Companions of the Sun Author Talk
2025-12-06 19:00 - 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Astralab, 678 La Fayette Park Place, Los Angeles, 90057, United States
Companions of the Sun
A Lecture by Scholar Dr. Farima Berenji
Rooted in one of the world’s oldest civilizations, the traditions of Iranian/Persian sacred dance and music embody the profound wisdom of our ancestors. Observing nature, the stars, and the rhythms of life, they crafted movements expressing love, strength, and spiritual transcendence. These rituals continue to inspire cultures worldwide, preserving a legacy of mysticism and artistic expression.
Author Dr. Farima Berenji presents her research upon the evolutionary origins and practice of Iranian rituals, beliefs, and dances, exploring how Iranian culture permeated global music and dance traditions, developing distinctly from its sister nations. All this is explored in her book Companions of the Sun
Dr. Farima Berenji
Farima Berenji Dr. Farima Berenji has an MA in Anthropology/Archaeology, MA in Iranian dance ethnology both from Cal State Hayward, and an M.Msc. and a PhD from the University of Sedona in Iranian metaphysics and mysticism, specializing in Iranian mystic traditions, Sufism, and women’s mystic rituals. She is an award winning, internationally acclaimed performing artist, choreographer and has been recognized as one of the few world scholars of ancient and mystical Iranian dance ethnology. She is honored to be the first Iranian woman to direct a Persian dance company to perform during receptions for President Obama and President Biden, the EU, and the UN. Farima is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective, Assistant Director and Program Director of Eastern Arts, founder of Dance of the SoulTM, advisory council member of Mosaic America, a member of the International Dance Council (CID-UNESCO), National Folk Organization member, and the first Iranian-American woman TEDx lecturer and performer in the field of dance. She has excelled in artistic and innovative forms of cultural preservation and has been recognized by the international press. Recognized as one of the few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical dance ethnology, she travels worldwide to research, lecture, perform, educate, and inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. Read more…

Companions of the Sun Book Talk and Dance of the Soul Workshop
2025-12-14 10:00 - 13:00 | Center for Spiritual Awakening, 522 Central Ave, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950, United States
Save the date! More details and registration opens soon.
Companions of the Sun
Learn about the origins and practice of Iranian dance in this talk by Dr. Farima Berenji. She will discuss Iranian rituals and beliefs in relation to dance, as well as how Iranian culture has impacted global music and dance traditions. There will be a short audience participation dance or performance as part of the program presented in the North Beach Library community room.
Rooted in one of the world’s oldest civilizations, the traditions of Iranian/Persian sacred dance and music embody the profound wisdom of our ancestors. Observing nature, the stars, and the rhythms of life, they crafted movements expressing love, strength, and spiritual transcendence. These rituals continue to inspire cultures worldwide, preserving a legacy of mysticism and artistic expression. Author Dr. Farima Berenji presents her research upon the evolutionary origins and practice of Iranian rituals, beliefs, and dances, exploring how Iranian culture permeated global music and dance traditions, developing distinctly from its sister nations. All this is explored in her book Companions of the Sun
Dance of the Soul Workshop
Discover the power and mystery of whirling as a gateway for self-growth and spiritual enlightenment through movement, music, and meditation. Inspired by nature, ancient Iranic rituals, the science of whirling, and the beautiful spiritual traditions of Sufism, join Farima to learn the essentials of whirling meditation including preparation, balance and posture, controlling dizziness, self-focus, breathwork, and more.
Whirling in the practice of devotion, healing, and meditation originated thousands of years ago with the ancient Persians using it as way of connecting the body and soul. Today, Sufis use it as a powerful meditation ritual with music, poetry, and movement. Based on this centuries-old Sufi ritual, whirling can unite mind, heart, and body.
Dr. Farima Berenji
Farima Berenji Dr. Farima Berenji has an MA in Anthropology/Archaeology, MA in Iranian dance ethnology both from Cal State Hayward, and an M.Msc. and a PhD from the University of Sedona in Iranian metaphysics and mysticism, specializing in Iranian mystic traditions, Sufism, and women’s mystic rituals. She is an award winning, internationally acclaimed performing artist, choreographer and has been recognized as one of the few world scholars of ancient and mystical Iranian dance ethnology. She is honored to be the first Iranian woman to direct a Persian dance company to perform during receptions for President Obama and President Biden, the EU, and the UN. Farima is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective, Assistant Director and Program Director of Eastern Arts, founder of Dance of the SoulTM, advisory council member of Mosaic America, a member of the International Dance Council (CID-UNESCO), National Folk Organization member, and the first Iranian-American woman TEDx lecturer and performer in the field of dance. She has excelled in artistic and innovative forms of cultural preservation and has been recognized by the international press. Recognized as one of the few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical dance ethnology, she travels worldwide to research, lecture, perform, educate, and inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. Read more…

Yalda Performance and Book Signing
2025-12-19 | Astralab, 678 La Fayette Park Place, Los Angeles, 90057, United States
Save the date! More details coming soon!
Join us for Yalda, the Persian celebration of light for the Winter Solstice. This ancient tradition brings together a vibrant tapestry of cultures, from Iran to Afghanistan, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Armenia, and beyond. This gathering honors the traditions of the Persian diaspora with poetry readings of Rumi and Hafiz, storytelling, music, and a performance by the renowned Dr. Farima Berenji. Come together to celebrate the changing seasons and the return of light after the longest day of the year.
Stay for a book signing of Companions of the Sun by author Dr. Farima Berenji, who will also be at hand to answer questions about her research and book.

Companions of the Sun Author Talk
2026-01-11 13:00 - 14:30 | Capitola Branch Library, 2005 Wharf Rd, Capitola, CA, 95010, United States
Companions of the Sun
A Lecture by Scholar Dr. Farima Berenji
Rooted in one of the world’s oldest civilizations, the traditions of Iranian/Persian sacred dance and music embody the profound wisdom of our ancestors. Observing nature, the stars, and the rhythms of life, they crafted movements expressing love, strength, and spiritual transcendence. These rituals continue to inspire cultures worldwide, preserving a legacy of mysticism and artistic expression.
Author Dr. Farima Berenji presents her research upon the evolutionary origins and practice of Iranian rituals, beliefs, and dances, exploring how Iranian culture permeated global music and dance traditions, developing distinctly from its sister nations. All this is explored in her book Companions of the Sun
Register Now!
Dr. Farima Berenji
Farima Berenji Dr. Farima Berenji has an MA in Anthropology/Archaeology, MA in Iranian dance ethnology both from Cal State Hayward, and an M.Msc. and a PhD from the University of Sedona in Iranian metaphysics and mysticism, specializing in Iranian mystic traditions, Sufism, and women’s mystic rituals. She is an award winning, internationally acclaimed performing artist, choreographer and has been recognized as one of the few world scholars of ancient and mystical Iranian dance ethnology. She is honored to be the first Iranian woman to direct a Persian dance company to perform during receptions for President Obama and President Biden, the EU, and the UN. Farima is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective, Assistant Director and Program Director of Eastern Arts, founder of Dance of the SoulTM, advisory council member of Mosaic America, a member of the International Dance Council (CID-UNESCO), National Folk Organization member, and the first Iranian-American woman TEDx lecturer and performer in the field of dance. She has excelled in artistic and innovative forms of cultural preservation and has been recognized by the international press. Recognized as one of the few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical dance ethnology, she travels worldwide to research, lecture, perform, educate, and inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. Read more…

Companions of the Sun Author Talk
2026-02-21 14:00 - 16:00 | Rockridge Library, Oakland, 5366 College Avenue, Oakland, 94618, United States

Companions of the Sun Author Talk
2026-02-28 14:00 - 16:00 | Dimond Library, Oakland, 3565 Fruitvale Avenue, Oakland, CA, 94602, United States

Companions of the Sun Author Talk
2026-03-14 13:00 - 14:30 | Scotts Valley Branch Library, 251 Kings Village Rd, Scotts Valley, CA, 95066, United States
Companions of the Sun
A Lecture by Scholar Dr. Farima Berenji
Rooted in one of the world’s oldest civilizations, the traditions of Iranian/Persian sacred dance and music embody the profound wisdom of our ancestors. Observing nature, the stars, and the rhythms of life, they crafted movements expressing love, strength, and spiritual transcendence. These rituals continue to inspire cultures worldwide, preserving a legacy of mysticism and artistic expression.
Author Dr. Farima Berenji presents her research upon the evolutionary origins and practice of Iranian rituals, beliefs, and dances, exploring how Iranian culture permeated global music and dance traditions, developing distinctly from its sister nations. All this is explored in her book Companions of the Sun
Register
Dr. Farima Berenji
Farima Berenji Dr. Farima Berenji has an MA in Anthropology/Archaeology, MA in Iranian dance ethnology both from Cal State Hayward, and an M.Msc. and a PhD from the University of Sedona in Iranian metaphysics and mysticism, specializing in Iranian mystic traditions, Sufism, and women’s mystic rituals. She is an award winning, internationally acclaimed performing artist, choreographer and has been recognized as one of the few world scholars of ancient and mystical Iranian dance ethnology. She is honored to be the first Iranian woman to direct a Persian dance company to perform during receptions for President Obama and President Biden, the EU, and the UN. Farima is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective, Assistant Director and Program Director of Eastern Arts, founder of Dance of the SoulTM, advisory council member of Mosaic America, a member of the International Dance Council (CID-UNESCO), National Folk Organization member, and the first Iranian-American woman TEDx lecturer and performer in the field of dance. She has excelled in artistic and innovative forms of cultural preservation and has been recognized by the international press. Recognized as one of the few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical dance ethnology, she travels worldwide to research, lecture, perform, educate, and inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. Read more…

Norouz Celebration
2026-03-23 19:00 - 20:00 | Los Altos Library, 13 S. San Antonio Road, Los Altos, 94022, United States
Farima Berenji and the Simorgh Dance Collective will take part in showcasing the Norouz (Persian New Year) celebration at the beautiful Los Altos Library!
Join us for a lively and educational celebration of Persian New Year, or Nowruz. Enjoy traditional spring dances, including circle dances, and learn about the cultural significance behind these movements and their connection to renewal and community.
The program also explores the symbolism of Nowruz traditions, including the meaning of the holiday and the traditional seven‑symbol spread. This is a welcoming opportunity to learn, connect, and experience one of the world’s oldest celebrations of spring.
This program is part of Santa Clara County Library District’s celebration of Silicon Valley Reads.

Local Author Book Festival
2026-04-18 13:00 - 16:00 | Benicia Public Library, 150 East L Street, Benicia, CA, 94510, United States
Local authors and poets from Benicia, Solano County, and the Bay Area will be at the Benicia Public Library for an afternoon book festival from 1-4 PM on April 18, 2026 for the second annual Local Book Festival. In addition to promoting their works, authors will also be doing book signings and Q&As.
Dr. Farima Berenji will read a short section of her book Companions of the Sun and answer questions from the audience and panel. Farima will be available for signing her book and her book is available for sale.

Dr. Farima Berenji Presents: Companions of the Sun
2026-05-15 17:30 - 18:30 | Lajevard Diner Cafe, 181 E Tasman Dr #50, San Jose, CA, 95134, United States
Step into an Evening of Story, History, and Mysticism
Dr. Farima Berenji presents Companions of the Sun unveiling the hidden language of ancient Iranic rituals and spiritual lineage. Followed by a book signing with copies of the book available for purchase.

Companions of the Sun Author Talk
2026-05-22 | Salt Lake City, Salt Lake City, United States
More details coming including venue and time of day…

Companions of the Sun
A Lecture by Scholar Dr. Farima Berenji
Rooted in one of the world’s oldest civilizations, the traditions of Iranian/Persian sacred dance and music embody the profound wisdom of our ancestors. Observing nature, the stars, and the rhythms of life, they crafted movements expressing love, strength, and spiritual transcendence. These rituals continue to inspire cultures worldwide, preserving a legacy of mysticism and artistic expression.
Author Dr. Farima Berenji presents her research upon the evolutionary origins and practice of Iranian rituals, beliefs, and dances, exploring how Iranian culture permeated global music and dance traditions, developing distinctly from its sister nations. All this is explored in her book Companions of the Sun
Contact us if you are interested in attending as we will have more details later for time and location…
Farima Berenji Dr. Farima Berenji has an MA in Anthropology/Archaeology, MA in Iranian dance ethnology both from Cal State Hayward, and an M.Msc. and a PhD from the University of Sedona in Iranian metaphysics and mysticism, specializing in Iranian mystic traditions, Sufism, and women’s mystic rituals. She is an award winning, internationally acclaimed performing artist, choreographer and has been recognized as one of the few world scholars of ancient and mystical Iranian dance ethnology. She is honored to be the first Iranian woman to direct a Persian dance company to perform during receptions for President Obama and President Biden, the EU, and the UN. Farima is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective, Assistant Director and Program Director of Eastern Arts, founder of Dance of the SoulTM, advisory council member of Mosaic America, a member of the International Dance Council (CID-UNESCO), National Folk Organization member, and the first Iranian-American woman TEDx lecturer and performer in the field of dance. She has excelled in artistic and innovative forms of cultural preservation and has been recognized by the international press. Recognized as one of the few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical dance ethnology, she travels worldwide to research, lecture, perform, educate, and inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. Read more…

Witches and Demons of Ancient Iran
2026-05-31 10:30 - 11:30 | Online
In ancient Iran, much of Iranian mythology is based on the idea of a good or positive force battling an evil force for control of humankind. This universal struggle between the forces of good and evil was the central vision of Iranian religion. In this lecture by Farima Berenji

Learn how ancient Persian gods were related to their demons
Listen to tales of witches that possessed mortals.
Learn some of the names of the arch demons in Iranian mythology, their powers, and vices.
Learn some of the names of the witches and sorcerers in ancient Iran and their powers.

Join an hour of folk tales and stories of ancient Iranian mythology and occult with scholar Farima Berenji.
Register
Farima Berenji Dr. Farima Berenji has an MA in Anthropology/Archaeology, MA in Iranian dance ethnology both from Cal State Hayward, and an M.Msc. and a PhD from the University of Sedona in Iranian metaphysics and mysticism, specializing in Iranian mystic traditions, Sufism, and women’s mystic rituals. She is an award winning, internationally acclaimed performing artist, choreographer and has been recognized as one of the few world scholars of ancient and mystical Iranian dance ethnology. She is honored to be the first Iranian woman to direct a Persian dance company to perform during receptions for President Obama and President Biden, the EU, and the UN. Farima is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective, Assistant Director and Program Director of Eastern Arts, founder of Dance of the SoulTM, advisory council member of Mosaic America, a member of the International Dance Council (CID-UNESCO), National Folk Organization member, and the first Iranian-American woman TEDx lecturer and performer in the field of dance. She has excelled in artistic and innovative forms of cultural preservation and has been recognized by the international press. Recognized as one of the few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical dance ethnology, she travels worldwide to research, lecture, perform, educate, and inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. Read more…

Companions of the Sun Author Talk
2026-06-13 13:00 - 14:00 | Benicia Public Library, 150 East L Street, Benicia, CA, 94510, United States
Join us as Dr. Farima Bereni presents her new book, Companions of the Sun, followed by audience participation as she leads a Persian dance. Copies of her book will be available for purchase and signing.

Companions of the Sun: A Lecture by Scholar Dr. Farima Berenji
Rooted in one of the world’s oldest civilizations, the traditions of Iranian/Persian sacred dance and music embody the profound wisdom of our ancestors. Observing nature, the stars, and the rhythms of life, they crafted movements expressing love, strength, and spiritual transcendence. These rituals continue to inspire cultures worldwide, preserving a legacy of mysticism and artistic expression.
Author Dr. Farima Berenji presents her research upon the evolutionary origins and practice of Iranian rituals, beliefs, and dances, exploring how Iranian culture permeated global music and dance traditions, developing distinctly from its sister nations. All this is explored in her book Companions of the Sun
Farima Berenji Dr. Farima Berenji has an MA in Anthropology/Archaeology, MA in Iranian dance ethnology both from Cal State Hayward, and an M.Msc. and a PhD from the University of Sedona in Iranian metaphysics and mysticism, specializing in Iranian mystic traditions, Sufism, and women’s mystic rituals. She is an award winning, internationally acclaimed performing artist, choreographer and has been recognized as one of the few world scholars of ancient and mystical Iranian dance ethnology. She is honored to be the first Iranian woman to direct a Persian dance company to perform during receptions for President Obama and President Biden, the EU, and the UN. Farima is the founder and artistic director of the Simorgh Dance Collective, Assistant Director and Program Director of Eastern Arts, founder of Dance of the SoulTM, advisory council member of Mosaic America, a member of the International Dance Council (CID-UNESCO), National Folk Organization member, and the first Iranian-American woman TEDx lecturer and performer in the field of dance. She has excelled in artistic and innovative forms of cultural preservation and has been recognized by the international press. Recognized as one of the few world scholarly experts of ancient and mystical dance ethnology, she travels worldwide to research, lecture, perform, educate, and inspire dynamic creativity and rejuvenation through dance and movement. Read more…
