Happy Nowruz 1403

Nowruz, which means "New Day" in Persian, is an ancient festival marking the arrival of spring and the beginning of the new year in the Persian calendar. It has been celebrated for over 3,000 years in various forms by people of different ethnicities and religions across the Middle East, Central Asia, and parts of South Asia.

The origins of Nowruz can be traced back to the Zoroastrian tradition, one of the world's oldest monotheistic religions, which was founded in ancient Persia around 3,500 years ago. According to Zoroastrian belief, Nowruz symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and the renewal of nature.

The festival typically begins on the vernal equinox, usually falling on March 20th or 21st, when the length of the day equals the length of the night. Preparations for Nowruz often start weeks in advance, with families cleaning and decorating their homes, buying new clothes, and gathering special foods for the festivities.

On the eve of Nowruz, families come together for a ceremonial meal called "Haft-Seen" (Seven S's), where they set a table with seven symbolic items, each starting with the Persian letter "S." These items usually include wheat or barley sprouts (representing rebirth), apples (for health and beauty), vinegar (for wisdom and patience), garlic (for medicine), sumac (for sunrise and good triumphing over evil), dried fruits (for sweetness), and a special herb called "sabzeh" (usually wheat, barley, or lentil sprouts) representing growth and fertility.

At the moment of the equinox, families gather around the "Haft-Seen" table to welcome the new year. They exchange gifts, recite poetry, and engage in prayers for blessings and prosperity in the year ahead. Throughout the following days, people visit friends and family, exchange visits and gifts, and enjoy festive meals together.

Nowruz is not only a time for celebration but also a deeply symbolic occasion that reflects themes of renewal, unity, and cultural heritage. It is recognized as an official public holiday in many countries, including Iran, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, and parts of Iraq, Turkey, and Pakistan.

Despite its ancient roots, Nowruz remains a vibrant and beloved tradition, cherished by millions of people around the world as a time of hope, joy, and new beginnings.

Matthew Productions & Takatoor.com