The renowned Russian-Kurdish musician Zarifa Pashaevna Mgoyan, better known as Zara, has released a new Kurdish-language song titled “Heval.”

Zara explained that the song’s lyrics were written by artists Yasmin Levy and Tara Mamedova.

Two years ago, Zara released her first album, titled “Kalama Dile Min” (“Words of My Heart”). It featured the following tracks: Keca Kurdim, Emane, Daye, Ez Kevokim, Ez Berfim, Welate Min (feat. Sivan Perwer), Le Le Rihe, Gire Sira (feat. Tara Mamedova), Keyne, and Newroz.

Zara sings in more than ten languages and has fans all around the world.

She is the only Kurdish artist in history to have received a medal and the honorary title of “Honored Artist of the Russian Federation” from Russia’s President Vladimir Putin. 

She received the award in a special ceremony held at the Kremlin in recognition of her extensive artistic contributions. Furthermore, she was awarded the prestigious Order of Friendship Medal by President Putin last year.

Although Zara rose to fame primarily through her Russian music, she has never forgotten her Kurdish roots. 

Read More: Zara: The Melodious Voice Echoing the Heart of Kurdistan

Proudly proclaiming her Kurdish identity on stage and at international concerts, Zara’s passion for her heritage shines through in her songs. Her dedication to charitable and humanitarian work led to her recognition as an Ambassador of Peace by UNESCO in 2016. 

“Wherever we are, we must remember our country,” Zara told Kurdistan Chronicle in a previous interview. “I have wanted to record an album in Kurdish for a long time. Singing in my mother tongue has always been my dream since I began singing at the age of 12. It is essential to sing from the heart and soul, not solely because we are Kurds. When I sang in Kurdish five years ago, I received praise from all over the world.”