Feridani Georgians in Iran: Forced Exile and Life Today

Georgian history is full of sad and tragic moments. The Iranian Shah Abbas I's attacks on Kakheti in the 17th century claimed hundreds of thousands of lives and caused irreparable damage to the country's cultural heritage.

The brutal leader repeatedly attacked Georgian lands, despite appeals from Russian ambassadors to stop the bloodshed.

Reasons for the Iranian Attack

Kakheti was beautiful and rich. It was a favorite vacation spot for Georgian kings. Monks built protected caves in the mountains to store royal treasures. Fortresses and monasteries, symbols of Georgian culture, were erected everywhere. Each building embodied the unity and fortitude of the Georgian people.

Furthermore, the indigenous population of Georgia is renowned for its deep patriotism. The country's inhabitants have always respected their history, preserving and protecting their heritage, unlike other nations.

Perhaps envy and the desire to subjugate a rebellious people were the reasons for the frenzied plundering of the Shah of Iran, who mercilessly destroyed entire cities and Georgian culture.

History of Migration

Blinded by rage, the Iranian plundered treasuries, burned monasteries, and destroyed all Georgian culture that came his way. He resettled 15,000 Azerbaijanis in the liberated territory, and ordered the surviving Kakhetians to convert to Islam and settle in central Iran. Thus, three hundred kilometers from Tehran, an entire settlement of Georgians emerged, forcibly transported to Fereydunshahr and forced to live according to the laws of the Islamic state.

It's worth noting that the Azerbaijanis never truly settled in Kakheti; rebellious people from neighboring Georgian regions reclaimed these lands. They settled on the desolate lands and set about restoring their lost heritage. And they accomplished this task admirably; Kakheti is a favorite region among tourists, striking with its unique ancient character.

Life of Ferendai in Iran

The formidable Iranian Shah hoped that the broken Georgians would convert to Islam and become part of Iranian culture, contributing to the history of his country. However, it is not without reason that Georgians are considered the most patriotic people. The Kakhetians who survived the deportation not only maintained communication in their native language but also continued the traditions of Georgian culture. They did not fear the Shah's wrath; it was far more important not to lose themselves, their country, in their hearts.

And so, for over 400 years, the Ferendai have spoken Georgian in central Iran, observed the customs of their culture, and contributed to the history of their native Georgia.

They still consider themselves Kakhetians, although many of them have never been to Georgia and dream of returning to Kakheti. The Ferendai are reviving Christian traditions and urging Georgians who were forcibly converted to Islam to accept Orthodoxy. The Georgian people are admired for their dedication and love for their homeland, and their ability to preserve their culture no matter the circumstances. Georgians are certainly worth learning from for their deep respect for their roots and the history of their entire country.

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