In 1972, after eight years in Lahore,[31] during which she established several cultural centers and libraries,[26] Behnam returned to Iran, moving to Teheran.[32] She was first placed in a department developing audio-visual educational technology, but within three years, was made director general of Arts and Culture for the Sistan and Baluchestan Province.[33] She established a training school in Zahedan to preserve the art work of the area and improve the perception of artisans and their crafts.[34] In 1977, after two years in Zahedan, Behnam moved back to Bandar Abbas,[35] and was asked to run for a Parliamentary seat by the Ministry.