Nowruz (also spelled Norooz, Nawroz, or Navruz) is the Persian New Year, celebrated on the spring equinox, usually around March 20 or 21. The word Nowruz means "New Day" in Persian, marking the beginning of spring and the start of the Iranian calendar year. This ancient festival has been observed for over 3,000 years across various cultures, especially in Iran, Afghanistan, Central Asia, parts of the Caucasus, and among Kurdish and Zoroastrian communities.
🌱 Significance:
Nowruz symbolizes renewal, rebirth, and hope, aligning with nature’s revival after winter. It reflects the values of peace, harmony, and gratitude while encouraging people to start fresh with positivity and kindness.
🏡 Traditions and Customs:
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House Cleaning (Khaneh Tekani): People clean their homes, buy new clothes, and prepare for a fresh start.
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Haft-Seen Table: A special table is set with seven symbolic items, all starting with the Persian letter "س" (Seen), such as:
- Sabzeh: Sprouted wheat or lentils, symbolizing rebirth.
- Samanu: Sweet pudding, representing strength and patience.
- Senjed: Dried oleaster fruit, symbolizing love.
- Seer (Garlic): Representing health.
- Seeb (Apple): Signifying beauty and health.
- Serkeh (Vinegar): Symbolizing patience and wisdom.
- Sumac: Representing sunrise and the triumph of good over evil.
Additional items like a mirror (self-reflection), candles (light and enlightenment), painted eggs (fertility), coins (prosperity), and a goldfish (life and renewal) may also be placed.
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Chaharshanbe Suri: On the eve of the last Wednesday before Nowruz, people jump over bonfires, chanting to cleanse the past year's misfortunes.
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Visiting Loved Ones: Families visit each other, exchange gifts, and share festive meals.
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13th Day (Sizdah Bedar): On the 13th day after Nowruz, people go outdoors to enjoy nature, symbolizing letting go of bad luck.
🍽️ Special Foods:
- Sabzi Polo Mahi: Herb rice with fish.
- Ash Reshteh: Noodle soup, symbolizing life’s twists and turns.
🌍 Cultural Impact:
Nowruz is more than a celebration — it’s a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and a reminder of the deep connection between humans and nature, as well as the importance of family, reflection, and renewal.
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