Each year, Shia Muslims remember and mourn the Martyrdom of Imam Reza in Iran. This was a great tragedy for Shia Muslims of the time, and the effects of Imam Reza’s death are still felt today. In this article, you’ll learn a little about the history behind Imam Reza’s Martyrdom Anniversary, and how it affects Iranian culture today. At PersianPod101.com, we aim to make every aspect of your language-learning journey both fun and informative. Let’s get started! 1. What is Imam Reza’s Martyrdom Anniversary? On the anniversary of Imam Reza’s martyrdom, Shia Muslims deeply mourn the death and supposed murder of Imam Reza, also known as Ali Alridha. Serving as the eighth Shia Imam from 799 A.D. to 818 A.D., following the... Show more

The first day of spring for Iranians is the beginning of nature's cycle, the ending of the current year to start the new one. This is the time when day and night are equal, nature has passed through the cold weather, and moderate weather begins. The ground wakes from winter sleep, and restarts life and movement again. Nowruz feast, which is one of the oldest existing customs of the world, has seen some small changes during its history, but still remains and has always been important as a national ritual. Thus, learning about Nowruz traditions and other facts about Nowruz in Iran is vital to understanding the country’s rich culture. At PersianPod101.com, we hope to make this culture delving both fun and enlightening. So let’s get... Show more

There are plenty of destinations where you can get by with English, but sometimes you want to do better than just ‘get by’. Here are 6 reasons you should learn the basics of the language of your next trip destination. 1. You will be able to discover your destination better than other tourists. Getting by is one thing, but actually experiencing a trip abroad is quite another. No amount of guidebooks and online research can compensate for a basic lack of language ability. Speaking the language of your destination permits you to explore that destination beyond the regular tourist traps. Your language skills will not only allow you to dig into all the hidden gems of your destination, but they will also allow you to mingle with the... Show more