Mokhtarnameh (Iranian Historical Series) – Complete Story of Mukhtar

Mokhtarnameh is an epic Iranian series about Mukhtar al-Thaqafi and his uprising to avenge Imam Hussain after the tragedy of Karbala.

Mokhtarnameh – The Epic Uprising of Mukhtar al-Thaqafi

Mokhtarnameh is one of the most ambitious and influential historical-religious television productions in Iran. Directed by Davood Mirbagheri, the series narrates the life and uprising of Mukhtar al-Thaqafi following the tragedy of Karbala.

The drama begins during the final days of Imam Hasan (A.S), when he is wounded by the people of Kufa and takes refuge in Mada'in, where Mukhtar’s uncle serves as governor. From this moment, the story unfolds across two critical decades of Islamic history.

Series Overview

• Director: Davood Mirbagheri
• Writers: Hassan Mirbagheri, Mohammad Biranoond
• Country: Iran
• Language: Persian
• Music Composer: Amir Tavassoli
• Editor: Mehdi Hosseini-Vand
• Producer: Mahmoud Fallah
• Completion Year: 2009

Storyline

The series portrays Mukhtar as a man who initially withdraws from politics and warfare, choosing a quiet life of farming in the fertile lands of Mada'in. However, after witnessing the loneliness of Imam Hasan (A.S) and later the injustices committed against Imam Hussain (A.S), his path changes forever.

Following the martyrdom of Imam Hussain and the tragedy of Ashura, Mukhtar rises in Kufa five years later to lead one of the major uprisings against the Umayyad rule. With the powerful slogan “Ya Latharat al-Hussain” (O avengers of Hussain), he unites Shia forces and, alongside Ibrahim ibn Malik al-Ashtar, confronts the killers of Karbala.

Mukhtar establishes governance in Kufa for 18 months and faces three major confrontations:

• The battle against Ubaydullah ibn Ziyad
• Conflict with the Syrian army
• War against the forces of Al-Zubayr

Eventually, his uprising is crushed by Mus'ab ibn al-Zubayr, and Mukhtar is killed, marking the end of a dramatic and controversial chapter in early Islamic history.

Main Cast

• Fariborz Arabnia as Mukhtar
• Mehdi Fakhimzadeh as Umar ibn Sa'd
• Farhad Aslani as Ubaydullah ibn Ziyad
• Reza Kianian as Abdullah ibn Zubayr
• Davoud Rashidi
• Amin Zendegani as Muslim ibn Aqil
• Mohammad Fili as Shimr
• Parviz Pourhosseini
• Mohammadreza Sharifinia

Production Scale

The production of Mokhtarnameh lasted six years and was one of the most expensive Iranian television projects of its time. Massive sets replicating Kufa, Mecca, and Mada'in were constructed across multiple cities, including Tehran, Shahrud, and Abadan.

More than 100 principal actors, hundreds of supporting performers, and thousands of extras participated in the large-scale battle scenes, filmed in 35mm format.

Music and Atmosphere

The musical score by Amir Tavassoli blends traditional Persian tones with Ashura-inspired melodies and Arab musical roots, reinforcing the emotional and spiritual intensity of the series.

Critical Reception

Due to its historical and religious themes, Mokhtarnameh generated significant discussion. Some scholars raised concerns regarding historical interpretation, character portrayal, and certain visual depictions. Despite criticism, the series achieved wide popularity and was broadcast across numerous Arab satellite networks.

Historical Importance

Mokhtarnameh remains a landmark work in Islamic historical drama. It presents a cinematic narrative of justice, revenge, loyalty, and sacrifice, centered on the post-Ashura struggle for accountability.

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