This year, the main events to celebrate Mehrgon festival took place in Dushanbe’s Boghi Iram (Park of Heaven) on October 19.
A theatrical show and exhibition of farm produce and handicraft items were held in Iram Pak (Botanical Gardens of the Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan).
Farmers from all regions of the country participated in the exhibition of farm produce, putting on display their achievements.
Tajik government adopted a decree on revival of Mehrgon festival in 2009.
Mehrgon is one of the two most ancient Iranian festivals known, dating back at least as far as the earliest Aryans (Iranians).
The word "Mehr" in the Persian language means kindness. Mehr represents knowledge, love, light and friendship.
Mehrgon is an Iranian festival celebrated in honor of Mithra, the divinity of covenant, and hence of interpersonal relationships such as friendship, affection and love.
There are many accounts about the origin of Mehrgon.
Avestan texts divide the Iranian year into two equal parts or seasons. The first season was summer and the second was winter. The coming of the two seasons would be celebrated through Navrouz and Mehrgon.
Today, Mehrgon remains a celebration involving family and friends. However, it is today recognized as a harvest festival.
