Mahin Zarinpanjeh passed away on Sunday, June 1, at the age of 87, in Salmanshahr (formerly known as Matal Qo), a city nestled in the lush landscapes of Mazandaran Province. Her body was interred just hours after her passing, in a quiet, unannounced ceremony. Nevertheless, her death did not go unnoticed. Social media platforms, particularly those frequented by Iranian musicians and cultural advocates, erupted in tribute. Just days after her burial, a group of Mazandaran cultural enthusiasts spontaneously gathered at her grave, paying their respects in a humble and heartfelt gesture.
Born on November 24, 1937, in Tehran, Mahin Zarinpanjeh was immersed in music from an early age. Her father, Nasrollah Zarinpanjeh, was a tar master and an educator, known for his critical role in compiling educational materials for the tar and setar, instruments deeply embedded in the fabric of Iranian classical music. Mahin’s early memories are saturated with music. She recalled the small house she grew up in as being filled with melodies, with musicians and students frequently visiting to rehearse and learn. Her mother, Safiyeh Yeganeh, also engaged in music, playing the tar and tonbak. This musical environment would shape Mahin’s life and destiny.