Hawraman marks centuries-old Komsay ceremony

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - The town of Hawraman Takht in western Iran (Rojhelat) celebrated the centuries-old Komsay ceremony on Friday, a traditional social and cultural event.

The Hawraman region, a Kurdish-inhabited area in western Iran, is well known for the tradition that centres on the legend of Pir Shalyar.

Locals believe Pir Shalyar was a sage who, in ancient times, cured an ailing princess, whom he later married. Their wedding took place in the middle of winter, an occasion now commemorated with festive gatherings featuring tambourines, drums, and hymns.

Komsay is usually held near the tomb of Pir Shalyar in Hawraman and the sacred Komsay stone, where farmers owners would gather to reach agreements on sharing water.

Traditionally held on the 45th day of spring, Komsay is now celebrated on the Friday closest to mid-spring.