Khordad sal a festival exclusively of the parsi community who are the followers of the religion Zoroastrianism. It is a day to celebrate the birth anniversary of the founder of the religion, Zoroaster. The festival generally falls on the sixth of the Parsi month Farvardin, that is according to Gregorian Calender the festival falls on August or September. Zoroastrians all over the world celebrate the festival with great zeal and enthusiasm with parties and Gahambers.
History
Though the actual date of the birth of the Prophet or Zoroaster is not known exactly it is believed by many that he may have lived in the early 628 and 551 BC. Some believe that he was born somewhere in west Iran or near Tehran. It is said by many existing legends that when his mother was five months pregnant she had a dream one night that the world was going to be destroyed very soon. But then an Angel appeared in front of her and foretold that the unborn child in her womb would become a great Prophet in his life and will be powerful enough to reverse the coming destruction of the world.
When the child was actually born he had divine nature in him, since right at the tmoment of his birth, according to the legends, his face was actually shining. Due to this reason he was given the name of Zarathustra. According to one translation it means Golden (Zara) light (ushas) while in another translation it simply means Yellow (Zara) camel (ustra).
Celebrations
It is celebrated with special prayers and Jashns which are held throughout the day. Khordad sal was used to be observed by the royal family and the upper classes of Iran as Navroz – I – Khas. It is signified as a special historic day as on this day many events occurred and hence is also celebrated as a special new year’s day. But nowadays this day is simply celebrated by all Parsis as the birthday of Prophet. Zoroastrians and Parsis visit fire temples and offer prayers and homage. It is a day of rejoicing as a special feast is prepared and homes are decorated with flowers and rangoli. Many devotees on this day review their lives and take strong resolutions foe the coming future.
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