Manbaekhabar.ir: Partoa – From Iranian Roots to Global Presence Introduction:

Manbaekhabar.ir: Partoa – From Iranian Roots to Global Presence
Introduction:

Today, we have the pleasure of hosting one of the pioneers in the global development of Iranian martial and cultural arts, known as “Partoa.” This ancient sport, deeply rooted in Iranian culture and civilization, is currently expanding its activities internationally. In this interview, we will explore the challenges, successes, and future outlook of Partoa worldwide.

Mk.news: Sir, to start, please provide a brief overview of “Partoa” and its concept for our audience.

Partoa is an ancient Iranian martial-cultural art based on traditions, healthy ethics, and harmonious, ecstatic movements. It is not merely a set of martial techniques but a blend of philosophy, ethics, and rich Iranian cultural heritage that aims to promote the physical and spiritual well-being of individuals and communities.

To elaborate, Partoa distinguishes itself through several key aspects. Firstly, its philosophical underpinnings are deeply intertwined with ancient Persian wisdom, emphasizing balance, respect, and inner harmony. Unlike many martial arts that focus solely on combat effectiveness, Partoa integrates elements of mindfulness and self-cultivation. Practitioners are encouraged to develop not just physical prowess but also mental clarity and emotional resilience. The “harmonious, ecstatic movements” are central to this. These movements are fluid and dynamic, often resembling a graceful dance rather than rigid fighting forms. They are designed to improve flexibility, coordination, and stamina, while simultaneously inducing a meditative state that fosters a sense of joy and spiritual connection. The ethical framework of Partoa is paramount. It instills values such as humility, discipline, perseverance, and respect for oneself, one’s instructors, and one’s peers. These ethics extend beyond the training hall, guiding practitioners to live a life of integrity and purpose. Ultimately, Partoa seeks to be a holistic practice that nurtures the individual’s entire being – body, mind, and spirit – and contributes positively to their community.

Mk.news: We hear that Partoa has initiated significant international activities. Please elaborate on the registration and development process of this organization in the US and other countries.

Through extensive efforts and collaboration with our associates in the US, we successfully registered the “Partoa World Cultural and Sports Association” in the United States. To further establish Partoa’s identity and brand, we also registered it with the Trademark Office. Another significant step was our collaboration with US universities; initially, Partoa was registered as a sports organization at a university in North Carolina. Due to high rental costs, our current focus is on university-based activities in ten US states, and we operate as clubs in several other states. Beyond the US, through proper coordination, we have managed to launch activities in 40 countries across five continents. Our goal is to follow the same government registration process for Partoa in other countries as we did in the US. Additionally, we have activated the YouTube channel “Heshmat Shokri IPA” to promote and expand Partoa.

The journey to international recognition has been multi-faceted and strategic. The initial registration of the “Partoa World Cultural and Sports Association” in the United States was a critical foundational step. This provided a legal and organizational framework from which to expand. Registering the “Partoa” trademark was equally vital, protecting our brand identity and preventing unauthorized use, which is crucial for long-term global growth. Our collaboration with US universities represents a particularly innovative approach. By first establishing Partoa as a recognized sports organization within a North Carolina university, we gained a credible foothold within the academic and athletic communities. While initial rental costs led to a shift in strategy, our current model of focusing on university-based activities in ten key US states allows us to tap into a vibrant student population eager for new cultural and physical experiences. Simultaneously, operating as informal clubs in other states provides a lower-barrier entry point for new practitioners, allowing for organic growth.

The expansion beyond the US has been even more ambitious. Launching activities in 40 countries across five continents required meticulous planning and coordination with local enthusiasts and cultural organizations. This involved identifying key partners, translating promotional materials, and adapting our teaching methodologies to suit diverse cultural contexts while retaining the core essence of Partoa. Our long-term vision is to replicate the US government registration process in these 40 countries, providing a robust legal and official status to Partoa associations globally. This will facilitate greater recognition, access to facilities, and potential government support. The “Heshmat Shokri IPA” YouTube channel is an essential tool in this global outreach. It serves as a central hub for demonstrations, instructional videos, historical context, and interviews, making Partoa accessible to a worldwide audience, transcending geographical barriers and language differences to foster a truly global community of practitioners.

Mk.news: In a country like the US, where powerful martial arts like boxing and East Asian martial arts are prevalent, how did Partoa manage to establish its position and gain acceptance?

In the beginning, when I introduced Partoa, Americans’ minds mostly gravitated towards Chinese, Japanese, and Korean martial arts. However, Partoa, with its unique authenticity, especially its distinctive harmonious and ecstatic movements, managed to differentiate itself from other martial arts styles. Boxing is a very popular and powerful sport in the US, and competing with it is challenging. But our approach is not competition; it is about identifying and introducing the essence and nature of Partoa. With its cultural and civilizational background, intertwined with healthy traditions and ethics, Partoa has attracted its own specific audience and gained acceptance through this approach.

Establishing Partova in the US market, saturated with deeply entrenched and widely recognized martial arts, required a nuanced and strategic approach, rather than direct competition. Initially, the challenge was indeed overcoming preconceived notions. Many Americans, when hearing “martial arts,” immediately envision Karate, Taekwondo, Kung Fu, or the brute force of boxing. Partoa, being entirely distinct, needed to carve out its own niche.

Our success stems from emphasizing Partoa’s inherent uniqueness. We didn’t try to position it as a “better” or “more effective” fighting style than boxing or traditional East Asian martial arts. Instead, we highlighted its fundamental difference: Partoa is not primarily a combat sport focused on aggression or competition in the conventional sense. Its “harmonious and ecstatic movements” are a key differentiator. These movements are often described as fluid, almost dance-like, promoting flexibility, balance, and inner peace, contrasting sharply with the more rigid, combative forms of other arts. This aesthetic and philosophical distinction immediately appealed to individuals seeking something more than just physical training – they were looking for a holistic practice that engaged both body and spirit.

Furthermore, we leaned heavily into Partoa’s rich “cultural and civilizational background.” We presented it not just as a physical discipline, but as a living bridge to ancient Persian culture, philosophy, and ethical traditions. This narrative resonated with a segment of the population interested in cultural immersion, historical arts, and practices that offer a deeper meaning beyond athleticism. The emphasis on “healthy traditions and ethics” was also crucial. In a world often seeking quick fixes, Partoa’s commitment to discipline, respect, humility, and self-improvement provided a refreshing alternative. It attracted individuals who valued character development as much as physical fitness.

In essence, our strategy was one of clear differentiation and authentic presentation. By refusing to enter into direct competition with established giants like boxing and by instead focusing on Partoa’s unique blend of cultural heritage, philosophical depth, aesthetic movement, and ethical grounding, we successfully identified and cultivated a distinct and enthusiastic audience. This audience wasn’t necessarily looking for another boxing gym or Karate dojo; they were seeking a profound and enriching experience that Partoa uniquely offered.

Mk.news: What are your vision and five-year plans for the development of Partoa in the US and internationally?

In our defined five-year plans, we aim to activate 25 states in the US. Furthermore, the Partoa US sports calendar includes a major cultural and sports festival, and we will certainly strive for a warm presence from Iran. In our activity manifesto, Iran has been introduced as the birthplace of Partova, and American students are very eager to participate firsthand in activities within Iran.

Our five-year plan for Partova’s global development is ambitious and multifaceted, aiming to solidify its presence and foster a vibrant international community. Within the United States, our primary objective is to significantly expand our geographical footprint. The goal of activating 25 states means establishing a formal presence – whether through university clubs, community centers, or dedicated Partoa studios – in half of the country. This expansion will involve rigorous training programs for new instructors, development of localized curricula, and robust marketing campaigns tailored to each region’s demographic. We envision a network of interconnected Partoa centers, fostering a sense of national community among practitioners.

A cornerstone of our US strategy is the establishment of a major annual cultural and sports festival. This event will serve as a gathering point for practitioners from across the country, showcasing the various facets of Partoa, including demonstrations, friendly competitions, cultural performances, and workshops. It will also be a platform for cultural exchange, inviting participants and performers from Iran to share the rich heritage of Partoa. We plan for this festival to become a prominent fixture in the US cultural calendar, attracting not only current practitioners but also drawing in new audiences interested in unique cultural and physical arts. Securing “a warm presence from Iran” for this festival is paramount; it underscores the deep connection to Partova’s roots and provides an authentic experience for American enthusiasts.

Internationally, our five-year plan involves solidifying the foundation laid in the 40 countries where Partoa is already active. This means moving beyond initial activities to establish formal organizational structures, similar to the US model, where possible. We aim for formal registration in a significant number of these countries, providing legal standing and enabling greater access to resources and partnerships. Instructor training programs will be expanded globally, ensuring consistent quality and adherence to Partoa’s core principles. We also plan to develop an international calendar of events, including workshops, seminars, and possibly regional festivals, to foster a sense of global community.

Crucially, our activity manifesto explicitly states that “Iran has been introduced as the birthplace of Partoa.” This is not just a historical fact but a strategic element of our global outreach. It cultivates a powerful narrative of authenticity and origin, enhancing Partoa’s appeal. We’ve observed a profound eagerness among American, and indeed international, students to “participate firsthand in activities within Iran.” This desire represents an immense potential for cultural exchange and sports tourism. Our five-year plan aims to leverage this interest, working towards facilitating immersive experiences in Iran, provided the necessary infrastructure and support are in place. This includes developing standardized training retreats, cultural tours, and opportunities for direct engagement with the masters and heritage of Partoa in its homeland, thereby reinforcing its unique identity and deepening practitioners’ connection to its roots.

Mk.news: Given the enthusiasm of foreign students to visit Iran, are the necessary infrastructures in place to host such a large number of enthusiasts in Iran? How do you believe Iran can leverage this potential?

This is a very crucial question. I am unsure if Iran can be a good host as they imagine, because a powerful training center must exist in Iran to uphold the prestige and centrality of Partoa. We urge officials in Iran to pay more attention to indigenous sports. This program can not only strengthen Iran’s sports power, especially Partoa and Zoorkhaneh, but also generate significant financial revenue. If a proper and standardized training center is designed, we could annually, with a five-year projection, host approximately five thousand visitors from around the world at the start. For a one-month period, if we consider ten thousand dollars per person, with five thousand people, this would bring an annual budget of fifty million dollars to Iran. This is a very significant economic potential that should not be overlooked.

This question addresses a critical bottleneck and a tremendous opportunity. While the enthusiasm among foreign students to visit Iran and immerse themselves in the origins of Partoa is undeniable and highly encouraging, the current infrastructure in Iran poses a significant challenge. My honest assessment is that, at present, Iran may not be fully equipped to host the envisioned scale of international Partoa enthusiasts in a manner that truly “upholds the prestige and centrality of Partova” and provides a consistently high-quality experience.

The most pressing need is the establishment of a “powerful and standardized training center” specifically dedicated to Partoa and potentially other indigenous Iranian martial and cultural arts like Zoorkhaneh. This is not just about a building; it requires:

State-of-the-art Training Facilities: Spacious training halls, specialized equipment, climate control, and proper flooring suitable for the unique movements of Partoa.
Qualified and Standardized Instruction: A pool of highly experienced and internationally recognized Partoa masters who can deliver consistent, high-quality training in English and other relevant languages. This also requires standardized curriculum development for international visitors.
Accommodation and Hospitality: High-quality, culturally appropriate accommodation options, whether dedicated on-site dormitories or partnerships with local hotels, capable of handling large groups with diverse needs.
Logistical Support: Efficient transportation, visa assistance, and tour coordination services to ensure a smooth and welcoming experience from arrival to departure.
Cultural Integration: Opportunities for visitors to experience Iranian culture beyond Partoa training, including historical sites, local cuisine, and traditional arts, enhancing the overall immersive experience.
Safety and Security Protocols: Robust measures to ensure the safety and well-being of international guests, providing peace of mind to both participants and their home organizations.
I strongly urge officials in Iran to recognize the immense potential of indigenous sports like Partoa and Zoorkhaneh, not just as cultural heritage but as powerful economic drivers. Investing in these arts can yield substantial returns. By designing and developing a proper, world-class training center, Iran could realistically host a significant influx of sports tourists. My five-year projection indicates the capacity to host “approximately five thousand visitors from around the world at the start.”

Let’s break down the economic impact: If each visitor stays for a one-month period – a duration that allows for deep immersion in Partoa training and cultural exploration – and spends an average of “ten thousand dollars per person” (covering program fees, accommodation, food, internal travel, and cultural activities), then “with five thousand people, this would bring an annual budget of fifty million dollars to Iran.” This figure is conservative and could grow as Partova’s global presence expands further. This “fifty million dollars” is not merely revenue; it represents foreign exchange earnings, job creation in the hospitality, sports, and cultural sectors, and a significant boost to local economies.

This “very significant economic potential” should indeed “not be overlooked.” It’s an opportunity for Iran to diversify its economy, strengthen its soft power through cultural diplomacy, and showcase its rich heritage on a global stage, leveraging a unique asset that few other countries possess. The investment required for such infrastructure would be substantial, but the long-term cultural, economic, and reputational dividends would be even greater.

Mk.news: What is your message to Partoa enthusiasts and relevant officials in Iran?

To Partoa enthusiasts, I say that this sport not only nurtures the body but also elevates the spirit, offering a way to connect with our rich cultural roots. To officials, I recommend giving more attention to the immense potential of indigenous sports, especially Partoa. This sport can not only be a powerful cultural ambassador for Iran in the world but also generate substantial foreign exchange for the country by attracting sports tourists. Establishing a powerful and standardized training center is the first and crucial step in this direction.

My message is two-fold, addressed with deep respect and earnest hope to both the dedicated practitioners of Partoa and the influential officials in Iran.

To Partoa Enthusiasts, wherever you are in the world:

Continue your journey with Partoa with unwavering dedication and passion. Understand that what you are learning and practicing transcends mere physical exercise. Partoa is a living bridge to an ancient, profound heritage. It is a discipline that “not only nurtures the body” – enhancing your physical strength, flexibility, and coordination – “but also elevates the spirit.” Through its harmonious movements and ethical principles, it fosters inner peace, mental clarity, and emotional resilience. It is “offering a way to connect with our rich cultural roots,” a link to the wisdom and artistry of Persian civilization that has shaped this unique art form for centuries. Embrace the philosophy, the ethics, and the aesthetic beauty of Partoa. Be ambassadors for this art in your communities, share its benefits, and contribute to its continued growth. Your commitment is the lifeblood of Partoa’s global future.

To Relevant Officials in Iran:

I implore you to recognize and act upon the “immense potential of indigenous sports, especially Partoa.” This is not merely a niche cultural activity; it is a strategic asset with profound implications for Iran’s global standing and economic prosperity.

Firstly, Partoa possesses unparalleled potential as a “powerful cultural ambassador for Iran in the world.” In an increasingly interconnected but often fragmented world, cultural exchange builds bridges and fosters understanding. Partoa, with its unique blend of martial prowess, graceful aesthetics, and deep philosophical roots, presents a positive and authentic image of Iran – one of rich heritage, artistry, and wisdom. Promoting Partoa globally is an act of cultural diplomacy that can enhance Iran’s

soft power and improve international Perception

Secondly, and with significant economic urgency, Partoa can “generate substantial foreign exchange for the country by attracting sports tourists.” As I highlighted earlier, there is a burgeoning global interest in Partoa, with thousands of enthusiasts eager to visit its birthplace. This represents a tangible, multi-million dollar annual revenue stream for Iran. Imagine the economic ripple effect: increased tourism directly boosts the hospitality sector (hotels, restaurants, transportation), creates jobs for instructors, guides, and support staff, and stimulates local economies through purchases of goods and services. This is a sustainable and culturally rich source of income that can diversify Iran’s economy and provide stable, long-term benefits.

The critical, foundational step to unlock this potential is clear: “Establishing a powerful and standardized training center is the first and crucial step in this direction.” This center must be world-class, not only in terms of facilities and instruction but also in its capacity for international hospitality and logistical support. It needs to be a beacon for Partoa practitioners worldwide, a place where they can receive authentic, high-quality training and immerse themselves in the cultural context of the art. Without this foundational investment in infrastructure and a strategic vision for its operation, the full potential of Partoa as a global cultural and economic force for Iran will remain largely untapped. I urge you to seize this unique opportunity for the benefit of both Iranian heritage and its future prosperity.