Iran women rule over village in ritual

Village residents in northern Iran store snow in well with women ruling over the village for a day.    

In the small village of Ab-e Ask, an ancient ritual named Varf Chal has been carried out for over 600 years.

Each year, as summer approaches, residents in the village gather to carry large chunks of snow from nearby mountains to a well.

The snow is then stored in the well, providing a source of cool drinking water for passersby and animals during the hot summer months.

What makes this ritual unique is that it is carried out entirely by men.

During the event, the village is under the reign of the women, and they bar men from entering the village till the ritual is done.

The event draws visitors from around the region who come to witness the spectacle and take part in the celebration.

As village residents continue to carry out the tradition year after year, they ensure that their village's ancient customs and beliefs are preserved for future generations.

Here are some photos of the ritual held in May 2023.

AG/AG