International Nowruz Day 2023: 21 March 2023

International Nowruz Day 2023: 21 March 2023

International Nowruz Day 2023: 21 March 2023 is celebrated as International Nowruz Day 2023. Every year on March 21, International Nowruz Day is a much-anticipated global New Year's festival.

Nowruz, which means "new day" in Persian, is a celebration of the Iranian New Year that has been observed for over 3,000 years. It is a day that marks the start of spring and the beginning of the new year in the Iranian calendar. Nowruz is not just celebrated in Iran, but in many countries around the world, particularly in Central Asia, the Middle East, and parts of South Asia.

On September 23, 2009, the United Nations General Assembly declared March 21 as International Nowruz Day. This day is recognized as a way to promote peace and solidarity among different cultures and civilizations. It is an opportunity to showcase the rich history and cultural heritage of Nowruz and to celebrate the diversity of the world.

Nowruz is a time for renewal, forgiveness, and reconciliation. It is a time for families and friends to come together and share in the joy of the new year. The festivities begin on the last Wednesday before Nowruz, known as Chaharshanbe Suri, or "Red Wednesday." People light bonfires and jump over them, a symbol of leaving behind the old and welcoming the new.

On the day of Nowruz itself, families gather together and set up a haft-sin, a traditional table setting that includes seven items starting with the Persian letter "sin." These items include sabzeh (sprouts), samanu (sweet pudding), senjed (dried fruit), sir (garlic), serkeh (vinegar), somaq (sumac), and seer (apples). Each item represents a different aspect of life, such as health, wealth, and happiness.

Nowruz is also a time for giving back to the community. Many people donate to charity, visit the sick and elderly, and perform acts of kindness. This spirit of generosity and compassion is an integral part of Nowruz.

In 2023, International Nowruz Day falls on March 21. It is an opportunity for people around the world to come together and celebrate this ancient tradition. The day will be marked by various events and activities, including music, dance, and traditional food. It is a chance to showcase the beauty and richness of Nowruz, and to promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation

Let's take a look at which countries participated in this vibrant and festive occasion.

Iran Iran is the birthplace of Nowruz, and it is celebrated as a national holiday in the country. On International Nowruz Day, Iranians prepare for the festivities by cleaning their homes, buying new clothes, and cooking special dishes. The celebrations last for thirteen days and involve traditional dances, music, and other cultural events.

1. Afghanistan 

Afghanistan is another country where Nowruz is celebrated as a national holiday. The celebrations in Afghanistan are similar to those in Iran, with people cleaning their homes and decorating them with flowers and other traditional items. On International Nowruz Day, people gather with their families and friends to feast and exchange gifts.

2. Tajikistan 

Tajikistan is another country where Nowruz is celebrated with great enthusiasm. The celebrations in Tajikistan usually last for two weeks and include music, dance, and other cultural events. On International Nowruz Day, people gather with their families and friends to enjoy traditional dishes such as pilaf and sweets like halva.

3. Azerbaijan 

Azerbaijan is another country where Nowruz is celebrated as a national holiday. The celebrations in Azerbaijan usually last for several days and involve traditional dances, music, and other cultural events. On International Nowruz Day, people gather with their families and friends to feast and exchange gifts.

4. Iraq 

Iraq is another country where Nowruz is celebrated, particularly by the Kurdish population. On International Nowruz Day, Kurds in Iraq gather with their families and friends to celebrate the start of spring and the new year. The celebrations include traditional music, dance, and food.

Other Countries Nowruz is also celebrated in other countries, including Albania, Armenia, Georgia, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, and Uzbekistan. While it may not be a national holiday in these countries, people from these cultures often mark the occasion with traditional celebrations.

In conclusion, International Nowruz Day is a vibrant and festive occasion that is celebrated by people from various cultures and nations around the world. From Iran to Tajikistan, Azerbaijan to Iraq, and beyond, people gather with their families and friends to welcome the new year and celebrate the start of spring.