Pahlavan Haj Rahim Najarpour 1924-1994 (Persian: پهلوان حاج رحیم نجارپور) was an Iranian practitioner of traditional wrestling,known as Varzesh-e Pahlavani). He owned a well-known Zurkhaneh [1] in city of Isfahan in Iran. The term "Zurkhaneh" translates to "The house of strength," and is equivalent to a martial arts club. Najarpour held the title of Pahlavan [2], a designation for a champion wrestler, recognized for his accomplishments and status within the community. His reputation for chivalry and skill was widely recognized, and his legacy is honored by the International Zurkhaneh Sports and Koshti Pahlavani Federation of Iran.
Early Life
Pahlavan Haj Rahim Najarpour was born in Isfahan, the former capital of Persia (modern-day Iran). He began practicing Iranian traditional wrestling, known as Koshti Pahlavani ("heroic wrestling"), at a young age. Over time, he advanced in this discipline by mastering Varzesh-e-Bastani, which translates to "ancient sport." This included the Zurkhaneh exercises and traditional wrestling techniques as outlined by the International Zurkhaneh Sports and Koshti Pahlavani Federation. Najarpour was conferred with the prestigious rank of "Pahlavan" (Champion and Hero) after defeating wrestlers in his neighborhood Zurkhaneh and challengers from other Zurkhanehs in Isfahan. He received several medals in Koshti Pahlavani, which are included in his honors collection.
Pahlavan
According to the book Modern Pahlavan [2], the title "Pahlavan" combines the concepts of "Champion" and "Hero." This designation signifies not only physical strength but also a purity of spirit and courage of character. A Pahlavan is expected to embody honesty in words, righteousness in actions, and loyalty in aiding those in need. They symbolize the epitome of manhood, reflecting the traditional values of the Zurkhaneh. These heroic qualities, known in Persian as Javanmardi, epitomize chivalry and moral excellence.
Establishment of His Own Zurkhaneh
In his youth, Pahlavan Haj Rahim Najarpour established his own Zurkhaneh in the historical Darvazeno neighborhood in the northern part of Isfahan. He named it "Daleiran Zurkhaneh," meaning "House of Heroes' Strength," with the aim of training young athletes aspiring to achieve the rank of Pahlavan in a disciplined environment. His Zurkhaneh became a hub for individuals interested in Iranian traditional sports and attracted the social elite. Pahlavans and athletes from various regions would gather there to showcase their skills. The original building of Daleiran Zurkhaneh was constructed in 1911, prior to World War I and at the beginning of the reign of Sultan Ahmad Shah Qajar, Shah of Iran.
Social activity
Pahlavan Haj Rahim Najarpour was a prominent and charismatic figure whose influence spanned various social strata. Renowned for his contributions to social welfare and aid to those in need, he earned significant respect within both urban and athletic communities. Najarpour is a celebrated Pahlavan in Iran, with a reputation that extends internationally. He played a pivotal role in training numerous Zurkhaneh athletes in Isfahan, contributing to the preservation and promotion of this ancient sport.
Annually, his Zurkhaneh attracts a substantial number of foreign tourists who seek to learn about the traditional sport, which embodies the rich cultural heritage of Iran. According to the International Zurkhaneh Sports and Koshti Pahlavani Federation, the global recognition of this sport has led to its dissemination across numerous countries worldwide, from the east to the west.
Last Days
On April 10, 1994, at the age of 70, Pahlavan Haj Rahim Najarpour passed away due to a heart attack while engaging in traditional sports at his own Zurkhaneh. His funeral was attended by a large number of athletes and residents of Isfahan, as well as a group of his devotees from other cities in Iran. Several poets have written poems about him, highlighting his life, championship achievements, and dedication to helping people in times of need.
His Instagram page links
@pahlevan.rahim.najarpour
@pahlevan_rahim_najarpour
References
edit- Many Thanks to the elder Zurkhaneh People of Isfahan who enthusiastically contributed by reciting their memories.
- ^ Fisher, Max (2012-08-09). "The Ancient Roots of Iran's Wrestling and Weightlifting Olympic Dominance". The Atlantic. Retrieved 2019-05-10.
- ^ a b Sarrafi, Khashayar. Modern Pahlevan: Jahan Pahlevan Takhti (PDF) (Report). Shanghai University Sports Research Center, College of Physical Education. Archived from the original (PDF) on 22 May 2014. Retrieved 28 November 2023.
- Mehdi Abasi, The History of Wrestling In Iran Volume 4. Publisher: Nashre Sepas, 1999. PO Box: 13445/475, Tehran, Iran.
- Gholamreza Ensafpour, "The History and Culture of Zourkhaneh" Publisher: Akhtaran Nashr, 2008, Tehran, Iran.
Zurkhaneh sports and Koshti Pahlavani Federation IR of Iran
International Zurkhaneh Sports And Koshti Pahlavani Federation