Yalda: A Celebration for the Longest Night

For me, this photograph is more than just a beautiful arrangement.

It’s ‘Yalda’, a long-standing tradition in Afghanistan to celebrate the longest night of the year.

Here, the carefully arranged details – the red pomegranates, watermelon, poetry book, and Samovar ready for tea – all represent the warmth and intimacy of this night amidst the winter cold.

This photo not only captures a custom, but also the spirit of togetherness and hope for the light that is deeply rooted in our culture.