TEHRAN -- Ordibehesht 25 on the Persian calendar on May 15 has been registered as the day of commemorating Persian Language and the renowned poet Hakim Abul-Qasem Ferdowsi Tusi.
The National Day of Ferdowsi honors Iran’s national values and religious beliefs by recognizing Ferdowsi’s role in immortalizing the Persian language, culture, and history through his timeless masterpiece, ‘Shahnameh’ (Book of Kings).
Today, a variety of programs are being held across Iran to celebrate the day.
Ferdowsi’s tomb is one of the popular tourist attractions in Iran. Millions of visitors from various provinces of Iran, foreign dignitaries, tourists, and other Persian-speaking people from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East come to see the tomb every year.
Ferdowsi’s ‘Shahnameh’, which is the world’s longest epic poem created by a single poet, has been translated into many languages and has influenced literary works in other countries.
Ferdowsi’s epic work covers all facets of humanity, calling individuals to aspire to the highest human status.
‘Shahnameh’ took 30 years to be written, which is twice as long as Homer’s ‘Iliad’ and ‘Odyssey’ combined.
The book about Persian kings, written entirely in Persian, played a key role in the revival of this language and made a significant contribution to the development of Persian literature.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei offered congratulations on Ferdowsi Day.
Writing on his X account, he said if language is the lifeblood of a nation, Ferdowsi saved Iran’s very existence.
He described Ferdowsi as the reviver of Iranian identity and spirit, as well as a teacher of wisdom and intellect.
He said that in challenging times, Ferdowsi lit the beacon of enlightenment with words, skillfully blending epic storytelling with wisdom and calling for gaining strength.
Ferdowsi became the savior of an ancient civilization and its identity, who breathed hope into words, he added.