Imam Khomeini’s Demise in Iran
Imam Khomeini’s Demise is observed in Iran on 14 Khordad, the anniversary of the death of Ruhollah Khomeini, leader of the 1979 revolution and founder of the Islamic Republic. It is a public holiday marked by commemorative ceremonies, including an annual gathering at his shrine in Tehran.[1][4][5]
Date and public-holiday status
The holiday falls on 14 Khordad in Iran’s Solar Hijri calendar; its Gregorian date varies. Iran’s official calendar records the anniversary as a holiday. A 1980 law on public holidays lists 15 Khordad, the anniversary of the 1963 uprising, and also ratifies Cabinet decisions declaring other days public holidays. The Labour Code recognizes official holidays for workers, though the cited law does not set out a substitute-day rule for this anniversary.[1][2][3]
The official calendar lists no substitute day. The date is 14 Khordad, with no observed day listed when it falls on a weekend.[1]
Why the anniversary matters
Khomeini led the revolution that overthrew Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi in 1979 and became Iran’s leading political and religious authority. Encyclopaedia Iranica records that he died shortly before midnight on 3 June 1989. Iran’s official calendar connects the anniversary with his death and the selection of Ali Khamenei as leader in 1989.[1][4]
The anniversary recalls a figure whose leadership shaped the establishment of the Islamic Republic. Its place in Iran’s calendar, alongside the separate 15 Khordad commemoration, reflects the country’s official remembrance of both Khomeini and the revolutionary events associated with him.[1][2][4]
Ceremonies and observances
Commemorations include ceremonies at Khomeini’s shrine in Tehran. A record of the 24th anniversary describes a speech there by Iran’s leader, showing how the annual gathering can include an address focused on Khomeini’s legacy.[5]
Imam Khomeini’s Demise is marked by public commemorations and speeches.[5]
What to expect on the day
Because the date is designated a public holiday, workers covered by Iran’s Labour Code have official holidays recognized under the law. Check opening hours with government offices and banks before you go.[1][3]
Anyone planning to visit Khomeini’s shrine should check current local notices for access and transport information, as arrangements can vary from year to year.[5]
Frequently asked questions
When is Imam Khomeini’s Demise observed?
It is observed on 14 Khordad in Iran’s Solar Hijri calendar. The Gregorian date varies from year to year.[1]
Is it a public holiday in Iran?
Is there a substitute day if it falls on a weekend?
Sources and references
Sources used for Imam Khomeini's Demise in Iran:
- تقویم رسمی کشور برای سال ۱۳۸۷ هجری شمسی- Nezamat legal archive
- لایحه قانونی تعیین تعطیلات رسمی کشور- Islamic Republic of Iran, Revolutionary Council; published in the Nezamat legal archive
- Labour Law (Labour Code)- International Labour Organization, NATLEX (English translation)
- KHOMEINI i. Life- Encyclopaedia Iranica
- تحریف مکتب امام خمینی (ره)، حساسیت سنجی برای سناریوی تغییر و استحاله- Imam Khomeini works archive