Deputy Minister Urges Swift Completion of Bonab Kebab World Heritage Registration
In a significant move for cultural heritage, Deputy Minister of Cultural Heritage, Ali Darabi, has highlighted the urgency of finalizing the dossier for the global registration of Bonab Kebab. This traditional dish, renowned for its unique blend of ground mutton, onion, and salt, hails from the city of Bonab in East Azerbaijan province, located in northwestern Iran.
During a recent session of the Bonab Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Department, Darabi discussed the profound cultural significance of Bonab county, emphasizing its role in the broader cultural landscape of the region. According to a report by IRIB, he noted that the global recognition of Bonab Kebab represents not just a culinary achievement but also an opportunity for cultural diplomacy.
Darabi’s remarks underscored several key points regarding the importance of Bonab’s cultural and historical identity:
- Intangible Heritage: The registration of Bonab Kebab is viewed as a critical cultural endeavor.
- National Programs: Bonab must be prioritized in national initiatives aimed at protection and global promotion.
- Team Formation: It is essential to assemble a dedicated team of researchers, historians, documentarians, and food ritual experts to oversee the registration process.
- International Engagement: Inviting ambassadors from regional countries can enhance the international dimensions of Bonab’s cultural heritage.
Darabi further described Bonab county as a pivotal area of living history and a potential leader in tourism development within the northwest region of Iran. He stressed the necessity of completing the Bonab Kebab dossier swiftly and appointing a qualified manager to oversee this global registration initiative.
In addition to culinary heritage, Darabi pointed out the importance of restoring the historic Ghermez (Red) Mosque in Bonab. He emphasized the need for an accurate evaluation of restoration costs and urged that this project be included in the county’s restoration plans.
To bolster Bonab’s cultural and heritage potential, Darabi proposed five immediate actions:
- Equipping the Cultural Heritage Base: Enhancing the facilities in Savar village.
- Excavation Initiatives: Launching archaeological excavations in the Mehrabad region.
- Completion of Kebab Dossier: Finalizing the Bonab Kebab registration dossier.
- Landscape Organization: Improving the aesthetics of historical villages.
- Public Participation: Encouraging community involvement in heritage initiatives.
These initiatives are deemed crucial for transforming Bonab into one of the leading heritage hubs in northwestern Iran. Darabi also highlighted one of Bonab’s key spiritual and cultural attractions: the Hazrat Vali Asr (AS) seminary. This institution serves as an educational center for Friday prayer Imams from the surrounding cities and operates independently from the Tabriz seminary. It is noteworthy as the largest seminary in the country after Qom, playing a vital role in the region’s religious education.
As Bonab strives for recognition on a global scale, the completion of the Bonab Kebab dossier signifies more than just culinary pride; it embodies a commitment to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the region. The collective efforts of local authorities, cultural experts, and community members will be essential in realizing this vision and ensuring that Bonab’s traditions and historical significance are celebrated and shared with the world.
In conclusion, the completion of the Bonab Kebab dossier is a vital step towards fostering cultural appreciation and tourism development in Bonab county. Through strategic planning, international collaboration, and community engagement, Bonab can emerge as a prominent destination for heritage tourism, showcasing its unique culinary and cultural landscape.
