Dr. Kourosh Niknam was a man shaped by knowledge, insight, humility, and a deep love for Iran. As one of the most influential figures in the contemporary Zoroastrian community, he left a lasting legacy through his various roles—as a mobed (Zoroastrian priest), as the Zoroastrian representative in the Islamic Consultative Assembly, and as a dedicated scholar of ancient Iranian culture. On the first anniversary of his passing, we reflect on his life, his tireless efforts, and the enduring impact he had on both religion and culture.
- Early Life, Education, and the Beginning of His Journey
Kourosh Niknam was born on July 11, 1954, in the city of Yazd. He was the son of the late Khodarahm Esfandiar and the late Simin Mehraban. After completing his primary and secondary education in his hometown, he pursued higher studies in India. He earned a Ph.D. in the Philosophy of Zoroastrian Religion from the University of Pune—a field that had captured his interest from a young age and would shape the course of his life and work.
- Return to Iran and the Beginning of Religious Service
Upon his return to Iran, Dr. Kourosh Niknam devoted himself wholeheartedly to the religious and cultural life of the Zoroastrian community. In his roles as educator, public speaker, and officiant of traditional ceremonies, he played a key role in preserving ancestral rituals and promoting the legacy of ancient Iranian culture.
- Election to the Iranian Parliament
In 2004 (1383 in the Iranian calendar), Dr. Niknam was elected by the Zoroastrian community as their representative in the sixth term of the Islamic Consultative Assembly. Although his tenure in Parliament lasted only one term, the impact of his work during that time was profound and enduring, securing his place as a respected voice for his community.
- His Advocacy and Parliamentary Warnings
During his time in office, Mobed Niknam was a vocal and principled advocate for the rights of religious minorities in Iran. With clarity and courage, he raised critical issues and voiced concerns that resonated beyond his own community. Among his notable contributions were:
- Calling attention to educational inequality faced by followers of ancient religions
- Defending the civil and employment rights of Zoroastrians
- Challenging historical inaccuracies in school textbooks
- Warning against the neglect and deterioration of cultural and religious heritage sites
- Proposing the official recognition of Zoroastrian celebrations in the national calendar
- Objecting to excessive restrictions on publishing Zoroastrian literature
- Expressing concern over reduced financial support for Zoroastrian associations across various cities
- Character and Way of Life
Dr. Kourosh Niknam was distinguished by his warmth, humility, honesty, modest lifestyle, and deep compassion. Whether engaging with the public or participating in formal events, he consistently spoke with calm dignity and thoughtful conviction. His intellectual depth, balanced outlook, and moderate stance on social and cultural matters made him a respected and trusted voice within and beyond the Zoroastrian community.
- Commitment to Scholarship and Education
In addition to his religious leadership, Dr. Niknam maintained a lifelong dedication to research and teaching. His work focused on the Zoroastrian faith and the cultural heritage of ancient Iran. He spent many years educating youth and scholars, facilitating thoughtful dialogue in religious and cultural institutions.
- Published Works and Enduring Legacy
Dr. Niknam authored several significant works that continue to serve as key resources in the fields of Zoroastrian studies and Iranian cultural history. His major publications include:
From Nowruz to Nowruz
The Doctrine of Choice
The Counsel of Zarathustra
Zarathustra and the Zoroastrians
Ancient Heritage
A Study of the Life and Thought of Zarathustra
Reading the Gathas with Tanbour
The Gathas: Melodies of Ancient Iran
Golbanoo
- Global Engagement
Dr. Niknam actively participated in international Zoroastrian conferences, notably delivering impactful lectures in Mumbai and Toronto. His presentation in Mumbai, titled “Nurturing Zoroastrian Insight in the Actions of Youth,” was met with wide acclaim and sparked meaningful discussions within the global community.
- Cultural Work After Public Office
After completing his term in Parliament, Dr. Niknam dedicated himself to cultural and educational initiatives. He focused on writing, responding to religious inquiries, and fostering dialogue through his official website. The “Questions and Answers” section of the site became a widely valued source of guidance for those interested in the teachings of Zoroastrianism and the heritage of ancient Iran.
- International Contributions of Kourosh Niknam
- Participation in Global Zoroastrian Congresses
Dr. Kourosh Niknam played an active role in representing Iranian Zoroastrians on the global stage. His participation included:
- The 6th World Zoroastrian Congress in Tehran (1996)
- The 8th World Zoroastrian Congress in London (2005), where he presented official messages from then-President Mohammad Khatami and Parliamentary Speaker Gholam-Ali Haddad-Adel
- The most recent World Zoroastrian Congress held in Australia
- Numerous other international congresses, where he regularly delivered influential speeches on behalf of the Iranian Zoroastrian community
- Cultural and Educational Efforts in Europe
Dr. Niknam also made lasting contributions to Zoroastrian life in Europe. His efforts included:
- Collaborating with the Zoroastrian Association of France to establish and expand religious and cultural programs in Paris
- Conducting classes on Zoroastrian doctrine, seasonal festivals such as Gahanbar and Yalda Night, and other traditional Iranian celebrations at the Paris Zoroastrian Center
- Leading the first priesthood training program (Hirbodi) in Paris and teaching the Gathas using the traditional Avestan script (Din-Dabireh)
- Delivering numerous lectures on Zoroastrian theology and philosophy at gatherings across Europe
- Introducing Zarathustra’s philosophy to academic audiences, notably at Goethe University in Germany
- Legacy of Thought and Service
Dr. Kourosh Niknam’s legacy is one of truth, wisdom, love for Iran, and spiritual freedom. He embodied the harmony of knowledge and belief, of faith and patriotism, of compassion and clarity. On the first anniversary of his passing, we honor the enduring light of his thoughts and actions—a light that continues to inspire Iranian thinkers, believers, and cultural stewards.
We also remember with respect and gratitude his devoted wife, Parimehrz Khanom Ravanian, a woman of grace and intellect, who stood faithfully beside him. Her steadfast love and support were central to his life and work.
