After three days of fasting, the Yarsan community, also referred to as Kakaei or Ahl-e Haq, observe 18 January with a tambur ceremony and visits to their religious elders in the “Jamkhaneh”. Known as the Qaultas festival among Kurdish Yarsanis, this event is profoundly connected to the spiritual traditions and beliefs of the community.
According to the teachings of their faith, seven followers of “Sultan Sahak” embarked on a journey from Azerbaijan to “Perdivar” in Horaman, Iranian Kurdistan, to meet their spiritual leader. However, overcome by exhaustion, they decided that “Sultan Sahak” himself should meet them near the majestic “Shaho” mountain.
According to the sacred narrations, and aware of the thoughts of his followers, “Sultan Sahak” sent one of his companions, “Mustafa Davodan”—who is seen as a counterpart to Azrael, the Angel of Death in Abrahamic religions—to meet them. Davodan also commanded the skies to unleash a heavy snowfall, which claimed the lives of the seven followers. Yet, in an act of divine grace, they were miraculously brought back to life after three days.
In gratitude for their resurrection, Yarsanis fast from 14 January and celebrate 18 January with a three-day observance.
The roots of the Yarsani ritual can be traced back to Mithraic traditions. The followers of this religion, predominantly Kurds, reside in parts of Kermanshah, Ilam, and Lorestan provinces in Iranian Kurdistan, as well as limited areas in Iraqi Kurdistan, particularly Kirkuk. Additionally, some Azeris in both eastern and western Azerbaijan provinces of Iran also adhere to this faith.
The Yarsan community has long endured marginalisation due to their distinct religious beliefs and culture. In Iran, where the government refuses to officially recognise the Yarsan faith, many Yarsanis are denied the freedom to practise openly, leaving them vulnerable to discrimination. Despite these challenges, the Yarsan community continues to persevere, preserving their music, rituals, and festivals as vital expressions of their identity and heritage.
