Celebration of Kharman (harvest): Ancient Persian tradition

Since ancient times, agriculture has been considered as one of the sacred jobs pursued by people in different regions of Iran.   

The celebration of Kharman (harvest) is a traditional ceremony held since the Qajar era in the northern Iranian provinces of Mazandaran, Gilan and Golestan.   

This celebration is held at the end of the agricultural season in spring and summer to combat the fatigue of the farm workers after a period of planting and harvesting the products of wheat and rice.

As a symbol of the gratitude, friendship and cooperation of the people, the traditional ceremony of Kharman is done through symbolic performance of harvesting with traditional agricultural tools and implements.    

In the past time, harvesting agricultural crops by basic tools was a very hard work, being done in several stages by individuals and by using livestock such as horses and etc.

The celebration has therefor been maintained as a way to preserve and revive ancient traditions and native culture of the region.

MM/MM