Yalda Night (Shab-e Chelleh) is a Persian winter celebration held on or around December 20 or 21 each year. These days, many Iranians are out buying fruits like pomegranates, watermelons, and various dried nuts.Yalda celebrations have evolved into a social affair in which friends and family gather to eat, drink, and read poetry particularly Hafiz till after midnight.
Friends and family join together to dine, drink, and read poetry particularly Hafez until far beyond midnight on the longest and darkest night of the year. People eat fruits and nuts, with watermelons and pomegranates being especially important. These fruits' scarlet hue represents the crimson tones of morning and the radiance of life. Each member of the family expresses a wish, then randomly opens Hafez's book of poems and recites the poem, which is thought to be an interpretation of the request.
This night's menu features fruits, mainly pomegranates and watermelons, as well as almonds. The fruits represent the desire of having a fruitful spring and summer. On several occasions, including this festival and Nowruz, the poetry of Divan-e Hafez, which are located on the bookcases of the majority of Iranian families, are read or performed.
Across Boarders
Central Asian countries such as Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and some Caucasian republics such as Azerbaijan and Armenia follow the same tradition and celebrate Yalda Night every year around this time. itto.org Yalda Night was formally included to Iran's List of National Treasures during a ceremony in 2008. In ancient Iranian religion, the annual winter ceremony symbolises the traditional concept of light and good triumphing over darkness and evil. The longest and darkest night of the year is "the night opening the initial forty-day period of the three-month winter," hence the name Chelleh, which means "fortieth."
Symbol of Unity, Peace and Hope
Today, the people of the Islamic Republic of Iran celebrate Yalda Night as a time for reunions with relatives and friends, tell stories, and feast on traditional dishes and fruits like as pomegranates and watermelon. The mood is vibrant, with laughing, music, and the comfort of loved ones. It's a night that crosses generations, cultures, and faiths, reminding us of the strength of love and community. The Ospicious event is more than just a celebration; it represents a way of life. It's a reminder that even in the worst of circumstances, there is always hope for a better tomorrow. It's a holiday that fosters social cohesiveness, cultural exchange, and family values, encouraging Iranians to band together and support each other.
As the world becomes increasingly divided, Yalda Night serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of community, love, and kindness. The celebration is a symbol of hope to the world that even in our differences, humanity can find common ground and come together in the spirit of love and friendship, resilience and hope. As the night comes to a close, and the sun begins to rise, humanity is to be reminded of the power of love, community, and tradition. Yalda Night may be a ancient celebration, but its message is timeless, and one that we can all learn find comfort on.