Khorasani Qanāt Diggers and Their Social and Cultural Life in the 
Qajar Period

Rostami, Maryam; Ahmadvand, Abbas

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Volume 1, Issue 56 (winter 2024)

islamhistory 2024, 1(56): 86-99

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Khorasani Qanāt Diggers and Their Social and Cultural Life in the Qajar Period

Maryam Rostami ^*

, Abbas Ahmadvand

Abstract: (46 Views)

Qanāt diggers, as specialists in constructing qanāts and supplying water in arid climates, played an unparalleled role in sustaining agriculture and the development of Khorasan. This article examines the status, functions, and characteristics of the social and cultural life of Khorasani qanāt diggers during the eventful Qajar era. Relying on a historical–analytical research method and using library and archival sources, the primary objective of this study is to explore how this vital profession was organized, how its practitioners interacted with other social groups, and how their skills and beliefs were reflected in the fabric of Khorasani social and cultural life. The findings indicate that Khorasani qanāt diggers, despite numerous occupational hardships and risks, possessed profound technical skills and indigenous knowledge that rendered them a key element in the water-based economy and livelihood systems of Qajar society. Their social life was characterized by strong intra-group relations, complex interactions with landowners and farmers, and an active role in resolving water-related disputes. From a cultural perspective, their beliefs, distinctive customs and rituals, rich oral culture (including unique stories and terminology), and participation in water-related festivals and ceremonies formed an inseparable part of their collective identity. Using descriptive and analytical methods, this article seeks to illuminate the overlooked dimensions of the lives of qanāt diggers, offering a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of their role in the development of Iran’s hydraulic civilization and the socio-cultural fabric of Qajar-era Khorasan. This, in turn, contributes to a better understanding of the region’s social and economic history.

Keywords: Social history of Khorasan, Social history of the Qajar period, Social history of qanāts, Qanāt diggers, Qanāt

Full-Text [PDF 1178 kb] (52 Downloads)

Type of Study: Applicable | Subject: Special
Received: 2024/10/6 | Accepted: 2024/12/8

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Mendeley

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RefWorks

Rostami M, Ahmadvand A. Khorasani Qanāt Diggers and Their Social and Cultural Life in the Qajar Period. islamhistory 2024; 1 (56) :86-99
URL: http://journal.isihistory.ir/article-1-1495-en.html

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Volume 1, Issue 56 (winter 2024)

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