Zoroastrians of Mazraeh-ye Kalantar honored the ancient Tash‑e Boom ceremony, preserved from the traditional calendar, by lighting the Panji Fire on the rooftops of their homes.
At dawn on 15 July 2025 (25 Tir 1404), the blazing Panji Fire illuminated the skies over the Zoroastrian village of Mazraeh‑ye Kalantar in Meybod, Yazd. This age‑old ceremony is deeply rooted in the heritage of their ancestors. Following beliefs handed down through generations, the villagers light the fire together and join their voices in prayer throughout the ceremony.
Fragrant offerings are placed on the flames, and a portion of the fire is collected in an Apargoni (fire brazier). A family member then carries it to the fire temple, entrusting it to the Dehmobed—the keeper of the sacred fire—so that it may be placed in the temple’s sanctuary and join the eternal fire. In this way, each household contributes to sustaining the temple’s sacred flame.
This ancient ceremony spreads joy and strengthens the sense of unity within the community.
The Panji Fire ceremony concluded in an atmosphere of light and togetherness. It began with Gahanbar‑khouni (house‑to‑house prayers) and continued with sports competitions and lively celebrations.
The “Rooftop Fire and Panji Ceremony of the Zoroastrians” was officially inscribed in March 2022 (Esfand 1400) under number 2468 on Iran’s National Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
