Cheetah and Zagbor Dolls Become Tourism Ambassadors of the World Village of Qaleh Bala
The Head of the Department of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts of Shahroud County announced the creativity of the artistic women of Qaleh Bala village in creating symbolic wildlife dolls, considering this action an intelligent integration of local handicrafts and environmental responsibility.
According to an IRNA reporter, Seyyed Mohammad Sadegh Razavian announced this news today, Sunday, June 7, 2026: The women of the Qaleh Bala tourist village, alongside engaging in traditional activities such as agriculture and handicrafts, have, with a creative and compassionate approach to the region's natural heritage, undertaken the creation of dolls inspired by the prominent wildlife species of Turan, particularly the Zagbor and the Asiatic Cheetah.
The Head of the Department of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts of Shahroud County added: These artists, utilizing artistic techniques such as crochet and the combination of felt fabrics, have created very delicate and lasting works that, beyond being mere toys, are in fact considered "cultural ambassadors" of this world village.
He stated: These dolls are an accurate and artistic representation of the region's ecosystem, depicting the deep commitment of the people of Qaleh Bala to the conservation of biodiversity.
Razavian emphasized: The significant استقبال of tourists towards these creative handicrafts indicates the high potential of target tourism villages in creating a link between the local economy and environmental protection.
The Head of the Department of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts of Shahroud County further stated: These products are now transferred as unique souvenirs, carrying the name and symbol of Turan's rare wildlife to different parts of the country.
He stressed that sustainable development in Qaleh Bala is built upon the direct participation of the people, adding that the transformation of the Zagbor and Cheetah into artistic and tourism brands of this village is a successful model of women's empowerment, where art is intertwined with cultural development.
Razavian said: These dolls are not only souvenirs for travelers but also a message from the heart of the desert for the protection of Iran's natural assets, brought to life by the capable hands of the women of Qaleh Bala.
The Head of the Department of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts of Shahroud County concluded by noting: The Department of Cultural Heritage of Shahroud County, by supporting such indigenous initiatives, seeks to solidify Qaleh Bala's position as a pioneer of nature-based and sustainable tourism in the country.