Source: Islamic Republic News Agency, Tehran

The oldest Iranian tradition, Nowruz recalls the cosmological and mythological times of Iran. According to the ancient myths, its founder is a deputy of Ahura Mazda (Almighty God) on earth, a position that imparts to him and the celebration a spiritual dimension and a particular sense of secular authority.

The celebration is organized according to the dynamics of love between the Creator and his creation, the material world.

The annual return of the spirits of the departed to their homes is celebrated by their offsprings according to primordial rites.

The word "Nowruz" is a compound of two Persian words, "now" which has the same etymology as the English word "new" and means new, and the word "ruz" which means both "day" and "time."

Literally meaning the "new day," Nowruz (Noruz) is usually translated as "new year."

The Persian Nowruz begins on the first day of spring (usually the 21st of March).

The 21st of March, therefore, is equal to the 1st day of Farvardin, the first month of the solar calendar.

In the mind of Iranians, the word nowruz invokes colorful images which are sumptuous, elegant, and opulent as well as delightfully simple, refreshing, and cordial.

As well as Muslims, Jewish, Zoroastrian, Armenian and Turkish Iranians and Central Asians celebrate the Nowruz with the same enthusiasm and sense of belonging.

Perhaps it is this very universal nature of the message of Nowruz that speaks to its wealth of rites and customs as well as to its being identified as the unique fount of continuity of the Iranian culture.

This year, Nowruz (Noruz) or the New Year in Iran and the spring season begins at 15:13:39 local time (11:43:39 GMT) on Friday March 20 (today).

Congratulations to all the Nowruz lovers and celebrators on the occasion on behalf of the IRNA management and staff.

IRNA wishes a year full of happiness, health and prosperity for all.

"IRNA English News Desk"
 

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