اکوان دیو: قصه‌های شاهنامه 10 الفارسية 1447

During the reign of King Kay Khosrow, a deceitful demon named Akvan Div, disguised as a gigantic wild onager, attacked the pastures of Iran, destroying livestock and terrifying the people. The desperate shepherds went to Kay Khosrow for help, and the king summoned Rostam to confront this wicked creature.

Rostam set out for the plains and searched for several days until he finally spotted Akvan. Just as he was about to cast his lasso, the demon vanished. Exhausted and hungry, Rostam rested by a spring and fell asleep. Seizing the moment, Akvan lifted him from the ground and carried him into the air. The demon asked Rostam whether he preferred to be thrown onto the mountains or into the sea. Aware of Akvan’s trickery, Rostam cleverly replied, “Throw me onto the mountain,” knowing the demon would do the opposite. As expected, Akvan hurled him into the sea—but Rostam emerged unharmed and returned to face the demon once more.

This time, Rostam struck a mighty blow with his heavy mace, crushing Akvan and ending the menace. He brought the demon’s severed head to Kay Khosrow, and the people of Iran celebrated their freedom from this terror. Once again, Rostam triumphed over an evil force through wisdom, courage, and unmatched strength.

This story has been adapted into a modern, illustrated edition for children by Barf Publishing, with artwork by Mohammad Ali Keshavarz and retelling by Maziar Baghlani and Elnaz Ebrahimi.