Mehregan is an ancient Persian festival celebrated in mid-October, marking the arrival of autumn and the harvest season. It is dedicated to Mithra (Mehr in Persian), the Zoroastrian deity of friendship, love, and light. In Persian mythology, Mithra is associated with justice and covenants, making Mehregan not only a harvest festival but also a celebration of truth and unity.

Historians trace Mehregan’s origins to the Achaemenid Empire (550–330 BCE), where it was one of the most significant annual celebrations, as important as Nowruz (Persian New Year). The festival honored farmers, warriors, and rulers, reinforcing the values of fairness, prosperity, and community.

Mehregan Traditions and Rituals

1. Feasting and Gathering

Traditional Mehregan feasts feature:

- Saffron-flavored foods, symbolizing light and prosperity.
- Pomegranates and apples, representing abundance and blessings.
- Wine and honey, signifying joy and sweetness in life.

2. Setting the Mehregan Table (Sofreh-e Mehregan)

Like Nowruz, Mehregan involves a special decorated table with items symbolizing gratitude and nature’s gifts. Essential elements include:

- Mirror: Reflecting light and truth.
-Gold and silver coins: Representing prosperity.
- Holy Avesta (Zoroastrian scriptures): Signifying spiritual wisdom.
- Flowers and autumn leaves: Honoring nature and the harvest.

3. Wearing Colorful Clothes

During Mehregan, people dress in purple and pink, colors traditionally associated with Mithra and festivity.

Mehregan in Modern Iran

Though Mehregan lost prominence after the Islamic conquest of Persia, it has been revived by Zoroastrian communities in Iran, India (Parsis), and Persian cultural enthusiasts worldwide. Today, it serves as a celebration of friendship, gratitude, and Persian identity.

Mehregan is a festival of love, appreciation, and renewal, reminding us to express gratitude for life’s blessings and cherish the bonds of friendship and family.