Mehrdad Pahlbod, born as Ezatollah Minbashian , was also the second husband of Princess Shams Pahlavi. The couple secretly converted to Christianity in the 1950s in Egypt. Living to 101, Pahlbod witnessed immense historical and cultural transformations and the world. His long life allowed him to reflect on the evolution of art and culture over a century, giving him a unique perspective that he often shared in interviews and memoirs.
His background in architecture informed many of his cultural projects, ensuring that venues for arts and music were both functional and aesthetically significant. He used the arts as a diplomatic tool, hosting international exhibitions and performances that improved cultural reputation abroad.
