Iranian cultural riches shine bright: Iftar, Sadeh festival and art of illumination join UNESCO list
cultural practices, was recognized as a shared heritage between Iran, Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan. During the 18th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, held in Kasane, Botswana from December 4-9, Iran, Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, Turkey, and Uzbekistan also succeeded in inscribing Tazhib on UNESCO’s list.
The Sadeh festival, also known as Jashn-e Sadeh, was recognized as a shared cultural tradition between Iran and Tajikistan. Celebrated on January 30th, the festival’s name derives from the Persian word for “one hundred” (Sad), signifying the 50-day and 50-night countdown to Nowruz, the Iranian New Year on March 21st. Rooted in ancient rituals, Sadeh is primarily celebrated by Iranian Zoroastrian communities in cities like Yazd, Tehran, Shiraz, and Kerman, commemorating the mythic discovery of fire with a large bonfire at its height.
Tazhib, a sophisticated form of Islamic illumination, holds a special place in Persian and Islamic art. Originating in ancient Persia, Tazhib involves the intricate decoration of manuscripts, book covers, Qur’ans, and various surfaces with gold leaf and vibrant colors. While traditionally defined as designs adorned with gold or silver, the broader concept includes any embellished manuscript, underscoring a profound cultural heritage in Islamic and Persian artistry.
Iftar holds deep significance during the holy month of Ramadan, marking the nightly breaking of the fast observed by Muslims worldwide. This meal, called Iftar, ranges from simple items like bread, dates, cheese, and tea to elaborate feasts, reflecting the principles of humility, patience, and charity central to Ramadan. Known as Ramazan-e Karim (the merciful Ramadan), this month fosters spiritual reflection and strengthens community bonds. According to UNESCO, Iftar (or Eftari) is a ritual that unites people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, symbolizing the daily conclusion of fasting and the fulfillment of spiritual and social obligations.
Iftar evenings are often followed by community activities, including prayer, storytelling, games, meal preparations, and matrimonial ceremonies, enhancing social cohesion and fostering a spirit of charity and solidarity. Notably, these Iftar traditions are practiced not only by those who fast but also by others in the community, reinforcing familial and societal connections. The knowledge and customs associated with Iftar are transmitted across generations through oral traditions, observation, and hands-on participation, with younger generations playing active roles in meal preparation and learning the cultural significance of fasting. Government bodies, NGOs, charities, and media platforms also play key roles in promoting Iftar traditions and encouraging public engagement.
Iran’s Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts has reiterated the country’s commitment to UNESCO’s Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Earlier this year, Ali Darabi, Deputy for Cultural Heritage, underscored Iran’s proactive implementation of this convention at the 5th Ordinary Governing Council Meeting of the Regional Research Center for Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage in West and Central Asia.