Google Doodle celebrates Nowruz 2024 : All you need to know about Persian New Year | Significance | History | Festivals | The Amit Gahlyan

Nowruz, the Persian New Year, marks the first day of spring and the beginning of the year in the Iranian calendar. It is celebrated on the day of the astronomical vernal equinox, which usually occurs on March 19th to 21st. Like The Hindu New Year, or Vikram Samvat 2081, is on April 9, 2024, On Tuesday This year. The celebration of Nowruz has its roots in ancient Persia and has been observed for over 3,000 years, spreading to various parts of the world, including Central Asia, the Caucasus, South Asia, Northwestern China, the Crimea and some groups in the Balkans.

Google's Doodle for Nowruz 2024 captures the essence of this vibrant celebration with a colorful illustration that reflects the joy and spirit of renewal that Nowruz brings. It serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage that Nowruz represents and its significance in promoting peace and goodwill across different communities.

One of the most significance traditions of Nowruz is setting the 'Haft-Seen', also known as the seven 'S's. The Haft-Seen table includes seven items that all start with the letter 'S' in the Persian alphabet; these items symbolically represent love, rebirth, health, beauty, sunrise, patience, and affluence.

The History & Significance of Nowruz :

Nowruz, the Persian New Year, has a rich history that dates back over 3,000 years, originating in the ancient Persian Empire. Ancient Persians believed that Nowruz marked the first day when the universe was created. The celebration is deeply rooted in the rituals and traditions of Zoroastrianism, which was the religion of Ancient Persia before the advent of Islam.

The festival of Nowruz is mentioned in various historical records, including those of the Achaemenid Empire, one of the earliest Persian empires. The Achaemenid kings are known to have celebrated Nowruz with grand festivities that symbolized their connection to their subjects and the cosmos.

During Nowruz, ancient Persians observed rituals that are still practiced today. They prepared elaborate feasts, participated in communal games, and offered tributes to their deities. The tradition of setting up the Haft-Seen table also has its origins in these ancient celebrations.

Nowruz survived various historical changes and continued to be an integral part of Persian culture even after the Islamic conquest of Persia. It became a symbol of cultural continuity and resistance against colonization and foreign rule throughout history.

Today, Nowruz is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and is celebrated by millions around the world. It remains a testament to the enduring legacy and cultural richness of Persian civilization. 

Nowruz is a time for spring cleaning, visiting friends and family, and renewing old ties. It is also a celebration of nature's rebirth, symbolizing new life and new beginnings. The festivities last for two weeks, culminating on Sizdah Bedar, the thirteenth day of the New Year, when people go outdoors to picnic and enjoy nature.

Happy Nowruz to all those celebrating! And love From India.