO Cultural Institute, followed by the reading of a message from the Minister of Culture of the Republic of Tajikistan, Matlubakhon Sattoriyon. In her message, the Minister emphasized that the publication and presentation of Kamandi Zulf in the Persian script, made possible with the support of the ECO Cultural Institute, would play an important role in strengthening literary and cultural ties among the countries of the region and in introducing Tajikistan’s literary heritage to a wider Persian-speaking readership.

In his address, the Ambassador of the Republic of Tajikistan to Iran, Nizomiddin Zohidi, noted that for more than four decades Zulfiya Atoi has maintained an active presence in Tajikistan’s literary and cultural life, making a significant contribution to the development of contemporary Tajik literature through her acclaimed works. He stressed that her poetry reflects profound affection, refined feminine sensitivity, and a heart filled with compassion and devotion, qualities that have secured her a distinguished place in Tajik literature.

The Ambassador further described Zulfiya Atoi’s literary achievements and her recognition with the honorary title of “People’s Poet of Tajikistan” as a vivid example of the successful implementation of the cultural policies and initiatives of the Founder of Peace and National Unity, Leader of the Nation, President of the Republic of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon, aimed at enhancing the status of women in Tajik society.

During the event, a recorded video message from the renowned Tajik scholar Ali Mohammadi Khorasani, who authored the foreword to the book, was presented. In his remarks, he examined the distinctive features of Zulfiya Atoi’s poetry, emphasizing that her work clearly demonstrates a synthesis of contemporary global poetic trends and the rich traditions of Persian-Tajik classical verse.

Dr. Majid Asadi, Director of Nashr-e Naghz Publishing House and an Iranian scholar of Tajik studies, also shared his views on the publication. He described Zulfiya Atoi as one of Tajikistan’s accomplished poets who has successfully portrayed human aspirations and suffering with remarkable artistic skill and emotional depth.

In a video message concluding the ceremony, Zulfiya Atoi expressed her gratitude for the publication and launch of Kamandi Zulf and introduced the audience to selected samples of her poetry.

It is worth noting that Kamandi Zulf was recently published in Persian script by Orvan Publishing House in Tehran at the recommendation of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Tajikistan and with the support of the ECO Cultural Institute. The volume comprises 480 pages and was printed in an edition of 500 copies.