NEWS

Iran: Ayatollah Khamenei says no to music
Iran’s supreme leader and cleric, Ayatollah Khamenei released a statement claiming that learning and teaching music are “not compatible” with Islamic laws and values. According to Fars news agency, he said: “It’s better that our dear youth spend their valuable time in learning science and essential and useful skills and fill their time with sport and […]
06 Aug 10

Iran’s supreme leader and cleric, Ayatollah Khamenei released a statement claiming that learning and teaching music are “not compatible” with Islamic laws and values. According to Fars news agency, he said: “It’s better that our dear youth spend their valuable time in learning science and essential and useful skills and fill their time with sport and healthy recreations instead of music.” Khamenei made the comments after one of his followers asked him for advice on taking up music lessons. When Khamenei was president, he banned western-style music.

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At Index on Censorship, we believe everyone deserves the right to speak freely, challenge power and share ideas without fear. In a world where governments tighten control and algorithms distort the truth, defending those rights is more urgent than ever.

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