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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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