REMEMBERING AYATOLLAH KHAMENEI: REFT Today DISCUSSES CULTURAL AND MEDIA TIES WITH IRAN IN NEW DELHI.
As a mark of respect and condolences on behalf of the entire REFT Today–India team, I recently visited the Iran Culture House in New Delhi to express solidarity following the passing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. During my visit, I had the opportunity to meet Dr. Abdul Majid Hakeem Elahi, the representative of Iran’s Supreme Leader in India. The meeting was held in a warm and respectful atmosphere, reflecting the longstanding cultural and people-to-people ties between India and Iran. Our discussion extended beyond the occasion of mourning and touched upon the importance of strengthening cultural engagement and professional collaboration in the future.
(Left) Khatibah Rehmat-Senior Journalist with her daughters
The passing of Ali Khamenei marks a moment of profound reflection for Iran and for the wider world. For decades, he remained one of the most influential voices in the political and religious landscape of the Middle East. His leadership shaped the direction of the Islamic Republic and influenced regional discourse at a time when the world witnessed rapid geopolitical change. Rising to prominence after the historic Iranian Revolution, Ayatollah Khamenei became the Supreme Leader in 1989 following the demise of Ruhollah Khomeini. From that point onward, he stood at the helm of Iran’s highest authority guiding the nation through periods of intense global scrutiny regional tensions and evolving political dynamics.
Throughout his tenure, Khamenei was regarded by supporters as a steadfast guardian of Iran’s sovereignty and ideological foundations. His leadership symbolised resilience for many within the country while his policies also shaped debates far beyond Iran’s borders. Whether admired or debated his role in the political architecture of modern Iran cannot be overlooked. The passing of such a long-serving leader inevitably marks the closing of a historic chapter. It is also a moment that reminds the international community of the enduring importance of dialogue stability and mutual respect among nations. As Iran mourns the loss of a central figure in its leadership, the world watches with hope that the coming days will be guided by wisdom and unity. May the departed soul rest in peace and may the people of Iran find strength and solace in this difficult hour.
Khatibah Rehmat, Senior Journalist – REFT Today interviewing Dr. Abdul Majid Hakeem Elahi (Representative of Iran’s Supreme Leader in India)
A significant part of our conversation focused on the role of food journalism in promoting awareness, cultural understanding and social responsibility. Dr. Elahi emphasized that food journalism is far more than reporting on cuisine and culinary trends; it carries the responsibility of highlighting issues such as food security, hunger and unequal access to nutrition across different regions of the world. He encouraged efforts to bring attention to the realities faced by communities struggling with food scarcity. He also expressed hope that once peace and stability return to Iran, meaningful initiatives connecting food journalism and Iranian culture can be explored further.
INTERVIEWED: Dr. Abdul Majid Hakeem Elahi (Representative of Iran’s Supreme Leader in India)
INTERVIEW TAKEN BY: Khatibah Rehmat (Senior Journalist)
PICTURE COURTESY: Team REFT Today.
For interviews, advertisements and collaborations with REFT Today, kindly contact: +91-9807 224 255/ +91-7905 613 350.
