Ferry sinks off Bali coast, dozens missing as rescue underway
A tragic ferry accident off the coast of Bali has left four dead and dozens missing, with rough seas complicating rescue efforts....
As winter turns to spring, millions worldwide celebrate Novruz— an ancient festival of renewal, unity, and cultural heritage. Recognized by UNESCO and the UN, it is officially marked as International Novruz Day on March 21, inspiring hope, peace, and togetherness across generations and borders.
With origins dating back over 3,000 years, Novruz marks the arrival of spring and is observed by diverse communities across the Caucasus, Iran, Central Asia, the Balkans, and beyond. Celebrated on the vernal equinox, it is more than just a seasonal transition — it embodies a cultural and spiritual tradition that fosters unity, renewal, and shared heritage.
Novruz in Azerbaijan: A Fusion of Ancient and Modern Customs
In Azerbaijan, where Novruz is a national holiday, the festivities blend ancient traditions with a modern spirit. Families set up the table, which is symbolizing prosperity and rebirth, while children and adults alike participate in the four-week Tuesday (Charshanba) celebrations, which culminate in the ritual of jumping over bonfires to cleanse away misfortunes. Throughout the country, music, dance, and public celebrations fill the streets, reflecting the deep cultural significance of the holiday.
A Global Celebration of Cultural Heritage
From Baku to Tehran, from Samarkand to Istanbul, Novruz holds deep meaning for millions who use this time to cleanse, reconnect, and embrace new beginnings. Recognizing its cultural importance, UNESCO inscribed Novruz on its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009, and a year later, the United Nations declared March 21 as the International Day of Novruz.
A Symbol of Peace and Solidarity
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has described Nowruz as a “precious gift”, emphasizing its message of peace and solidarity in a world often marked by division. Leaders worldwide have echoed this sentiment, highlighting Novruz as an opportunity to bridge cultural divides and strengthen global connections.
As millions light bonfires, share festive meals, and welcome the new year with hope and joy, Novruz stands as a timeless testament to the resilience of tradition and the enduring power of cultural unity.
The U.S. economy faces a 40% risk of recession in the second half of 2025, JP Morgan analysts said on Wednesday, citing rising tariffs and stagflation concerns.
A magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck off Japan’s Tokara Islands on Wednesday, with no tsunami warning issued but residents advised to remain vigilant.
China has ramped up efforts to protect communities impacted by flood control measures, introducing stronger compensation policies and direct aid from the central government.
The European Commission is set to propose allowing carbon credits from other countries to count towards the EU’s 2040 climate target, according to a leaked internal document.
Severe rain in Venezuela has caused rivers to overflow and triggered landslides, sweeping away homes and collapsing a highway bridge, with five states affected and no casualties reported so far.
Apple’s Formula 1-themed drama F1: The Movie surged to the top of the U.S. and Canadian box office the weekend, collecting $55.6 million in ticket sales and marking the company’s most successful cinematic opening to date, according to data from Comscore.
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez’s multi-day wedding in Venice is making headlines—not just for its celebrity guest list and luxury, but also for the backlash it has sparked among local activists.
French President Emmanuel Macron is pushing for 'French Touch' electronic music to be recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage—putting it on par with Berlin techno, Jamaican reggae, and Irish harp traditions.
Scarlett Johansson recalls how the original “Jurassic Park” deeply influenced her childhood as she premieres her role in “Jurassic World: Rebirth,” set to release on 2 July.
Dua Lipa has announced her engagement to British actor Callum Turner, calling the decision to grow old together “a really special feeling.”
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