Zoroastrian students of the first-level girls’ high school of Goshtasb commemorated Mother’s Day and Esfandgan, by gathering for prayers and the renewal of kusti ceremony.
The ceremony was arranged by Parinaz Vali, the Zoroastrian religious studies teacher, in coordination with the school administration, and took place on Tuesday, 28 Bahman 1404 (February 17, 2026). During the program, students recited prayers and renewed their kusti, offering prayers to Ahura Mazda, for the health and well-being of mothers and women of Iran, as well as for the success of the students, the principal, and the teaching staff.
Esfandgan is among the oldest Iranian festivals, traditionally observed in reverence for the earth, women, and mothers. In the ancient calendar, it was celebrated on the day dedicated to Sepandarmazd. This day is regarded as symbol of kindness, humility, and appreciation for the esteemed place of women in Iranian culture.
In the Zoroastrian calendar, in which each month consists of 30 days, Esfandgan falls on the fifth day of the month of Esfand. In contrast, within Iran’s solar calendar, where the first six months contain 31 days, the festival corresponds to 29 Bahman.
