Azita Arbab: Daughter of the Ex-Famous Dancer Jamileh Visits the Capital – 10 Fascinating Facts

A Cultural Ambassador: Promoting Iranian Dance on a Global Stage

Although earlier dancers like Mahvash and Afat introduced the belly dance and Persian folk dances to Iranian cinema, it was Jamileh who popularized a distinct version of the dance through her dynamic performances and film roles. She mastered various Persian dances, including the traditional Bandari and Qasemabadi dances, as well as classical Persian dances. Her unique style of the belly dance, coupled with the jâheli dance style, became her trademark.

The jâheli style of dance involves embodying the character of a roughneck, a jâhel man, and features a more overtly erotic expression compared to traditional Persian dances. Often donning a kolâh makhmali, a hat similar to a fedora, Jamileh mesmerized audiences with her passionate performances. Despite being associated with the cabaret dancer archetype, Jamileh’s image in the media transcended stereotypes and depicted her as a highly esteemed artist, partially influenced by her husband’s support.

August 16, 2022 | 9:18 pm