We are one more time approaching another Mehregan, an annual Persian festivity that has been observed for centuries by Iranians. Despite all the barriers and difficulties in the way of observing this occasion, Iranians have never failed to celebrate this festival openly or sometimes even secretly.
Mehregan, just like other festivities of Iranian culture, has its humane and popular roots. It was initiated as a ritual to worship the sun-god Mithra, but this day had gradually lost its religious origins to become a national day of celebration due to the valuable message that is embedded in it.
Mehregan, just like other Iranian festivities, has been a day of honoring Light and Kindness, as well as Faithfulness to Promises.
In ancient Iran, parents considered breaking the promises as unforgivable evil as lies and destruction. They believed that breaking promises can cause destruction of the land and society. It seems that such a belief has an implied connotation, referring to the rulers and decision makers who, by breaking their promises to the people, cause the desolation and destruction of their lands and peoples.
In a verse in Zoroastrian book of Mehryasht, one can read: “The wicked one who breaks his promises will destroy the whole country”. That is why the message of Mehregan has been lasting and now is an updated one. Like the previous years, the Committee to Save Pasargad, would like to ask all Iranians and especially the friends of Iranian culture to observe Mehregan in whatever way they deem feasible, aiming to preserve this precious festival and spread its true message. We also need the help and support of all cultural activists in our campaign to register Mehregan on the World Spiritual Heritage list. The relevant application was filed with UNESCO in 2010 by the Committee.
With love and respect,
Pasargad Heritage Foundation
October 2013
