Most striking feature is the plethora of Iranian women seen working everywhere. Before the revolution about 23 years ago, the country was ruled by Raza Shah Pehlevi whom the present generation remembers as dictator, a tool in the hands of the Western countries. With Ayatullah Khomeini taking over the reigns after overthrowing the Shah, Iran is under the throes of rapid social transformation.
Today s Iran is entirely different.
The words Islamic Republic of Iran are rather misleading in the sense that it is a country where Muslim fundamentalists rule and reign of terror would be the order of the day, if the Western images are to be believed. But in reality Iran is a progressive and liberal state. Though about 99 per cent of the population consists of Muslims, the small minorities have equal rights and lead a life of dignity. The status of women is superbly commanding. This writer was a delegate at the preliminary International Conference on Racism held in Tehran during February and record here impressions gathered during the visit.