I was too young and disconnect from world (non internet) to know if Khomeni was a mass figure before he overthrew the shah. But usually revolutions work when there is an alternate leader. Not a voice not a symbol but a leader who can organize and present an alternative so that common folks can join to upturn the government.

Is there such an alternative now?

Or will this become another occupy WS?

Edit: how long was khomeni rousing rabble / mobilizing his base before he challenged shah?

Serious question. Not Persian or even neighboring Iran and all I have seen is American news.