Morshed (Zurkhaneh)
| Sport | |
|---|---|
| Country | Iran |
| Sport | Varzesh-e Pahlavani |
| Position | Zarb-gir (drum player) - Leader, drummer, reciter |
A Morshed (Persian: مرشد) in the context of the Zurkhaneh (traditional Iranian gymnasium) is the person who plays a large goblet drum (zarb) and recites epic poetry while athletes perform.
The morshed usually sits above the training pit (sardam) and accompanies the exercises with rhythmic drum beats and heroic verses, often selected from the Shahnameh by Ferdowsi. His voice and rhythms guide the athletes and motivate them in their exercises. [1]
Historically, the morshed or kohneh-savar (literally “old rider”) was also responsible for the training and instruction of wrestlers and strongmen. During the session, the kohneh-savar carried a cloth over the shoulder and held a wooden staff called ta‘līmi, sitting by the training pit to supervise and instruct. These elders were among the most experienced and skillful athletes. It is said that the contemporary morshed was formerly called a zarb-gir (“drum keeper”).[2][3][4]
See also
References
- ^ "History of Zurkhaneh in Iran". Farhangsara. Retrieved 2025-08-22.
- ^ ""Zurkhaneh": Repertoire of Music, Qalandari, and Heroic Traditions". ILNA. 2021-11-07. Retrieved 2025-08-22.
- ^ "Learn About Zurkhaneh: Zero to Hero". Avaye Morshed. 2024-08-21. Retrieved 2025-08-22.
- ^ "Training and Entry into the Zurkhaneh: Ancient Customs". Avaye Morshed. 2024-08-23. Retrieved 2025-08-22.
External links
- (in Persian) Persian article on Farsi Wikipedia