The traditional “Gham be Dar” ceremony, a custom from Shushtar, was revived by the local community and several history and culture enthusiasts.
In the past, after celebrating Sizdah Bedar, the people of Shushtar would dedicate the 14th of Farvardin to joy and celebration, referring to it with the unique name “Gham be Dar.” Sadly, this tradition had been forgotten over time, but in an effort to reintroduce it to the younger generation, it was symbolically held on December 14, 2024 (23rd of Azar 1403).
Unlike Sizdah Bedar, which focused on driving away misfortune and spending time in nature, Gham be Dar was a day to put aside sorrow and begin anew with hope and positive energy.
On this day, families would gather, enjoy music, recite poetry, and create a joyful atmosphere through traditional dances and local games. Gham be Dar symbolized the lively and energetic spirit of Shushtar’s people, who, even after the Nowruz holidays ended, continued to embrace joy and vitality in their lives.
This ceremony, a long-forgotten tradition of Shushtar, included family walks, traditional Shushtari sports and games, poetry readings, local music performances, and symbolic reenactments of traditional wedding customs, including the “Barq Zanan” ceremony.
