Nowruz arrives, heralding the Persian New Year. Celebrations commence globally, marking the spring equinox. Families gather, setting Haft-Sin tables and engaging in age-old traditions. Google releases an eye-catching doodle on this auspicious event.
Nowruz, meaning “New Day” in Persian, is the traditional Persian New Year celebrated by millions worldwide. This ancient festival marks the arrival of spring and symbolizes renewal, hope, and new beginnings. In 2025, Nowruz will be observed on March 20 at 5:01 a.m. EST (2:31 p.m. IST), aligning with the vernal equinox.
Google also celebrated Nowruz by releasing a unique doodle. Guest artist Pendar Yousefi illustrated the Doodle.
What Is Nowruz?
Nowruz is one of the world’s oldest celebrations, dating back over 3,000 years. It has its roots in Zoroastrianism, an ancient Persian religion, and is deeply tied to nature and seasonal change. The festival is widely observed in Iran, Afghanistan, Central Asia, Azerbaijan, and among Kurdish, Turkic, Uyghur, and Parsi communities.
Nowruz Traditions and Customs
Nowruz celebrations include various customs that reflect joy, renewal, and prosperity. Here are some key traditions:
1. Cleaning the Home (Khaneh Tekani)
Families thoroughly clean their homes before Nowruz to remove negativity and welcome good luck for the new year. This tradition represents a fresh start.
2. Haft-Sin Table
A central part of the celebration is setting up the Haft-Sin table. This table features seven symbolic items, all starting with the Persian letter ‘S,’ each representing aspects of life such as health, prosperity, and love. Common items include:
- Sabzeh (Sprouted greens): Symbolizes rebirth and growth.
- Samanu (Sweet pudding): Represents patience and strength.
- Seer (Garlic): Signifies protection and health.
- Seeb (Apple): Stands for beauty and health.
- Senjed (Dried oleaster fruit): Symbolizes wisdom and love.
- Serkeh (Vinegar): Represents patience and aging.
- Somagh (Sumac): Symbolizes sunrise and the triumph of good over evil.
3. Fire-Jumping Festival (Chaharshanbe Suri)
On the last Wednesday before Nowruz, people jump over bonfires, chanting “Give me your redness, take my paleness.” This symbolizes getting rid of misfortune and embracing health and happiness.
4. Visiting Loved Ones and Gift-Giving (Eidi)
During Nowruz, families visit elders and exchange gifts, often money or sweets, as a gesture of goodwill and blessings for the year ahead.
5. Special Festive Meals
Nowruz meals are rich with meaning. Some traditional dishes include:
- Sabzi Polo Ba Mahi: Herbed rice with fish, symbolizing prosperity.
- Kuku Sabzi: A green herb frittata representing renewal and health.
- Reshteh Polo: Noodle rice dish symbolizing a smooth path for the new year.
6. Sizdah Bedar (Nature Day)
On the 13th day of Nowruz, families spend the day outdoors, picnicking and enjoying nature. It is believed that staying outside wards off bad luck.
Global Observance of Persian New Year
Nowruz is recognized as a public holiday in several countries, including Iran, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. The United Nations officially acknowledges March 21 as the “International Day of Nowruz.” In India and Pakistan, the Parsi community continues to celebrate this ancient tradition with enthusiasm.
Nowruz is more than just a New Year celebration—it is a festival of unity, joy, and cultural heritage. Whether through fire-jumping, festive meals, or family gatherings, Nowruz is a time to reflect on the past and embrace a hopeful future.
Happy Nowruz 2025!
