Shahbanou Farah: I don't like the term "wandering spirit." Yes, in the past when my husband was alive, for a time we did [go through a difficult time].
As an exile, I prefer to travel. Being an exile and living in one country would be more difficult to tolerate. The only place I would want to live permanently is Iran.
Nevertheless I must say that I like Europe, especially France because I feel that I have closer cultural ties to her. Also, the love extended to me here brings me joy. In Paris I feel the love and compassion of passersby in the streets and alleys. There is a certain kindness and friendliness in their smiles, as well as sympathy and encouragement.
Reporter: Let's assume that your return to Iran is only a fantasy. Tell me, Madame, what is your greatest wish?
Shahbanou Farah: Returning to Iran is not a fantasy. I am certain that the day will come. But my greatest wish is for Iran to become a free, liberal and progressive country. Iran deserves to regain its place among the free nations of the world.
Reporter: It seems you are taking part in cultural and international affairs more frequently. Does this mean you want to put aside conservatism to some degree?
Shahbanou Farah: The ceremonial aspects of these events do not interest me much. I have always shown interest in art. I love music, ballet, the theater and painting. My soul needs the artistic aspects of life. These things allow me to overlook daily problems, insults, quibbles and closed-minded attitudes.
Artistic events allow me to get closer to the artists whom I have always praised. They are very kind to me and I have a lot of respect for them.
Reporter: When you take part in these cultural events do you feel you are representing your people?
Shahbanou Farah: With my presence, in fact, I wish to remind others of the true Iran. I want to be a symbol of our proud history, traditions, culture and artistic values -- things which have been destroyed by the current ruling regime.
Reporter: Every once in a while there are rumors about the royal family's wealth. Some estimate it at 80 billion francs ($16 billion), a part of which was lost in an imprudent investment. What is your response to these rumors?
Shahbanou Farah: Unfortunately, no matter what I say, these rumors will continue. Nevertheless, I must deny all these rumors about our wealth as well as what you said about losing some of it [in a failed investment].
These rumors are political propaganda spread by the current Iranian regime. I am very disappointed that some become mouthpieces for such rumors.
Everyone is born equally capable but lacks equal opportunity. Pierre Omidyar
