Divya Prabandham
: The song has been covered by numerous international artists (including Coldplay during their world tour) and translated into dozens of languages, serving as a global symbol of solidarity with the Iranian people. Lyric Themes
"Baraye" (meaning "Because of" or "For the sake of") is a 2022 protest song by Iranian singer-songwriter Shervin Hajipour that became the unofficial anthem of the "Woman, Life, Freedom" movement. 2022----Baraye---the-anthem-of-the-Iranian-uprising
In late September 2022, following the death of Mahsa (Jina) Amini in morality police custody, Hajipour composed the song using a series of tweets from Iranians explaining why they were protesting. Each line of the lyrics begins with the word "Baraye" and lists a different grievance or aspiration, ranging from environmental concerns (the extinction of the Cheetah) and economic hardship to the simple desire for "a normal life." : The song has been covered by numerous
The song’s power lies in its raw, collective nature. It does not use abstract political slogans but instead focuses on everyday human desires: dancing in the streets. For the fear of kissing. For my sister, your sister, our sisters. For the yearning for a normal life. Each line of the lyrics begins with the
: Shortly after the song went viral, Shervin Hajipour was arrested by Iranian authorities. He was later released on bail but has faced ongoing legal challenges and sentencing related to "propaganda against the system."
: Within 48 hours of being posted to Instagram, the video garnered over 40 million views before being removed.