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Yaldā: Iranian celebration of winter

Iranians around the world celebrate Yaldā, which dates back to the time when a majority of Persians were followers of Zoroastrianism prior to the advent of Islam. On Yaldā, Iranians celebrate the arrival of winter, the renewal of the sun and the victory of light over darkness. Considered the longest night of the year, Yaldā is the night when ancient Persians celebrated the birth of Mithra, the goddess of light. Ancient Persians believed that evil forces were dominant on the longest night of the year and that the next day belonged to the Lord of Wisdom, Ahura Mazda. On this night, family members get together (most often in the house of the eldest member) and stay awake all night long. Dried nuts, watermelon and pomegranate are served, as to God for increasing his bounties, as well classic poems are read aloud.Iranians believe those who begin winter by eating summer fruits would not fall ill during the cold season. Therefore, eating watermelons is one of the most important traditions in this night. Pomegranates are reminders of the cycle of life--the rebirth and revival of generations. The purple outer covering of a pomegranate symbolizes birth or dawn, and their bright red seeds the glow of life. As days start lengthening, ancient Persians believe that at the end of the first night of winter which coincides with December 21 this year, darkness is defeated by light and therefore they must celebrate the whole night. Coinciding with the beginning of the winter, Yaldā is an occasion to celebrate the end of the crop season. Today, it is an event to Lord for all blessings and to pray for prosperity in the next year...