First UNESCO anniversary
Mehregan festival hailed as ‘civilizational achievement’: Minister
Iran’s Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Minister Reza Salehi Amiri on Saturday praised the ancient festival of Mehregan as a “civilizational achievement and strategic message” for the world, marking the first anniversary of its inscription on UNESCO’s heritage list through a joint bid by Iran and Tajikistan in December 2024.
In a message released on the occasion, Salehi Amiri said Mehregan embodies a philosophy of “friendship, justice, balance and co-existence” that resonates well beyond Iran’s borders.
What began as a seasonal thanksgiving has, over centuries, become a universal symbol of shared values. The minister argued that the festival’s recognition is both a cultural milestone and a call for nations to rebuild trust and solidarity through heritage.
Mehregan, traditionally celebrated from early October to early November, has its roots in Zoroastrian harvest rituals and remains widely observed in Iran, Tajikistan and parts of Central Asia.
UNESCO added the festival to its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity at its 19th session last year, citing its role in strengthening social cohesion across diverse communities.
Salehi Amiri said the inscription was “not merely a nod to our historical depth, but a civilizational duty,” stressing that the real task now is to safeguard, revitalize and transmit Mehregan’s ethical legacy.
He described it as a “festival of harmony between humanity and nature,” linking its teachings to modern challenges such as environmental degradation, inequality and global mistrust.
Drawing attention to the coincidence of the Persian month of Mehr with the start of Iran’s school year, he urged young Iranians to embrace their role as “cultural ambassadors,” building a future where “knowledge, ethics, faith and mutual trust” serve as the foundation for peace and human development.
“The world today, more than ever, needs to return to cultural wisdom,” he said, underscoring Mehregan’s place as part of humanity’s common heritage.
The minister called on nations to turn to such traditions as guides for justice, dignity and solidarity in an era of mounting crises.
Tehran will host a symposium later this month to review the UNESCO listing and expand cultural outreach around Mehregan, bringing together scholars and heritage officials from the region.