Like every religion, Zoroastrianism has several festival and sacred Occasions. Among the number of festivals they celebrate, Gahambars are believed to be quite auspicious and important. Parsi population has different ways of worshiping. In accordance with their religion, they honour Sky, Waters, Earth, Plants, Cattle and Man because these six are considered responsible for the creation of the entire world. The festival marked in honour of these is known as Gahambar and there are total six Gahambars in a year, each of them representing above mentioned six factors. Each Gahambars runs for five days.
If you are curious about how these celebrations are marked then let us point them out. Tribute paid to the creator of the world, common feastings and also usual get-together and remembering ancestors are the hallmarks of this festival. This occasion is used for spreading the message of harmony, peace and love among all the human beings.
Parsi community is often associated with tradition and generous deeds and this festival gives them one reason to celebrate their roots. It is said that a true Parsi must have the qualities of good deeds and Gahambar is significant because these good deeds are manifested through it. A Parsi must have act of goodness including, Celebrating the Gahambars, Rastih or being truthful, wishing everyone's well, observing a three-day ceremony after death, Building lodgings for the poor, Radih or being charitable and Worshipping God.
Gahambar can be translated to 'full time' or 'proper season' and it takes place six times a year. The celebrations begin with a charitable deed known as Afrin. Then follows, Baj prayers, Yasna and Pavi. The fifth and the last day is for feast where people can either serve or donate.
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