Ceremony of Mehregan
Tajikistan and Iran (Islamic Republic of)
Inscribed in 2024 (19.COM) on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
© IMCHTH / TV Safina In Tajikistan and the Islamic Republic of Iran, Mehregan is a religious celebration that is tied to the autumn harvest. Every year, from 2 October to 2 November, communities express gratitude to God for their livestock and crops. The rituals performed during the ceremony and the products featured vary according to the region and to the beliefs of the practitioners. For instance, Zoroastrian communities celebrate by reciting parts of their holy book, whereas Muslims recite special prayers. Both communities share the ritual of setting a table of goods, such as pomegranates, watermelons, pears, limes and lemons, grapes, apples, rice and wheat. They prepare various dishes and serve nuts, sweets and special drinks. They also play music, sing and dance. Observed by people regardless of gender and age, the celebrations include music, songs, dances, theatre and local sports performances (such as wrestling). During the ceremony, the communities organize flower exhibitions and sell or display related handicrafts and products. The practice is transmitted informally, through storytelling and participation in the planning and performance of the festivities. Schools and higher education institutes also contribute to its transmission. In addition to celebrating nature, Mehregan promotes social cohesion, as it unites people of different ages, genders, ethnicities, religions and backgrounds.
