Parsis, Iranians, and Bahais are celebrating Novruz between March 20 and 21. The period marks vernal or spring equinox in the Northern Hemisphere.
The day, also spelled as Nawruz, means ‘new day’ in Persian. The period marks the beginning of spring and the new year, symbolising renewal and hope.
Novruz is celebrated in central Asian countries and among followers of religions founded in the region.
Mumbai’s Parsi-Zoroastrians will visit fire temples on Friday. In the Bahai faith, Nawruz is a time for spiritual renewal, forgiveness, and growth. It is a celebration that brings people together, promoting unity, love, and compassion, said Nargis Gaur, the secretary of the community’s local Spiritual Assembly.
Bahá’u’lláh, the founder of the Bahai faith, emphasised the importance of Nawruz, saying: “Happy the one who entereth upon the first day of the month of Bahá, the day which God hath consecrated to this great name.”
Iranians prepare a ensemble called Sofreh Haftseen which usually includes a mirror, candles, colored eggs, flowers, fruits, nuts and sweets as well as seven items that their name start with the sound of “S” in Persian, including sabzeh eid (sprouting seeds), serkeh (vinegar), sib (a red apple), seer (garlic), somagh (a red-coloured spice), sekkeh (coin), among other items. The display represents life, colour, wealth, and light. Many Parsis also follow this tradition.
