Memories of Enayat
Enayatullah Eshraghi (Enayat) was born in Najafabad, a small village near the city of Esfahan. He had two brothers and two sisters, and was the fourth child in the family.
After completing high school he was required to undergo compulsory miltitary services. As he knew how to type he was assigned to work in an office. Following military service training he went on to assist his older brother who worked as a doctor. He helped provide medical assistance to those in the community.
“One of the saddest stories of our father happened around this time. While still in the military (in Tehran) he receives the news that his mother is sick and longs to see him. Instantly he goes to take leave. At first it is denied but after much begging he is allowed a few days leave. Immediately he finds a bus towards Esfahan. On the way the bus broke down near Qom. After much difficulties he finds a truck, driving all night takes him to Esfahan. Early in the morning he goes to his sister’s house in Esfahan and takes a bush bike to Najafabad. Few hours later as he reaches their house he sees everyone returning from the Baha’i cemetery just buried his mother. Heartbroken his cries could be heard a long distance. My heart melts even now as I think of him.” - Words by Vahid
In his twenties he was employed by the National Oil Company and was transfered to the port city of Bushehr. During this time he and Ezzat were married and started their life in Busherhr as newlyweds. Due to the lack of facilities in Bushehr, Ezzat would travel back to Esfahan for the births of their children Saeid, Nahid and Vahid. With small children he requested a transfer and they moved to Kazeroon. They remained there until a transfer to Shiraz where Roya and Rozita were born.
“Baba (Father) was a peaceful, peace loving man. Their home was always welcoming to visitors, friends, relatives and anyone else who happen to come to our home. Baba and Mamman (Mother) went out of their way to ensure comfort of their visitors and to show hospitality to them. We sometimes had guests who would stay for a few months. But I never sensed the slightest feeling of hesitation in my parents towards such guests. They remained kind, hospitable, and understanding. In some cases, providing hours of guidance, trying to assist in various ways to sort out the problems the guests may have had.”
”This kindness was shared with not only friends but even with foes. I remember once someone came to our home to buy a fridge when my parents were moving from Shiraz to Torbat Heydarieh. This man started to insult Baba right in our home, talking unkindly about him being a Baha’i. I remember being so angry and annoyed with the man, but Baba so patiently and calmly talked to him that I was amazed. Of course no transaction happened, and that was all right.” - Words by Nahid
Enayat was known for his quick wit and sense of humour - he loved saying jokes and hearing them. He also loved children. He made a swing in the yard for them to play and he would play with them.
“I remember him making a mouse out of a napkin to entertain the children, and pretend that the mouse jumps out of his palm.” - Words by Rozita
“One of his games with toddlers was that he would fill up one side of his mouth with air and the child would slap that side of his face, and then he would make a funny noise and loved it when the child would burst into laughter.” - Words by Nahid
Enayat was retired shortly after the Revolution (1979) and the family (Ezzat, Roya and Rozita) moved back to Shiraz. They would remain here until their execution in 1983.
“My father, despite being a serious man, was socially pleasant and witty. He was also very honest and trustworthy, and that is why many wanted to consult with him. He was very punctual and at times hasty, even on the eve of their arrest, he told our mom to “hurry, they are waiting.” - Words by Rozita
