Most of us have heard that the current revolution in Iran began with the death of Mahsa Amini, who was beaten to death for not wearing the hijab in accordance with the regime’s morality laws.

But did you know her name was Jina?

When Jina was born, her parents were required to seek permission to name her Jina. The name was not allowed. So, they chose Mahsa as her official name and called her Jina at home.

This little nugget of truth, shared by Saeid, one of today’s guests, tells us that it’s simplistic to say this revolution is to overthrow laws about hijab. The discontent, the anger, the struggle is far greater, deeper, wider.

Today’s guests are Swarnika and Saeid, a married couple.

Swarnika, who happens to be one of the most talented food photographers I know, shooting for major brands in the margins of her job with a leading technology company, was born and raised in India. She describes her university as a “mini-Iran” where women were obligated to keep curfews as early as 4pm during exams while men studied together as late as they pleased. Once she was once sent back to her dorm to change because her socks showed. Swarnika did choose to speak up on these issues and her experiences doing so gave her great empathy for the courageous people of Iran. Later, Swarnika married an Iranian man who she met in graduate school here in the US. Saied is our other guest today.

Like Jina,  Saeid has only known life in Iran under the current regime. Only by listening to people like Saeid, who speaks with truth and passion, can we really understand the struggle and the incredible, awesome courage of Iranians who are truly risking death by protesting against a regime that has weaponized religion to justify their power, bankrupt the country, rule by terror, and rob each citizen of their joy.

Although Saeid is realistic and sober-minded about the exceptional threats against protestors, he also speaks eloquently about why he believes this time, Iran may emerge free.

Thank you so much for being here, Swarnika and Saeid, and thank you, listener, for listening in. It’s a long interview, but it only gets better.

And p.s. We also talk about that famous Persian Walnut Pomegranate Stew I’ve been hoping someone would share with me for a long time.

Instagram: @swarnika_

Website: www.swarnikaprakash.com

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