International Nowruz Day ,what is Nowruz day.

 

Nowruz is an ancient festival celebrated by millions of people worldwide, particularly in Iran, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Azerbaijan, and other countries with Persian and Central Asian influences. It marks the beginning of the Persian New Year, which falls on the spring equinox, typically around March 20th or 21st. Nowruz is a time of renewal, rebirth, and joy, and is celebrated with various traditions and rituals that have been passed down from generation to generation for over 3,000 years.

Origins of Nowruz

The origins of Nowruz can be traced back to the Zoroastrian religion, which was the dominant faith in ancient Persia before the arrival of Islam. Zoroastrianism held that the world was divided into two opposing forces: good and evil. According to legend, the god Ahura Mazda created the world and the first human beings, and the first day of spring was chosen as the day of creation. The celebration of this day was called Nowruz, which means "new day" in Persian.

Nowruz Traditions and Customs

Nowruz is a time of joy and celebration, and there are many customs and traditions associated with the festival. The preparations for Nowruz start weeks in advance, with people cleaning their homes, buying new clothes, and preparing special foods. On the night before Nowruz, families gather around a special table called the "Haft-sin" (seven S's) which is set with seven symbolic items starting with the Persian letter "sin." These items include:

Sabzeh: wheat or lentil sprouts grown in a dish, representing rebirth and renewal.

Samanu: a sweet pudding made from wheat germ, symbolizing wealth and fertility.

Senjed: dried fruit from the lotus tree, representing love and affection.

Serkeh: vinegar, representing age and patience.

Sir: garlic, representing health and healing.

Sib: apples, representing beauty and health.

Somāq: sumac berries, representing the color of the sunrise.

Other items may also be added to the Haft-sin, depending on family traditions and preferences.

On the first day of Nowruz, families gather together to share a special meal and exchange gifts. Children receive new clothes, toys, and sweets, and everyone wishes each other a happy and prosperous new year. During the 13 days of Nowruz, people visit relatives and friends, and there are many public events, such as concerts, street fairs, and fireworks displays.

On the 13th day of Nowruz, known as Sizdah Bedar or "Nature Day," people spend the day outdoors, having picnics and enjoying nature. It is believed that by spending the day outside, people can avoid bad luck and misfortune for the rest of the year.

Nowruz around the World

Nowruz is celebrated by millions of people worldwide, particularly in countries with Persian and Central Asian influences. In Iran, Nowruz is a public holiday, and the celebrations last for 13 days. In Afghanistan, Nowruz is a national holiday and is celebrated for two weeks, with many people traveling to their hometowns to be with family and friends.

In Tajikistan, Nowruz is celebrated for five days, with public events such as traditional dance performances and music concerts. In Azerbaijan, Nowruz is known as "Novruz Bayrami" and is celebrated for four days, with public festivities and family gatherings.

Nowruz has also gained popularity in other countries around the world, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, where there are large Persian and Central Asian communities. In these countries, Nowruz is celebrated with public events, such as parades, concerts,