Khordad Sal

Khordad Sal is very important festival for the Zoroastrians. This is very holy day for Zoroastrians as it is the birth anniversary of Prophet Spitaman Zarathushtra (Zoroaster).

When is Khordad Sal celebrated?

Festival of Khordad Sal is celebrated on sixth day of Parsi Month of Farvardin. It falls in the month of August or September according to Roman calendar.

History of Khordad Sal:

It isnot known exactly when Prophet Zoroaster did take birth but it is believed that he took birth in the beginning of first millennium BC.So the date of Khordad Sal is commonly decide by Zoroastrians and on the sixth day of Farvardin, it is symbolically celebrated.

Initially, Khordad Sal was celebrated as the Navroz-I-Khas by the King and Nobality. This day is remembered for many historic events of Iran. It is after many years , that this day was assigned for the birthday of Prophet Zoroaster.

Celebration of Khordad Sal:

 This holy day of Khordad Sal is celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm. For this occasion, houses are cleaned, decorated and rangolis are drawn. Flowers are arranged in beautiful designs and very delicious food is prepared. Traditional Parsi delicacies are the important part of Zoroastrian festivals. People greet each other and exchange gifts.

A ritual, called Jashan, is performed at temples. In this ritual, thanksgiving prayers are offered at temples. A very rich feast is prepared at this occasion.

For the Parsis in India, it is a great occasion. Parsis are a closely-knit society in India and for the celebrations of Khordad Sal, kith and kin gather at a place to enjoy collectively.

This is also time to do some charity and donations. Parsis also take some time to think about their life and its meaning. They should make some changes in their life for good. In Zoroastrianism, great importance is given for good deeds and charity.