Kāveh the Blacksmith, (Persian: کاوه آهنگر (Kaveh Ahangar) , [1], alternative spelling: Kawe) (Kurdish:کاوهی ئاسنگهر (Kawe-î Asinger), Hesinkar Kawa) or Kāva is a mythical figure in Iranian mythology who leads a popular uprising against a ruthless foreign ruler, Zahhāk. His story is narrated in the Epic of Shāhnāma by the 10th century poet Ferdowsi Tousi. Based on Avestan tradition, Zahhāk, or more correctly Azhi Dahāka, is from Babylonia and more or less a demon, not human. Ferdowsi masterfully recasts this mythical character as an evil and tyrannical Arab king.
Kawe is the most famous of mythological characters in resistance against despotic foreign rule in Iran. After losing 18 of his sons to Zahhāk's serpents, he rebels against the Arab ruler of Persia and leads the people to overthrow the tyrant king and end his millennium-long rule. As a symbol of resistance and unity, he raises his leather apron on a spear, known as the Derafsh Kaviani. This flag is later decorated with precious jewels and becomes the symbol of Persian independence, resistance and resilience, as well as the revolutionary symbol of the masses in their fight against foreign invaders.
Jashn-e mehregan is the celeberation for the Fereydun's victory over Zahhāk; it is also the time when autumn rains begin to fall.
The dynasty Karen-Pahlav (also known as the House of Karen) claimed to be Kaveh's descendants.
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