Navroz, also called Nowruz, is one of the oldest festivals in the world, commemorating the Persian New Year, marking the beginning of spring. The celebrations of this ancient festival have been going on for over 3,000 years, marking the arrival of spring, which occurs on the equinox of the season, i.e., on March 20 or 21, when the days are equal to nights in the Northern Hemisphere.
What is Navroz and why is it celebrated?
âNavrozâ is a word of Persian origin, where ânowâ means new, and âruzâ means day, indicating a new beginning. The celebrations of this ancient festival are based on Zoroastrian traditions, which highlight the themes of renewal, harmony, nature, and bonding with family.
Though the origins of the Nowruz festival are rooted in Iran, its celebrations are also observed in other parts of the world where the influence of Persian culture was once prominent, including Iraq, Afghanistan, TĂŒrkiye, India, etc. The preparations for the festivities begin weeks in advance, which include activities like spring cleaning, purchasing new clothes, etc.
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The significance of the Haft-Seen table
A key highlight of Navroz is the Haft-Seen table, a symbolic arrangement of seven items that begin with the Persian letter âSâ. Each item carries a deeper meaning linked to life and renewal:
Sabzeh (sprouted grains): Symbolises growth and rebirth
Samanu (sweet pudding): Represents strength and power
Senjed (dried fruit): Stands for love and affection
Seer (garlic): Associated with health and protection
Seeb (apple): Reflects beauty and well-being
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SomÄq (sumac): Signifies patience and the sunrise
Serkeh (vinegar): Represents wisdom and ageing
Together, these elements reflect hopes for a balanced and prosperous year ahead.
When will Navroz be celebrated in 2026?
In India, Navroz will start on March 20th at 8:16 PM, which is exactly when the spring equinox begins. Navroz is also coinciding this year with Eid-al-Fitr in West Asia, making this a festive period for many.
