Events Archives - Irandoostan

When Is Ramadan 2025? (Dates, Calendar, Eid)

February 3, 2025/0 Comments/in Events, Travel Blog/by nelia shidfar

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims around the globe. This religious month is observed as a time of fasting, prayer, and reflection. Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar and begins when the crescent (new moon) of Ramadan is sighted. Fasting in this month is regarded as one of the five pillars of Islam. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset. This means abstaining from eating and drinking during these hours. The fast is broken each day with a meal called iftar during Ramadan, and before dawn, Muslims eat a pre-fast meal known as Sehri or Sahari.

Ramadan is also a time for increased prayer and recitation of the Quran. The last ten nights of Ramadan are considered particularly special, with the 27th night being known as Laylat al-Qadr, or the Nights of Power, which is believed to be when the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.

The end of Ramadan is marked by the festival of Eid al-Fitr, a joyous celebration that includes special prayers, feasting, and giving of gifts and charity.

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Why Is Ramadan a Special Month for Muslims?

Ramadan or Ramadan al-Mubarak is the ninth lunar month in which fasting is obligatory for Muslims. In the Islamic hadiths, many virtues have been mentioned for the month of Ramadan, and this month has been called the month of God’s hospitality, the month of mercy, forgiveness, and blessing, and the revelation of the Islamic Holy book of the Qur’an.

Ramadan in 2025

According to hadiths, the gates of heaven are opened, and the doors of hell are closed in this month. Meanwhile, in Ramadan, some people rent suites in different cities so that they can pray in their religious places.

Night of Power

The nights of Qadr (Laylat al-Qadr), in which the Qur’an was revealed to Muslims, occurred in this holy month. These nights are precious to believers of Islam, for they believe Laylat al-Qadr is superior to a thousand months and must be treasured. Ramadan is the only month mentioned in the Quran.

This month has a special place and respect for Muslims, and Muslims pay special attention to worship at this time of the year. Various acts and prayers for this month have been mentioned in several religious scriptures.

Some of the most important actions of this month are reciting the Qur’an, reviving the Night of Power (Laylat al-Qadr), praying, asking for forgiveness, breaking the fast (Iftar), and helping the needy.

Martyrdom of Imam Ali

Apart from the revelation of the Qur’an on the night of Qadr, another significant religious event of Ramadan is the martyrdom of Imam Ali (AS), the first Shia Imam, on the 21st of the month. Imam Hassan Mujtaba (AS) was also born on the 15th of this month.

Customs of Ramadan

Worshiping and fasting during Ramadan are part of a Muslim’s identity. In Islamic societies, various customs and traditions, such as congregations and gatherings, cleaning of mosques and religious places, reconciliation ceremonies, stone-throwing ceremonies, and baking of sweets and foods, have been established for the month of Ramadan.

Ramadan 2025

Fajr Prayer Announcements

In some cities, announcing the time of dawn and waking people up is performed in various ways, such as the procession of muezzins and pilgrims in the streets, lighting lanterns in garlands, playing drums and trumpets, knocking on houses, and firing cannons.

Moreover, before the morning call to prayer, the dawn prayer also called the Fajr Prayer, before the Maghrib call to prayer, Rabbana prayers are broadcasted on Iranian radio and television and mosque loudspeakers.

Sehri

Sehri is a meal that fasting individuals eat before the morning call to prayer, and it is emphasized in hadiths to eat it before fasting. From the point of view of Islamic jurisprudence, eating Sehri is mustahabb (referring to an action or thing that is recommended and favored), and if not eating Sehri causes severe weakness and breaks the fast.

Therefore, it is considered obligatory. The loudspeakers of the Mosques are used to wake the individuals from sleep so they can have their Sehri meal before they fast.

Iftar Table

During the month of Ramadan, Muslims of different countries spread the Iftar table in religious places. Also, the people of Iran invite each other to their homes to break the fast and distribute offerings in religious places during the Iftar.

Ramadan 2025 Iftar

According to a narration from the Prophet (PBUH), the reward of a person who breaks the fast of a believer in the month of Ramadan, even with a sip of water or a date seed, is equal to freeing a slave.

Iran Iftar Time (Ramadan 2025 Iran)

During Ramadan in 2025, the Iftar time in Iran will vary each day as it depends on the sunset. For example, on the first day of Ramadan (March 1, 2025), Iftar is expected to be around 7:00 PM.

Ramadan 2025 Dates

The beginning of the holy month of Ramadan 2025 coincides with the 1st of Ramadan 1446 AH (Lunar Calendar). In the Gregorian calendar, the first of Ramadan starts on Friday, February 28, or Saturday, March 1, 2025, and ends on Sunday, March 30th, 2025, or Monday, March 31st, 2025. The dates of Ramadan 2025 may vary based on the moon’s sighting. The holy month lasts 29 or 30 days.

Ramadan 2025 Timetable

Date	Ramadan 2025	Sehri/Sahari	Iftar
01/03/2025 – First Day	1st Ramadan	04:31	06:45
30/03/2025 – Last Day	30th Ramadan	04:56	06:06

Ramadan 2025 Iran Calendar, Hijri Calendar

The beginning of Ramadan 2025, which coincides with the year 1403 in the Hijri calendar (Solar Calendar,) is Sunday, the 12th of Esfand (the last month of the Persian calendar).

Iran During Ramadan 2025

During Ramadan in 2025, Muslims in Iran will observe fasting from dawn (Sehri) until sunset (Iftar).

The Ramadan schedule will be:

Sehri/Sahari (Pre-dawn meal): Sehri begins around 4:00 AM after the Fajr or Subh Prayer on the first day and gradually gets later by about a minute each day.

Iran During Ramadan 2025

Iftar (Breaking of the fast): Iftar, when Iranians break their fast by eating traditional Iranian Ramadan meals, starts around 6:00 PM on the first day and gets slightly earlier by about a minute each day.

The fasting period will last for 30 days, ending on March 30, 2025.

Ramadan 2025 Eid al-Fitr Date

Eid al-Fitr, also known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” marks the end of Ramadan and is a time of celebration and joy for Muslims around the world. In 2025, Eid al-Fitr is expected to be celebrated from sundown on Sunday, March 30th, to sundown on Monday, March 31st.

The day begins with a special prayer called Eid prayer, which is performed in the congregation. After the prayer, Muslims greet each other with “Eid Mubarak” and spend the day with family and friends, enjoying feasts and giving gifts, especially to children.

Ramadan 2025 Iran Holiday

During the three nights of Ramadan (19th to 21st Ramadan) are the anniversary of the assassination and martyrdom of Imam Ali (AS). From March 20, 2025 (30 Esfand, 1403 – 19 Ramadan, 1446) to March 22, 2025 (2 Farvardin, 1404 – 21 Ramadan 1446). These three days are public holidays also coinciding with the Persian New Year, Nowruz, which starts on the 21st of March 2025 and until the 24th of March 2025 (1 – 4 Farvardin, 1404). Once every 33 years, the month of Ramadan will end in Nowruz.

The Nights of Qadr or Laylat al-Qadr (The Night of Power) are nights mentioned in the Quran, especially Surah Qadr. Most Muslims believe that the Qur’an was first revealed to Muhammad on the night of Qadr. These nights are the 18th, 20th, and 22nd of Ramadan (29th Esfand, 1403, 1st and 3rd of Farvardin, 1404) in the Gregorian Calendar, but they will be the 18th, 21st, and 23rd of March, 2025.

Ramadan 2025 Iran

March 30, 2025 (Friday), coinciding with Farvardin 10, 1404 (Sunday) of the Hijri Calendar, is the 30th day of Ramadan 2025 is a public Holiday for Eid al-Fitr. The Holidays for Eid al-Fitr continue till the next day, March 31, 2025 (Farvardin 12,1404, Shawwal 2, 1446).

The next day is 13 Farvardin, Wednesday (2 April 2025), which is Nature Day in Iran, which is also a public holiday.

Final Word

As a month full of mercy and blessings in Islam, Ramadan is an opportunity to purify people’s spirit and body, increase piety and faith, perform more acts of worship, and help the needy. Ramadan means intense heat and burning something, referring to sins fading away. Muslims believe in this month, all human sins are forgiven, and for this reason, they call this holy month Ramadan.

Are you planning to travel to Iran and looking for an Iran travel agency? Check out our Iran tours and feel free to contact us.

Pir Shalyar Ceremony in Kurdistan

October 7, 2024/0 Comments/in Events, Things To Do, Travel Blog/by nelia shidfar

Iran is a civilized and time-honored country where diverse ethnic groups bearing profound histories live all around the region. Each of these ethnic groups carries out their own festivals and ceremonies, most of which are derived from the culture and beliefs of their ancestors. Among the people of Iran, the residents of Kurdistan Province still adhere to these traditional festivals. By holding the ceremonies that have been cherished since ancient times, they have kept their authenticity, strengthened their traditions, and kept them alive.

Kurdish ethnic groups hold their native and traditional ceremonies by wearing colorful local clothes, playing conventional and cheerful Kurdish music, performing coordinated dance group movements, and playing local games. That is why the people of this region are very lively and happy. One of the famous ceremonies of the Kurdish people is the Pir Shalyar Ceremony, which shouldn’t be missed when visiting Kurdistan in Iran.

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What Is PIR Festival?

The cultural and historical Kurdish festival of Pir Shaliar is a traditional and mystical religious ceremony of the Kurds. The Pir Shalyar ceremony is held twice a year for three days.

Once in the second week of February (Bahman Month in Persian Month) and the other in mid-spring in the city of Uraman Takht. Uraman Takht is a city in the capital of Uraman District of Sarvabad County in Kurdistan province, next to the old house and tomb attributed to Pir Shalyar.

The nearby villages also participate in this social event. The ceremony is rooted in myths, beliefs, and ancient rituals of the people. It is in fact, the wedding anniversary of a legendary old man named Pir Shalyar.

Pir Shalyar Photos

The Pir Shalyar celebration has become the symbol of the Uraman region. The host and organizers of the festival are from different clans of Uraman Takht village and surrounding villages, who have divided the affairs of this ceremony among themselves according to an unwritten law. During this time of the year, the locals withdraw from all their daily work and devote all their time to celebrating this ancient wedding anniversary festival.

How Is Pir Shalyar Celebrated?

On the evening of the first week of Bahman Month in the Persian calendar (Tuesday), the organizer of the festival with the help of the children of Uraman distributes fresh walnuts picked from the trees grown in the region among the families of Uraman village and the surrounding villages. This ceremony is very special for the children, and they start their distribution from the village of Sarpir and visit each house carrying bags full of walnuts. In return, every household gifts them by placing snacks such as biscuits, nuts, and sweets inside the children’s bags so that they can return home happily.

In the meantime, the preparation of the traditional Pir Shalyar dish and the preparation of the livestock are part of the celebration agenda. The festival of Pir Shalyar has several stages each performed in a day.

The food of the ceremony is Aush-e Jo (Thick Barley Soup) or “Holoshine Teshi” in Kurdish. This is the same food that was cooked 950 years ago in the festival of Pir Shalyar. Once everyone has eaten their meals, the performers walk back to their homes. They take the leftover food to their homes so that other family members can eat it as a blessing.

Pir Shalyar Festival Preparations

Before the festival starts, the people of Uraman Village or other villages who need a blessing, give part of their livestock to the host of the festival at the end of the autumn. The host then takes care of the animals until the day of the Pir Shalyar ceremony.

Pir Shalyar Festival

On Wednesday morning of the ceremony, around 9 o’clock, a large number of animals are sacrificed in front of the residents of Pir Shalyar Urami, and most of the beef is distributed among the villagers. The house and tomb of Pir Shalyar, which is located at the end of the paved road of Uraman, is a simple, square, brick building with a blue dome, which is the symbol of the tomb of this old mystic of Kurdistan.

The beef is also used to cook an old dish called Aush Torsh, which is cooked in Pir Shalyar’s house. Villagers believe that eating this soup on the day of celebration will bring blessings to their families. After the evening prayer at 4 p.m. in the mosque, the food is distributed among the villagers and the guests.

The Start of Pir Shalyar Festival

At 3 o’clock, the citizens of Uraman Takht bring their tambourines for the ceremony. The young, middle-aged men and the old wear traditional Kurdish clothing and clasp their hands together to show their solidarity and kinship. With their hands locked, the Kurds perform a unique traditional dance as well as a kind of mystical dance known as Sama, which is regarded sacred by them.

Some play instruments and some sing odes or recite poems in praise of the Prophet of Islam and God. A group sings and the big dance group whispers the word “Allah”.

A group of Daf players (Persian frame drum) play the Daf with great enthusiasm. The meeting of the men’s hands and the sound of the Daf instrument being hit simultaneously truly doubles the spiritual atmosphere of the celebration. The Festival of Pir Shalyar is also known as the ceremony of breaking stones.

During sunset on Thursday by the end of the Kurdish dance and Sama, the people walk to the house of Pir Shalyar and recite sacred chants, prayers, and poems about him. A speech about Pir Shalyar and religious and mystical discussions are also part of the meeting ceremony. Finally, the festival ends with a prayer.

Uraman Takht – The Hidden Gem of Kurdistan Province

What stands out more than anything else in this ceremony is the presence of numerous photographers and tourists from different cities in Iran, as well as foreign guests and journalists. Uraman has been inscribed in the list of national monuments of Iran due to its old customs, terraced houses, and it’s distinct beauty.

Pir Shalyar Ceremony in Uraman Takht

It welcomes many tourists throughout the year. Uraman Takht has turned it into a tourist entertainment space. This region has become a tourist hub, and a place for all kinds of visitors, especially during the celebration of Pir Shalyar.

The Story of the Pir Shalyar Festival

Every year, with the start of the second half of winter, the Pir Shalyar ceremony is held in Uraman Takht for three days. The ceremony is rooted in the historical legends of the region and it is based on the story of the healing of “Shah Bahar Khatun”, the daughter of Shah Bukhara.

It is claimed that “Shah Bahar Khatun” was deaf and mute and all doctors were unable to treat her until the name of “Pir Shalyar Urami” reached Bukhara. Based on the beliefs of the people of Uraman, Pir Shalyar was a Muslim and a descendant of Imam Jafar Sadiq and his real name was Seyyed Mustafa Arizi.

The king of Bukhara had stipulated that whoever heals his daughter, may wed her. Finally, the king’s uncle and a group of the king’s entourages set off towards the city of Uraman in Iran to take Shah Bahar Khatun to the famous Pir Shalyar.

When the group reached the village of “Uraman Takht”, the girl’s ears were immediately healed and she was able to hear all sounds around her. Once they arrive at the house of “Pir Shalyar”, the scream of a demon attracts the group’s attention. The demon quickly falls onto the ground from a giant whirlwind which is what the locals call “Dust Devil” and dies.

Suddenly, Shah Bahar Khatoon burst out with words and started to speak. The king having promised to wed his daughter to whomever treats her ailments, bonds the girl with Pir Shalyar Urami, and the people organize a big wedding party for Pir Shalyar and Bahar Khatun. According to the locals of Kurdistan, the ceremony held today is the anniversary of that blissful day.

The Symbolism and Motif of Pir Shalyar Ceremony

The symbols and rituals of the ceremony are also a way to get rid of worldly attachments and step on the path of inner cleansing and salvation. In fact, this ceremony not only connects believers with a common faith but also connects people with God.

Pir Shalyar Ceremony

Final Word

According to historians, the Pir Shalyar ceremony, which is one of the renowned traditions of the Kurdish people, has a history of more than a thousand years rooted in ancient Iranian beliefs and myths. This festival is held twice in the Uraman region in winter and spring for 3 days every year and the people of Uraman have great respect for Pir Shalyar and consider this ceremony a holy blessing. By celebrating this tradition, the Kurds of Uraman Takht show the world their strong bond and affinity and how they have preserved their historical traditions and rituals for centuries.

Are you planning to travel to Iran and looking for an Iran tour operator? Check out our Iran tours. Here are more things to do in Kurdistan.

Hezar Daf Festival in Kurdistan

September 9, 2024/0 Comments/in Events, Things To Do, Travel Blog/by nelia shidfar

Iranian festivals are thriving celebrations that reflect the rich cultural heritage, history, and diverse traditions of one of the world’s oldest civilizations. Each festival offers a unique glimpse into the essence of the nation, showcasing an array of customs, folklore, and joyful gatherings. The Hezar Daf Festival meaning “A Thousand Daf Festival,” is an annual cultural event held in Iran, celebrating the rich heritage of Persian music with a large frame drum that is a traditional instrument known as the Daf.

This festival typically features performances, singing, and dancing that illustrate the significance of the Daf instrument in Kurdish music, as well as its historical and cultural context. Traditional Iranian singers from various backgrounds participate in the renowned Hezar Daf Festival and showcase their skills while promoting the importance of preserving Persian musical traditions.

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Hezar Daf Ceremony of the Palangan Village

Hezar Daf Festival in Palangan Village in Kurdistan Province, located in the west of Iran, is an important cultural event that is celebrated using hundreds of Daf drums played simultaneously by the citizens of the village. All of this together shows the significance of Persian music and poetry.

The Hezar Daf Ceremony is often marked by communal gatherings. The ceremony includes performances by skilled musicians, poetry recitals, and traditional vocalists that educate and entertain the attendees about the history and techniques associated with the Daf drum. This event not only honors the artistic heritage of Iran but also springs social cohesion and appreciation for Iran’s traditional music, signifying the vivid expression of Persian cultural identity.

Hezar Daf Ceremony Kurdistan

The Thousand Daf Festival is usually held around March to April and features a spiritual or reflective aspect, emphasizing the connection between music, community, and the Kurdish heritage. This vibrant ceremony has always fostered community engagement and appreciation for the ancient arts.

About Palangan Village – A Middle-Eastern Paradise

Palangan Village, meaning Leopard in Persian, is a rocky historical village near Kamiyaran city on the border of Kurdistan province and Kermanshah, which is considered part of Kurdistan province and is located in the Oraman or Horaman region.

The pleasant weather of the region throughout the year makes the mountainous Palangan village in Kurdistan a world famous tourist attraction site in Iran. Apart from being one of the top locations for discovering the ancient traditions of Iran, Palangan village was registered in the list of Iran’s eight best touristic villages attracting and entertaining people visiting from both Iran and around the world.

In recent years, more than thirty thousand people visited Palangan village to participate in the festival. In fact, Daf musicians from all around the country joined the group of Daf players and attended the ceremony, playing along with the locals.

Hezar Daf Festival in Kurdistan History

With the sound of thousands of Daf drums followed by the roar of Sirvan waters in the heart of the Zagros mountains, a thanksgiving celebration of the glory of spring is held, and the terraced paradise of Kurdistan hosted thousands of people from the modern generation to preserve the pleasant melodies that have been heard over thousands of years, generation after generation. This festival has been preserved for many years and was inherited from the ancestors to display the beauty of the Persian instrument, the Daf, for their descendants.

Hezar Daf Ceremony

The existence of many historical and ancient monuments in Palangan village represents the antiquity of the region, such as fire temples, ancient bridges, historical castles, and old cemeteries with tombstones in Kufic script and other monuments. Each of them is a sign of a specific period in history, such as the era of the Medes, especially during the reign of Cyaxares, the third king of the Medes dynasty, the Seljukian era, etc. Among them, this village was the most popular during the Samanid period.

The local Kurdish Hezar Daf festival of Palangan village has its own customs and rituals, and attending these customs is considered one of the tourist attractions of this historical region. Many tourists plan to journey to this region as well as other villages in Kurdistan in such a way that their trip would coincide with the ceremonies held in the villages.

Honoring the Daf Drum

The Hezar Daf ceremony, being one of the most interesting customs of Palangan village in Kurdistan, is of special importance among the Kurdish people. In the past, if a Daf drum was broken during a performance, the locals called the traditional Daf instrument a martyr, and they would never touch the instrument without ablution and treat it with respect. There is at least one Daf drum in every house of the citizens of Palangan since most people in Kurdistan are familiar with playing the Daf.

The festival of The Thousand Daf has been around for a long time and has been passed down from generation to generation. It has acquired a mystical and religious atmosphere over time, so the festival is currently known as the Daf festival.

The Special Features Of the Hezar Daf Festival

The celebration can last for at least three days. Palangan village, with its beautiful nature, hosts a band of thousands of Daf instruments from all over the country. This celebration begins with the recitation of a few verses from the Quran and the accompaniment of Daf players with greetings and salutations and the name of the Prophet, and later, groups and soloists present their performances on the first and second day and play along with each other. At times, competitions are held during the event where talented players compete on the first and second day, and on the third day, the conclusion and the result of the competition are announced.

Daf players all wear local Kurdish clothes, and some hold Daf drums with the names of God, the Prophet of Islam, or verses of the Quran. One of the most spectacular parts of this celebration is the simultaneous performance of a thousand Daf players, which has a unique aura once the instruments are struck in harmony. The magnificent and harmonious playing of this sacred instrument makes the atmosphere strangely mystical and memorable.

Kurdish Hezar Daf Ceremony

If you watch the Hezar Daf Festival in Kurdistan videos, you will grasp a clear picture of this extraordinary ceremony. The ancient festival of playing the Daf is performed every year in different celebrations like New Year Events and Eid al Fitr, by playing the Daf in special places of prayer. This performance is in a way that groups of more than 100 men and women sit or stand side by side and play the Daf and recite the words at the same time. The collectivism and harmony among group members connect the people together.

Each festival reveals a facet of Iran’s social outline where music and traditional dancing can combine with stories of ancestry and cultural diversity. Festivals such as these not only bring people together in celebration but also preserve the legacy of a time-honored heritage, inviting the world to experience the beauty of Iranian traditions. Through these colorful gatherings, Iranians maintain their connectedness to one another and their shared history, creating an enduring bond across generations.

Final Words

The Hezar Daf Festival in Kurdistan, Iran, is a celebration of the region’s rich musical heritage, particularly focusing on the Daf. This festival has historical significance as it reflects the deep-rooted cultural practices and artistic expressions of the Kurdish people. The festival, established to promote and preserve Kurdish music, features performances from local and regional artists, as well as workshops that foster appreciation for traditional drumming and music.

The Hezar Daf Festival not only honors the artistic legacy of the Kurds but also serves as a platform for cultural exchange and community building, resonating with themes of identity and resilience in Kurdish history. The Thousand Daf Ceremony serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring importance of connection, gratefulness, and blessedness.

Are you planning to travel to Iran and looking for an Iran tour operator? Check out our Iran tours. Here are more things to do in Kurdistan.

Who Is Imam Al Ghazali? (Biography, Books, Quotes)

August 19, 2024/0 Comments/in Events, Travel Blog/by nelia shidfar

Iran, a country long known for its ancient civilizations, culture, and history, has spawned many spiritual and prudent poets and philosophers. These wise men left countless valuable books and poems that, even to this day, have gathered millions of readers. Imam Al Ghazali is a cherished philosopher and scholar of the Seljuk dynasty in Persia. By reading the old Persian texts, you might have come across worthwhile sentences or stories that were written by the brightest Persian philosophers. Many of their quotes are used as proverbs or aphorisms in different countries. Imam Al Ghazali created a huge revolution in the science of philosophy and Sufism.

Stay with us to learn more about Al Ghazali and his notable works.

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Imam Al Ghazali Biography

Abu Hamed Muhammad bin Muhammad al-Ghazali al-Shafa’i, nicknamed Hujjat al-Islam, Zain al-Din al-Tusi, and Imam Muhammad al-Ghazali, was born in 1058 during the reign of the Seljukian Empire in the city of Tus located in Khorasan Razavi Province northwest of Iran. He was an Iranian theologian, philosopher, scholar, rationalist, and jurist and one of the greatest Sufis of his time.

His father was not a wealthy man. He worked in making wool and selling them in a local market. Al Ghazali, who was known for his intelligence and sharp mind ever since his childhood, began his preliminary education in his hometown with Ahmed Razkani, who was entrusted by his father to learn literary and religious sciences from Razkani. After Razkani’s death, he went to a school in Tus to continue his studies there. Upon finishing school, Imam Al Ghazali went to Gorgan Province for a while and later returned to Tus. He continued studying religious subjects in Tus for another three years.

Imam al Ghazali

He then went to Neyshabur, a city in the northwest of Iran, and participated in the teachings of Imam Al-Harameyn Joveyni. Because of his hard work and dedication in studying these teachings, he was considered one of the elders and expert scholars in a very short time.

After mastering all Islamic sciences, he journeyed to Baghdad to visit the Seljukian minister, Khwaja Nizam al-Mulk Tusi and was welcomed and treated with respect. Al Ghazali had several arguments with the elders of the religious classes of Baghdad; however, he was triumphant by presenting his abundant scientific knowledge. He was also favored by many scholars of that period.

What was the major work of Imam Ghazali?

Al Ghazali gained extraordinary expertise in the field of sciences such as theology, jurisprudence, philosophy, mysticism, ethics, and Islamic principles. He was appointed as a teacher at the school by Khawaja Nizam al-Mulk Tusi, the minister of the Seljuk government, and trained many students.

Imam Al-Harameyn Joveyni, Qazi Abul Fatah Hakim Tusi, Muhammad bin Ahmad Khowari, and Abu Suhail Muhammad bin Abdullah Hafsi were among the teachers of Imam Al Ghazali. Also, Abul Khattab and Ibn Aqeel, one of the elders of the Hanbali school, were also among his students.

Imam Al Ghazali spent all his life studying, teaching, and writing. He went to Syria and stayed there for nearly two years. For some time, Ghazali was a devout person of the Umayyad Mosque, also known as the Great Mosque of Damascus. Later, he traveled to Jerusalem, yet his love for his homeland brought him back to Tus.

He stayed in Tus for ten years to write the book “Ihya’ Ulum al-Din” (The Revival of the Religious Sciences), which was his most renowned work during his isolation. Imam Al Ghazali decided to step out of his seclusion and visit the city of Neyshabur to start teaching in the Nizamiya School of this city.

Imam al Ghazali Tomb

After obtaining his high academic rank, he was appointed as a professor at the Nizamiya School of Baghdad for four years by Khwaja Nizam al-Mulk Tusi. But sometime later, due to physical illness and his deep doubts caused by his personal studies in Islamic philosophy, Ghazali decided to give up teaching and hand over his position to his brother Ahmad.

While Al Ghazali was around 53 years old, he died in his hometown of Tus on 19 December 1111 and was buried in the ancient town of Tabran in Tus.

Imam Al Ghazali Books

Imam Al Ghazali wrote valuable works in various fields, such as Revival of Religious Sciences and Alchemy of Happiness, which are among the most famous of these works. Al-Ghazali wrote most of his works in Persian and in Arabic. Meanwhile, Al Ghazali explains his thoughts against the opinions of traditional philosophers in his works, along with the presentation of new ideas in philosophy, which led to the formation of strong opposition against him. In these books, we see mentions of what was Imam Al Ghazali’s philosophy like.

The Alchemy of Happiness (Kīmīyā-yi Sa’ādat)

Among the Persian books of Imam Al Ghazali, the Alchemy of Happiness is very valuable. This enjoyable and exceptional book is considered one of the most precious works of the year 1105, which in terms of eloquence of words, smoothness of composition, and lack of artificiality, has no equivalent in the Persian language. The introduction of the book is in four titles: Self-knowledge, God-knowledge, World-knowledge, and the Hereafter.

Incoherence of the Philosophers (Tahāfut al-Falāsifa)

The Incoherence of the Philosophers is a book by Imam Al Ghazali (1110 AD) that criticizes the opinions of philosophers and rejects everyday philosophy. The book is written in Arabic, and Ghazali himself gives a brief but complete and clear outline of the contents and intention of writing the book at the beginning of the book.

Imam al Ghazali Stories

After the short introductory sermon, the book reflects an aspect of the book in criticizing and rejecting the views of typical philosophers. Then, the author includes a general list of twenty issues that he will address in detail in the book with numerous sub-headings.

The Revival of Religious Sciences (Ihya’ Ulum al-Din)

The Revival of Religious Sciences was written during his retirement from teaching in the Nizamiya School in Baghdad. Right after his spiritual transformations and doubts and intellectual riots, and as a result of choosing pilgrimage and abandoning his struggles, and during his many years of travel and residence in Damascus, Jerusalem, and Hejaz. He entrusted the outcomes of his Sufi meditations and scholarly studies to The Revival of Religious Sciences.

Deliverance from Error

In this book, Al Ghazali wrote about his life journeys. Ghazali first rejects the laws of the world, philosophy, and esoteric religion and then mentions the only way to salvation is to follow Sufism. In Deliverance from Error, Ghazali does not seek to mention the detailed arguments in his previous books in connection with the rejection of the theories of philosophers, esotericism. In addition, the arguments have been given in detail in his previous books, such as Incoherence of the Philosophers, etc.

Other books written by Imam Al Ghazali illustrating his perceptions about Islam, Sufism, Philosophy, and the world are The Decisive Criterion for Distinguishing Islam from Clandestine Unbelief, The Eternity of the World, The Condensed in Imam Shafi’i’s Jurisprudence (Al-Wajiz fi Fiqh al-Imam al-Shafi’i), and Disciplining the Soul.

Imam Al Ghazali Quotes

Knowledge without action is madness and action without knowledge is impossible. A knowledge that does not prevent you from committing sins and does not force you to obey God will not prevent you from the fire of hell on Judgment Day. If you don’t act on your knowledge today and try to make up for the past days, you will be one of those who will say: Oh God! Bring us back to the world to commit the right deeds, and then they reply with Fool! You yourself came from there.

If you obey lust, the qualities of filth, shamelessness, greed, flattery, miserliness, arrogance, and envy will manifest in you, and if you are subdued, the qualities of contentment, self-restraint, shame, piety, and lack of greed will materialize within you.
The difference between a believer and a worldly seeker:

A believer is busy with thought and lessons, and a hypocrite is busy with greed and desire.

A believer despairs of everyone except the Most High, and a hypocrite has hope in everyone except the Most High.

A believer will sacrifice wealth for religion, and a hypocrite will sacrifice religion for wealth.

A believer obeys and cries, and a hypocrite commits a sin and laughs.

A believer likes solitary and isolation, and a hypocrite likes to be in a crowd and chaos.

Imam Ghazali Stories

Imam Al Ghazali, as one of the famous scholars and mystic researchers, was also among the leaders in various Islamic sciences, including principles of jurisprudence, theology, philosophy, ethics, mysticism, and other Islamic sciences, and he has written valuable works in each of these sciences. His stories and books are very popular among Iranians, and some of his stories are taught in Iranian schools as moral lessons for children. Surely, by reading his ethical writings, you will be astounded with Al Ghazali’s wisdom and insight.

Final Word

Imam Muhammad Al Ghazali was an Iranian philosopher, theologian, and jurist, as well as one of the greatest men of Sufism of the Seljukian Period. Undoubtedly, Ghazali is a comprehensive scholar of Iranian descent and has authored works in various sciences. Therefore, he is a true representation of a treasure of different sciences to the later generations. Imam Al Ghazali had a high position in the science of philosophy and mysticism, and by presenting new ideas in philosophy, he became a global figure.

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What Is Eid al Fitr? (History, Meaning, Eid al Fitr 2025 Date)

April 6, 2024/0 Comments/in Events, Travel Blog/by nelia shidfar

As we approach the end of Ramadan, the holy month of Muslims, we draw nearer to the celebration of Eid al Fitr 2025. The final days of Ramadan hold immense significance for Muslims as they intensify their worship and prayers in hopes of making the most of their remaining opportunities for spiritual growth during this period.

Furthermore, Eid al-Fitr 2025 is on the horizon, marking a special time of global celebration among Muslims that commences after the final day of Ramadan. In this article, we explore Eid al-Fitr in greater depth and the rituals that Muslims practice during this event.

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What Is the Eid al Fitr Celebration?

The end of the Ramadan month and the start of Shawal month is marked by this festival. In other words, Eid al Fitr is celebrated at the end of Ramadan, during which Muslims acknowledge their discipline and willingness to help others.

Eid al Fitr is a widely celebrated festival among followers of Islam and is observed around the world in various countries. This celebration is accompanied by various traditions, each of which holds significance and includes meaningful acts.

Eid al Fitr History

One of the most significant religious holidays for Muslims is Eid al-Fitr, also known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast.” The history of Eid al Fitr dates back many centuries, and according to the Quran and other Islamic texts, it was first celebrated in the year 624 CE. This was when Muslims migrated from Mecca to Medina.

Eid al Fitr 2025

The establishment of fasting during Ramadan is believed to have been a message from God to the Prophet Muhammad. Upon completion of the Ramadan month, Muslims celebrate Eid as a way to appreciate themselves and acknowledge the happiness of finishing this period.

Eid al Fitr has a deep connection with the historical context of the migration of the Muslim community and the Prophet Muhammad, during which they faced many challenges that tested their faith and devotion.

Following their migration to Medina, the community thrived, and the first Eid al-Fitr was celebrated there, making it a significant religious holiday for Islamic communities around the world with a long history.

Eid al Fitr Meaning

The significance of the name Eid al Fitr is to highlight the joyous celebration marking the end of Ramadan. The Arabic word “Eid,” pronounced as “eed,” means celebration and festival. This means that the word “Eid” signifies an important festivity. By combining “al-Fitr” with Eid, we can indicate the significance of this time for Islamic communities. Furthermore, “al-Fitr” is also derived from the Arabic language and means “breaking the fast.”

Main Traditions

It’s worth noting that there are over 2 billion Muslims all over the world who observe Eid al Fitr. Having recognized the importance of this festival, it’s time to discover the most prevalent customs of Eid al-Fitr that are observed in most Islamic societies.

The first day of Eid al Fitr in 2025 begins with a unique congregational prayer called Eid Salah, which is best performed in a mosque or an open space and led by an imam. This tradition represents unity and appreciation.

Eid al Fitr Traditions

Exchanging gifts is a common practice during Eid, especially among family members and elders. It’s a way to show love, and the type of gifts exchanged can vary between communities. Gifts may include toys, clothes, money, or other items.

Food is a crucial part of Eid al-Fitr celebrations. It’s a time to enjoy delicious meals and share in the joy of the occasion with family and friends. Traditional dishes, sweet treats, and desserts are often served, depending on the culture.

Helping the community is an essential principle of Islam, and giving to those less fortunate is a significant part of Eid al Fitr. Muslims are encouraged to give Zakat al-Fitr, a form of obligatory charity, before the Eid prayer.

Eid al Fitr 2025, Date and Time

Eid al-Fitr 2025 is approaching very quickly, almost as fast as a blink of an eye. As a result, the holy month of Ramadan 2025 will soon come to a conclusion. It is interesting to note that the exact date of Eid al Fitr 2025 is not determined far in advance but Eld al Fitr 2025 is likely to be celebrated on Monday, March 31.

Many religious leaders in different countries base the date of Eid on the sighting of the Eid crescent moon, which is announced at the appropriate time and date. Sometimes, if the sky is too bright, or if the moon sighting is obstructed by clouds, it may be delayed by one day. It is important to note that Muslims and individuals worldwide are not permitted to fast on Eid al-Fitr, as it is regarded as a sin.

Last Word

Eid al Fitr is a significant holy period for Muslims, marking the end of Ramadan and serving as a joyful celebration that brings families and friends together. It represents the start of a new chapter in our lives, where we strive to grow both spiritually and mentally. The festival is deeply rooted in various cultures and celebrated by Muslims all over the globe, symbolizing unity and reflecting purity.

Are you planning to travel to Iran and looking for an Iran travel agency? Check out our Iran tours and Religious Tours to Iran. Maybe the Iftar article is also interesting for you.

Nowruz 2025 (1404): Persian New Year (Date & Time)

February 7, 2024/0 Comments/in Events, Iran news/by Farima Fehrest

A Celebration deeply connected to the history and culture of the Iranian people. Persian New Year 2025, known as Eid Nowruz 2025, is a festivity that welcomes spring and invites people to gather around and celebrate the New Year. Nowruz festival in Iran is considered to be the most important event and is universally celebrated among Persian and non-Persian communities all around the world. Nowruz’s importance goes beyond Iran’s borders. In this article, we will answer the question of what is Nowruz and explore the Persian New Year 2025 and its beauties.

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Nowruz 2025

Nowruz 2025 is a universal celebration among different countries and marks the beginning of the New Year and spring. This beautiful celebration is known as the Nowruz festival in Iran and is celebrated around March 20 or 21st in the Gregorian calendar. Nowruz is a symbol and a fascinating festival deeply rooted in Iranian culture, making it the most important festivity of Persian people around the globe. Eid Nowruz 2025, or Persian New Year 2025, includes a variety of traditions that are representative of a symbol and meaning.

Most people refer to the Nowruz festival in Iran as a time of rebirth as spring sheds its beauty across the regions of Iran. The combination of Nowruz and spring displays various concepts, such as being happy, enjoying moments, and visiting loved ones. Persian New Year 2025 is not just a celebration but also a time for gathering and cherishing our lives and close relatives with our friends and family. It awakens a sense of being born again, making new attempts in the New Year, and living happily.

Nowruz Meaning

Nowruz, known as the Persian New Year, is the combination of two Persian words, which makes a new concept. The Persian word “Now” means “new” in the Persian language, and the word “ruz” means day. By combining these words a new word is created, which translates to “new day” or “new year” in English. The concept of Nowruz is all about becoming new to yourself and your surroundings, and it also conceptualizes rebirth and being open to new opportunities and chances. It also marks the arrival of spring, and its significance goes beyond traditions and borders.

Another literal and symbolic meaning of Nowruz is the triumph of light over darkness, marking the transition from the cold and dark winter months to the warmer and brighter days of spring and lovely views of flowers and happiness as nature turns green. Nowruz’s meaning can also be translated as “hope,” or optimism and new beginnings, and it celebrates life’s continuous cycle of life of a human being. Eid Nowruz 2025 is the ideal time for people to come together and embrace the positive energy of the New Year and the arrival of spring.

Watch our YouTube video on the IranDoostanTours Channel for an overview of what Nowruz is and how it’s celebrated.

What Is Nowruz?

Nowruz is one of the most ancient traditional festivals that celebrates the Persian New Year and the arrival of spring. Nowruz, or its translation “new day,” represents the arrival of the New Year and spring in the Persian calendar. Including themes such as rebirth and hope, Nowruz is a time of joy and new opportunities.

The transition from winter to spring marked by Nowruz is also a symbol of the rejuvenation of nature and the starting of a new agricultural cycle. Nowruz is a time when people engage in their various customs, and each one has a unique concept, the traditions of the Nowruz are the most prominent traditions of this festival, such as the Haft Sin Table.

Nowruz History

Nowruz, as a term, is an ancient one that implies the unique culture of this day, which goes thousands of years to the past. The earliest reading from the book can be dated back to ancient Persia and before Islam. It is said to be one of the oldest celebrations in the region, which is in harmony with the religious rituals and beliefs of Zoroastrianism. The ancient Persian religion (Zoroastrianism) that dates back to the dawn of human history is the source of this festival.

Some sources also claim that Nowruz might have originated around 3,000 years ago in the territory known today as Persia or Iran. It is believed that King Jamshid, the ruler of the Persian Empire, began Nowruz, along with the solar calendar. Nowruz was at the very core of Zoroastrianism, and the sprawl of the Persian Empire and the Persian tradition led to the folklore diffusion of Nowruz in nearby areas and their people. After a long time, it has evolved into an event that is being observed by various ethnic groups and nations of the world.

Nowruz Festival in Iran

Nowruz is a major cultural celebration in Iran that carries great significance all over the country. Nowruz is regarded as the most important festival in Iranian culture and is observed by people of all ages and backgrounds across the country. In Iran, Nowruz traditions and the hype of the Nowruz normally begin a few weeks before New Year’s Day and last around two weeks. Nowruz includes a variety of traditions, and the hype of the Nowruz Festival in Iran can be felt two weeks before the Persian New Year 2025. People usually go shopping before the Nowruz. They usually buy new clothes and shoes and other things to embrace the concept of Nowruz.

Nowruz is Celebrated by Which Religion?

Nowruz doesn’t belong to any specific religion and is a universal celebration of spring and the Persian New Year. Nowruz has its roots in the ancient Zoroastrianism religion that has transcended religious boundaries and is celebrated by many communities and ethnic groups around the world. This cultural festival is known among Iran, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and other nations.

Universal Celebration of Spring

Moreover, in Iran, Nowruz is celebrated by different people with different religious backgrounds, including Shia Muslims, Sunni Muslims, Christians, Jews, and others. Nowruz is the national holiday embraced as the Iranian identity and heritage. So, in general, Nowruz is not associated with any specific religion, thus, it is a universal cultural celebration.

Haft Sin

The Haft Sin table is a traditional tabletop arrangement that is an important part of the Nowruz traditions and the symbol of Nowruz. Haft Sin table is set up in households during the Nowruz period in Iran and other Persian-speaking regions. Interestingly, Haft Sin in Persian translates to “Seven S’s” and it showcases the seven symbolic items that start with the Persian letter “sin” (S). Each one of these items is a symbol and has become an integral part of the traditions of Nowruz. Haft Sin tables are so beautiful, and the decoration of the tables typically varies from one household to another household.

Nevertheless, Haft Sin tables usually include these items: Sabzeh (wheat, lentil, barley sprouts), Senjed (dried fruit of the oleaster tree), Samanu (a sweet pudding), Seer (garlic), Seeb (apple), Serkeh (vinegar), Somaq (sumac berries). Each item at the Haft Sin table is a symbol and representative of a concept. Haft Sin tables also include mirrors, goldfish, the holy Quran, and colored eggs.

Sabzeh: Rebirth and the renewal of nature.

Samanu: Affluence and fertility.

Senjed: Love and romance.

Seer: Medicine and good health.

Seeb: Beauty and health.

Serkeh: Age and patience.

Somaq: It symbolizes the color of sunrise and the victory of light over darkness.

Amu Nowruz or Pesian Santa?

Uncle Nowruz, or Amoo Nowruz, is one of the important characters in folklore and customs linked to the Nowruz festival. He is commonly depicted as a gentleman with a beard adorned in vibrant attire and carrying a cane or staff. Amu Nowruz serves as a companion and messenger of the Persian New Year, heralding joy, happiness, and blessings for the year. In stories and legends, he is portrayed as a kind-hearted figure who ushers in renewal and good fortune.

During the Nowruz period in Iran, children eagerly anticipate the arrival of Amu Nowruz. During his visits to homes, he is believed to bring treats and gifts. Children often recite poems. Sing songs to welcome him eagerly and express their enthusiasm for the approaching New Year. Amu Nowruz is deeply connected with the essence of Nowruz, embodying nature’s revival, the onset of springtime, and hopes for a year to come. His character encapsulates the jubilation and positivity that accompany this event.

Haji Firuz: The Jester of Nowruz

Haji Firuz is a folklore character related to Nowruz. He is known as the “Jester of Nowruz” or “Harbinger of Spring”. Haji Firuz brings happiness and joy to people during the period of Nowruz. Haji Firuz also entertains people with his lively and comedic performances. He aims to cheer up the spirits during Nowruz. Haji Firuz’s appearance includes a blackface mask, a red costume, and a hat with sometimes feathers. Haji Firuz can be seen in the streets as he sings, dances, and plays musical instruments to showcase the spirit of spring and joy.

Watch one of the best Nowruz Celebrations in Matinabad Eco-resort in Iran.

You can catch Haji Firuz in public squares and streets in the weeks before Nowruz. The presence of Haji Nowruz is the symbol of the New Year and is a time for being happy and joyous. In folklore, it is also believed that Haji Firuz brings good luck and blessings, and people usually offer him a gift or money as a gesture of appreciation. Haji Firuz and Amoo Nowruz are the most loved characters of the Persian New Year 2025.

Sizdah Bedar

Sizdah Bedar, sometimes referred to as Nature’s Day or Day Number Thirteen, is a pretty crucial tradition and celebration. It happens on the day numeral thirteen of the Persian New Year. Sizadh Bedar is also observed in Iran and other Persian-speaking places. Being a joyous day, outdoor activities and spending time in nature are what Sizdah Bedar is best known for. Sizdah Bedar Day is thought to offer good luck, keeping away any unlucky vibes associated with the number thirteen; a number that is not favorable in Persian culture.

On Sizdah Bedar Day, family and friends usually gather in parks, gardens, and country places for a picnic to enjoy the outdoors. They also participate in a lot of leisure activities such as game playing, kite flying, singing and dancing, socializing, etc. An interesting custom on Sizdah Bedar has to be the one where blades of grass are tied together, which symbolizes a good harvest and wealth year. These grass bundles, afterward, are tossed into flowing water, like rivers or streams, seen as a method of throwing away any bad vibes or negative stuff from the last year.

For young unmarried people, Sizdah Bedar is considered a particularly auspicious day for finding love and companionship. It is a common belief that going outdoors and spending time in nature on this day increases the chances of meeting a potential partner. The Sizdah Bedar is a joyous conclusion to Nowruz celebrations, marking the end of the two-week festivities, and is a special time for families to gather around and cherish their lives.

Nowruz Traditions

Nowruz traditions are the loveliest part of the Persian New Year. The central traditions of the Nowruz are known as Haft Sin table and Khoone Tekuni. Moreover, another tradition of the Nowruz is Chaharshanbe Suri, which happens on the last Wednesday before Nowruz. People usually light a bonfire and jump over it to keep away bad luck and attract good fortune. New Year’s Day feast is also a tradition that happens in Nowruz. Families gather around and enjoy a “Sabzi Polo Ba Mahi (herbed rice with fish).

Sabzeh Nowruz, Main Element of Haft Sin

During Nowruz, families also give Eidi (gifts or money) to other people as a symbol of blessing. Some families also read the Holy Quran and Hafez’s poems to exchange spiritual experiences in their houses and enjoy the rich heritage of their country and religion. Nowruz is also the best time for doing outdoor activities, especially during the 13th day of the Nowruz. On this day, families go outdoors and engage in cheerful activities. They also throw away their grass bundles into rivers and running waters to cast away bad luck. It is believed that this act can help find a good partner if you are single.

Things to Do during Nowruz

There are a lot of things you can do during Nowruz. First of all, you should do a “Khoone Tekooni,” which means that you should clean your house, organize it, and freshen up your house to symbolize a new start for the approaching year. You can then set up a Haft Sin table with items; you can even personalize the table and extra valuable things for yourself.

Most Iranian people buy a goldfish and put colored eggs and a mirror on the Haft Sin table. Moreover, Nowruz is the best time to visit your family and friends. Go to a friend’s house, spend some quality time with them, read poems, and listen to music. You can also make traditional Iranian food to boost your experience of Nowruz. The herbed rice with fish is the most popular one during this time.

Give Eidi to your friends and loved ones and exchange gifts with family and children. In addition, there are a lot of cities that host Nowruz festivals, which creates the opportunity to engage and attend them, especially if you are not familiar with the Nowruz traditions. Enjoying nature and going outdoors is also highly recommended, as nature gets very beautiful all around the region during the springtime. You can read poetries and the holy Quran if you want to have a spiritual experience. Finally, set up new goals for the New Year and take the time to look at your past year and cherish your moments. Let’s hope Nowruz 1404 will be one of the best years for all of us.

Eid Nowruz 2025 Facts

Nowruz is a wonderfully colorful festival and a culturally huge celebration. Rich with symbolism and traditions, Nowruz invokes a sense of renewal. These facts offer a snapshot into the captivating history and the mystic customs surrounding this truly old festival.

An Ancient Festival: Nowruz is a festival with roots stretching back over 3,000 years. The roots of this beautiful holiday are claimed to be founded in Ancient Persian and Zoroastrianism religions.

Beautiful and Universal: Nowruz gets hoorayed by diverse communities and cultures across the whole wide world, inclusive of Iran, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, areas in India, Pakistan, and Iraq. It is a public holiday in many of these countries and is celebrated by various people.

Nowruz as a UNESCO Heritage of Iran

UNESCO Heritage: Nowruz was officially recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009 by UNESCO.

Spring Equinox: Nowruz rolls around on the spring equinox, typically on March 20th – 21st. Interestingly, it symbolizes the start of spring in astronomical science when the days are longer in the daytime and nights are shorter.

Thirteen-Day Celebration: Nowruz is a 13-day celebration, starting from the first day of the Persian calendar month of Farvardin and concluding with Sizdah Bedar, the thirteenth day.

Renewal: Strangely enough, Nowruz ties in deeply with the celebration of life’s renewal and the arrival of spring. It’s a time meant for appreciating the resurgence of life and fertility and embracing the beautiful nature around us.

Haft Sin Table: The Haft Sin table, decorated with seven symbolic items, is a key feature of Nowruz. The specific items and decorations on the table vary, sometimes based on regional and personal likings.

Sprouting Sabzeh: Growing Sabzeh, like wheat, lentil, or barley sprouts on the Haft Sin table is common. It symbolizes rebirth and hope. It represents the anticipation for a prosperous year ahead.

Chaharshanbe Suri: Chaharshanbe Suru is the festival of fire, which is another tradition of Nowruz about being happy and fearless. On the eve of the last Wednesday before Nowruz, People light bonfires and jump over them to keep away negativity and be fearless.

Sizdah Bedar: Sizdah Bedar in Nowruz 2025 is the day when people spend their time outdoors and enjoy nature. They play games and get close with their families to be unified and bring good luck for themselves in the upcoming months of the New Year.

Nowruz 2025 Date & Time

Being one of the most important holidays, Nowruz 2025 begins on Thursday noon this year on March 20 and concludes on Friday, March 21. Nowruz (also known as the “March Equinox”) occurs on the first day of spring every year and is celebrated worldwide by Persian and non-Persian communities.

Persian New Year Photos

For most Iranian people, the Nowruz 2025 date and time is an important moment, and they gather with their families and friends to give their prayers to god, read the holy Quran, and wish a greater and better new year for themselves and their loved ones.

Nowruz 2025 Date & Time: Thurs, Mar 20, 2025, 12:31 PM (Iran Local Time)

In What Countries Nowruz Is Celebrated?

Nowruz is celebrated in various countries in Central Asia and has influenced a lot of cultures and countries in the region, making it one of the most significant holidays in the whole world. When it comes to celebrating Nowruz, since Nowruz originated from Zoroastrianism, Iran is at the top of the list. Afghanistan and Tajikistan are also places where Nowruz is celebrated. Traditional dances and the preparation of special meals are the characteristics of this holiday in these countries.

In Azerbaijan, Nowruz is known as “Novruz Bayramı,” and the people of Azerbaijan also celebrate this day. Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Iraq, and Pakistan are also other neighbors of Iran that Nowruz has influenced their culture and is celebrated every year. An interesting fact about Nowruz is that it is also observed by certain communities in India. So, Nowruz is well-known in parts of Central Asia, the Caucasus, and the Middle East.

Final Words

The beginning of the New Year in the Persian calendar, known as the Nowruz festival in Iran, is the most important event for Iranian people. Nowruz is deeply rooted in Zoroastrianism and is celebrated around March 21st, marking the beginning of spring and bringing friends and families together for gift-giving, feasting, and traditions like cleaning one’s house and setting up a “Haft Sim table”.

The Persian New Year 2025 is a 13-day celebration, and its beauties and cultural characteristics go beyond borders. If you want to visit Iran, don’t forget to check out this lovely experience (Nowruz 2025) and watch its beauty from a closer perspective.

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Top 7 Festivals of Matinabad Eco-camp

July 31, 2022/0 Comments/in Events, Travel Blog/by nelia shidfar

There is no better place than Matinabad if you are looking for a fascinating place to stay in the countryside of Isfahan in central Iran. A warm and lovely residence located in the Rural District of Khaledabad in the Isfahan Province with a population of approximately 500 people. Matinabad Eco-camp not only has many exciting activities available for tourists and natives but there are also many festivals that take place in Matinabad to keep everyone entertained. Here are the most exciting festivals held in Matinabad that you wouldn’t want to miss.

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Nowruz Festival

The Persian New Year is known as Nowruz, which translates to A new day. The entire country is full of colorful flowers and cheers, and Matinabad is no exception. The locals of Matinabad believe that light shall always defeat darkness. Thus, the villagers acknowledge the festival of Light and Mirror when the first Thursday of the year arrives. They turn on all the lights in the house with mirrors everywhere for two days straight. By that, they resemble an illuminated holy place. Join us at this event and treat yourself to our natural and organic herbal teas and freshly picked products. We will give you the experience of heaven in the middle of the desert by making a magical drink of rosewater and peppermint extract New Year’s edition.

Rose Water Festival (Golab Giri)

During spring, Damask roses grow on the fields of the village’s verdant farms. A perfect time to extract rose water from these scented flowers. Therefore, the locals of Matinabad regard this time of the year as a festive season. Wooden baskets are often given to children to help their parents gather fragrant flowers, making it a fun activity for them to enjoy. During this time, you have an opportunity to experience the creation of rose water extract harvested by your own hands in the Matinabad eco-camp. Drinking the best quality and fresh rose water, sweetbrier extract, peppermint extract, and Sisymbrium irio syrup accompanied by live traditional music at the camp will make your evening fresh and aromatic like the roses from our garden. Following that, the locals distribute the food to the lovely guests of Matinabad to enjoy.

Ab Dough Khiar

Ab Dough Khiar is a traditional Persian meal mostly served during summer. Iranians cherish the opportunity to have this tasty meal on hot summer days. It contains herbs, walnuts, yogurt, and sometimes raisins. Ice cubes are added to the mix to create a cold sensation in the body during this hot season. Throughout the summer, locals in Matinabad serve the most delicious Ab Dough Khiar you will ever taste. To remain loyal to the values of establishing Matinabad eco-camp, dedicated to improving the quality of life of local people and preserving valuable occupations, they grow plants and flowers and extract them using the skills of the local farmers and labor. Therefore, you can rest assured that all the products used in this delicious meal are organic. So, If you’re visiting Matinabad during summer, make sure you get a taste of this luscious Persian meal.

Yalda Night in Matinabad

The most widely cherished festival in Iran is Yalda Night or Chelleh Night. The longest and the darkest night of the year, when Iranian families sit around a place and stay up till dawn. Watermelons, pomegranates, persimmons, sweets, and nuts are the specific items that represent the glory of this tradition. Each of the items has its meaning. For instance, the pomegranate is a symbol of birth, and its bright red seeds symbolize the glow of life. Guests are always welcome in Matinabad during Yalda night. The restaurant will serve a meal different from the daily special to leave you a more vivid memory of the event. Locals will play traditional instruments and recite poems by Hafez for the visitors to treasure this memorable night.

Kadoo Halvayi (Pumpkin Festival)

Matinabad organic farms supply a variety of crops such as watermelons, pumpkins, eggplants, pomegranates, tomatoes, and many more. Autumn is known as the pumpkin season, and by the time fall arrives, the organic pumpkins of Matinabad Organic Farm are harvested for countless purposes. During this most wonderful time of year, the locals make pumpkin jam, stew, pottage, and tasty desserts like cookies and cakes to welcome visitors. As part of the Thanksgiving festival, pumpkins will also be used as decorations to bring light and joy to the hearts.

Chaharshanbe Suri

The last Wednesday (Chaharshanbe Suri) is celebrated all over Iran before the New Year approaches. When Iranians leap over a bonfire and sing a traditional song. People believe that the red color of fire symbolizes health. Iranians perform a variety of traditions on this night. In Matinabad, the locals dance and whirl with a harmonious sound produced by Sorna (an ancient woodwind instrument) and Zarb (a goblet drum). Guests from Iranian cities and foreigners gather around to celebrate this renowned festival. During this night, a very popular Persian stew, Ash Reshteh, is served, making the night even more memorable.

Asemane Shab in Matinabad

The night sky over Matinabad is full of twinkling stars and galaxies, thanks to being located near the desert. It’s a magnificent moment for the visitors to observe the night sky. Astrophotographers often visit this special place to capture the Milky Way and the stars via their telescopes. It is fascinating to look at the night sky with a telescope and observe millions of stars, planets, and galaxies. With the help of our astronomers, you will learn more about the incredible planets in the sky. Gathering around a bonfire under a starry night is a special moment you can experience in Matinabad.

The night sky over Matinabad is full of twinkling stars and galaxies.

All About Rose Water Festival in Iran

May 16, 2022/0 Comments/in Events, Iran news/by Farima Fehrest

Spring in Iran accompanies many fascinating scenes. One of these scenes is the fields and gardens full of pink roses, which can captivate visitors with their magical fragrance and beauty. As the roses are fully opened, it’s time to pick the flowers and prepare them to make rose water. This usually happens around May in spring and continues until the end of spring. The Rose Water Festival in Iran is among the most popular Iranian festivals, and it attracts many international and domestic travelers every year. Let’s learn more about this spring festival.

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About Rose Water Festival

Iran’s Rose Water Festival, known locally as “Golabgiri,” is a centuries-old tradition celebrated in the picturesque city of Kashan. Every spring, the city comes alive with the fragrant aroma of Damask roses, a unique variety native to Iran.

The festival marks the beginning of the rose water distillation season, where families and communities come together to harvest roses and produce rose water using traditional methods. This vibrant event is a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, attracting visitors from across the globe.

Spring Festival in Iran

The Rose Water Festival is more than just a celebration; it is a tribute to Iran’s rich heritage in floriculture and perfumery. Kashan’s delicate roses have been cultivated for generations, symbolizing purity and refinement in Persian culture. During the festival, visitors can participate in rose-picking, observe the distillation process, and enjoy a variety of cultural performances, handicraft exhibitions, and local delicacies, making it an unforgettable experience.

Rose Water Festival in Iran

Here is how the whole process takes place: Every morning, as the sun begins to shine, the locals go to the gardens to pick the flowers. Then they weigh the roses, put them in large pots along with water, and heat them to extract the rose water. The quality of the rose water mainly depends on how many roses they put in the pot; the more roses they use, the stronger the rosewater will be.

High-quality rose water usually consists of 30 Kg of roses and 60 liters of water called double distilled extract. When they want to make it even stronger, they use rosewater instead of water in the pot! This is the best quality rose water that can be made in Iran; it is very bitter and not very fragrant when you smell it. The real fragrance can be smelled when you use a little of this extract while cooking. So, make sure you do not buy rose water based on its smell only!

What Is Rose Water?

Rose water is a fragrant liquid made by steeping rose petals in water or distilling them to extract their essential oils. Various cultures have used it for centuries for its aromatic and medicinal properties. Known for its delicate floral scent, rose water is a versatile product that is used in cooking, cosmetics, and therapeutic practices.

The production of rose water typically involves the Damask rose, a species renowned for its intense fragrance and high oil content. The process results in two by-products: rose water and rose essential oil. While rose essential oil is a luxury product, rose water is widely accessible and used in everyday life, from skincare routines to culinary recipes.

Rose Water Benefits

Rose water is celebrated for its numerous health and wellness benefits. In skincare, it acts as a natural toner, hydrating and refreshing the skin while reducing redness and irritation. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it a popular remedy for conditions such as acne and eczema. Additionally, the antioxidants in rose water help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, promoting a youthful and radiant complexion.

Rose Water Festival in Iran

Beyond skincare, rose water has psychological benefits as well. Its calming aroma is known to reduce stress, and anxiety, and promote better sleep. In traditional medicine, rose water is used to treat headaches and digestive issues. A few drops of rose water in herbal tea can soothe an upset stomach, while its antimicrobial properties support oral hygiene when used as a mouth rinse.

Uses of Rose Water

The versatility of rose water makes it a cherished product in households worldwide. In culinary arts, it is used to flavor desserts, beverages, and traditional dishes, imparting a unique floral taste. Popular in Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisines, rose water is a key ingredient in recipes like baklava, Turkish delight, and Faloodeh.

In addition to its culinary applications, rose water plays a significant role in beauty and skincare routines. It is often used as a facial mist, makeup setting spray, or ingredient in homemade face masks. Its soothing properties also make it an excellent addition to bathwater for a relaxing soak. Furthermore, rose water is used in religious ceremonies and cultural rituals, symbolizing purity and love.

Rose Water Festival Kashan

Kashan, a historic city in central Iran, is the heart of the Rose Water Festival. Surrounded by rose gardens and traditional distilleries, Kashan transforms into a hub of activity during the festival. Visitors can witness the rose-picking process at dawn, when the flowers are at their most fragrant, and join locals in carrying baskets of freshly harvested blooms to the distillation sites.

The festival also offers a glimpse into the traditional methods of rose water production. Large copper pots are used to boil the roses with water, and the steam is collected and cooled to produce pure rose water. Beyond the distilleries, the city hosts cultural events, including music performances, art exhibitions, and workshops, giving tourists an opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich traditions of the region.

Time of Rose Water Festival

The Rose Water Festival in Kashan typically takes place from mid-May to early June, aligning with the blooming season of Damask roses. The exact timing depends on weather conditions and the onset of the flowering period, which can vary slightly each year. This season is ideal for both locals and tourists to enjoy the mild climate and breathtaking landscapes adorned with vibrant pink roses.

Iran Rose Water

The festival lasts for several weeks, providing ample time for visitors to explore the rose fields and participate in various activities. Early mornings are the best time to experience rose-picking, while afternoons are perfect for attending cultural events and visiting the bazaars that sell rose water, rose oil, and other rose-infused products. Planning a trip during this period guarantees a memorable encounter with nature and culture.

How to Make Rose Water?

Making rose water at home is a simple yet rewarding process. The most common method is simmering, which involves boiling fresh rose petals in distilled water. To begin, gather a cup of organic rose petals and place them in a pot with enough water to cover them. Simmer the mixture on low heat until the petals lose their color, and the water takes on a rosy hue. Strain the liquid into a glass container, and your homemade rose water is ready to use.

For a more refined product, the distillation method is recommended. This involves placing rose petals in a pot with a bowl in the center to collect the distilled water. Seal the pot with a lid turned upside down and add ice cubes on top. As the water heats, the steam rises, condenses on the cold lid, and drips into the bowl, producing pure rose water. This method captures more of the rose’s essence, resulting in a higher-quality product.

Last Words

During spring, farms in the village have verdant fields filled with Damask roses. This time of year is ideal for extracting rose water from these scented flowers. There are several cities in Iran well-known for making high-quality rose water including Kashan, Ghamsar, and Niasar. The local people warmly welcome the visitors to watch the festival and they honestly explain how to make rose water and how to recognize the quality when shopping. During this time, you will be able to experience the process of creating rose water extract by hand at the Matinabad eco-camp. This is an amazing experience you should not miss when traveling to Iran in Spring.

Are you planning to travel to Iran? Check out our Iran tours.

Earth Day 2025 (Date, Theme, Activities)

April 20, 2022/0 Comments/in Events, Travel Blog/by Farima Fehrest

International Earth Day is a global celebration for reminding each and every one of us that the earth and its ecosystems give us the life that we are all living. This particular day provides us an opportunity to raise global awareness of the challenges we all need to face for the sake of our planet’s well-being and all the life it supports. Since the earth is the only home we have, we need to increase our harmony with nature and learn everything there is to know about the needs of the present and future generations of humanity.

Table of Contents

History of International Earth Day

As the industries started to mass-produce smoke and sludge into the environment, it ended with an enormous amount of air pollution, and water pollution, to sum up, destroying the world. The first Earth Day led to the creation of the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the passage of the Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species. Sen. Nelson was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which is the highest honor given to civilians in the United States, for his role as Earth Day founder. On April 22nd, 1970, around 20 million Americans gathered in the streets, parks, and auditoriums to manifest a healthy, livable environment. Thousands of colleges and universities planned protests against the decay of their home. Certain groups that were protesting against oil spills, polluting factories and power plants, toxic dumpsites, the loss of wilderness, and the extinction of wildlife suddenly understood they shared common values.

How Can We Save the Earth (Earth day Activities)?

Most years, Earth Day events vary from river cleanups to the removal of invasive plants. But this year, with the social distancing still in place for many of us, Earth Day has gone virtual. Virtual events, such as environmental speeches and movies, will occur on Earth Day, April 22. You can be a volunteer to try to make the world a better place and help the environment by participating in an event. There are a lot of great things that you can do on Earth Day. There are usually local activities as well that you can also participate in (Find Events Here).

2025 Theme: OUR POWER, OUR PLANET

The theme for Earthday.org 2025 is OUR POWER, OUR PLANET.

The earth is the only home we have, we all live on it and our livelihood is highly dependent on its generosity. We all know that anything we do and any choice we make, affect our planet. Therefore, it is time to think about what we have done for our home and what we can do.
Here is the action we have taken so far! Matinabad Desert Eco-Camp. The organic farm was founded in 2008 by a group of environmentalists and tourism experts. The basic premises of establishing Matinabad Eco-Camp was to present, maintain, contribute and promote considering, respecting, and conducting the ethic codes of the International Tourism and Ecotourism organizations in order to approach CSR and SRB models and achieve sustainable and Responsible Tourism in IRAN.
As the first Iranian Eco-Camp, we offer unforgettable adventures close to the local people and the desert nature. Baking Persian bread or cooking with the local women, harvesting in our Organic farm and orchards or Treks on camel or on foot, bike rides through landscapes of sand dunes and mountain gorges, desert walks, safari short trips with Jeeps or ATV bikes, and star gazing at night are included in our Camp activities.

Respect The Nature

There is nothing more enjoyable than walking, cycling, or carpooling to get from place to place in delightful nature. The fewer cars on the road, the better. Now we all know that nature owes its beauty to our tall and green friends. So why not make more friends in our environment? Plant a tree. Trees are an enormous part of our earth, and planting one will just add to the health and wellness of the world that we live in. Consider making your yard an oasis for birds and other creatures. You can put in food for birds, stray cats, or dogs, install birdhouses, and more. By making it comfortable for them, they will be more likely to stick around.

International Earth Day

Start from Your Own Home

Do you have a recycling system? If you don’t, then probably getting one could be a big step towards helping the environment from the mass-produced trash. Take a look and see what you can recycle in your local area and see if you can work to make a difference in that way. Make sure that your workplace is more environmentally friendly. That way, not only do you feel much better but also you’ve done such an excellent job by helping your world. Stop drinking bottled water or using plastic bags! There are plenty of options out there that you could choose from instead. If you stop using plastic bags and bottles, you can save lots of lands that would be filled up with plastics. Go on a more plant-based diet to manage your footprints in the environment.

Keep in Touch with Nature

Leave the house and enjoy the beauty of nature. Go on a hike or even to the park. Keep in touch with nature to remind yourself exactly why you want to go through this path and put so much time and effort into what could lead to finally restoring our home. Don’t just leave it to Earth day! If we can do countless things when we are celebrating Earth Day, imagine just how much more we could do if we kept taking care of our earth every other day throughout the year. So, why not try to seek what can be done within the whole year and make taking care of the environment a regular part of how you live?

Are you planning to travel to Iran? Check out our Iran tours.

Sepandarmazgan; the day of love in ancient Iran

February 5, 2022/1 Comment/in Events, Travel Blog/by Sarvenaz Attari

The life of the Iranian people has always been associated with celebration and happiness. They celebrated on different occasions and believed in living happily. Of course, there are days that belong to the distant past and receive less attention today. One of these days is Sepandarmazgan, the day of love in ancient Iran.

The story behind Sepandarmazgan

In ancient Iran, twenty centuries before the birth of Christ, a day was dedicated to love which was called Sepandarmazgan. This day was celebrated in the old Iranian calendar on March 26. However, in the new calendar, this celebration is held on February 18. The number of days in each month was thirty days, and all the months and days had their own special names. The fifth day of Esfand was called “Sepandar Maz”. So, the occasion is a celebration with this name. Sepandarmazgan is a celebration of the earth, as a symbol of femininity, and also respect for love, both of which are complementary and inseparable according to the Iranian culture.

How is Sepandarmazgan celebrated?

This day was a glorious day for both men and women. They love, thank, and appreciate each other on this day. Women give gifts and flowers in respect and love to their husbands or partners. In return for this love, their husbands place them on the throne, give gifts, and they try to listen to them and fulfill their wishes. Therefore, Sepandarmazgan is also the commemoration day of women in ancient Iran. This was considered a flip for men to know and respect the value of their mother and wife. These celebrations lasted for a long time so that men would continue to respect women throughout their lives. According to the surviving documents of the past, Abu Rihan al-Biruni stated that people used to do various things on this day, including magic rituals, to eliminate evil spirits.

Do Iranians celebrate Valentine’s Day?

People think that the day of love is an international day marked as Valentine’s Day, and we have borrowed this day from the Europeans. Unfortunately, today many Iranian teenagers are fascinated by Western culture and celebrate Valentine’s Day. However, there are still young groups of people who think it is not too late to change things and so, they do care for Sepandarmazgan Day as the Iranian love day. Hopefully, they can keep the Iranian culture alive.

This video is an inspiration for celebrating Sepandarmazgan (the day of Love) in Iran.

Are you planning to travel to Iran? Check out our Iran tours.