Nowruz 2025: When And How To Celebrate The Parsi New Year Today? – News18
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Nowruz is widely celebrated in Iran, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Azerbaijan, and other parts of Central Asia. Around 300 million people worldwide observe this day with unique customs and traditions, symbolising renewal, hope, and prosperity
Nowruz coincides with the spring equinox, when day and night are of equal length, marking the beginning of the Persian New Year. (News18 Hindi)
Nowruz is not just a festival marking the beginning of a new year; it is a celebration of nature, rebirth, and renewal. The traditional Persian New Year, Nowruz, is being observed today, March 20, 2025. The word ‘Nowruz’ means ‘new day’ and is associated with the arrival of spring.
This festival is celebrated not only by Persian communities but also by many others around the world. Here’s everything you need to know about Nowruz 2025 and what makes this celebration special.
Nowruz 2025: Date and Time
Nowruz 2025 is being celebrated on March 20 at 5:01 AM (EST) and 2:31 PM (IST). The festival coincides with the spring equinox, when day and night are of equal length, marking the beginning of the Persian New Year.
Nowruz is widely celebrated in Iran, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Azerbaijan, and other parts of Central Asia. Around 300 million people worldwide observe this day with unique customs and traditions, symbolising renewal, hope, and prosperity.
Significance
Nowruz is more than just a new year celebration; it is a cultural heritage recognised by UNESCO. It marks the beginning of the new year in the Persian calendar and highlights the deep connection between human life and nature. The festival symbolises renewal, hope, and prosperity, offering a chance to embrace new beginnings while leaving past sorrows behind. In essence, Nowruz represents the start of a fresh chapter in life.
Traditions and Customs
In preparation for Nowruz, families clean their homes in a tradition known as ‘Khaneh Takani‘ (house cleaning). Several customs make this day special, one of the most significant being the setting up of the ‘Haft Sin’ table. This table features seven symbolic items, each beginning with the Persian letter ‘S’, representing different virtues and well-wishes for the new year.
The main items placed on the Haft Sin table include:
- Apple (Seeb): Symbol of health and beauty
- Mustard Oil (Seer): Symbol of health and protection
- Water (Serkeh): Symbol of patience and wisdom
- Curd (Samanu): Symbol of growth and renewal
- Fennel (Senjed): Symbol of love and care
- Walnut (Somāq): Symbol of patience and perseverance
- Water and a goldfish in a bowl: Symbol of life and abundance
Nowruz is celebrated with traditional music, dance, games, and group activities that foster a sense of community and joy. Families and friends gather to exchange good wishes and spend time together. The festival lasts for approximately 13 days, culminating in Sizdah Bedar, a tradition observed on the 13th day, where people spend time outdoors to embrace nature and rid themselves of negativity. Traditional sweets and special dishes are also prepared, adding to the festive atmosphere.
How to Celebrate Nowruz?
To take part in Nowruz, you can set up a Haft Sin table with your family, clean your home, and enjoy traditional Persian foods. If you know people from the Persian community, sharing this day with them is a great way to learn about their customs and traditions.
