Explore rainmaking ritual during drought period

Iranians of different cultures and religious beliefs hold traditional rainmaking ritual in different forms.

Locals in the Iranian North Khorasan Province for instance hold rainmaking ritual during spring and autumn.

In a special ceremony and preparation, people cook Ash (a classic Persian noodle soup) or Haleem (wheat and meat porridge) and share it with poor residents or their families.  

The ritual is held by people engaged in agriculture during reduction of rainfall.

One of the most famous forms of this ritual is called Chomcheh Galin, which is even held in other Iranian provinces.

In times of drought, children cover big wooden spoons with dolls’ dresses and call them Chomcheh Galin, which is considered a rain doll.

While singing songs and wishing for rain, they go to the houses in their town or village to collect the necessary items for cooking Ash.

When Ash is ready, it is given to all the people, who gather together to pray for rain.

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