Mehrdad Farrokhzad: We have been asked for documents to prevent the demolition of Forough's house

The house of Forough Farrokhzad, a renowned poet of contemporary Iranian literature, is on the verge of demolition. According to Farhad Nazari, the director general of the Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization, this house has not yet been registered as a national heritage site, despite standing since the era of Reza Shah Pahlavi and having been reconstructed several times. Parts of the house, such as the yard, garden, central pond, and basement, have remained almost untouched. Supporters of the Farrokhzads and several cultural and media activists have requested that the house be registered as a national heritage site before it is too late. In an interview with Mehrdad Farrokhzad, Forough's brother and the last surviving member of the Farrokhzad family, I inquired about the current status of the house. Mehrdad Farrokhzad stated that the house has changed hands several times since their father sold it. He mentioned that they do not claim ownership of the house, but the Cultural Heritage Organization has raised issues regarding its historical significance. He noted that the house is referred to as Forough Farrokhzad's house because she grew up there. He also mentioned that they have not been able to locate the previous house, which has been rebuilt and altered significantly. As far as he knows, a demolition permit has not been issued, and two members of parliament visited the site recently to confirm its status. The house owner has expressed readiness to transfer the property, likely indicating a willingness to sell it at a good price. Overall, the demolition of the house has been halted, and it seems that it will eventually be registered as a national heritage site. Mehrdad indicated that he has provided documents and memories related to the house to the authorities, and they are awaiting confirmation from the Cultural Heritage Organization.