Nowruz
March 21, Thursday
The history of the holiday dates back to Zoroastrianism, an ancient religion that originated in Iran, and it is believed to be over 3,000 years old. In ancient Persia, Nowruz symbolized the triumph of good over evil and the arrival of spring, marking the renewal of life. Over time, this holiday spread to many regions, including modern-day Iran, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and other countries.
Many ancient traditions and rituals are associated with Nowruz, varying depending on the country. These rituals include house cleaning, preparing special dishes, and symbolically sowing seeds for the harvest. Some of the most well-known rituals are:
Sabzi – the cultivation of sprouted grains symbolizing the new harvest.
Haftsin – a festive table with seven items beginning with the letter "S" in Persian, symbolizing health, prosperity, and well-being.
Fire – in some cultures, Nowruz is accompanied by jumping over bonfires, symbolizing purification from troubles and illnesses.
Nowruz celebrations include various traditions:
Festive celebrations. Nowruz is marked by colorful folk festivities, theatrical performances, dances, and songs. People wear national costumes, participate in sports competitions, and engage in traditional games.
Festive dishes. Special dishes are prepared for this day, varying from region to region, but the presence of greenery and grains is a common element. In Iran, for example, sabzi polo (rice with greens) is prepared, while in Central Asia, sumalak (a traditional sweet dish made from sprouted wheat) is made.
For modern people, Nowruz is not just an ancient tradition but a symbol of uniting various ethnic and cultural groups. It helps preserve heritage and maintain connections between generations.
Nowruz in other years
Nowruz in other countries
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