The ceremony, which is said to have started a decade ago with a few dozen people in Pasargadae in protest against the construction of the Sivand Dam, has gradually transformed into an annual gathering. The seventh of Aban, which is unofficially called 'Cyrus the Great Day' in Iran, has now expanded into a ceremony for solidarity and the expression of national and freedom-seeking demands from various groups of Iranians. In the lead-up to the seventh of Aban, on one hand, reports indicate the creation of obstacles and restrictions for holding this ceremony, while on the other hand, there are preparations and efforts for the gathering in Pasargadae. Mohammad Maleki, the former president of Tehran University and a human rights activist in Iran, who is now 84 years old, stated in an interview with Radio Farda that despite all the restrictions and obstacles regarding this year's ceremony, people are eager to show their presence in Pasargadae and participate in Cyrus Day to demonstrate that they prefer a just leader and despise an unjust and oppressive leadership. The Babylonian inscription known as the 'Nabonidus Chronicle' mentions the seventh of Aban (October 29) as the day Babylon was opened by Cyrus the Great; a day that, based on the 'Cyrus Cylinder', 'Nabonidus Cylinders', and other historical data, led to the abolition of slavery and forced labor, the freedom of slaves and servants, and the writing of the Babylonian cylinder of Cyrus, which is referred to as the first charter of human rights.
Cyrus Day: Efforts and Obstacles for Gathering in Pasargadae
The annual gathering on Cyrus Day in Pasargadae has become a symbol of national unity and freedom-seeking among Iranians. Despite facing obstacles from authorities, activists like Mohammad Maleki emphasize the people's desire for just leadership. This event highlights the ongoing struggle for human rights and national identity in Iran.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
The annual gathering on Cyrus Day in Pasargadae, which began as a protest against the Sivand Dam, has evolved into a significant event for expressing national unity and demands for freedom among Iranians. Despite facing restrictions from authorities, many are determined to participate this year to advocate for just leadership.
- Cyrus Day is unofficially celebrated on the seventh of Aban (October 29) and commemorates Cyrus the Great's legacy.
- The gathering has become a symbol of resistance against oppressive leadership and a call for human rights.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Cyrus the Great is celebrated for his progressive policies in ancient Persia, including the abolition of slavery, which resonates with modern demands for human rights in Iran. The gathering has evolved from a localized protest to a national symbol of resistance.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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Translation confidence: 85%