By Ahmet Abdulaziz ….
Yalda Night, which is a part of the Iranian culture, was celebrated with various activities within the scope of the International Night events of the International Center, Cyprus International University (CIU).
The event, which was attended by many academics and students, started with a film introducing Iranian culture and continued with Iranian music and dances. Yalda Night, which is considered the longest night in Iranian culture, symbolizes the birth and winter solstice. On the night, which was celebrated with various activities, fruits, appetizers and traditional dishes, which have an important place in Iranian culture, were served.
Prof. Dr. Majid Hashemipour, Vice Rector of CIU, stated that CIU students should take part in this kind of interaction, pointing out the importance of the recognition of different cultures. Hashemipour brought attention to the fact that this cultural difference is important not only for the students, but also for them to discover and learn new cultures Hashemipour said that with this culture of fusion, they have the opportunity of learning each other’s culture.
Abdollah Mobaraki, Coordinator of the International Center, remarked that this night is the longest night, stating that it is one of the most important nights that Iranian people celebrate traditionally. Mobaraki stated that they are happy to celebrate the evening as a CIU family and he said that by sharing a part of the Iranian culture with international students, they try to make them feel part of a big family.
Ogul Jahan Ahmad, a CIU International Law student, said that Yalda Night is also celebrated in Afghanistan, stating that he felt himself at home since CIU organised this special night. Ahmad said that the performances of Iranian students were spectacular and he enjoyed this night.
