History behind Nowruz

Nowruz is named after Jamshed, the Persian ruler who is credited with inventing the Persian or Shahenshahi calendar. Jamshed, according to tradition, protected the world from an impending catastrophe that took the form of a winter and was intended to kill everyone. According to the texts, there was no severe heat or cold, no premature deaths, and everyone lived peacefully in King Jamshed’s dominion. It is reported that the celebration was brought to India by Nusservanji Kohyaji, a wealthy trader from Surat in the 18th century who frequently travelled to Iran and began celebrating Nowruz in India.

In which countries is Nowruz observed?

Many countries with substantial Persian cultural influence, such as Iran, Iraq, India, Afghanistan, and parts of Central Asia, celebrate Nowruz. Kurds in Iraq and Turkey, as well as Iranians, Shias, and Parsis in the Indian subcontinent and in the diaspora, celebrate Nowruz. Nowruz is also observed by Iranian communities in the Americas and Europe, notably Los Angeles, Phoenix, Toronto, Cologne, and London. Nowruz is known as the Persian New Year Festival in Phoenix, Arizona.

India’s Nowruz celebrations

Nowruz is celebrated by the Parsi community in India around August 16-17, according to the Shahenshahi calendar, which does not account for leap years, hence the holiday has migrated by 200 days from its original date. Many people, however, commemorate it in March.

Patra Ni Macchi, Akoori, Falooda, Dhansak, Ravo, Sali Boti, and Saffron Pulao are some of the typical Nowruz foods

How is Nowruz Celebrated ?

Parsis dress up in traditional garb, decorate their homes with lights and rangoli, and cook delectable dishes. They host parties in their houses and pay visits to their loved ones. On this auspicious day, Parsis also visit the Fire Temple and offer fruits, sandalwood, milk, and flowers to the fire. Bonfires, feasts, musical performances, poetry readings, and traditional sports are all part of community celebrations.