In an effort to combat the influence of Western values, Iran has banned the production of Valentine’s Day gifts and anything that celebrates romantic love. 

The February 14th holiday is named for a Christian Saint and is not banned officially in the Islamic country.  Concerns have been voiced for a while that the holiday will erode the Islamic culture and values.   Western values and culture have long been seen as corruptive influences.  Unlike in the west, unmarried couples are not allowed to interact.

So to further instill Islamic values the printing works owner’s union issued guidelines for the ban imposed by the authorities.  The ban includes the production of gift cards, boxes with hearts and flowers or anything that promotes the holiday.  

“Honoring foreign celebrations is the spread of Western culture.” said the head of the union, Ali Nikou. “Our country has an ancient civilization and various ways to honor kindness, love and affection.”  

The instructions read: “Printing and producing any products related to Valentine’s Day, including posters, brochures, advertising cards, boxes with symbols of hearts, half hearts, red roses and any activities promoting this day are banned. Authorities will take legal action against those who ignore the ban.”

It has been suggested that the Western holiday be replaced with a similar Islamic Holiday. “Mehregan” is an Iranian festival that has been celebrated since the pre-Islamic era. Mehr means affection, love or friendship.

 

Tags: iran, western culture, valentine's day ban, mehr, mehregan
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