- International Day of Peace
Echoing the Message of Global Peace Through the Cultural Heritage of Iranian Caravanserais
TEHRAN — September 21, 2026 – Coinciding with the International Day of Peace, the Emerald Hall of the Homa International Hotel in Tehran hosted a magnificent international ceremony for the official launch of the peace-centric book, “Caravan of Civilizational Tales.” The book is a profound collaborative endeavor conceived, curated, and collected by Ms. Melika Tabrizi.
This major literary project serves as a bridge connecting prominent storytellers from across the globe, featuring contributions from Iran, Hungary, Denmark, Estonia, South Africa, Germany, and India. Each narrative within this anthology is deeply rooted in the historical essence of Iran’s ancient caravanserais, beautifully retold by international authors through their own native languages, unique cultural lenses, and creative spirits.
Distinguished Guests and Diplomatic Attendance, the high-profile event was graced by renowned cultural icons and senior members of the international diplomatic community, including:
• Master Houshang Moradi Kermani, the most celebrated and foundational figure in Iranian children’s and young-adult literature.
• Mr. Keita Ohashi, the Resident Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Iran.
• Dr. Tayebeh Mohammad, Secretary-General of the Ambassadors of Peace and Friendship.
• Dr. Maryam Jalali, esteemed senior cultural figure and academic researcher.• Honorable Ambassadors and Diplomatic Representatives from the Embassies of Germany, the Netherlands, Oman, Sudan, India, Poland, and Cuba.
During the ceremony, Mr. Keita Ohashi, speaking on behalf of the United Nations and the attending diplomatic corps, delivered a speech.
Dr. Tayebeh Mohammad, representing international civil society, expressed her profound gratitude to all global writers who gifted their native stories to this project as a tribute to peace.
Furthermore, Dr. Maryam Jalali emphasized the geopolitical and cultural depth of the project, stating that through Caravan of Civilizational Tales, Iran transcends mere geography to showcase its dynamic cultural identity.
Honoring the Caravan Leader and the Story of “The Butterfly”
In one of the evening’s most moving highlights, the ceremony honored Master Houshang Moradi Kermani with the traditional title of “Qafeleh-Salar” (The Caravan Leader) of this chapter. In ancient caravanserai customs, this title was exclusively bestowed upon the oldest and most experienced traveler of the caravan.
Master Moradi Kermani, an internationally and nationally acclaimed author who stands as the most celebrated figure in Iranian literature, serves as the spiritual guide of this cultural caravan. It is his profound presence as the Qafeleh-Salar alongside his story, “The Butterfly,” that proudly defines the concept of the first poster of the book. He gifted this beautiful story to the collection, solemnly dedicating it to all children worldwide who have fallen victim to the devastating realities of war.
