One of my favorite Shahs of Iran of modern times, the last Shah of the Zand dynasty, Lotf Ali Khan (c. 1769-1794). Lotf Ali embodied what it meant to be an Iranian, and his ideals are something we ought to cherish and embody today.

Thread:

Lotf Ali was only 22 years old when he became Shah after years of infighting after the death of the founder of the Zand dynasty, Karim Khan. Lotf Ali was a handsome and brave young man who was also adept as horseback riding, swordsmanship, and marksmanship.

It is said that during his nights in Shiraz, he would change out of his regal clothes and help the poor all without telling a soul. He was also a poet and wrote commentaries on the works of Hafez.

His reign as Shah was short—five years—because soon after assuming his title, his principal rival, Agha Mohammad Khan Qajar marched south to Shiraz and their two armies fought there. The Qajar forces won, however Lotf Ali was still able to hold Shiraz as the Qajars withdrew.

Their armies fought several battles throughout that time, but his demise came in Kerman. According to legend, Lotf Ali Khan fought 14 men single-handedly for two full hours before falling.

Pictured is battle between Lotf Ali Khan and Agha Mohammad Khan Qajar.

Once Lotf Ali Khan was captured and tortured in prison, it is said Agha Mohammad Khan walked up to him and said “prostrate before me” to which he responded “I will prostrate for no one except God.” He was then blinded, and eventually choked to death in Tehran.

Today, Lotf Ali Khan represents Iranian chivalry in its highest form. Accounts of his behavior describe a man whose code of ethics embodies courage and perseverance, which inspired immense loyalty among his followers. Even when he was betrayed, he never forgot to smile. RIP