Naw-Ruz celebrated globally marking spring's arrival

Today, March 21, 2025, many communities around the world celebrate Naw-Ruz, also known as Nowruz, which marks the Persian New Year and the arrival of spring. This ancient festival, of Persian origin, has been celebrated for over 3,000 years and is particularly significant for two religious communities in Central Asia, which include the Bahá'í Faith and adherents of Zoroastrianism. The roots of Naw-Ruz are believed to trace back to a pastoral fertility festival observed in biblical times, which has evolved to become a day of celebration characterized by various customs and traditions. The festival encompasses rich cultural and spiritual practices that reflect themes of renewal and rejuvenation. Participation typically involves family gatherings in new or freshly cleaned attire and the preparation of a special meal filled with symbolic foods. One of the central customs is the Haft-Sin table arrangement, where seven items starting with the Persian letter 'S' are displayed, each representing different hopes for the new year, such as health, prosperity, and rebirth. This level of meaning imbues Naw-Ruz with a significance that transcends mere celebration, signifying the onset of a new life cycle. In various regions, celebrations of Naw-Ruz incorporate unique local traditions that align with the overall spirit of the festival. For instance, in Iraqi Kurdistan, large processions take place with lit torches and public festivities. In other parts of the world, such as in Iran and parts of Syria, gatherings involve jumping over fires during Chaharshanbe Souri, an ancient Festival of Fire, which takes place the eve before the last Wednesday of the Persian year. Such customs promote a sense of community and belonging among celebrants by linking their history to their modern-day practices. Naw-Ruz's recognition extends beyond cultural festivities; it is considered significant enough for the United Nations to mark it as a cultural heritage, emphasizing its relevance to over 350 million people worldwide, including an eight-million strong Bahá'í community. The festival not only celebrates the beginning of a new year but promotes unity and oneness across different cultures and races. As people from diverse backgrounds celebrate Naw-Ruz, they symbolize hope for creating a more harmonious world, emphasizing love, peace, and the interconnectedness of humanity.