Iranian Nowruz Culture: New Year Celebration and Ancient Symbols
Iranian Nowruz = New Day, New Beginnings, and a Celebration of Endless Traditions
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Nowruz song
Nowruz, the celebration of the beginning of the New Year in Iran and many countries of Central Asia and the Caucasus, is one of the oldest and most important celebrations in human history, dating back more than 3,000 years.
This celebration, which is associated with the change of seasons and the arrival of spring, not only symbolizes the beginning of a new year, but also represents a rebirth in nature and within humans. As a cultural and social tradition, Nowruz in Iran includes certain customs and traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation over the years. This article examines the history, customs, and the role of music in the Nowruz celebration.
History of Nowruz
Nowruz means "new day" and refers to the first day of spring in the Iranian calendar, usually March 20 or 21, corresponding to the first day of Farvardin. This festival, which was officially celebrated during the Achaemenid period, is considered one of the greatest ancient festivals in the world. At that time, Nowruz was a special celebration for Iranians as a New Year's celebration and was celebrated in all lands under Iranian rule.
Over time and in different historical periods, Nowruz has remained intact and even continued into the Islamic era. In many countries in the region, such as Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Azerbaijan, and Central Asian countries, Nowruz is recognized as a national and cultural celebration.
Music in Nowruz
Music has long held a special place in Iranian culture and plays an important role in various celebrations, including Nowruz. Nowruz is not only a celebration of the New Year, but also a time of renewal and joy, accompanied by energetic music. From Iranian instruments such as tar, setar, santur, and daf to traditional and maghami songs, everyone is present in the Nowruz celebration.
Nowruz music usually includes happy and energetic songs that are played at the beginning of the New Year and during ceremonies and visits. These famous songs are mostly based on Iranian customs and traditions and emphasize themes such as peace, happiness, joy and hope for the future. Also, in many regions of Iran, folk music and traditional dances are also held as part of the celebrations. In regions such as Gilan and Mazandaran, people perform traditional dances along with folk music.
Customs and traditions of Nowruz
One of the main features of Nowruz is the specific customs and traditions that are observed during this time. These traditions have long held a special place in Iranian culture, and each represents specific cultural and social values.
Haft Sin table
The Haft-Sin table is one of the most famous Nowruz customs, in which seven different objects, each starting with the letter "Sin", are placed on the table. These seven objects include garlic, apple, elderberry, sabzeh, samenu, vinegar, and sumac. Each of these objects has a specific symbol; for example, garlic symbolizes health, apple symbolizes beauty, elderberry symbolizes love, sabenu symbolizes fertility, samenu symbolizes strength, vinegar symbolizes patience, and sumac symbolizes the bitterness of life that will soon turn to sweetness. Setting the Haft-Sin table in homes indicates the beginning of spring and the hope for a year full of blessings and happiness.
House moving
Before the start of the New Year, Iranians have a tradition of cleaning their homes, known as "Khane Takani." This practice is not only to keep the house clean, but also symbolizes cleansing the mind and body of worries and grudges, and starting a new year with positive energy.
Nowruz
View and visit
Visiting relatives is one of the most important traditions of Nowruz. Iranians visit each other's homes during Nowruz and spend happy moments together, wishing each other a happy New Year. These visits are not only an opportunity to reunite with family and friends, but also a sign of solidarity and unity in Iranian society.
Other Nowruz customs and traditions
Picking greens
One of the most important symbols of Nowruz is the green grass, which is known as a symbol of fertility and regrowth in nature. Iranians plant green grass in the days leading up to Nowruz and place it on the Haftsin table. This green grass is usually made from wheat or lentils, and its growth during the last days of the year symbolizes the beginning of a new season and a return to nature.
Giving and receiving gifts
During Nowruz, people give each other gifts, usually consisting of money, sweets, or other symbolic gifts. These gifts are not only a means of showing affection and love for each other, but are also sometimes considered blessings and good luck for the new year.
Thirteen Badr