Unique world of Hormuz: To protect themselves from the ‘genie of wind’, women wear mustache-like masks, people consider trees as their hideout.

Afshar explains that many residents are of African descent. But this identity is often hidden.

The Strait of Hormuz is in the news amid the war between America and Iran. But, the life of the people living in Iran’s southern islands of Keshm and Hormuz and their unique way of living creates curiosity. The sand here, rich in minerals, shines red, pink and orange. The land is as diverse and fascinating as the people, culture and traditional beliefs.

Iranian photographer Hoda Afshar has beautifully described the culture and beliefs here. Some may consider it superstition, but this is their life.

Manyata – Some winds are good and some winds are devilish or jinn’s.

This is Salimeh, a resident of Keshm Island. He is wearing a mask like a moustache. This is an attempt to ward off the evil spirits of the air. Actually, it is believed that some winds are devilish or jinn’s, while some are good. It is said about the air called ‘Jar’ that it can enter the body. Can cause discomfort or illness. This mask is worn to deceive the ‘Czar’.

The aim is to make women look like men. According to belief, women are more vulnerable to ‘Jar’. Afshar says, ‘The beliefs related to winds have old roots. These islands were claimed by Iranian, Arab and European powers. Traders came to their shores, soldiers came, migrants came, there was movement between East Africa, the Arabian Peninsula and the Indian subcontinent. Along with them came languages. Customs and unique beliefs came.

This mask is worn to deceive the ‘Czar’.

Fear of evil spirits – some people live on trees

Some people of Qeshm and Hormuz live in trees, because there is a belief that sleeping under certain types of trees will trap evil spirits. That means the power of wind can overpower a person. In his book ‘Speak the Wind’, Afshar has explained about the unique beliefs and faiths of Qeshm and Hormuz. Afshar explains that many residents are of African descent. But this identity is often hidden or denied. Reason: There are long standing social categories. Afshar, living in Berlin, Germany, says that now news from there is available in bits and pieces. Heavy military presence. Bombing. She says a relative described the effect of the bombs as, ‘It felt like an earthquake passing through the body. Praying for protection from bombs and ammunition.

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