11 Killed Over 3500 Injured During Fire Festival in Iran

At least 11 persons died and more than 3,500 were injured during Iran’s traditional fire festival celebrations. This fire festival is observed ahead of the Persian New Year.

This fire festival is called Chaharshanbe Suri in Iran. It marks the end of Iranian calendar year.

During this fire festival, participants jump over bonfires to purify themselves and ward off evil spirits. While attempting the daredevil feat, they chant “I give you my yellow colour” (indicator of disease) and “I take your red colour” (symbol of life).

This festival is linked to Iran’s pre-Islamic heritage. So, the Shiite clerical establishment usually frowns upon this tradition. But this festival is popular with youths.

“Since February 20, 26 people have died in incidents related to Chaharchanbe Suri,” including at least 11 on the day of the event along with more than 3,550 injured, emergency services chief Jafar Miadfar told Iranian state television.