Hunting had long been a royal pastime, blending the thrill of sport with the grandeur of ceremony. The Shah frequently organized hunting expeditions across vast and varied landscapes—from the deserts of Dasht-e Kavir to the forests of Mazandaran. These hunts were carefully managed, often combining conservation with recreation. Beyond their recreational appeal, royal hunts served diplomatic purposes, offering visiting heads of state an opportunity to experience natural beauty and hospitality. The Shah viewed hunting as both a personal pleasure and a reflection of royal dignity.
While sports occupied much of his leisure time, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi was also an avid reader and collector of books. He was particularly interested in history, political philosophy, and biographies of world leaders. Fluent in several languages, he enjoyed reading works in Persian, French, and English. The Shah’s appreciation for culture extended to the arts, architecture, and archaeology. He supported numerous cultural institutions and took pride in ancient heritage. His sponsorship of the 2,500th anniversary celebration of the Persian Empire in 1971 was a testament to his fascination with imperial past and its connection to his own reign.
