Hejbar Yazdani: The Untold Story of Iran’s Pre-Revolution Business Magnate, Known as “Mr. 13”

Personal Life and Marriages

Yazdani was married twice, and his personal life played a significant role in shaping his public image. In 1952, he married Bahmane Derakhshani, a fellow Baha’i from his hometown of Sangsar. Their marriage was conducted according to the customs of the Baha’i faith, which Yazdani followed throughout his life. His second marriage, in 1966, was to Fatima Jalali Iraqi, a Muslim woman. Despite his wife’s different religious background, Yazdani’s second marriage certificate was also issued by the Baha’i community. From these marriages, Yazdani fathered six children—three sons (Kiyomarth, Nader, and Kaveh) and three daughters (Leili, Nasreen, and Ketayoun).

To safeguard his wealth and evade taxes, Yazdani transferred ownership of much of his businesses to his children. This move was typical of Iran’s elite business class at the time, who sought to protect their assets in a volatile political environment.

December 30, 2022 | 9:13 pm