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Yalda Night, timeless celebration of ‘togetherness’, reflection of cultural heritage: Minister
In his message, he shared, “Yalda Night, this mysterious and delightful evening, holds a special place in our history.” He emphasized that for many older generations, Yalda is not merely a calendar event, but a representation of human values and cultural heritage that has taken root in the history of the land, IRNA reported.
Salehi reflected on the significance of family gatherings during Yalda, stating, “On this night, we remember how being together can be uplifting and remarkable.”
He noted that Yalda has the power to “wipe away the dust of old grievances” and deepen bonds within the family. This tradition, he said, serves as a reminder that “togetherness is not just a tradition but a human necessity in our current circumstances.”
The celebration of Yalda Night was further was held during a gathering hosted by the Iranian Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan. This event saw the participation of diplomats from various countries in the cultural sphere, including Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkey, and Iraq.
Iran’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghadam, welcomed the attendees, stating, “The ancient tradition of Yalda, celebrated on the longest night of the year, dates back over 7,000 years and is one of the most valuable traditional teachings of ancient Iranians.”
The envoy highlighted the values celebrated during Yalda, which include cultural identity, respect for nature, and the honor bestowed upon the elderly, women, and children within families.
He asserted that Yalda represents a shared cultural heritage among the nations, proudly announcing, “In 2022, this cultural event was inscribed in UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage.”
The event also featured remarks from ambassadors of Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, who expressed gratitude for the hospitality of the Iranian Embassy and shared insights into the common traditions associated with Yalda in their own countries. They emphasized the gathering as a proof for their mutual heritage, stating, “The celebration of Yalda signifies our shared commitment to the victory of goodness over evil and the celebration of light.”
In addition to the speeches, cultural representatives from Iran, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan organized an exhibition showcasing handicrafts, local delicacies, and Yalda-themed tables, introducing the rich traditions of their nations.
The celebration of Yalda Night not only reinforces the cultural ties between Iran, Pakistan, and Central Asia but also reminds communities of the beauty of shared traditions, as Pakistan itself embraces a similar celebration known as “Meh-Fang,” marking the arrival of winter.