The Accidental Haji: A Travelogue

In The Accidental Haji, Morteza Negahi takes readers on a captivating journey through the tumultuous landscape of 1980s Iran and Saudi Arabia. As a student in Paris, Negahi's return to his homeland coincides with the outbreak of the fran-Iraq war, trapping him within the borders of a nation in conflict, Cut off from his intended path, an unexpected opportunity arises: a pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia. With aspirations of finding a route to Europe, Negahi's plans are hindered by the stark realization that his passport only permits entry to the kingdom. Facing the stern Saudi policy against asylum seekers, he immerses himself in the culture and history of the land, delving into works by explorers like Sir Richard Burton and travelers like Naser Khosro, The Accidental Haji is a riveting narrative of resilience, adaptation, and discovery amidst the backdrop of geopolitical upheaval.