CELEBRATION OF THE SADA FESTIVAL
It is a source of pride and honor that during the years of independence, thanks to the initiatives and continuous efforts of the Founder of Peace and National Unity, Leader of the Nation, President of the Republic of Tajikistan, His Excellency Emomali Rahmon, national holidays and ancient traditional customs have been revived. It is highly symbolic that on December 6, 2023, during the 18th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of UNESCO, the “Sada Festival” was inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
On January 31 of the current year, with the support of the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan and upon the initiative of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Tajikistan, jointly with relevant ministries and agencies, local executive authorities of the regions, and all cities and districts of the republic, the “Sada Festival and Exhibition-Sale of Agricultural Seedlings and Crop Seeds” was held at the State Institution “A. Firdavsi Cultural and Recreation Park” in Dushanbe.
The event was attended by the Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Tajikistan, Mr. Ziyozoda Sulaymon; the Assistant to the President of the Republic of Tajikistan for Social Development and Public Relations, Mr. Safarzoda Anvar; the Minister of Agriculture of the Republic of Tajikistan, Mr. Hakimzoda Qurbon; leaders and representatives of ministries, committees, and agencies; representatives of executive authorities of the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region, Sughd and Khatlon regions, and Dushanbe city; institutions and organizations subordinate to the Ministry of Agriculture; regional and district agricultural departments; farmers; as well as guests and residents of the capital.
The exhibition showcased the achievements and products of farmers, various agricultural tools and equipment, ornamental flowers and evergreen shrubs, different varieties of fruit and shade tree seedlings, certified high-quality seeds, modern agricultural machinery and equipment, blacksmithing and plasterwork, ancient pottery, presentations of large and small projects through models, achievements in livestock breeding, poultry farming, fish farming, and beekeeping, as well as methodological guides and books for farmers and livestock breeders. Different pesticides, spraying equipment, and fumigation chambers used for preventing diseases and pests were also exhibited. Visitors were introduced to traditional festive dishes and various folk crafts, including pottery, wood carving, blacksmithing, embroidery, traditional sports, and many other displays reflecting the spirit of the Sada Festival.
Throughout the park, cultural performances, dances, games, bonfire ceremonies, and musical programs were organized, adding special beauty and festivity to the celebration.
The Assistant to the President of the Republic of Tajikistan for Social Development and Public Relations, Mr. Safarzoda Anvar, delivered the congratulatory message of the Founder of Peace and National Unity, Leader of the Nation, President of the Republic of Tajikistan, His Excellency Emomali Rahmon, on the occasion of the Sada Festival.
The Sada Festival serves as a summary of the annual activities of farmers, an analysis of the achievements and challenges of the agricultural sector, the planning of future activities, and preparation for spring sowing. Outstanding representatives of the agricultural sector were awarded diplomas, certificates of appreciation, and commemorative gifts in various categories by the honored guests.
The festival reflected gratitude for the achievements of the independence era, the abundant harvests resulting from farmers’ labor, the joy and unity of the Tajik people, and the revival of national traditions. The celebration concluded with a special cultural program.