Iranian singer Parastoo Ahmadi has reportedly been sentenced to 74 lashes following her online concert performance in which she appeared without wearing a hijab. The ruling has drawn international attention, with reports stating that the singer and members of her production team also face restrictions on travel and artistic activities.
According to reports, the 29-year-old artist was penalized over a December 2024 virtual performance that was streamed online and later gained millions of views. The concert featured the patriotic song Az Khoone Javanane Vatan (From the Blood of the Youth of the Homeland), which became widely circulated after being shared on digital platforms.
The performance reportedly showed Ahmadi wearing a long black dress without a headscarf, with bare shoulders visible. Authorities allegedly considered the content a violation of public decency rules and described it as inappropriate, leading to legal action against the singer and her team.
Reports also stated that eight members of Ahmadi’s production team received two-year bans on international travel and participation in artistic activities. The ruling has reportedly not yet been officially published by Iran’s judiciary news agency.
The case has renewed discussions about restrictions faced by women artists in Iran, particularly regarding public performances. Following the 1979 Islamic Revolution, laws introduced in the country require women to cover their hair in public spaces, while women are also restricted from performing solo singing publicly.
Ahmadi’s performance became a major topic of discussion after gaining attention online, with supporters viewing it as an expression of artistic freedom. The legal action against her has sparked reactions from observers focused on issues surrounding women’s rights, cultural expression, and freedom of performance.
The controversy comes amid continued global debate over Iran’s enforcement of dress regulations and the challenges faced by women who challenge existing rules through art, music, and public expression.