The Afrinegan ceremony marking the Maidhyarim Gah Gahanbar was held in Qasemabad with the cooperation of the Zoroastrian Association of Qasemabad, coinciding with the first day of this important seasonal observance.
The ceremony was held on Wednesday, December 31, 2025 (10 Dey 1404), at Ostad Mahyar Ardeshir Hall in Qasemabad, Yazd. The program began in the afternoon with the recitation of Avesta prayers by Mobed Parviz Mali, on Mehr Izad of the month of Dey in the Zoroastrian calendar.
After the prayers, Pourshasb Mavandadi, Chairman of the Zoroastrian Association of Qasemabad, thanked the supporters and outlined the income and expenses related to the organization of the Gahanbar for the attendees. Gohar Pashoutanizadeh also addressed the gathering. The ceremony concluded with hospitality, during which lork, vadrin (fruits traditionally served at the Gahanbar table), and dinner were offered to the participants.
Maidhyarim Gah is the fifth Gahanbar of the year and one of the six major seasonal festivals in Zoroastrian tradition, commemorating the creation of animals. It is observed annually from Mehr Izad to Bahram Izad of the month of Dey, corresponding to December 31 to January 4, and lasts five days. The term Maidhyarim means “midpoint of peace,” symbolizing a period of rest and tranquility for farmers and herders. As with other Gahanbars, the celebration is accompanied by acts of charity, with families sharing food and provisions according to their means.
