Mehr Festival (minor)
Mehr Festival (minor), Aban 15.
This festival is a Zoroastrian observance held in the Shahanshahi calendar on the fifteenth day of Aban.
The minor Mehr Festival is considered a subsidiary celebration associated with Mithra and the sun, marked by gatherings, prayers, and the lighting of fires.
In Zoroastrian tradition, Mithra symbolizes covenant, friendship, and truth.
The minor Mehr Festival provides an opportunity to honor these values.
Alongside the major Mehrgan festival, which takes place in the month of Mehr, this observance holds a distinct place among celebrations dedicated to Mithra.
On this day, Zoroastrians attend fire temples and participate in traditional rituals of prayer and thanksgiving.
The minor Mehr Festival is also observed in some regions of Iran and among Zoroastrian communities abroad.
The ceremonies often include sharing traditional foods, music, and recitation of poetry.
Although this festival is less prominent than Mehrgan, it remains an important part of Zoroastrian cultural and religious identity and contributes to the preservation of ancient traditions.