Nowruz

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نوروزNowRouzIran2021

Chaharshanbe Suri Lozupone NYC 2016 1

Nowruz Zoroastrian

Persepolis stairs of the Apadana relief

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Nowruz (Persian: نوروز‎, pronounced [nouˈɾuːz]; literally "new day") is the Iranian New Year's day, celebrated by various ethnicities and communities around the world. It marks the first day of Farvardin, the first month of the Iranian calendar, which usually falls on March 21 or the previous/following day depending on where it is observed. Recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Nowruz has a rich history that dates back over 3,000 years, originating in the Zoroastrian tradition, which was the predominant religion of pre-Islamic Iran.

Origins and History

The origins of Nowruz are deeply rooted in the rituals and traditions of Zoroastrianism, the ancient pre-Islamic religion of Iran. It symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and the rejuvenation of the Earth. According to Zoroastrian tradition, Nowruz celebrates the mythical king Jamshid, who is said to have saved mankind from a deadly winter and caused the world to warm, bringing back life to the dead earth. This day thus symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and joy over sorrow.

Customs and Traditions

Nowruz is celebrated with various customs and traditions that vary from region to region but share common themes of renewal, family, and the purification of the soul. Preparations for Nowruz begin weeks in advance, with a major spring-cleaning of homes known as khaneh tekani (shaking the house) and the setting up of the Haft-Seen, a table displaying seven items that start with the letter S in Persian. These items symbolically correspond to seven creations and the seven holy immortals protecting them. Traditionally, these items include wheat sprouts, sweet pudding (Samanu), apples, garlic, vinegar, sumac, and coins, among others.

Families gather around the Haft-Seen to celebrate the exact moment of the vernal equinox, marking the start of the new year. Other customs include wearing new clothes, exchanging gifts, and visiting family and friends, which is referred to as Did-o Bazdid. Special foods are prepared, and many communities also engage in local games, dances, and other forms of entertainment.

Nowruz Around the World

While Nowruz has its roots in the Iranian Plateau, it is celebrated by various communities around the globe, including in countries such as Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and regions of India and Pakistan where large Persian diaspora communities exist. Each community has its own unique customs and traditions for celebrating Nowruz, but the underlying themes of renewal and family are universal.

Recognition and Observance

In 2009, the United Nations General Assembly recognized March 21 as the International Day of Nowruz, promoting it as a festival that promotes peace and solidarity among generations and within families as well as reconciliation and neighborliness, thus contributing to cultural diversity and friendship among peoples and different communities. UNESCO listed Nowruz on its Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list in 2009, acknowledging its wide reach and the diversity of its traditions.

Conclusion

Nowruz is more than just a New Year celebration; it is a festival that has been passed down through generations, embodying the spirit of renewal, community, and the enduring power of traditions. As it is celebrated across different cultures and regions, Nowruz serves as a reminder of the common humanity and shared values that bind us together, transcending geographical and ethnic divides.

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