International Day of Nowruz

Nowruz has been finally designated as an International Day by the United Nations General Assembly and this event has been registered in the name of Iran. Nowruz is a celebration for all since it is based on the change in earth's axis which defines the end of winter and the begining of spring. It is the revival of life, the renewal of hope and light.
Nowruz is celebrated by many countries in the region and some of the rituals are very similar . Most Central Asian Republics have joyful ceremonies and rituals.  The rituals are very meaningful and inspiring . Taking the energy and warmth from the fire on Charshanbe Suri to spreading a tablecloth for seven blessings from God, green sprouts, apples, cooked wheat sprouts,..... Nowruz is a source of hope for Iranians after a very difficult year. It is an indication that life will proceed and the truth will prevail, we only need to persevere.

 

THE SECRETARY-GENERAL

MESSAGE ON THE DAY OF NOWRUZ

21 March 2010


The General Assembly’s decision this year to recognize the International Day of Nowruz is evidence of a growing global awareness of the holiday’s significance not only in the regions where it is celebrated but around the world.

For millennia, when the sun crosses the equator and the northern hemisphere enters Spring, peoples in the Balkans, the Black Sea Basin, the Caucasus, Central Asia, the Middle East and other regions have carried out their own special traditions in celebration of Nowruz. These rituals, from repainting homes to visiting friends to preparing symbolic meals, are infused with a spirit of renewal and can inspire not only those conducting them but all people.

As we commemorate this first International Day of Nowruz, I hope countries and people around the world will draw on this festival’s history and customs to promote harmony with the natural world and foster global peace and goodwill .