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.
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People in Tehran celebrated Sizdah Be-dar, the 13th day of Novruz, on Thursday. They picknicked with their families and friends in a park, as the war raged towards the end of its fifth week. Exclusive photos by Touraj Shiralilou.
Tehran’s Cultural Heritage Minister, Reza Salehi Amiri, has emphasised Iran’s and Azerbaijan’s shared cultural and civilisational heritage in an exclusive interview with AnewZ ahead of Novruz. The chat is being published with some delay, after an internet blackout in Iran delayed its transmission.
Festive events across Azerbaijan are bringing the spirit of Novruz to life, with the Gala State Historical and Ethnographic Reserve hosting its annual “Spring Fortress” celebration. Visitors are immersed in a historic setting, surrounded by colourful decorations and live performances.
Novruz, a centuries-old celebration marking the arrival of spring, brings together multiple countries to honor peace, renewal, and cultural unity, with UNESCO recognizing it as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
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