Inside the Ancient Samanu-Making Ritual of Saveh, Iran

In the central Iranian city of Saveh, the centuries-old Moqaddaszadeh Historical House becomes a hub of quiet devotion each year during Fatimiyya, the days of mourning for Lady Fatimah, daughter of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). During this reflective period, local families gather to prepare samanu, a traditional Persian pudding made from sprouted wheat, keeping alive the cherished ritual known as Samanu-Pazan.

Women and men, young and old, take part in the cooking process that begins before dawn and continues throughout the day. Large copper pots filled with wheat, flour, and water simmer slowly, producing a thick, naturally sweet dish that is shared freely among participants and visitors. The ritual is accompanied by prayer, reflection, and a shared sense of purpose rooted in cultural and religious continuity.

For many of the women who lead the ceremony, Samanu-Pazan is as much about connection as it is about cooking.

The revival of this centuries-old tradition has been supported in recent years by the Saveh Municipality and the city’s cultural council, ensuring it continues to thrive as part of the region’s living heritage. Families contribute in various ways: some provide wheat or sugar, others sponsor a pot of tea or volunteer their time to serve visitors. Generosity defines the event, with residents often stepping in spontaneously to help or distribute food. A passerby might sponsor a pot of soup or hand out warm samanu to the crowd.

The history of samanu stretches far beyond this courtyard. The dish entered Iran during the early Islamic era and gradually evolved into its present form. Beyond its cultural and spiritual significance, samanu holds an important place in traditional Persian medicine for its nutritional benefits. Its deep connection with spring—symbolizing fertility, renewal, and the rebirth of nature—has also made it an essential feature of Haft-Seen, the Persian New Year table celebrating life’s renewal.

In 2016, Iran’s Ministry of Cultural Heritage officially registered Samanu-Pazan and its related rituals as an element of the country’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.

This year, the main pot contained 170 kilograms of wheat, 500 kilograms of flour, and nearly 2,000 liters of water, producing thousands of servings of samanu. But beyond the scale of cooking, the highlight is the collective effort and cooperation that bring the community together.

As the ceremony concludes and the final portions are distributed, the courtyard of the Moqaddaszadeh House carries the scent of wheat and the sound of quiet conversations. This simple yet deeply rooted tradition continues to connect generations through faith, memory, and shared heritage.

Across Iran, Lady Fatimah occupies a revered place in the hearts of many. She symbolizes purity, compassion, and resilience—qualities that continue to inspire generations. Ceremonies like Samanu-Pazan reflect this enduring reverence, transforming acts of daily life into expressions of faith and remembrance.