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<div class="pg_page_title">[[Language/Dari|Dari]]  → [[Language/Dari/Culture|Culture]] → [[Language/Dari/Grammar/0-to-A1-Course|0 to A1 Course]] → Dari-speaking Countries and Traditions → Holidays and Celebrations</div>
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== Holidays and Celebrations in Dari-speaking Countries ==
== Introduction ==
 
Welcome to the lesson on holidays and celebrations in Dari-speaking countries! In this lesson, we will explore the rich cultural traditions and customs associated with various holidays celebrated by the Dari-speaking communities. Understanding the significance of these holidays will not only enhance your language skills but also provide valuable insights into the diverse cultures of Afghanistan and Iran, where Dari is spoken. By the end of this lesson, you will have a deeper appreciation for the cultural heritage and traditions of Dari-speaking countries.
 
== Cultural Significance of Holidays and Celebrations ==


Holidays and celebrations are an important part of Dari-speaking countries' culture. They are an opportunity to come together, celebrate traditional customs, and strengthen familial and social ties. This lesson will introduce you to some of the most important holidays and celebrations in Dari-speaking countries and their unique customs and traditions.
Holidays and celebrations play a vital role in any culture, serving as a way to commemorate important events, honor traditions, and bring communities together. In Dari-speaking countries, these occasions are marked by various rituals, customs, and festivities that reflect the unique cultural identities of different regions. By understanding and participating in these celebrations, you will gain a deeper understanding of the Dari language and the people who speak it.


=== Nowruz ===
== Major Holidays and Celebrations ==


Nowruz is perhaps the most important holiday in Dari-speaking countries, celebrating the Persian New Year. It is also celebrated in other countries such as Iraq, Azerbaijan, and Syria. Nowruz marks the first day of spring and the renewal of nature. It falls on the spring equinox and lasts for 13 days. Preparations for the holiday often begin weeks in advance.
=== Nowruz - The Persian New Year ===


Nowruz customs include:
One of the most significant holidays in Dari-speaking countries is Nowruz, which marks the beginning of the Persian New Year. Celebrated on the spring equinox, Nowruz represents a time of renewal, growth, and the arrival of spring. It is a joyous occasion filled with family gatherings, feasts, and various customs and traditions. Let's explore some of the key aspects of Nowruz:


* Haft-sin: a tabletop arrangement of seven items that start with the Persian letter "sin". These items typically include wheat or lentil sprouts, apples, garlic, vinegar, coins, and a mirror representing light and reflection.
==== Haft Seen Table ====
* Chaharshanbe Suri: a fire jumping ceremony held on the last Wednesday evening before Nowruz. People jump over small bonfires while chanting "sorkhi-e to az man" (give me your beautiful red color and take back my sickly pallor). This ritual is believed to symbolize purification and the removal of evil from the body and spirit.
* Visiting family and friends: People visit relatives and friends, exchange gifts, and share meals together. It is customary to offer sweets, nuts, and fruits to guests.


Here is a table of some common Dari words associated with Nowruz:
During Nowruz, families set up a Haft Seen table, which is adorned with seven symbolic items that start with the letter "S" in Persian. These items include Sabzeh (sprouts), Samanu (sweet pudding), Senjed (dried fruit), Seer (garlic), Seeb (apple), Serkeh (vinegar), and Somaq (sumac). Each item represents a specific wish or blessing for the coming year.


{| class="wikitable"
==== Chaharshanbe Suri - Festival of Fire ====
! Dari !! Pronunciation !! English
 
|-
Another important tradition associated with Nowruz is Chaharshanbe Suri, also known as the Festival of Fire. This event takes place on the eve of the last Wednesday before Nowruz. People gather around bonfires and jump over the flames, symbolically casting away their sins and impurities, and welcoming a fresh start for the new year.
| نوروز || nowruz || Persian New Year
 
|-
==== Sizdah Bedar - Nature Day ====
| حالی سال || hālī sāl || new year
 
|-
On the thirteenth day of Nowruz, Dari-speaking communities celebrate Sizdah Bedar, also known as Nature Day. It is a day dedicated to spending time outdoors, enjoying picnics, and socializing with friends and family. People believe that spending this day in nature brings good luck and prosperity for the rest of the year.
| سال نو || sāl-e now || new year
 
|-
=== Eid al-Fitr - Festival of Breaking the Fast ===
| هفت سین || haft-sin || tabletop arrangement of seven items
|-
| چهارشنبه سوری || chahārshanbe suri || fire jumping ceremony
|}


=== Eid al-Fitr ===
Eid al-Fitr, also known as the Festival of Breaking the Fast, is an important religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide. It marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting and prayer. During Eid al-Fitr, Dari-speaking communities come together for special prayers, feasts, and acts of charity. It is a time of joy, forgiveness, and gratitude, as Muslims break their fast and express gratitude for the blessings they have received.


Eid al-Fitr is an important religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide that marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. The date for Eid al-Fitr is determined by the Islamic lunar calendar.
=== Eid al-Adha - Festival of Sacrifice ===


Eid al-Fitr customs include:
Eid al-Adha, or the Festival of Sacrifice, is another significant holiday in Dari-speaking countries. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. Dari-speaking communities celebrate this holiday by performing animal sacrifices, sharing food with the less fortunate, and visiting family and friends. It is a time to reflect on the importance of faith, sacrifice, and compassion.


* Eid prayers: Muslims attend communal prayers at mosques or in designated areas, dressed in new or clean clothing.
=== Yalda Night - Celebration of Winter Solstice ===
* Zakat al-Fitr: a charitable donation of food or money given to the poor and needy in the community.
* Festive meals: Families and friends come together to share meals and desserts, such as sheer khurma, a sweet vermicelli pudding made with milk, dates, and nuts.


Here is a table of some common Dari words associated with Eid al-Fitr:
Yalda Night, also known as Shab-e Yalda, is a traditional Iranian celebration that takes place on the longest night of the year, which coincides with the winter solstice. It is a time for families and friends to gather together, recite poetry, eat traditional foods, and stay up late into the night. Yalda Night symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and the renewal of hope as the days start getting longer.


{| class="wikitable"
=== Independence Day ===
! Dari !! Pronunciation !! English
|-
| عید فطر || ‘eid-e fetr || Eid al-Fitr
|-
| روزه || rūze || fasting
|-
| نماز || namāz || prayer
|-
| صلاه || salāh || prayer
|-
| زکات الفطر || zakāt al-fitr || charitable donation
|}


=== Eid al-Adha ===
Independence Day is a significant holiday celebrated in Dari-speaking countries to commemorate the independence and sovereignty of the nation. In Afghanistan, it is celebrated on August 19th, marking the country's independence from British influence in 1919. In Iran, Independence Day is celebrated on April 1st, commemorating the day when Iran officially became an Islamic Republic in 1979. These celebrations are marked by parades, cultural events, and patriotic displays.


Eid al-Adha is another important religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Ismail (Ishmael) as an act of submission to God's command. The holiday also marks the end of the Hajj (annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca).
=== Afghan New Year (Nawroz) ===


Eid al-Adha customs include:
Apart from the Persian New Year (Nowruz), Afghans also celebrate Nawroz, which holds great cultural significance. It is celebrated on the first day of the Afghan solar calendar, usually falling on March 21st. Nawroz is a time for Afghans to come together, enjoy traditional music and dance, and participate in various customs and rituals. It is a celebration of Afghan identity and the start of a new year filled with hope and prosperity.


* Animal sacrifice: Muslims who can afford it are required to sacrifice an animal (usually a goat, sheep, or cow) on this day as a symbol of sacrifice and generosity. The meat is shared with family, friends, and the needy.
== Regional Variations and Traditions ==
* Eid prayers: Muslims attend communal prayers at mosques or in designated areas, dressed in new or clean clothing.
* Festive meals: Families and friends come together to share meals and desserts, such as baklava, a sweet pastry made with nuts and honey syrup.


Here is a table of some common Dari words associated with Eid al-Adha:
While many holidays and celebrations are widely observed throughout Dari-speaking countries, there are also regional variations and traditions that add to the rich tapestry of cultural diversity. Let's explore some of these regional variations:


{| class="wikitable"
=== Eid-e Nowruz in Afghanistan ===
! Dari !! Pronunciation !! English
|-
| عید قربان || ‘eid-e qorbān || Eid al-Adha
|-
| قربانی || qorbānī || animal sacrifice
|-
| صدقه || sadāqah || charity
|-
| نماز || namāz || prayer
|-
| باقلوا || bāqlavā || baklava
|}


=== Ashura ===
In Afghanistan, the celebration of Nowruz takes on a unique flavor with the addition of Eid-e Nowruz, which is specific to Afghan culture. It is a time when families and friends gather to enjoy traditional Afghan dishes, exchange gifts, and engage in music and dance. The celebration of Eid-e Nowruz showcases the vibrant Afghan culture and its deep-rooted traditions.


Ashura is a significant religious holiday for Shia Muslims, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. It is observed on the 10th of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar.
=== Mehregan Festival in Iran ===


Ashura customs include:
Mehregan is an ancient Persian festival that is celebrated in Iran to honor the ancient deity Mithra, the goddess of love and abundance. During Mehregan, people dress in traditional clothing, engage in storytelling and poetry recitals, and participate in various cultural activities. It is a time to appreciate the beauty of Persian arts, music, and literature.


* Mourning: Shia Muslims commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein through mourning rituals, such as crying, self-flagellation, and reciting elegies and poetry.
== Exercises ==
* Charity: it is customary to give to the poor and needy during the month of Muharram and on Ashura day.
* Fasting: Shia Muslims fast on Ashura day as a sign of solidarity with Imam Hussein's suffering.


Here is a table of some common Dari words associated with Ashura:
Now that you have learned about the major holidays and celebrations in Dari-speaking countries, it's time to test your knowledge. Complete the following exercises to reinforce what you have learned:


Exercise 1: Match the Holiday
Match each holiday or celebration with its description.
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Dari !! Pronunciation !! English
! Holiday or Celebration !! Description
|-
|-
| عاشورا || ‘āshūra || Ashura
| Nowruz || A. Festival of Breaking the Fast
|-
|-
| شهادت || shahādat || martyrdom
| Eid al-Fitr || B. Celebration of Winter Solstice
|-
|-
| دعا || do'ā || prayer
| Yalda Night || C. Persian New Year
|-
|-
|روزه || rūze || fasting
| Independence Day || D. Festival of Sacrifice
|-
|-
| زکات || zakāt || charity
| Nawroz || E. Commemorates independence and sovereignty
|}
|}


=== Jashn-e Sadeh ===
Exercise 2: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the appropriate words or phrases.
* __________ marks the beginning of the Persian New Year.
* Chaharshanbe Suri is also known as the _________ of Fire.
* Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of _________ to sacrifice his son.
* Yalda Night celebrates the _________ of Winter Solstice.
* Independence Day is celebrated to commemorate the _________ of the nation.


Jashn-e Sadeh is a Zoroastrian festival celebrated in Iran and parts of Afghanistan. It is one of the oldest Iranian festivals, dating back to ancient times. It marks the arrival of spring and the defeat of darkness by light.
== Solutions ==
 
Jashn-e Sadeh customs include:
 
* Lighting of bonfires: People light bonfires on hilltops to symbolize their search for truth and enlightenment.
* Traditional food: People eat traditional Iranian dishes, such as kebab and rice, during the celebration.
* Music and dance: People play traditional music and dance together around the bonfires.
 
Here is a table of some common Dari words associated with Jashn-e Sadeh:


Exercise 1: Match the Holiday
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Dari !! Pronunciation !! English
! Holiday or Celebration !! Description
|-
|-
| جشن سده || jashn-e sadeh || Jashn-e Sadeh
| Nowruz || C. Persian New Year
|-
|-
| آتش بازی || ātesh-bāzī || bonfire
| Eid al-Fitr || A. Festival of Breaking the Fast
|-
|-
| نان برنجی || nān-e berenjī || rice bread
| Yalda Night || B. Celebration of Winter Solstice
|-
|-
| کباب || kabāb || kebab
| Independence Day || E. Commemorates independence and sovereignty
|-
|-
| موسیقی || musiqi || music
| Nawroz || Not mentioned in previous exercise
|}
|}
Exercise 2: Fill in the Blanks
* Nowruz marks the beginning of the Persian New Year.
* Chaharshanbe Suri is also known as the Festival of Fire.
* Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son.
* Yalda Night celebrates the arrival of Winter Solstice.
* Independence Day is celebrated to commemorate the independence of the nation.


== Conclusion ==
== Conclusion ==


In this lesson, you learned about some of the most important holidays and celebrations in Dari-speaking countries. These celebrations reflect the rich cultural heritage of these countries and provide an opportunity for people to come together, celebrate and strengthen communal ties. By learning about these holidays and customs, you can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the cultures of Dari-speaking countries.
In this lesson, we have explored the major holidays and celebrations in Dari-speaking countries. From the vibrant festivities of Nowruz to the religious significance of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, these celebrations offer a glimpse into the cultural traditions and customs of Dari-speaking communities. By understanding and participating in these celebrations, you will not only deepen your language skills but also gain a greater appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Afghanistan and Iran. Keep exploring and embracing the diverse cultures and traditions associated with the Dari language!
 
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==Sources==
* [https://guides.library.illinois.edu/c.php?g=347570&p=2340093 Folk Culture - Dari Language - LibGuides at University of Illinois at ...]
 




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==Sources==
* [https://guides.library.illinois.edu/c.php?g=347570&p=2340093 Folk Culture - Dari Language - LibGuides at University of Illinois at ...]


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Latest revision as of 04:37, 22 June 2023

◀️ Afghanistan and Iran — Previous Lesson Next Lesson — Modes of Transportation ▶️

Dari-Language-PolyglotClub.png
DariCulture0 to A1 Course → Dari-speaking Countries and Traditions → Holidays and Celebrations

Introduction[edit | edit source]

Welcome to the lesson on holidays and celebrations in Dari-speaking countries! In this lesson, we will explore the rich cultural traditions and customs associated with various holidays celebrated by the Dari-speaking communities. Understanding the significance of these holidays will not only enhance your language skills but also provide valuable insights into the diverse cultures of Afghanistan and Iran, where Dari is spoken. By the end of this lesson, you will have a deeper appreciation for the cultural heritage and traditions of Dari-speaking countries.

Cultural Significance of Holidays and Celebrations[edit | edit source]

Holidays and celebrations play a vital role in any culture, serving as a way to commemorate important events, honor traditions, and bring communities together. In Dari-speaking countries, these occasions are marked by various rituals, customs, and festivities that reflect the unique cultural identities of different regions. By understanding and participating in these celebrations, you will gain a deeper understanding of the Dari language and the people who speak it.

Major Holidays and Celebrations[edit | edit source]

Nowruz - The Persian New Year[edit | edit source]

One of the most significant holidays in Dari-speaking countries is Nowruz, which marks the beginning of the Persian New Year. Celebrated on the spring equinox, Nowruz represents a time of renewal, growth, and the arrival of spring. It is a joyous occasion filled with family gatherings, feasts, and various customs and traditions. Let's explore some of the key aspects of Nowruz:

Haft Seen Table[edit | edit source]

During Nowruz, families set up a Haft Seen table, which is adorned with seven symbolic items that start with the letter "S" in Persian. These items include Sabzeh (sprouts), Samanu (sweet pudding), Senjed (dried fruit), Seer (garlic), Seeb (apple), Serkeh (vinegar), and Somaq (sumac). Each item represents a specific wish or blessing for the coming year.

Chaharshanbe Suri - Festival of Fire[edit | edit source]

Another important tradition associated with Nowruz is Chaharshanbe Suri, also known as the Festival of Fire. This event takes place on the eve of the last Wednesday before Nowruz. People gather around bonfires and jump over the flames, symbolically casting away their sins and impurities, and welcoming a fresh start for the new year.

Sizdah Bedar - Nature Day[edit | edit source]

On the thirteenth day of Nowruz, Dari-speaking communities celebrate Sizdah Bedar, also known as Nature Day. It is a day dedicated to spending time outdoors, enjoying picnics, and socializing with friends and family. People believe that spending this day in nature brings good luck and prosperity for the rest of the year.

Eid al-Fitr - Festival of Breaking the Fast[edit | edit source]

Eid al-Fitr, also known as the Festival of Breaking the Fast, is an important religious holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide. It marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting and prayer. During Eid al-Fitr, Dari-speaking communities come together for special prayers, feasts, and acts of charity. It is a time of joy, forgiveness, and gratitude, as Muslims break their fast and express gratitude for the blessings they have received.

Eid al-Adha - Festival of Sacrifice[edit | edit source]

Eid al-Adha, or the Festival of Sacrifice, is another significant holiday in Dari-speaking countries. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. Dari-speaking communities celebrate this holiday by performing animal sacrifices, sharing food with the less fortunate, and visiting family and friends. It is a time to reflect on the importance of faith, sacrifice, and compassion.

Yalda Night - Celebration of Winter Solstice[edit | edit source]

Yalda Night, also known as Shab-e Yalda, is a traditional Iranian celebration that takes place on the longest night of the year, which coincides with the winter solstice. It is a time for families and friends to gather together, recite poetry, eat traditional foods, and stay up late into the night. Yalda Night symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and the renewal of hope as the days start getting longer.

Independence Day[edit | edit source]

Independence Day is a significant holiday celebrated in Dari-speaking countries to commemorate the independence and sovereignty of the nation. In Afghanistan, it is celebrated on August 19th, marking the country's independence from British influence in 1919. In Iran, Independence Day is celebrated on April 1st, commemorating the day when Iran officially became an Islamic Republic in 1979. These celebrations are marked by parades, cultural events, and patriotic displays.

Afghan New Year (Nawroz)[edit | edit source]

Apart from the Persian New Year (Nowruz), Afghans also celebrate Nawroz, which holds great cultural significance. It is celebrated on the first day of the Afghan solar calendar, usually falling on March 21st. Nawroz is a time for Afghans to come together, enjoy traditional music and dance, and participate in various customs and rituals. It is a celebration of Afghan identity and the start of a new year filled with hope and prosperity.

Regional Variations and Traditions[edit | edit source]

While many holidays and celebrations are widely observed throughout Dari-speaking countries, there are also regional variations and traditions that add to the rich tapestry of cultural diversity. Let's explore some of these regional variations:

Eid-e Nowruz in Afghanistan[edit | edit source]

In Afghanistan, the celebration of Nowruz takes on a unique flavor with the addition of Eid-e Nowruz, which is specific to Afghan culture. It is a time when families and friends gather to enjoy traditional Afghan dishes, exchange gifts, and engage in music and dance. The celebration of Eid-e Nowruz showcases the vibrant Afghan culture and its deep-rooted traditions.

Mehregan Festival in Iran[edit | edit source]

Mehregan is an ancient Persian festival that is celebrated in Iran to honor the ancient deity Mithra, the goddess of love and abundance. During Mehregan, people dress in traditional clothing, engage in storytelling and poetry recitals, and participate in various cultural activities. It is a time to appreciate the beauty of Persian arts, music, and literature.

Exercises[edit | edit source]

Now that you have learned about the major holidays and celebrations in Dari-speaking countries, it's time to test your knowledge. Complete the following exercises to reinforce what you have learned:

Exercise 1: Match the Holiday Match each holiday or celebration with its description.

Holiday or Celebration Description
Nowruz A. Festival of Breaking the Fast
Eid al-Fitr B. Celebration of Winter Solstice
Yalda Night C. Persian New Year
Independence Day D. Festival of Sacrifice
Nawroz E. Commemorates independence and sovereignty

Exercise 2: Fill in the Blanks Fill in the blanks with the appropriate words or phrases.

  • __________ marks the beginning of the Persian New Year.
  • Chaharshanbe Suri is also known as the _________ of Fire.
  • Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of _________ to sacrifice his son.
  • Yalda Night celebrates the _________ of Winter Solstice.
  • Independence Day is celebrated to commemorate the _________ of the nation.

Solutions[edit | edit source]

Exercise 1: Match the Holiday

Holiday or Celebration Description
Nowruz C. Persian New Year
Eid al-Fitr A. Festival of Breaking the Fast
Yalda Night B. Celebration of Winter Solstice
Independence Day E. Commemorates independence and sovereignty
Nawroz Not mentioned in previous exercise

Exercise 2: Fill in the Blanks

  • Nowruz marks the beginning of the Persian New Year.
  • Chaharshanbe Suri is also known as the Festival of Fire.
  • Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son.
  • Yalda Night celebrates the arrival of Winter Solstice.
  • Independence Day is celebrated to commemorate the independence of the nation.

Conclusion[edit | edit source]

In this lesson, we have explored the major holidays and celebrations in Dari-speaking countries. From the vibrant festivities of Nowruz to the religious significance of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, these celebrations offer a glimpse into the cultural traditions and customs of Dari-speaking communities. By understanding and participating in these celebrations, you will not only deepen your language skills but also gain a greater appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Afghanistan and Iran. Keep exploring and embracing the diverse cultures and traditions associated with the Dari language!

Table of Contents - Dari Course - 0 to A1[edit source]


Greetings and Introductions


Pronouns and Verbs


Numbers and Time


Nouns and Articles


Family and Relationships


Adjectives and Adverbs


Food and Dining


Prepositions and Conjunctions


Dari-speaking Countries and Traditions


Travel and Transportation


Questions and Negations


Weather and Seasons


Past and Future Tenses


Dari Literature and Media


Sources[edit | edit source]


Other Lessons[edit | edit source]




◀️ Afghanistan and Iran — Previous Lesson Next Lesson — Modes of Transportation ▶️