A musical journey through Iranian musician Behdad Babaei’s life, blending cultural memory, personal struggle, and creative clarity. Featuring Navid Afghah and Vahid Taremi, this emotional performance explores inner turmoil and resilience at the EFG London Jazz Festival 2025.

The Insanity Route offers a powerful musical journey through the life and mind of renowned Iranian musician Behdad Babaei, accompanied by Navid Afghah and Vahid Taremi. This story of unraveling and revelation reveals an artist shaped by cultural memory, personal struggle, and an enduring search for meaning. Through music, Babaei traces a path from inner turmoil to creative clarity, from collective pain to silent longing, weaving a deeply emotional narrative that resonates far beyond borders.

Behdad Babaei is a highly respected master of Persian classical music, renowned for his deep expertise in the radif repertoire and his innovative approach to traditional setar playing. Trained by some of the most distinguished masters, he has collaborated with Iran’s leading vocalists and ensembles, contributing significantly to the preservation and evolution of Persian musical heritage. As an accomplished performer, composer, and scholar, Babaei bridges tradition and contemporary expression, making him a vital figure in both the Iranian and international music scenes.

Navid Afghah is a renowned Iranian composer and multi-instrumentalist, trained under prominent masters and skilled in traditional and contemporary Persian music. He has performed at major international festivals, collaborated with leading Iranian musicians, and released acclaimed albums recognized worldwide. Navid is also an experienced educator and film composer, dedicated to preserving and advancing Iranian musical heritage.