Artistic community unites in grief after Raisi’s passing away
Iranian pavilion at Cannes becomes memorial for president
The tragic death of President Ayatollah Ebrahim Raisi and his delegation in a helicopter crash has prompted an outpouring of grief and solidarity from more than 250 Iranian filmmakers and artists, who issued a statement expressing their condolences to the Iranian people. The statement praised Raisi as a dedicated servant of the people who remained connected to the cultural and cinematic community, even during his tenure as president. Several visual artists, including Hassan Rouholamin, Ahmad Mansoub, and Mehdi Taheri, among others, responded to the tragedy through various artistic expressions, from paintings and calligraphy to digital media, reflecting their sorrow and respect for Raisi and his companions. At the Cannes Film Festival, international filmmakers from countries such as the UK, Germany, the US, and France, gathered at the Iranian pavilion to pay their respects. They signed a memorial book and expressed their condolences, demonstrating global solidarity with the Iranian artistic community. In addition, numerous Iranian artists from different fields, including cinema, theater, and music, shared their sorrow through media statements.
Reza Mirkarimi
Veteran director Reza Mirkarimi said, “It was heartbreaking news. Regardless of political views, as an Iranian, it’s devastating to lose top officials while on duty. Like many, I stayed up all night hoping for a positive outcome, but fate had other plans.”
Actor Farhad Qaemian noted Raisi’s special attention to artists and cultural figures, saying, “We lost a great supporter.”
Actor Mehran Rajabi called Raisi “a man of action who brought stability to the country,” and actor Mohsen Afshani remembered Raisi’s close relationship with artists, recounting a memorable dinner where Raisi answered all their questions with transparency.
Cultural manager Abolfazl Hamrah remarked that Raisi and his entourage embodied the spirit of martyrdom.
Director Ahmad Moazzami praised Raisi’s dedication to truth, justice, and faith, calling him “a servant of Imam Reza (PBUH).”
Dariush Arjmand
Veteran actor Dariush Arjmand wrote, “Raisi’s martyrdom was a reward for his tireless efforts. He was a man of action, always ready to serve the people’s needs.”
Ebrahim Hatamikia
Director Ebrahim Hatamikia described the crash as “one of the saddest events in our history,” and expressed hope for unity and peace in this sensitive time.
Hadi Marzban
Theater director Hadi Marzban canceled rehearsals in honor of Raisi, and actor Ja’far Dehghan highlighted Raisi’s friendly relations with artists and his fight against corruption.
Actor Reza Rouygari expressed hope that such tragedies would not recur, and veteran actor Mohammad Fili noted Raisi’s strong connections with the artistic community.
Saeed Aboutaleb
Poet and TV host Hamed Askari acknowledged Raisi’s hard work and expressed shock over his sudden death, while director and documentarian Saeed Aboutaleb emphasized Raisi’s sincerity, purposefulness, and perseverance.