INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
With the countdown to Nowruz underway, Iran is buzzing with preparations for one of the most significant and cherished celebrations in
Millions plan to travel across the country or beyond to historical sites, natural landscapes, and family homes, while others will remain in
their hometowns to observe traditional family gatherings.According to the tourism minister Seyyed Reza Salehi-Amiri, extensive arrangements
have been made to ensure vibrant Nowruz celebrations nationwide
For instance, some 1,000 Nowruzgahs (special Nowruz-themed festivals) are set to take place across the country, providing cultural
performances, storytelling, traditional music, and folk dances
spiritually significant Nights of Qadr during the holy month of Ramadan, when Iranians dedicate themselves to prayer and
reflection.Regarding the convergence of Nowruz and the holy month of Ramadan this year, the tourism minister has highlighted that overlap as
a rare and unique occurrence, allowing for the integration of cultural and religious values in a harmonious manner
historically, Iranians have celebrated both without conflict.Iran also serves as a central hub for Nowruz-related diplomatic meetings and
Representatives from various countries that observe Nowruz, including Turkey, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and Azerbaijan, participate in
special gatherings and discussions aimed at promoting cultural ties and strengthening the international significance of Nowruz.Foreign
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi said that Nowruz is more than a national celebration; it is a symbol of cultural bonds,
nations who celebrate Nowruz as their shared cultural heritage
Nowruz goes beyond a national celebration; it is a symbol of cultural bonds, fraternity among nations, and respect for nature and time
Nowruz, this ancient ritual, has been celebrated for centuries in a wide geography from South Asia to the Balkans and from Central Asia to
the Caucasus as inspiring for hope, renewal, and consolidation
This celebration reminds us of an age-old wisdom arising from the heart of history, and a harbinger of tranquility, transformation, and
and cooperation is sensed more than before
The Nowruz ritual, per se, carries the message of friendship and interaction
and cultural cooperation among the Nowruz-celebrating states
Therefore, we believe that this common heritage can provide a ground for expanding regional and international cooperation in cultural,
tourism minister Seyyed Reza Salehi-Amiri, underlined the principal role of Nowruz as a catalyst for fostering international solidarity,
cultural cohesion, and a peace-oriented dialogue
He underscored its significance as a longstanding Iranian discourse capable of driving global peace and strengthening cultural ties
The event was attended by ambassadors and diplomats from countries that share Nowruz as a UNESCO-registered intangible cultural heritage
with Iran.Elsewhere in his remarks, the minister highlighted the convergence of Nowruz and Ramadan this year, portraying it as a testament
to the adaptability and resilience of Iranian civilization
He also asserted that Nowruz not only holds a distinguished place in Iranian cultural life but also has the potential to serve as a global
model for peaceful coexistence.A symbol of cultural convergence and identityThe minister reaffirmed that Nowruz embodies Iranian identity,
the Persian language, and traditional customs, uniting Iranians beyond ethnic and religious distinctions under a shared cultural heritage
marked by identity crises and global conflicts, Nowruz can serve as a comprehensive framework for fostering social cohesion and
transcends race, ethnicity, and religion.A transnational legacy and a tool for global solidaritySalehi-Amiri asserted that Nowruz is not
confined to geographical boundaries but stands as a manifestation of knowledge, dignity, humanity, and ethics
by stressing that Nowruz is not merely a theoretical or abstract concept but an active social practice that promotes cultural synergy and
sustainable interaction among societies.Cultural festivities enrich the global Nowruz celebrationThe ceremony featured an array of cultural
performances, including Kurdish daf music, traditional Nowruz songs performed by various Iranian ethnic groups, artistic video projections,
and a fire display.As part of its broader vision, like in previous years, multi-national Nowruz celebrations will be held to mark the
ancient UNESCO-registered festivity of Nowruz that marks the new year, ushers in spring, and celebrates the rebirth of nature
Variously known as Novruz, Nowrouz, Nooruz, Navruz, Nauroz or Nevruz, this historic celebration is observed on the 20th or 21st of March in
many countries along the Silk Roads, including Iran, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, India, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan,
It celebrates new beginnings and the return of spring, which is of great spiritual significance as it symbolizes the triumph of good over
Nowruz includes rituals, ceremonies, and cultural events, as well as the enjoyment of a special meal with loved ones.In the days leading up
to Nowruz, nearly every Iranian household engages in Khaneh-Tekani, or spring cleaning, a deep cleansing of homes to welcome the new year
Families also purchase new clothing, dried nuts, sweets, and decorations to create a festive atmosphere in their homes
Markets and bazaars are bustling with activity as people shop for items to complete their Haft-Seen, the symbolic table setting featuring
seven essential elements representing prosperity, health, and happiness.AM
