Akhriman – Lord of Darkness

Why was Ozar’s Father called Akhriman? Perhaps only God knows the extent of his devilish demeanour.

Telling the story of three generations of one family in Tajikistan, with her book Akhriman-Lord of Darkness, Gulsifat Shahidi describes the reality and hardships that being a woman can entail. This is when the head of the household, who should be your protector, is ultimately your greatest threat.

Akhriman (meaning Evil Spirit in early Iranian religious texts) weaves a web of fear and lies, which consequently leads to tragedy. His son Ozar describes the family members that had the biggest impact on his life, including his beloved sister Nilufar and forges a way forward to a brighter and more optimistic future where women do not see suicide as their only way of escape.

The Lords of Darkness will no longer dim the brilliance of such strong and vivacious Women when truths and stories are brought to light.