Podcast Episodes

Rostam Meets His Grandfathers

Season 1 Episode 38

Arsalan retells how Baby Rostam grows into a mighty young warrior and meets his grandfathers, Sam and King Mehrab, for the first time.

6 months, 4 weeks ago

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Rostam's Birth

Season 1 Episode 37

Arsalan retells the glorious birth of Rostam, Iran’s greatest future hero, after his mother Rudabeh is saved from life-threatening labor by Zal and t…

7 months ago

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Commentary: We're 10% Through the Shahnameh

Season 1 Episode 36

Arsalan marks the 10% milestone through the Shahnameh, inviting listeners to reflect on favourite stories, surprising insights, and  questions the po…

7 months, 1 week ago

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The Love Story of Zal & Rudabeh

Season 1 Episode 35

In this special episode, Arsalan retells the legendary love of Zal and Rudabeh, who bravely navigate family tensions and the threat of all-out war to…

7 months, 2 weeks ago

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Princess Rudabeh of Kabul

Season 1 Episode 34

Arsalan retells the introduction of Princess Rudabeh of Kabul and how she first falls in love with Zal of Iran, sight unseen. 

7 months, 3 weeks ago

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Zal the Diplomat: From Zabol to Kabul

Season 1 Episode 33

Arsalan retells Zal’s diplomatic visit to Kabul and his meeting with King Mehrab, where he first hears of Mehrab’s daughter, the enchanting Princess …

8 months ago

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Zal Becomes Ruler of Zabolistan

Season 1 Episode 32

Arsalan retells Zal’s return to his home province of Zabolistan, his audience with King Manuchehr, and his destined rise to becoming a legendary hero…

8 months, 1 week ago

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Commentary: Simorgh's Feather

Season 1 Episode 31

Arsalan explores the narrative and symbolic significance of the Simorgh’s feather in the Shahnameh and its enduring place in Iranian culture.

8 months, 2 weeks ago

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Zal, Sam, and the Simorgh

Season 1 Episode 30

Arsalan retells how the majestic Simorgh raises Zal in her nest and guides him to a reunion with his father Sam after gifting him one of her magical …

8 months, 3 weeks ago

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Baby Zal's Abandonment & Rescue

Season 1 Episode 29

Arsalan retells the bittersweet story of how Baby Zal is cast away by Sam and saved by the magnificent Simorgh on the summit of Mount Alborz.

9 months ago

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