Asia

Celebration of The Mehrgon Holiday with the Ambassador of Tajikistan

Anciant persian traditions coming back to life in Hamburg

October 02nd, 2024
Silvie Carrel, News from Berlin
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On 28 September 2024, the city of Hamburg played host to the Mehrgon Festival, an ancient celebration of Persian-speaking cultures, in collaboration with the Honorary Consulate of Tajikistan and Persian-speaking associations. The event, a vibrant celebration of autumn and harvest, was held at the Hamburg-Mitte School, where H.E. Dr. Imomudin Sattorov, the Ambassador of Tajikistan to Germany, gave a keynote lecture on the cultural and historical significance of Mehrgon.

The Mehrgon Festival, also known as Mehregan or Mehrgan, has roots dating back to pre-Islamic Persia. Archaeological discoveries, such as a wall fresco in the ancient city of Panjakent from the 6th-7th centuries, depict scenes of harvest, connecting the festival to its ancient origins. It celebrates the autumn equinox, symbolizing abundance, harvest, and prosperity. It was formally recognized as a national holiday in Tajikistan in 2009, underscoring its cultural importance.

During the event, Ambassador Sattorov emphasized the role of Mehrgon in reinforcing Tajik national identity and highlighted the achievements of Tajikistan since gaining independence. His speech also drew attention to the strong cultural ties between Persian-speaking communities and Germany, with Hamburg as a key venue for promoting intercultural understanding.

The festival, organized in part by the House of Cultures of the World e.V., allowed attendees to immerse themselves in Tajik culture, with traditional music, dances, and culinary experiences. The Ambassador also took this opportunity to invite the public to engage further with Tajikistan’s rich cultural heritage.

Mehrgon, remains a pivotal part of the shared heritage of Persian-speaking peoples, representing seasonal transitions and the cycles of life. The event in Hamburg showcased not only the significance of these ancient traditions but also the ongoing cultural dialogue between Tajikistan and Germany.

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News from Berlin