Shahnameh stories | Poetry of time
Step into the world of Persia’s greatest legends with Poetry of Time, a narrative podcast that breathes life into Ferdowsi’s timeless masterpiece, the Shahnameh (The Book of Kings). Each episode unravels the myths, heroes, and cosmic battles that have shaped Persian culture for over a thousand years—blending rich storytelling with the lyrical beauty of classical verse. From the rise of mighty kings to the fall of tragic warriors, we journey through love, destiny, and divine intrigue, one spellbinding story at a time. Whether you’re new to the Shahnameh or a lifelong admirer, Poetry of Time invites you to rediscover Persia’s epic soul—where history and myth collide. Subscribe now and wander through the echoes of time
Episodes
In this episode of Poetry of Time, we reach the bloody conclusion of the War of Mazandaran. Rostam descends into the sun-scorched cave of the White Demon to tear out its liver and restore the sight of the blinded King Kay Kavus. But the war is not over. We follow Rostam’s terrifying diplomatic mission—where he uproots trees and crushes hands—leading to the final showdown against the Sorcerer King of Mazandaran, who desperately turn...
In this episode of Poetry of Time, we retell all Seven Trials of Rostam in full detail — from the lion in the reeds to the final battle with the White Demon. This story stands apart in the Shahnameh: dreamlike, surreal, filled with speaking beasts and sorcery. We also explain why “seven trials” does not mean “seven tests,” but seven waystations where destiny awaited the hero.
After King Key Qobad’s death, his son Key Kavous ascends the throne — proud and restless. A demon disguised as a musician sings of Mazandaran’s beauty, luring the young king to invade the land of demons. Ignoring Zal’s warnings, Kavous marches into ruin, and only Rostam can now restore Iran’s fate.
In this episode of Poetry of Time, we witness Rostam’s fiery debut in battle against Afrasiab and the dawn of the Kayanian age under King Kay Qobad.
From the clash of black and golden banners to the first uneasy peace between Iran and Turan, Ferdowsi’s verses blaze with youth, wisdom, and destiny.
A new era begins — and the next will test its light.
The endless war between Iran and Turan brings drought and despair until both sides realize that nature itself has turned against them.
King Zav restores peace and life returns to the earth.
But when Zav dies, Pashang urges Afrasiab to attack again, and a young hero named Rostam finds his destined horse, Rakhsh.
The age of heroes begins to stir beneath calm skies.
In this sweeping saga of the Shahnameh, we witness the fall of King Nowzar, Afrasiab’s bloody rise, Zal’s fierce defense of Zabol, and the crowning of Zav. Betrayal, vengeance, and the turning of dynasties collide in one of Ferdowsi’s most dramatic chapters. Join us as Poetry of Time brings this cycle of war and rebirth to life.
In this episode of Poetry of Time, the death of the great hero Sam shakes Iran as Afrasiab marches with a vast army. Qobad, the elder warrior, duels Barman in a tragic battle, and Garen vows to fight on. Sorcery shrouds Afrasiab in mist, leaving the war between Iran and Turan unresolved.
In this episode of Poetry of Time, King Nozar ascends the throne after Manuchehr’s death but soon becomes a cruel tyrant. Sam Nariman is asked to take the crown but refuses, teaching a lesson about divine legitimacy. Meanwhile in Turan, Poshang gathers his champions, Afrasiab and Aghrirat among them, and plans his great war of revenge against Iran.
In this breathtaking episode of Poetry of Time, Rudabeh’s painful labor calls forth the Simurgh, who guides the first cesarean birth in Persian myth. From fire and feather, Rostam is born — the giant child destined to become Persia’s greatest hero.
In this episode of Poetry of Time, we enter Kabul’s golden halls as Zal and Rudabeh’s forbidden love becomes a celebrated wedding. With Sam’s blessing, Zabulistan and Kabul are united in splendor, setting the stage for the birth of Persia’s greatest hero, Rostam.
In this episode of Poetry of Time, Zal faces King Manuchehr’s judgment. Seven riddles test his wisdom; trials of archery, mace, shield, and wrestling test his strength. The court witnesses a young hero who is both philosopher and warrior — and the stars themselves foretell his destiny.
In this powerful episode of Poetry of Time, King Manuchehr commands Sam to destroy Kabul — but Zal refuses, choosing love over loyalty. Sam writes a legendary letter recalling his dragon-slaying days, while in Kabul, Queen Sindokht’s wisdom prevents bloodshed. A tale of rage, diplomacy, and the courage of women.
In this episode of Poetry of Time, Zāl journeys to Kabul, where fate leads him to Rudābeh, the daughter of King Mehrāb. Born of rival bloodlines, their love blooms in secrecy — and a midnight meeting beneath the stars. A forbidden love story begins, destined to shape Persia’s future.
In this episode of Poetry of Time, Zal returns to Zabulistan with his father Sām. Entrusted with rule while Sām marches to Mazandaran, Zal laments yet embraces his destiny. The story then opens the map of the Shahnameh, exploring the true meanings of Zabulistan, Sistan, Kabul, and Mazandaran — lands of kings, warriors, and demons.
In this powerful episode of Poetry of Time, Manuchehr avenges Iraj and takes the throne, Fereydun passes into legend, and the great warrior Sam abandons — then redeems — his son, Zal. Rescued and raised by the mythical Simurgh, Zal’s destiny begins as he steps into Manuchehr’s court, foreshadowing the epic tales yet to come.
After avenging Iraj’s blood and defeating Kakuy, Manuchehr steps into his destiny — not only as a warrior, but as a king. In this episode of Poetry of Time, we explore how Manuchehr claims the throne, restores order to Persia, and begins shaping a kingdom born from sorrow, justice, and fire. Yet even as peace settles across the land, the winds of change whisper of struggles yet to come.
In this thrilling episode of Poetry of Time, Manuchehr faces his first great test. As Toor plots a night ambush, fate shifts beneath the stars. With wisdom, bravery, and a warrior’s heart, Manuchehr turns darkness into justice — and the blood of Iraj is finally answered.
In this powerful opening to the Manuchehr cycle, we witness the secret birth of a child destined to avenge Iraj's blood. From the miracle of Fereydun’s regained sight to the golden coronation of Manuchehr and the call to war, this episode sets the stage for an epic tale of justice, identity, and divine reckoning.
He offered peace.
He carried no sword.
But Iraj, the noble son of Freydun, walked into his brothers’ camp alone — and never returned.
In this heartbreaking episode of Poetry of Time, we follow the powerful exchange of letters between brothers, Iraj’s final stand for unity, and the brutal betrayal that shaped the future of Persia. This is not just myth… it’s a mirror of the human soul.
🎙️ Listen now — and remember the name Ir...
After overthrowing Zahhak, the just king Freydun looks to the future. In this episode, we explore the birth of his three sons, their quest for worthy brides, the wisdom tests of King Sarv, and Freydun’s final trial in disguise. From dragons to destiny, this tale marks the beginning of a tragic royal legacy. A poetic journey through fate, fire, and family — brought to life through the timeless verses of Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh.
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