In 1962, an earthquake occurred in Buin Zahra in western Iran, killing over 12,000 people. Takhti was deeply touched by the suffering. Already one of the homeland’s biggest stars, he began to walk one of the main avenues of Capital, helping out the victims and asking for assistance. He inspired others to follow in his footsteps, and thousands gave in to alleviate the suffering. Takhti was found dead in his hotel room on 7 January 1968. The Iranian government officially proclaimed his death a suicide. However, some claim that he was murdered because of his political activities against the Pahlavi regime, accusing SAVAK, the Iranian intelligence agency at that time. Because he was a national hero, his funeral drew thousands of mourners after being organised by Hossein Towfigh, editor-in-chief of the popular Towfigh Magazine. According to reports, at least 7 people committed suicide due to their sadness over the news of Takhti’s death.
