Tag: Persian Custom

Nowruz Persian New Year   Nowruz (Noruz) in Iran marks the first day of Farvardin and The New Year. In the Gregorian calendar, Nowruz mostly occurs on March 20 or 21 and rarely on March 22 if it’s a leap year. This day in Iran and Afghanistan makes the New Year. UNESCO has registered Nowruz on its list as a World Heritage in 2009 and in 2010 the United Nations officially accepted the “International Day of Nowruz”. Nowruz is officially a holiday celebrated in many countries such as Tajikistan, Russia, Turkmenistan, India, Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, Syria, Iraq, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Albania, and Uzbekistan. Iranians have inherited this ancient celebration from different ethnic groups in the region; a celebration with special colors and fragrances, which has a Persian identity and symbolizes the unity of Iranians. Nowruz is known as the beginning of the revitalization of nature, the timing of its growth, and the emergence of plants. Also, they believe they have to start the first day of the year by being in good spirits and wearing new clothes.   Nowruz customs and traditions in Iran Chaharshanbe Suri (before Nowruz) Nowruz is a collection of celebrations and events. Nowruz celebrations first begin with Chaharshanbe Suri. On the last Thursday of the year, Iranians visit the graves of their forebearers to spend some time with their deceased loved ones. Khaneh Tekani (Spring cleaning) The other tradition of Nowruz is Khaneh Tekani. Still many people and nations celebrating Nowruz still stick to this tradition. Spring cleaning begins on the eve of New Year to ensure furniture and furnishings are thoroughly cleaned and washed, if appropriate. This cleanliness is a symbol for cleansing people's hearts to let them build a closer relationship with other people.   Arranging the Haft-Sin Table Setting the Haft-Sin table is also a