# Cultural unity and diversity  
Communal diversity is an entrenched phenomenon in Iranian society. In spite of ethno-cultural variety and overall heterogeneity, specific African traditions can be seen to have influenced Iranian culture, especially in the south. These customs, which cross social and geographical boundaries, connect individuals and communities both within Iran and in Africa. This is particularly apparent in various cultural elements with African origins and Iranian influences, from rhythmic music and song to healing rituals. They may differ from the original in name, symbol, performance and representation, but share common principles and concepts. For instance, the bandari music and songs characteristic of the southern coastal regions include sabalu, in which people sit in a circle, play the tambourine and shake their shoulders (Sistani 1369 SH, p. 499). In addition, the sangali song was traditionally sung by sailors while rowing or loading goods (interview with Esma'il Mubarak, an Afro-Iranian, in 2000; Eqtedari 2536, p. 251). Remnants of the Swahili language and belief systems are still apparent in healing ritual songs, including Zar and Gowat (Darvishi 1376 SH, p. 175). These traditions reveal the extent to which Iranian culture, shamanistic cults, Sufism and traditional African rituals have merged over centuries of interaction and migration.