Riḍván Festival: A Celebration of Bahá’u’lláh's Declaration

The Riḍván Festival, celebrated by Bahá’í communities worldwide, marks the declaration of Bahá’u’lláh as a New Messenger of God. This year, the festival begins on April 21 and lasts for twelve days, commemorating significant events in Bahá’í history. The first day is particularly sacred, with work prohibited, as followers engage in various celebrations and elect local governing bodies. The festival's historical roots trace back to 1863 in Baghdad, where Bahá’u’lláh publicly announced His mission. Join us as we delve into the rich traditions and significance of this important event in the Bahá’í calendar.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 22, 2026, 22:42 IST

Understanding the Significance of Riḍván

On April 21, 2026, Bahá’í communities worldwide celebrated the First Day of Riḍván, which corresponds to the 13th of Jalál in the Bahá’í calendar (183 B.E.). This significant event begins at sunset on April 20 and continues through April 21, marking the holiest festival in the Bahá’í Faith, known as the 'Most Great Festival.'

This festival commemorates the twelve days Bahá’u’lláh spent in the Garden of Riḍván in Baghdad in 1863, where He proclaimed His divine mission. The first day is particularly sacred, during which work is prohibited.

The Festival of Riḍván celebrates Bahá’u’lláh's declaration in 1863 as a New Messenger of God. In His writings, He designated Riḍván as one of the two 'Most Great Festivals' and specified the first, ninth, and twelfth days as holy days, marking significant events during His time in the garden.

Today, Bahá’ís celebrate Riḍván with various activities, including devotional meetings and artistic presentations, while also electing local and national governing bodies.

The time Bahá’u’lláh spent in the Garden of Riḍván holds immense importance for Bahá’ís, as He referred to it as 'the Day of supreme felicity.' During this period, He made pivotal announcements, including the abrogation of religious war and the declaration that no further Manifestation of God would come for another millennium.

The festival spans twelve days, starting on either April 20 or April 21, depending on the March equinox, and this year it will be observed from April 21 to May 2.

The Najibiyyih Garden, where Bahá’u’lláh declared His mission, was originally named after Muhammad Najib Pasha, the governor of Baghdad. Although it was never owned by the Bahá’ís, it became a significant site for the community.

Bahá’u’lláh entered the garden on April 21, 1863, to receive visitors and prepare for His journey to Constantinople. His family joined Him later, and during their stay, He publicly announced His mission.

The name 'Riḍván,' meaning paradise, was given by Bahá’u’lláh during His time there, and it is now associated with the twelve-day festival celebrated annually by Bahá’ís.

The festival's history began on April 21, 1863, when Bahá’u’lláh arrived at the garden, marking the inception of the Bahá’í Faith as a distinct religion. His writings during this period hinted at His prophetic mission, culminating in the public declaration of His station.

Every year, Bahá’ís around the world participate in local elections for governing councils during the festival, and national conventions are held in various countries.

The Most Great Festival is unique in its historical significance, as it marks Bahá’u’lláh's public declaration of His role as a Manifestation of God.

During Riḍván, the Universal House of Justice sends a message to the Bahá’í community, reflecting on the past year and offering guidance for the future.

Ninth Day of Riḍván falls on 2 Jamál, 183 B.E. i.e. on 29 April, 2026.

Twelfth Day of Riḍván falls on 5 Jamál, 183 B.E. i.e. on 2 May, 2026.

The first, ninth, and twelfth days are considered holy days, during which all work should be suspended.