Celebrations of the 30th Anniversary of Islamic Revolution of Iran

Published: Tue, 17 Feb 2009 , Tehran
The 10- day long celebration in commemoration of the 30 Anniversary of the Islamic Revolution of Iran that began on 1st February has drawn to a close on 10th February 2009. Millions of Iranians across the country took to streets to celebrate 30 years of independence and Islamic governance . In February 1979, Islamic Revolution gained victory as the Leader of the popular movement, Imam Khomeini, arrived in Tehran after the US-backed dictator Shah had left the country . Imam Khomeini proclaimed the Islamic Republic of Iran on April 1,1979.
The celebration started on 1st February with a helicopter showering flowers on the tomb of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini who returned to Iran after 15 years of exile.Various organizations conjured up shows depicting the Islamic revolution. Besides various sporting events,films,music,threater festivals and a museum incorporating the happenings of the Islamic Revolution formed part of the celebrations.
Iranians held a ten-day celebration across the country , hoisting flags of the country everywhere, displaying footages of the revolution and Imam Khomeini’s speeches on TV and chanting revolutionary songs in schools. Judiciary Chief Ayatollah Mahmoud Hashemi Shahroudi also participated in the mass rally. He said “People believe in the Revolution and the Islamic government whole-heartedly, every year more people participate in the demonstration”. Vice President Parviz Davoudi said “I hope Iran’s governments will never yield to domineering powers and will stand firm and proud”.
Also President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad attended the rally and delivered a speech at Tehran’s Azadi (Freedom) square .He said “Today I declare to Iranian people that Iran is a superpower in the world.”
The celebration came to a close with a mass rally and military parade commemorating the fall of the Pahlavi regime.Faezeh a lecturerin University told “people in Iran are brave and believe in unity and they have the power to fight against the enemies of Iran and Islam”.