International Day of Nowruz

International Day of Nowruz History

Nowruz, also known as Persian New Year, marks the beginning of a new year. Recognised by the United Nations as an international observance, the International Day of Nowruz has cultural significance in many countries, particularly in Iran and other parts of Central Asia and the Middle East. It symbolises the arrival of spring and signifies freshness, renewal, and growth. The day is marked by activities involving feasting, visiting family and friends, commemoration ceremonies, and vibrant street performances.

Nowruz, meaning 'New Day' in Persian, can be traced back over 3,000 years to ancient Iran. With the global diffusion of Iranian culture, including the Persian diaspora, this festival's customs and traditions spread internationally. Though not a traditional South African holiday, Nowruz holds significance among the Iranian diaspora and Persian communities in South Africa, who observe it as a celebration of cultural heritage and identity.

In South Africa, International Day of Nowruz sparks connections among different communities. Persian-origin South Africans organise functions to celebrate it, and non-Persian South Africans are often invited to partake in the events to promote inclusivity and cultural exchange. The festivities typically include traditional music, dance, and the sharing of ceremonial foods. These celebrations usually occur on March 21, aligning with the vernal equinox.

Facts about International Day of Nowruz

• International Day of Nowruz is celebrated by many countries in western, central, and southern Asia. These include Afghanistan, Georgia, Albania, Iran, Iraq, India, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, and Kyrgyzstan.
• The oldest records of Nowruz go back to 247 B.C during the Arsacid/Parthian times.
• One tradition during Nowruz is to pay short house visits to family, friends, and neighbors.
• South Africa is a multicultural country with a diverse population. People of Iranian, Afghan, Kurdish, and Tajik descent, among others, join in the celebrations. The methods of celebration can vary, reflecting the diversity of cultures within South Africa.
• Nowruz is a culturally significant time that brings communities together to reflect on the year that has passed and to look forward to the coming year with hope and positivity.

In the News and Trending in South Africa for International Day of Nowruz

Top things to do in South Africa for International Day of Nowruz

• Give your family members gifts. On the first day of Nowruz, family members gather around the Haft Seen table and await the exact moment of spring. Once it arrivesm, everyone exchanges gifts.
• Enjoy a picnic. On the last day of Nowruz it is custom to go outdoors and have picnics and parties as a way to avoid bad luck.
• Visit Cape Town: Known for its scenic beauty and vibrant multicultural life, Cape Town could also be a place to celebrate Nowruz. Here again, a search for specific cultural events related to Nowruz could yield results.
• Read a book to learn more about Nowruz in South Africa:
  The Persians: Ancient, Mediaeval and Modern Iran - by Homa Katouzian.
  Iran: A Modern History - by Abbas Amanat.