The University of Hawaii at Manoa presents the exhibit “Zoorkhane: House of Strength” from July 28 – December 19, 2014 in its Hamilton Library. Zoorkhane is the traditional Iranian gymnasium where Varzesh-e bastani or ‘Ancient Sport’ is practiced. Varzesh-e bastani is one of the oldest continuing martial arts traditions in the world. The zoorkhane tradition is a synthesis of past and present elements from Iranian culture and Islamic traditions. It is a place where sports, beliefs, visual arts, poetry, and music blend and create a unique tradition. The zoorkhane promotes bodily strength as an outward expression of inner qualities. The aim of this tradition is the development of physical ability and technique, alongside the development of the mind and spirit.
The exhibit is free and open to the public. All photographs are by UH Manoa student Maseeh Ganjali. Funding for this trip and project came through a fellowship from Roshan Cultural Heritage Institute and the University of Hawaii at Manoa’s Undergraduate Research Awards.
