Golazin Ardestani, an Iranian artist residing in the UK, performs under the name Gola. She captivated audiences at the recent 42nd Haifa International Film Festival with her poignant rendition of “New Day Will Rise.” This song is particularly meaningful as it pays tribute to the victims of the tragic Nova Music Festival massacre on October 7, 2023. Gola shared the stage with Yuval Raphael, a survivor of that harrowing event, who originally presented the song at the Eurovision competition in 2025.
### A Performance with a Powerful Message
During her performance, Gola expressed the symbolic significance of the evening, stating, “Yuval’s story resonates with so many in Israel, and I find great meaning in this song, which conveys a message of hope.” The collaboration featured a multilingual presentation, showcasing their song in English, French, Hebrew, and Farsi. Gola emphasized that their performance highlighted the universality of humanity, suggesting that despite different backgrounds and religions, the need for unity and love is paramount.
### Bridging Cultures Through Art
In addition to her singing career, Gola is also an actress and was previously featured at last year’s festival in Mortician. This year, she returned to not only perform but also to contribute to the festival’s selection committee. When complimented on the emotional depth of her performance, Gola reflected that the stage serves as a true reflection of one’s self. For her, the constraints imposed on female singers in Iran loom large, making her work all the more significant.
On stage, Gola believes in the urgency of her messages. She remarked, “Speaking from the heart will resonate with others. My experiences both in Iran and the West shape the narratives I share. I aim to spread hope and empower those who feel voiceless.” This ambition also drives her upcoming one-woman show, “I’m Not Political,” which seeks to connect intimately with the audience while advocating for equality and empowerment.
### Challenges and Aspirations
Having spent the last decade in London and traveling extensively, Gola is acutely aware of the struggles faced by her family and fellow Iranians. Her decision to relocate stemmed from a desire to express herself freely, a right denied to many women in Iran. Reflecting on her past, she noted, “I grew up in an environment where I constantly navigated restrictions. There was a dichotomy between my public and private self, especially when I had to adhere to rules I questioned.” Despite the challenges, Gola’s love for music—both traditional Iranian and Western—sparked her journey toward artistic freedom.
Gola’s ambition led her to establish her own music label, Zan Recordings, aiming to support other aspiring female artists who find themselves lost in unfamiliar territories. The label, named “Zan,” meaning “woman” in Farsi, strives to create a space for women from diverse backgrounds to express themselves through music. Despite the personal risks, Gola continues to sing openly in London, fully aware of the potential danger this poses to her life in Iran.
### Impact of Protest and Personal Sacrifice
Gola’s journey is interwoven with the broader narrative of Iranian resistance against oppression. She admires the bravery of individuals who protest against the regime, fully understanding the weight of their sacrifices. “It’s heartbreaking to witness the indifference in the West,” she said, highlighting the need for awareness and engagement regarding the struggles of Iranians. Gola’s own expression through art is not merely a form of entertainment; it’s a powerful statement in support of freedom and human rights.
Ultimately, Gola sees her artistic endeavors not only as a personal journey but also as a collective struggle towards liberation. She ardently wishes for a time when restrictions will no longer dictate the lives of women and artists, dreaming of a future when people can travel freely between Iran and Israel. Through her music and narratives, Gola aims to push boundaries and inspire change, connecting deeply with those who share similar struggles worldwide.