let’s take a trip back in time to the old Tehran and explore some of the amazing customs and traditions that colored the lives of its people. You know, celebrations were a big deal for the folks there, adding so much fun and excitement to their everyday routines. While you’re busy checking out all the cool modern stuff in Tehran, don’t forget to soak up the history and culture that made this city so special back in the day. Let’s dive into some of these awesome customs:
Nowruz Celebration: Persian New Year Fun
The Persian New Year, also known as Nowruz, was an absolute blast in old Tehran, and guess what? It’s still celebrated with the same enthusiasm today! This festive time is packed with cool traditions and customs that symbolize fresh starts and new beginnings. Get ready to dive into the spirit of Nowruz and experience the magic of this timeless celebration.
Charanbash Suri: Let’s Jump into the New Year!
Just before the year comes to an end, the people of Damavand, Tehran, gear up for the epic Charanbash Suri celebration on the last Wednesday of the year. It’s a super lively event with fireworks lighting up the sky and everyone jumping over the fire to welcome the new year with a bang! Join in the excitement and feel the thrill of starting fresh.
Panje: A Celebration Amidst Nature’s Beauty
The customs of the people of old Tehran
Picture this: the Panje celebration, also known as Vihezak or Vahijak, happening during the last five days of the year. As the weather gets chilly and crops face a risk of damage, the whole community heads out to the mountains. It’s a time to pray for the crops and have some serious fun! This tradition was all about protecting the crops and having a blast while connecting with nature and each other.
Hāji Firuz: Spreading Joy and Festivities
In the rich tapestry of Tehran’s culture, Hāji Firuz is a beloved figure known for his vibrant red, pink, and black attire, along with his iconic trumpet hat. As a symbol of celebration during Eid and the New Year, Hāji Firuz spreads joy and merriment among the people, adding a touch of color and excitement to the festive occasions. Embrace the spirit of Hāji Firuz and join in the festivities as the community comes together to mark these special moments with laughter and cheer.
Shab al-Afa: A Night of Nourishment and Traditions
The customs of the people of old Tehran
Step into the enchanting world of Shab al-Afa, also known as Al-Shabaab, a cherished tradition in old Tehran. This special night is celebrated with a delectable feast featuring sabzi pilaf, coconut vegetables, fresh garlic, and fish, all chosen for their health-giving properties believed to bring vitality and well-being throughout the year. As families gather around the Haft Sin table, they partake in the sumptuous spread and revel in the joy of togetherness, creating lasting memories and strengthening bonds.
Nowruz Eid: Spreading Cheer and Goodies
Oh, the Nowruz Eid celebration is a big deal in Tehran! It’s all about meeting friends and family, and guess what? The elders still love giving colorful eggs and cool presents to the kiddos. Back in old Tehran, the fun started at the chief’s house in the village, bringing everyone together for a fantastic time.
Sizdah Bedar: Fun in the Great Outdoors
When the 13th day of Farvardin rolls around, it’s time to hit the outdoors and enjoy some quality time in nature. And hey, don’t forget to try the mouthwatering Koko sabzi that adds a burst of flavor to the festivities. It’s all about good food and good times with your favorite people!
Traditional Games: Let’s Play!
Get ready for some serious fun with traditional games that have been entertaining Tehran’s folks for ages! From the classic Doz Qala and Choq Top to the super lively Alek Dulak, Baran Mai Aid Jar Jar, and Ye Qal Ru Qal, these games have been bringing smiles and laughter to everyone. Time to show off your skills and have a blast!
Thirteenth of July (Tir Mahh Sizdah) and Mute Ceremony: Stories and Sweet Gestures
On the Thirteenth of July, families in Ahar village gather around to share stories and make memories. Meanwhile, teenagers play a cute game on the rooftops, exchanging handkerchiefs with their neighbors. And don’t forget the heartfelt mute ceremony in Damavand and Firuzkoh, bringing everyone closer in a moment of quiet reflection and unity.
Cultural Significance of Nazri: Sharing Goodness and Love
The customs of the people of old Tehran
Nazri is all about spreading love and blessings in Tehran. From the special feast of Hazrat Ruqiyah (AS) to the meaningful birth reading ceremonies, these offerings bring everyone together in the spirit of community and togetherness. It’s all about sharing the goodness and keeping those traditions alive!
Naming Ceremony: Welcoming the Newborn
Picture this: on the sixth night after the baby’s arrival, there’s a beautiful celebration where both women and men come together for a joyous dinner. After the feast, they write down various names for the baby on pieces of paper, place them on the Quran, open a page, and whisper the chosen name into the child’s ears with the adhan and iqama. This heartfelt tradition has been an essential part of Tehran’s culture, uniting families and celebrating the newest members with love and joy.
Jashn-e Dandooni (Tooth Festival): A Celebration of Milestones
When it’s time for the little ones to start teething, the community comes together to celebrate this adorable stage with the ‘Jashn-e Dandooni’ festival. To ensure that the baby’s teething experience is comfortable, they make a special pillow, showcasing their care and affection for the little ones. This heartwarming tradition continues to be an integral part of old Tehran’s customs, reflecting the community’s love and warmth for its youngest members.
Yalda Night: Embracing the Longest Night
Yalda night, also known as Chellah, is a night of togetherness and warmth, marking the longest night of the year. In old Tehran, families would gather at the elder’s house, enjoying a delightful feast of both winter and summer fruits, cherishing the night until dawn. One of the beloved snacks during Shab Chele was the Yalda Shab Nuts, a delightful assortment of dried fruits that spoke volumes about the beliefs and experiences of the people of old Tehran. The day after Chellah night held great significance, with everyone striving to uphold the sanctity of the day. For the elders of Tehran, Yalda night symbolized blessings, health, and joy, fostering an atmosphere of happiness and camaraderie. Storytelling by the elders was another highlight of this ancient celebration, passing down tales of wisdom and history to the younger generation, creating unforgettable memories that would be cherished for years to come.
Yalda Night in Tehran: A Celebration of Blessings
Just like in other regions, Yalda night in Tehran is steeped in the warmth of family gatherings and traditional customs. What makes Yalda night customs in Tehran unique is the deep reverence for the day after Chellah night, with everyone striving to uphold its significance by refraining from any wrongdoing. For the elders of Tehran, Yalda night signified blessings, good health, and an abundance of joy, fostering an atmosphere of happiness and celebration. The tradition of storytelling by the elders added an extra layer of magic to this cherished celebration, passing down tales of wisdom and heritage to the younger generation and ensuring the preservation of Tehran’s rich cultural heritage.
rent furnished apartment in tehran
Men’s Clothing: Dapper and Diverse Styles
Step into Tehran, and you’ll see men sporting a variety of cool caps, stylish undershirts, and a range of headgear, including the classic felt hats, short-brimmed hats, Bakhtiari hats, and more. Each piece of clothing tells a story, reflecting the unique tastes and traditions of the people, adding a touch of flair to everyday fashion.
Women’s Clothing: Timeless Elegance
Ah, the women of Tehran have always embraced grace and elegance in their attire. During the Qajar period, their clothing showcased a timeless style, often featuring a lovely white cloth veil. With shoes designed with a Galashi touch and skirts like “petticoat” or “Shalita,” their ensembles were a beautiful blend of tradition and sophistication, reflecting the rich heritage and culture of the region.
Traditional Sports: Embracing Strength and Unity
Sports have always been a big part of Tehran’s vibrant culture, with the older generation engaging in lively activities at the zurkhaneh. From holding poles and wheels to rowing and lifting Kabadah, all accompanied by rhythmic songs and stories, these sports celebrated strength, unity, and the enduring spirit of the city. The oldest zurkhaneh on Molvi Street still echoes with the energy of this ancient sport, drawing enthusiasts and keeping the legacy alive.
Traditional Dishes: A Feast for the Senses
Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with Tehran’s mouthwatering traditional dishes! From the hearty Ash Shale Qalamkar to the flavorful Abgousht Bozbash and everything in between, these dishes are a celebration of Iran’s culinary heritage, bringing together flavors and aromas that have been cherished for generations.
We hope you enjoyed this delightful journey through the heart and soul of old Tehran, and we can’t wait to hear your thoughts and stories as we continue to celebrate the rich tapestry of this wonderful culture.
Comment (0)