Bo Utas Honored as Member of Academy of Persian Language and Literature

Tehran, Iran Jul 13, 2026 ALN: TEHRAN – The Academy of Persian Language and Literature in Iran has elected Bo Utas, a prominent Swedish Iranologist and Professor Emeritus of Iranian Languages at Uppsala University, as an honorary member in recognition of his scholarly contributions. This honor reflects not only his extensive work in the field of Iranian studies but also highlights the importance of cultural diplomacy in fostering international relations.

Hojjatollah Faghani, the Ambassador of Iran to Sweden, visited Bo Utas’s home to convey the appreciation of the Iranian scientific and literary community for his services to the Persian language and literature, and officially presented him with the certificate of honorary membership in the Academy of Persian Language and Literature, Mehr reported on Sunday. This gesture underscores the significance of recognizing foreign scholars who have dedicated their careers to the study and promotion of Persian culture, thereby strengthening the ties between Iran and Sweden.

During the meeting, which was also attended by Mojtaba Norouzi, the Cultural Attaché of Iran in Sweden, Bo Utas described his honorary membership in the Academy and the Dr. Mahmoud Afshar Literary-Historical Award as a sign of Iranian gratitude toward his efforts and those of all who cherish Iranian culture. The Dr. Mahmoud Afshar Literary-Historical Award is a notable recognition given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the understanding and appreciation of Persian literature and history, further emphasizing the cultural value placed on scholarship in this area.

Referring to the positive relations between Iran and Sweden, he stated, “We must not allow certain transient issues to affect the brilliant history of cultural and scientific relations between the two countries.” His comments reflect a broader sentiment among scholars and diplomats that cultural exchanges can serve as a bridge during times of political tension. The historical ties between Iran and Sweden date back several centuries, characterized by mutual respect and intellectual curiosity, which have fostered a rich exchange of ideas and scholarship.

The Iranologist emphasized that focusing on culture and paying attention to the cultural community is the key to maintaining friendly bilateral relations between Iran and Sweden. This perspective is particularly relevant in today's global context, where cultural understanding can play a crucial role in mitigating conflicts and enhancing cooperation between nations.

Bo Utas, 88, is a scholar on Persian historical linguistics and classical Persian literature. His journey into the world of Persian literature began in secondary school, where he first encountered the elegance and depth of the language. In 1959, he started to study Persian at Uppsala University under his mentor Henrik Samuel Nyberg and defended his PhD thesis in 1973. His academic career has been marked by a dedication to exploring the intricacies of Persian language and literature, which has positioned him as a leading figure in the field.

Utas travelled extensively in Iran and Afghanistan in the 1960s and 1970s, immersing himself in the cultures and languages he studied. These experiences not only enriched his academic work but also deepened his understanding of the historical and contemporary issues facing the region. From 1988, he became the first professor in Iranian languages at Uppsala University, a chair that he held until he retired in 2003. Under his supervision, no less than eight PhD candidates defended their theses successfully, showcasing his commitment to mentoring the next generation of scholars in Iranian studies.

He is a member of several learned societies, including the Royal Danish Academy of Science and Letters, Societas Iranologica Europaea, and the Royal Society for the Humanities in Uppsala. His memberships in these esteemed organizations reflect his standing in the academic community and his contributions to the field of Iranology.

Bo Utas knows several languages, including Avestan, Old Persian, Middle Persian, Sanskrit, Chinese, Russian, Greek, Latin, Turkish, Hebrew, and Arabic. This linguistic proficiency not only enhances his research capabilities but also allows him to engage with a wide array of texts and cultural artifacts, further enriching his scholarly output.

A full list of his publications shows his broad and diverse scholarship on Middle Persian and New Persian language and literature, manuscript tradition and text edition, culture and religion in Greater Iran. His work has contributed significantly to the understanding of Persian literary heritage and has provided valuable insights into the evolution of the Persian language over the centuries.

He has translated several Persian classical and modern literary works into Swedish, including “Blind Owl” by Sadeq Hedayat. This particular translation is noteworthy as “Blind Owl” is considered one of the most important works of modern Persian literature, reflecting the complexities of Iranian society and the human condition. By bringing such works to a Swedish audience, Utas has played a crucial role in promoting Persian literature and fostering cross-cultural appreciation.

The recognition of Bo Utas as an honorary member of the Academy of Persian Language and Literature not only celebrates his individual achievements but also highlights the broader significance of cultural scholarship in international relations. As countries navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, the contributions of scholars like Utas serve as a reminder of the power of culture to transcend borders and foster understanding among diverse peoples.

In conclusion, Bo Utas’s election as an honorary member of the Academy of Persian Language and Literature is a testament to his lifelong dedication to the study of Persian language and literature. His efforts have not only enriched the academic community but have also strengthened the cultural ties between Iran and Sweden, demonstrating the enduring importance of scholarly engagement in promoting mutual respect and understanding across nations.

Photo: Swedish Iranologist Bo Utas (R) and the Ambassador of Iran to Sweden Hojjatollah Faghani