Two Iranian sisters have posted a Persian version of the famous Italian resistance song “Bella Ciao” to protest the killing of Mahsa Amini.
Samin and Behin Bolouri posted the video of the song on Instagram, which became viral across the world.
“Bella Ciao” is believed to have originated among Italian female rice field workers protesting against harsh conditions. It was later allegedly modified by the Italian resistance movement for partisans who opposed the German Nazis and Italian fascists.
Samin and Behin Bolouri recorded their version ahead of the September 2022 protests. When sharing the cover version, the caption next to their video read: “We will not be awake until tomorrow.”
The post was shared widely by supporters of anti-government demonstrations in Iran on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok.
“In the end, the chain, the worldwide oppression, breaks with our hands,” read lyrics from the sister’s version according to journalist Omid Memarian.
Massive protests have rocked Iran after the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in police custody. She was arrested in Tehran earlier this month for allegedly wearing a hijab incorrectly.
Amini was taken to the hospital just hours after her arrest and died days later. Eyewitnesses said she was beaten by the so-called morality police in a van and at a police station.
For many Iranians – who reject the state’s line that she died of a heart attack – Amini has become a symbol of female oppression. Her death prompted many to take to the streets to demand greater freedom and equality for all.
