Zoroastrians in Iran Celebrate Sadeh Festival with Bonfires

In a rare move, the Islamic Republic's air force band played the national anthem at the festival, which UNESCO recognized as part of its Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2023.

Iran's minority Zoroastrian community celebrated the Sadeh festival, marking the end of the coldest winter days with bonfires and festivities.
The Sadeh festival is an ancient feast from when Zoroastrianism was the dominant faith in the Persian empire, symbolizing the 50 days and 50 nights remaining until spring.
In a rare move, the Islamic Republic's air force band played the national anthem, adding to the excitement of the attendees.
Zoroastrianism, a monotheistic religion that predates Christianity and Islam, sees fire as a symbol of truth and the spirit of God, not as an object of worship.
In 2023, UNESCO recognized Sadeh in its Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity from Iran and Tajikistan.