Siyavash, the noble prince of Persia, was the son of King Kay Kavus. From a young age, he was entrusted to the care of the legendary hero Rostam in the lands of Zabulistan. Under Rostam’s guidance, Siyavash grew into the perfect prince, a master horseman and archer, a scholar of exceptional wisdom, and a man of striking beauty whose presence inspired awe in everyone who saw him.
The tragedy began when Siyavash returned to his father’s court. His stepmother, Queen Sudabeh, became consumed with a forbidden desire for the young prince. She tried every scheme to seduce him, but Siyavash remained steadfast in his loyalty and honor. Humiliated and furious at his refusal, Sudabeh accused him of attempting to violate her. King Kay Kavus, known for his quick temper and suspicion, was torn and uncertain how to judge the matter.
To prove his innocence, Siyavash underwent the Ordeal by Fire. This ancient Persian test relied on the sacred power of fire, believed to burn the guilty and protect the pure. Clad in white and mounted on his black steed, Shabrang, Siyavash rode calmly into a towering inferno. Astonishingly, he emerged unscathed, demonstrating the absolute purity of his soul and clearing his name before the eyes of the kingdom.
Despite his vindication, Siyavash chose exile. To avoid further conflict with his father and the schemes of Sudabeh, he led his forces to the border and then sought refuge in the enemy kingdom of Turan. King Afrasiab of Turan welcomed him warmly, even marrying his daughter, Princess Farangis, to Siyavash. The prince helped build magnificent cities, including Siyavashgird, and brought prosperity to the land. Yet his talent and reputation provoked jealousy, particularly in Afrasiab’s brother, Garsivaz, who spread lies that Siyavash intended to overthrow the king.
Betrayal led to a tragic end. Despite Siyavash’s loyalty and contributions, Afrasiab ordered his execution. Before dying, Siyavash instructed his pregnant wife to name their son Kay Khosrow, prophesying that the child would one day avenge him. Siyavash was beheaded on a barren plain, and legend tells that from the blood of the innocent prince, a brilliant red flower sprang, known as the Blood of Siyavash, symbolizing both sorrow and the enduring spirit of sacrifice.
The legacy of Siyavash endures. The Siyavashun ceremony continues in some regions of Iran, honoring his noble sacrifice, echoing themes of death and resurrection, and symbolizing the renewal of life each spring. His story exemplifies the dualistic struggle between good and evil, Persia and Turan, and the triumph of virtue over treachery. His son, Kay Khosrow, would grow to become a wise and mighty king, fulfilling the promise of justice by defeating Afrasiab and restoring honor to the Persian realm.
Siyavash remains a timeless symbol of innocence, loyalty, and courage, reminding generations that true heroism often requires personal sacrifice and that righteousness may be challenged, but its legacy endures.