Tehran – The Melegan Festival is the second largest celebration in ancient Iran, after the Knowles.
Pointing to the arrival of the month of Maa in Iran, he said that the Melegan festival is a symbol of kindness, friendship and gratitude, and is associated with autumn equinox and harvest season.
The ritual was co-cultured in 2024 on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage by Iran and Tajikistan, he said.
In addition to highlighting cultural values, the Mehregan Festival’s global registration highlights the need for its popular revival, and plans must be made for its preservation and promotion, he said.
According to Darabi, the Department of Cultural Heritage will work with other agencies and non-governmental organizations to host this year’s Mehregan Festival.
The revival of Iranian national and traditional rituals, introduction to the younger generations, creation of a happy and vibrant social atmosphere for families and young people, strengthening national and religious solidarity, preserving intangible heritage and linking with today’s life, and the development of cultural tourism are one of the goals that Dharabi has listed for hosting this event.
He said: “Strengthening cultural diplomacy and international cooperation with Tajikistan is another of our alternative approaches to honour Melegan.”
Mehregan is an ancient annual festival that marks autumn equinox and expresses appreciation of the community for its abundant harvest. It is celebrated by many Iranians and Tajikistani people.
The Mehregan ceremony was named after Mehr, the Zoroastrian god of friendship, peace and solidarity. Zoroastrian faith returned to ancient times, and festivals are a major part of the group’s identity.
Participants will perform local wrestling and rope walking, and will distribute food and drinks. In Tajikistan, this element is celebrated during or after harvesting and contains many of these same customs.
Furthermore, ceremonies work to socially integrate people. People of all ages, genders and backgrounds come together. The ceremony promotes mutual respect and peaceful relationships between communities.
KD