Hadi Heidari (born 1977 in Tehran) is an Iranian journalist, painter, and cartoonist. With a degree in painting, he began his career in journalism at the age of 17, working for the renowned satirical magazine, Gol Agha.
Throughout his career, Heidari has been a prominent figure in Iranian media, serving as an art director and cartoon editor for major newspapers like Shargh, Etemad Melli, and Vaghayeh Etefaghiyeh. He has also been a prolific artist, publishing several books of his cartoons.
In 2013, he was awarded the "Omid" Journalism Prize. His work is well-known for its social and political commentary. His most famous cartoon, titled "Chashmbandan" (Blindfolded), which depicted people blindfolding each other, caused a significant stir, leading to the temporary suspension of the Shargh newspaper. Despite this, a court acquitted both the newspaper and Heidari of the charges.
His career and personal life have been shaped by his artistic and critical work, and he has faced imprisonment for his art. Through it all, he has remained a dedicated artist and commentator on the complexities of society.
