Naqqali or naghghali (), also known as Persian epic storytelling, is the oldest form of narrating tales in Iran and has long played a significant role in society. A naqqal or naghghal is a storyteller who recites epic tales, primarily revolving around the stories of Iranian mythological kings and heroes.
A naqqal is a storyteller who recites poetry or prose using gestures, expressions, and sometimes music, along with descriptions of inscriptions and paintings. Naqqali requires an exceptional memory to retain poems and texts, as well as improvisational skills and eloquence. Their attire is typically simple, though they may wear an ancient-style hat or armored coats during performances to depict battle scenes.
As guardians of folk culture, epic and ethnic stories, and Iranian folk music, naqqÃÂls were historically known for their performances in coffeehouses and historic sites such as caravanserais. However, with the decline of traditional coffeehouses, the disappearance of caravanserais, and the rise of modern entertainment forms, as well as neglect in the cultural sphere, the audience for this dramatic Iranian art has gradually diminished.
During the golden age of coffeehouses, from the early 17th century to the early 20th century, a significant number of naqqÃÂls turned to these establishments, making them centers for naqqÃÂli and Shahnameh-khani (recitation of the Shahnameh). In this period, coffeehouses played an active role in transmitting IranâÂÂs ancient national and religious culture and literature to the largely illiterate or semi-literate masses. They were crucial in educating visitors about the traditions, ethics, and values of past heroes and champions.
Based on their storytelling style and level of expertise, naqqÃÂls were classified into three categories:
Each storyteller had their own unique method of narration. Key aspects of their performance included energetic and engaging delivery, understanding the audienceâÂÂs mood, blending prose with verse to prevent monotony, singing poetry with melody, explaining difficult verses, paying tribute to poets, and incorporating religious invocations such as fÃÂtiḥa (prayers for the deceased) and takbër (praising God).
The process of registering naqqÃÂli as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity was carried out through the collaboration of Iran's Cultural Heritage and Tourism Organization, the Ferdowsi Foundation, the Iranian House of Theater, and the Center for Performing Arts. NaqqÃÂli was officially inscribed on UNESCOâÂÂs Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity during the 6th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage on November 27, 2011.