Reza Pahlavi, the eldest son of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the Shah of Iran, and Farah Diba, the Shahbanu, was born on October 31, 1960, in Tehran. His birth symbolized a continuation of the Pahlavi dynasty, a reign that would later be dramatically interrupted by the Iranian Revolution of 1979. A life marked by privilege, royal responsibilities, exile, and advocacy, Reza Pahlavi’s journey intertwines the history of modern Iran with his personal story.
Early Life and Education
As the firstborn son, Reza’s birth was celebrated across the nation. The Shah marked the occasion by pardoning 98 political prisoners and announcing a 20% reduction in income tax, gestures aimed at reinforcing goodwill among the population. His family included his siblings Princess Farahnaz Pahlavi (born 1963), Prince Ali Reza Pahlavi (1966–2011), and Princess Leila Pahlavi (1970–2001), as well as a half-sister, Princess Shahnaz Pahlavi (born 1940). Together, they represented the next generation of Iran’s royal lineage.
Reza’s early education was shaped by exclusivity and privilege. He attended the “Reza Pahlavi School,” a private institution situated within the royal palace. The school was reserved for the imperial family and close court associates, offering an elite curriculum tailored to prepare the young prince for leadership. From an early age, Reza demonstrated a keen interest in aviation. At just 11 years old, he completed his first solo flight, earning his pilot’s license a year later. His passion for flying would later influence his career trajectory as a cadet in the Imperial Iranian Air Force.