Ey Irân (ای ایران, “O Iran”) is an anthem considered by the Iranian Opposition to be the de facto national anthem of Iran.
"Ey Irân" anthem was composed in 1944 in Tehran. The lyrics were written by Hossein Gol-e-Golab and the music was composed by Ruhollah Khaleqi, and it was first performed by the classical Persian music singer Gholam-Hossein Banan.
Golegolâb was inspired to write the song by patriotism. He has been quoted to have said: "In 1944, the footsteps of the invading armies in the streets were enough to rattle any patriot and inspired me to write this anthem. Professor Ruhollâh Kâleqi wrote the music and despite all the political opposition, it found its way into the heart and soul of the people."
"Ey Irân" is sometimes mistaken for being the former Persian national anthem. It has only briefly had de facto national anthem status; however, it occupies a place in Iranian popular culture similar to that of Men of Harlech in Wales. It was unofficially used in the transitional period between the national anthem used at the time of the Shah (deposed February, 1979) until the adoption of the national anthem of the Islamic Republic.
Iranian opposition groups both inside and outside of Iran do not recognize the current official anthem of the Islamic Republic of Iran as the "national anthem" and in all gatherings and ceremonies use "Ey Irân" anthem, although monarchical groups still use the Sarood-e Shahanshahe Iran anthem.
For decades many groups and singers have performed "Ey Irân". One of the most popular ones is 1991 version which has been arranged for voice, choir and orchestra by Golnuš Xāleqi, daughter of Rowhollāh Xāleqi. In this version the vocal soloist was Rashid Vatandust and Esfandiar Gharabaghi.
