Faramarz
Persian mythological hero of the epic poem Shahnameh
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Faramarz (فرامرز)[1] is an Iranian legendary hero (pahlavan) in Ferdowsi's Shahnameh ("Book of Kings"). He was the son of Rostam and was ultimately killed by Kay Bahman.
| Faramarz | |
|---|---|
Faramarz mourning Rostam and Zavareh, Baysonghori Shahnameh (1430) | |
| Reign | Under Kay Khosrow |
| Died | Mythological era Sistan |
| Cause of death | Executed by Kay Bahman |
| Issue | None |
| Dynasty | House of Nariman |
| Father | Rostam |
| Mother | Unknown |
The book Faramarz-nama, written about a hundred years after the Shahnameh, is devoted to Faramarz and his wars. He is also mentioned in other epics such as the Borzu Nama.[2]
Lineage
Faramarz was the son of Rostam and grandson of Zal, belonging to the House of Nariman. His lineage connects him to the semi-divine ancestry of Iranian heroes, and he is often described as the last heir of Rostam’s heroic family.[3]
Role in the Shahnameh
In the Shahnameh, Faramarz is appointed by King Kay Khosrow as ruler of Zabulistan and later tasked with campaigns in India. He slays Turanian rulers such as Varazad of Sepinzh and captures Surkheh, son of Afrasiyab.[4] During the feud between Rostam and Esfandiyār, Faramarz kills Mehrnush, Esfandiyār’s son, escalating the tragic confrontation between the two heroes.[5]
Faramarz-nama
The Faramarz-nama (فرامرزنامه) is a Persian epic poem composed between the 11th and 12th centuries. It recounts Faramarz’s adventures in India, his battles with demons, and his spiritual trials. Two versions survive: one anonymous manuscript influenced by Ferdowsi’s style, and a later expanded version compiled in Bombay in 1906.[6][7]
Mentions in Other Epics
Death
According to the Shahnameh, Faramarz was executed by Kay Bahman, who invaded Sistan to avenge his father Esfandiyār’s death. Bahman imprisoned Zal and ordered Faramarz to be hanged and pierced with arrows, marking the end of Rostam’s direct lineage.[10]
