Vakhshnkam festival honoring the guardian angel of the Jayhun (Oxus/Amu Darya) river. Biruni called "Vakhshankam" the angel of the Jayhun. The name comes from the Vakhsh River, the largest tributary of the Amu Darya.
Origin
Oxus River festival - Documented by Biruni
Historical Context
This is one of the most forgotten Iranian festivals, reflecting the historical connection between the Iranian plateau and Central Asia (Greater Khorasan, Transoxiana). The Amu Darya was the largest river in the Iranian cultural sphere.
Fun Facts
The Vakhsh River (also called Surkhab/Red Water) flows through Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan before joining the Amu Darya. At peak flood (June-July), it carries 836 cubic meters per second. This Esfand festival anticipated the coming mountain snowmelt.
Related Events
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The Great Nowruz (Khordad Sal) falls on the 6th of Farvardin (Khordad day). In Zoroastrian tradition, this is the birthday of Zoroaster and the spiritual peak of Nowruz. Sassanid kings held public audiences on this day.
Sizdah Bedar
Nature Day marking the end of Nowruz holidays. Families picnic outdoors, tie sabzeh (greens), and enjoy communal games.
Rapithwin Festival
Rapithwin festival on the 3rd of Farvardin celebrates the return of warmth and light after winter. Rapithwin is the Yazata of noon and summer warmth who retreats underground during winter and returns with spring.