In this episode of Poetry of Time, we reach the bloody conclusion of the War of Mazandaran. Rostam descends into the sun-scorched cave of the White Demon to tear out its liver and restore the sight of the blinded King Kay Kavus. But the war is not over. We follow Rostam’s terrifying diplomatic mission—where he uproots trees and crushes hands—leading to the final showdown against the Sorcerer King of Mazandaran, who desperately turns himself into stone to escape vengeance. We also explore the deep symbolism of the White Demon as a "father figure" and Rostam's transition into total independence.

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In this episode of Poetry of Time, we retell all Seven Trials of Rostam in full detail — from the lion in the reeds to the final battle with the White Demon. This story stands apart in the Shahnameh: dreamlike, surreal, filled with speaking beasts and sorcery. We also explain why “seven trials” does not mean “seven tests,” but seven waystations where destiny awaited the hero.

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After King Key Qobad’s death, his son Key Kavous ascends the throne — proud and restless. A demon disguised as a musician sings of Mazandaran’s beauty, luring the young king to invade the land of demons. Ignoring Zal’s warnings, Kavous marches into ruin, and only Rostam can now restore Iran’s fate.

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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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