Since ancient times Iranians divide winter into two parts, referring to them as “Chelleh”. The first Chelleh, which is called “big chelleh” begins on the first day of winter coinciding with 21 December.
The Yalda Night or Shab-e Chelleh, which is a traditional Iranian festivity has been observed by Iranians from pre-historic times.
Why Do Iranians Celebrate this Night?
Yalda Night, also known as Shab-e Chelleh, derives its name from the Syriac language meaning “birth”. Yalda marks the beginning of the gradual lengthening of the day, hence it is a celebration of the birth of the sun as a sign of light. According to legends, Yalda Night traditions were created in the distant past to guard against evil during the longest night.
How is Yalda Held?
The doorbell rings and it appears that everyone in the family is making their way to the residence of the family patriarch during one of the top celebrations. At their elders’ home, the family and guests come to celebrate Shab-e Yalda.
At home, special arrangements are also made; a sort of heater is put up on the floor, a large table with short legs is positioned above it, and a sizable crimson blanket covers the entire scene. The name of it is Korsi. In the past, in the absence of modern-day equipment, Korsi was the solution for cold winter nights. Not all houses have Korsi nowadays, but it is still a tradition to set up one on Shab-e Yalda to gather around and enjoy the warmth.
The hosts arrange various plates of fruits and nuts on top of the Korsi. The youngsters are instructed to partake in one of the practices of this night, which includes eating delicious almonds as well as fruits like watermelon and pomegranates. When Shab-e Chelleh is approaching, one might find these fruits and nuts put out in the streets and bazaars, being sold and offered to passersby.
The doorbell stops ringing when all of the guests have arrived and the night goes on. They consume watermelon or pomegranates while seated around the Korsi. They consume nuts. They talk and laugh till the sun comes up, remembering happy times and relishing the chance to be back home together and in one other’s presence.
Various fruits and sweet treats that have been specially prepared or stored for this evening are presented. The event is often accompanied by foods like dried fruits, watermelons, pomegranates, and dried fruit. All of these things and more are frequently put on a Korsi, which is where people sit.
They start talking about dinner as they eat. Every city in Iran has something distinctive to offer for the historic Yalda night celebration. Iran is a large country. Iranian chicken stew with walnuts and pomegranates called Khoresh-e Fesenjun is the dish that is served most frequently. Sabzi Polo Maahi, a rice dish with chopped herbs and whitefish or smoked fish, is the traditional Shab-e Yalda meal in the Gilan district of northern Iran.Havij Polo, a type of carrot rice typically served with chicken and saffron that has been roasted in Persia, is the night’s special dish in Shiraz. Kalam Polo, a dish made with rice and cabbage that is also very well-known in Shiraz, is another popular option. Every city in Iran celebrates this night by serving the local cuisine; however, what is interesting is that in the majority of the cities, pomegranates and dry fruits are the main ingredients for Shab-e Chelleh cuisine. In Qazvin, people eat Nardoon (pomegranate stew) or Anar Polo (pomegranate rice)
Why Is Yalda Red? (The Special Appearance of Shab-e Yalda)
The dominant color of the night is red. Most of the visitors on this special night also wear red, so pomegranates and watermelons are not the only red-colored things. Red is often associated with the dawn’s crimson tones and the brightness of life. A holiday called Shab-e Chelleh honors the victory of light over darkness. On this night, many candles and light decorations are typically used in homes and gardens to emphasize the significance of light. The festival is sometimes celebrated with fireworks.
Yalda Night’s Inscription on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage
Shab-e Yalda or Chella, has been considered part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH). This was announced on the occasion of the 17th session of the intergovernmental committee for the safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage held in Rabat, Morocco on 29 November 2022. The UNESCO fact sheet proudly characterizes this ancient event as a mirror of cultural identity, hospitality, peaceful coexistence friendship, and cultural diversity, highlighting its unique characteristics that have greatly and positively influenced the world’s culture.
Being part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage inscriptions means recognizing the country’s heritage and its importance in maintaining cultural diversity in the face of increasing globalization. Intangible Cultural Heritage means helping intercultural dialogue and fostering mutual respect for other ways of life. Its importance lies not in the cultural manifestation itself, but in the wealth of knowledge and skills that are transmitted through it from one generation to another.
How is Yalda Celebrated in Iran?
Since ancient times, Iranians and certain other peoples in the Middle East and Central Asia have celebrated Shabe Yalda. People host elaborate gatherings at special tables and sit around late-night conversations while people read poetry and crack & share jokes with their friends, families, and loved ones.
What is Yalda Night in Islam?
The religious importance of the old Persian festivals was lost with the advent of Islam. Despite the introduction of Islam and Muslim ceremonies, Shab-e Yalda is still frequently celebrated in Iran today. “Shab-e Chelleh” is now just a get-together for pleasure and festivities for family and friends.
How Old is Yalda Night?
One of the sacred nights in ancient Iran was known as “Yalda Night”; starting in 502 BC, and being included in the ancient Persian official calendar during the rule of the Iranian king, Darius I.
