What is Nowruz?
Nowruz, also known as the Persian New Year, is an ancient festival that marks the beginning of spring. Celebrated on or around March 20 or 21, Nowruz coincides with the vernal equinox, when day and night are of equal length. This centuries-old tradition has its roots in Persian culture and has observed for over 3,000 years in various regions, including Western Asia, Central Asia, the Caucasus, the Black Sea region, the Balkans, and South Asia.
Nowruz 2025 Date and Time in Pakistan
Nowruz 2025 will celebrated in Pakistan on Thursday, March 20, 2025. The exact moment of the vernal equinox in Pakistan expected to occur at around 07:06 AM (PKT). This marks the official transition to spring and the beginning of the Persian New Year. In various cities, including Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi, communities observing Nowruz will gather for traditional festivities and cultural events.
Origins and History of Nowruz
The origins of Nowruz date back to the Zoroastrian era, long before the rise of Islam in Persia. The festival deeply connected to agricultural cycles and seasonal changes, symbolizing rebirth, renewal, and the triumph of light over darkness. Ancient Persian kings, including those of the Achaemenid Empire (550–330 BCE), used Nowruz as an occasion to hold grand celebrations and royal ceremonies.
How is Nowruz Celebrated?
Nowruz celebrations typically begin with Chaharshanbe Suri, a fire festival observed on the last Wednesday before Nowruz. People jump over bonfires, symbolizing the purification of the past year’s misfortunes and welcoming prosperity.
A key tradition of Nowruz is the setting up of a Haft-Seen table, which includes seven symbolic items starting with the Persian letter ‘S’ (س), such as:
- Sabzeh (سبزه) – Sprouted wheat or lentils, representing rebirth and growth.
- Samanu (سمنو) – Sweet pudding, symbolizing strength and power.
- Senjed (سنجد) – Dried oleaster fruit, associated with love and wisdom.
- Seer (سیر) – Garlic, representing health and protection.
- Seeb (سیب) – Apple, symbolizing beauty and good health.
- Somaq (سماق) – Sumac, denoting the sunrise and the victory of light.
- Serkeh (سرکه) – Vinegar, representing patience and wisdom.
Families gather around the Haft-Seen table at the exact moment of the equinox to celebrate the new year with prayers and well-wishes.
Where is Nowruz Celebrated?
Nowruz a UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage celebrated in many countries, including:
- Iran – The heart of Nowruz celebrations, where it is a national holiday lasting for two weeks.
- Afghanistan – Known as “Nawroz,” it is a time of festivity, traditional games, and gatherings.
- Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan – Official public holidays with grand festivities.
- Pakistan and India – Celebrated by the Parsis and Ismaili Muslim communities.
- Turkey and Iraq – Observed by the Kurdish community with music, dance, and bonfires.
Nowruz and Modern-Day Recognition
In 2010, the United Nations recognized Nowruz as the International Day of Nowruz, emphasizing its importance in promoting peace, unity, and cultural harmony. Today, millions across the world celebrate Nowruz as a time of new beginnings, family reunions, and expressing gratitude for the blessings of life.
Nowruz is more than just a New Year celebration—it is a symbol of renewal, hope, and the eternal connection between nature and humanity. With its rich traditions and cultural significance, Nowruz continues to be a cherished festival, uniting people across diverse regions and backgrounds in the spirit of joy and togetherness.
