A cultural round table dedicated to the Ezidi New Year, known as [Charasham Sare Sale], was held on April 15 at the House of Friendship of the Leningrad Region.
The event brought together representatives of ethnocultural organizations and guests interested in learning more about the ancient culture, traditions and spiritual heritage of the Ezidi people. The gathering focused on the meaning of the Ezidi New Year and its place within Ezidi identity, memory and religious life.
Charasham Sare Sale is one of the most important celebrations in the Ezidi calendar. It is connected to ancient Mesopotamian traditions and is understood as a celebration of creation, renewal and the beauty of the world. For Ezidis, whose religion is Sharfadin, the holiday carries deep spiritual meaning and remains an important expression of continuity between past and present.
One of the most recognizable traditions of the holiday is the painting of eggs. The egg symbolizes the world, while the different colors represent the beauty and diversity of creation. This custom reflects the broader meaning of the New Year: life, renewal, harmony and gratitude for the created world.
The event also served as an opportunity to introduce guests to the history and traditions of the Ezidi people, an ancient ethnic and religious people with roots in Upper Mesopotamia. Through discussions about the holiday, participants were able to learn more about Ezidi cultural heritage and the importance of preserving it across generations.
Although the Ezidi population in the Leningrad Region and St. Petersburg is small, such cultural initiatives play an important role in visibility, education and intercultural dialogue. They help ensure that Ezidi traditions are not only preserved within families, but also shared with wider society in a respectful and meaningful way.
