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This holiday is celebrated before the Iranian New Year and involves jumping over a fire to symbolically cleanse oneself.

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Chaharshanbe Suri is an Iranian festival celebrated on the eve of the last Wednesday before Nowruz.

سه شنبه، ۲۲ اسفند ۱۴۰۲
Tuesday, March 12, 2024

The Festival of Fire (Chaharshanbe Suri) holds on the Last Wednesday of a year (which marks the arrival of spring). People hope for health and happiness through the coming year by lighting fires and embracing the light. Iran, Azerbaijan, Iraq, Afghanistan, Tajikestan, and Turkey celebrate this ancient festival, dating back to at least 1700 BCE. Iranians celebrate an old tradition known as "Chahar Shanbeh Suri."

It occurs on the last Tuesday evening of every Persian calendar year. Iranians gather with friends and family to celebrate and enjoy this occasion. Chahar Shanbeh Suri, or the "Festival of Fire," serves as a prelude to Nowruz, which signifies the arrival of the spring season.

The celebration of Chahar Shanbeh Suri usually begins in the evening, with people creating bonfires in the streets and leaping over them. Some believe that jumping over bonfires is a way to eliminate negative energy, sickness, and problems and to receive fulfillment, warmth, and energy in return. Chaharshanbe Suri serves as a cultural festival for many Iranians.

Jumping over the fire

During the Chaharshanbe Suri festival in Iran, people practice an ancient tradition of jumping over the fire. The festival, occurring on the last Wednesday before the Persian New Year, brings Iranians together to celebrate the arrival of spring and the rejuvenation of nature. The act of jumping over the fire holds a significant role in the festival as it is believed to bring good luck and protect against evil spirits.

The act of jumping over the fire during the Chaharshanbe Suri festival in Iran is known as "Chaharshanbe Soori" in Persian, meaning "Red Wednesday." It is believed that the flames of the fire symbolize the burning away of misfortunes from the previous year and the purification of the soul. This tradition represents a leap from darkness to light, from winter to spring.

Preparations for Chaharshanbe Suri start days before the festival, with people gathering firewood, preparing firecrackers and fireworks, and making special foods for the occasion. On the festival night, families and friends gather to light bonfires in their backyards or public parks. The fires are adorned with colorful ribbons and decorations, and people dance around them while singing traditional songs.

Jumping over the fire is a tradition observed by people of all ages. Before leaping, individuals recite the phrase "Sorkhi-ye to az man, zardi-ye man az to," meaning "May your redness be mine, and my paleness be yours." This phrase is believed to transfer troubles and problems to the fire, while inviting good fortune and blessings.

Jumping over the fire requires courage and agility, as the flames can reach significant heights. It is important to note the risks associated with this tradition, and precautions should be taken to ensure safety. In recent years, some Iranian officials have expressed concerns about accidents and injuries related to jumping over the fire.

Despite these concerns, many Iranians consider jumping over the fire an integral part of their cultural heritage. It is a time to unite, celebrate the arrival of spring, and renew one's spirit. This act represents the strength and resilience of the Iranian people, reminding them that even in the darkest times, there is always hope for renewal and transformation.

Apart from jumping over the fire, another unique aspect of the Chaharshanbe Suri festival is the practice of spoon-banging. Children and young adults take to the streets with spoons and other kitchen utensils to create noise by banging on pots and pans.

The origins of spoon-banging are not entirely clear, but it is believed to be a way for young people to celebrate spring and ward off evil spirits. The loud noise is said to scare away malevolent forces and bring good luck for the coming year.

Over time, spoon-banging has evolved, with participants adding firecrackers and other noisemakers to the mix. It has become an opportunity for young people to express their creativity by decorating their utensils with ribbons, flowers, and other adornments.

Spoon-banging takes place in the evening on the night of Chaharshanbe Suri. Children and young adults gather in groups, armed with spoons and other utensils, and proceed through the streets, making as much noise as possible. Participants enthusiastically shout and sing traditional songs during this lively and boisterous celebration.

However, spoon-banging has faced some controversy due to concerns about noise pollution raised by Iranian officials. In certain areas, restrictions or bans on the practice have been proposed. Nevertheless, many Iranians continue to view spoon-banging as an important part of the Chaharshanbe Suri festival and a means of connecting with their cultural heritage.

Spoon-banging

In the Chaharshanbe Suri festival in Iran, in addition to the tradition of jumping over the fire, another unique practice is the lively tradition of spoon-banging. This tradition involves children and young adults enthusiastically taking to the streets, armed with spoons and other kitchen utensils, and banging on pots and pans to create a joyful and noisy atmosphere. The streets come alive with the cacophony of sound, adding to the excitement and energy of the festival.

The origins of spoon-banging during the Chaharshanbe Suri festival in Iran are not fully known, but it is believed to have emerged as a way for young people to celebrate the arrival of spring and ward off evil spirits. The loud noise created by the banging is thought to scare away malevolent forces and bring good luck for the upcoming year.

Over time, the tradition of spoon-banging has evolved. Some participants have incorporated firecrackers and other noise-making items into the practice. It has also become an avenue for young people to showcase their creativity by decorating spoons and utensils with vibrant ribbons, flowers, and other adornments.

Spoon-banging takes place in the evening on the night of Chaharshanbe Suri. Children and young adults gather in groups, armed with spoons and various utensils, and roam the streets, enthusiastically banging on pots and pans to generate as much noise as possible. The atmosphere is filled with liveliness and exuberance as participants shout and sing traditional songs during the procession.

However, the tradition of spoon-banging has faced some controversy. Certain Iranian officials have expressed concerns about the noise pollution associated with the practice, leading to calls for restrictions or even bans on the activity in certain areas. Despite these concerns, many Iranians continue to consider spoon-banging an integral part of the Chaharshanbe Suri festival, as it allows them to stay connected with their cultural heritage.

Smashing the pot (kūza-šekanī)

Another unique tradition that is a part of the Chaharshanbe Suri festival in Iran is the practice of smashing the pot, or "kūza-šekanī" in Persian. This tradition involves breaking a clay pot filled with nuts or sweets as a way to bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year.

The origins of the tradition of smashing the pot during the Chaharshanbe Suri festival in Iran are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in pre-Islamic Persia. In the past, the pot represented the old year, and breaking it symbolized the end of the year and the beginning of a new cycle. However, today the tradition is more commonly associated with bringing good luck and prosperity in the coming year.

The pot used in the tradition is typically made of clay and filled with a variety of nuts, sweets, and sometimes coins. It is hung from a rope or cord in the center of a gathering of people. Participants take turns blindfolding themselves and attempting to smash the pot with a stick or other blunt object, while others dance and sing around them.

Smashing the pot requires skill, precision, and a bit of luck. It is believed that the person who successfully breaks the pot will be blessed with good fortune and prosperity in the year ahead. The nuts and sweets that spill out of the broken pot are also seen as symbols of abundance and prosperity.

Like other traditions associated with the Chaharshanbe Suri festival, the practice of smashing the pot carries some risks. Participants must take precautions to avoid injuring themselves or others, and it is essential to implement proper safety measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Despite these risks, many Iranians consider the tradition of smashing the pot to be an integral part of their cultural heritage. It is a time for people to come together, celebrate the arrival of spring, and express hope and optimism for the future. Breaking the pot symbolizes the breaking of barriers and obstacles, and the embrace of new beginnings and opportunities.

Fortune telling (fāl) in Chaharshanbe Suri

Fortune-telling, or "fāl" in Persian, is another popular tradition that is a part of the Chaharshanbe Suri festival in Iran. This tradition involves the use of various methods to predict one's fortune or fate for the coming year.

The practice of fortune-telling has a long history in Persian culture and is often associated with mysticism and spirituality. It is believed that by predicting one's future, fortune-tellers can help individuals better prepare for and navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

There are several methods of fortune-telling that are commonly used during the Chaharshanbe Suri festival. One popular method involves the use of divination cards or "tarot" cards. These cards are laid out in a particular pattern, and the fortune-teller interprets their meaning based on the position and arrangement of the cards.

Another common method of fortune-telling involves the interpretation of dreams. Participants will share their dreams with the fortune-teller, who will then offer insights into what the dream might mean and how it could impact the individual's future.

Palmistry, or the interpretation of the lines and markings on the palm of the hand, is also a popular method of fortune-telling during the Chaharshanbe Suri festival. The fortune-teller will examine the lines on the palm and use them to predict the individual's future.

Despite its popularity, the practice of fortune-telling is not without controversy in Iran. Some view it as a superstitious and un-Islamic practice, while others argue that it is an important part of Persian culture and tradition.

Regardless of these debates, many Iranians continue to embrace the tradition of fortune-telling during the Chaharshanbe Suri festival. It is a way for individuals to connect with their spirituality and to seek guidance and insights into their future.

Burning rue (esfand)

One of the most ancient and significant traditions during the Chaharshanbe Suri festival in Iran is the burning of rue, or "esfand" in Persian. This tradition involves the burning of dried leaves and twigs of the rue plant to ward off evil spirits and negative energies.

The use of rue for spiritual and medicinal purposes has been prevalent in Persian culture for centuries. In ancient times, it was believed that the burning of rue could purify the air and protect against various diseases. Today, rue is still widely used in traditional medicine and is believed to have a range of healing properties.

During the Chaharshanbe Suri festival, the burning of rue takes on a special significance. It is believed that the smoke from the burning rue can ward off evil spirits and negative energies, clearing the way for a fresh start and new beginnings in the coming year.

To perform the tradition of burning rue, dried leaves and twigs of the plant are gathered and placed in a metal or clay container. The container is then set alight, and the smoke is wafted around the individual or group while reciting prayers or invocations. The smoke is believed to cleanse the air and purify the surroundings, making way for positive energies and good luck.

While the tradition of burning rue may seem superstitious to some, it remains an important part of Persian culture and tradition. It is a way for individuals to connect with their spirituality and to seek protection and guidance from the divine.

In addition to its spiritual significance, the use of rue in traditional medicine has also been studied and recognized by modern science. Rue contains several bioactive compounds, including alkaloids and flavonoids, which have been shown to have antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Dropping the sash (šāl-andāzī)

Dropping the sash, or "šāl-andāzī" in Persian, is a traditional game that is played during the Chaharshanbe Suri festival in Iran. This game involves the use of a long, brightly colored sash or scarf, which is passed between players as they dance and celebrate around a bonfire.

The origins of this tradition are unclear, but it is believed to have originated from ancient Zoroastrian rituals that were practiced in Iran before the arrival of Islam. The sash is said to represent the bond between individuals and the ties that bind communities together.

To play the game of dropping the sash, a group of people gather around a bonfire and begin to dance and sing. One person holds the sash and begins to pass it to another person, who then passes it to another, and so on. As the sash is passed around, the players must try to catch it without dropping it.

The game can be played in various ways, with players adding their own twists and styles to the dance. Some players may try to pass the sash over their heads or under their legs, while others may try to jump over the sash as it is passed to them.

Dropping the sash is a lively and energetic game that is enjoyed by people of all ages during the Chaharshanbe Suri festival. It is a way for individuals to come together and celebrate their community, while also having fun and enjoying the festive atmosphere.

In addition to its entertainment value, the game of dropping the sash is also believed to have spiritual significance. The passing of the sash is said to symbolize the passing of positive energy and good luck between individuals. It is believed that by participating in the game, individuals can strengthen their bonds with others and attract good fortune and prosperity in the coming year.

A Wish-Granting Snack (Ajeel e Chaharshanbe Suri)

Ajeel e Chaharshanbe Suri is a traditional snack that is consumed during the Chaharshanbe Suri festival in Iran. This snack is believed to have wish-granting powers, and its consumption is said to bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year.

The snack is typically made up of a mix of dried fruits, nuts, and seeds, such as pistachios, almonds, raisins, and pumpkin seeds. The ingredients are carefully selected to represent different aspects of life, such as health, wealth, and happiness.

The process of making Ajeel e Chaharshanbe Suri is a communal one, with families and friends coming together to prepare the snack. The ingredients are mixed together and placed in small bowls or trays, which are then distributed among the participants.

As the snack is consumed, individuals are encouraged to make wishes and set intentions for the coming year. It is believed that the wish-granting powers of the snack can help to manifest these intentions and bring good fortune and prosperity.

The tradition of Ajeel e Chaharshanbe Suri is believed to have originated from ancient Zoroastrian rituals that were practiced in Iran before the arrival of Islam. Zoroastrianism is one of the oldest religions in the world, and its teachings emphasize the importance of good thoughts, good words, and good deeds.

The consumption of Ajeel e Chaharshanbe Suri is seen as a way to align oneself with these principles and to attract positive energy and good fortune in the coming year. It is a way for individuals to connect with their spirituality and to seek blessings from the divine.

In addition to its spiritual significance, Ajeel e Chaharshanbe Suri is also a delicious and nutritious snack that is enjoyed by people of all ages. The mix of dried fruits, nuts, and seeds provides a range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are essential for good health.

The festival has its origin in ancient Iranian rituals. The ancient Iranians celebrated the festival of Hamaspathmaedaya (Hamaspaθmaēdaya), the last five days of the year in honor of the spirits of the dead, which is today referred to as Farvardinegan.

They believed that the spirits of the dead would come for reunion. The seven holy immortals (Aməša Spənta) were honored, and were bidden a formal ritual farewell at the dawn of the New Year.

The Chaharshanbe Suri festival also coincided with festivals celebrating the creation of fire and humans. By the time of the Sasanian Empire, the festival was divided into two distinct pentads, known as the lesser and the greater panje. The belief had gradually developed that the "lesser panje" belonged to the souls of children and those who died without sin, while the "greater panje" was for all souls.

Chaharshanbe Suri During Qajar Empire

A custom once in vogue in Tehran was to seek the intercession of the so-called "Pearl Cannon" (Tup-e Morvārid) on the occasion of Chaharshanbe Suri. This heavy gun, which was cast by the foundry-man Ismāil Isfahāni in 1800, under the reign of Fath-Ali Shah of the Qajar dynasty, became the focus of many popular myths.

Until the 1920s, it stood in Arg Square, to which the people of Tehran used to flock on the occasion of Chaharshanbe Suri. Spinsters and childless or unhappy wives climbed up and sat on the barrel or crawled under it, and mothers even made ill-behaved and troublesome children pass under it in the belief that doing so would cure their naughtiness.

These customs died out in the 1920s, when the Pearl Cannon was moved to the Army's Officers' Club. There was also another Pearl Cannon in Tabriz. Girls and women used to fasten their dakhils (pieces of a paper or cloth inscribed with wishes and prayers) to its barrel on the occasion of Chaharshanbe Suri. In times, the cannon had been used as a sanctuary for political or non-political fugitives to be immune to arrest or to protest from family problems.

Sadegh Hedayat, an Iranian writer of prose fiction and short stories, has a book with the name of this cannon, Tup-e Morvārid, that criticize the old beliefs in Iranian folklore. The book also mentions the origin of the Pearl Cannon.

Today, the Pearl Cannon is placed in the opening of the Building Number 7 of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at 30th Tir Avenue, and the Cultural Heritage Organization of Iran is still in argument with the ministry to displace the gun to a museum.

Other than Iran, in what countries is Nowruz celebrated?

In neighboring countries such as Afghanistan and Tajikistan, Chaharshanbe Suri is also celebrated with bonfires and Esfand, but there are some differences in the way it is celebrated. In Afghanistan, for example, it is common to prepare special foods such as Samanak, a sweet dish made from wheat germ, and to engage in traditions such as Guli Surkh, which involves exchanging gifts of flowers and sweets.

Similarly, in Tajikistan, Chaharshanbe Suri is celebrated with traditional foods such as Plov, a rice dish, and with traditions such as Haft Sin, which involves setting up a table with seven items that begin with the letter "S" to symbolize good luck and prosperity.

What To Eat in Chaharshanbe Suri

One of the traditional foods of Chaharshanbe Suri is Ash Reshteh, a thick and hearty soup made with beans, lentils, and noodles. It is typically garnished with fried onions, dried mint, and Kashk, a type of fermented yogurt. Ash Reshteh is believed to bring good fortune and prosperity to those who consume it during Chaharshanbe Suri.

Another popular dish during the festival is Sabzi Polo ba Mahi, a fragrant rice dish that is served with grilled fish. The rice is typically flavored with herbs such as dill, parsley, and coriander, and is cooked with fragrant saffron. Sabzi Polo ba Mahi represents the hope for a bountiful harvest in the coming year.

Kookoo Sabzi is also a popular dish during Chaharshanbe Suri. It is a type of herb frittata made with eggs, parsley, coriander, and chives. Kookoo Sabzi is typically served with flatbread and yogurt, and is believed to represent new beginnings and growth.

Another festive food during Chaharshanbe Suri is Ajeel, a mixture of nuts, dried fruits, and seeds that is often consumed during the celebrations. Ajeel is believed to bring good luck and fortune in the coming year.

Finally, Halva is a sweet treat that is often prepared during Chaharshanbe Suri. It is made with sesame paste, sugar, and rose water, and is typically served with tea. Halva is believed to symbolize happiness and joy, and is a delicious way to end the festivities.

Where to go in Chaharshanbe Suri?

Chaharshanbe Suri is a widely celebrated festival in Iran, and there are many places where you can go to experience the festivities. Here are some suggestions:

1. Parks and public spaces: Many parks and public spaces throughout Iran host Chaharshanbe Suri celebrations, with bonfires and other traditional activities. These events are usually open to the public and are a great way to experience the festival with locals.

2. Traditional neighborhoods: Some of Iran's older neighborhoods have particularly lively Chaharshanbe Suri celebrations, with many families participating in traditional activities such as jumping over bonfires, spoon-banging, and smashing pots.

3. Private gatherings: Chaharshanbe Suri is also commonly celebrated in private homes, with families and friends gathering together to share traditional foods and engage in traditional activities.

If you are traveling to Iran during Chaharshanbe Suri, it is a good idea to ask locals for recommendations on where to go and what to do. You may also want to check with your hotel or tour operator to see if they are offering any special Chaharshanbe Suri events or activities. Regardless of where you go, be sure to dress appropriately for the weather and bring appropriate footwear for jumping over bonfires and engaging in other outdoor activities.
Read more:

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Chaharshanbe Suri: Experiencing Iran's Fiery Festival - SURFIRAN Mag

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Get ready for Chaharshanbe Suri, Iran's festival of fire. Learn what to expect and how to participate in this ancient Zoroastrian tradition.

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Overview of the Iranian New Year holiday and what it represents to those who celebrate.

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For the Northern Hemisphere, March 20 is the first day of spring. But for 300 million people around the world, it's the beginning of a new year, too. Nowruz-which means "new day"-is a holiday marking the arrival of spring and the first day of the year in Iran, whose solar calendar begins with the vernal equinox.

Nowruz has been celebrated in Iran and the Persian diaspora for more than 3,000 years. Its roots are as a feast day in Zoroastrianism, a religion practiced in ancient Persia that viewed the arrival of spring as a victory over darkness. The holiday survived the Islamic conquest of Persia in the seventh century and the decline of Zoroastrianism's popularity, and it spread across the globe through the diaspora of Persian people throughout history. (Here's how Persia became the world's first true empire.)

What is Nowruz and how is it celebrated?

Traditionally celebrated on the vernal equinox, many begin preparations for Nowruz weeks in advance. In the leadup to the holiday, people perform ritual dances and fill vessels in their home with water, which is associated with health, in an attempt to banish bad luck.
(In this episode of our podcast Overheard, we chat with National Geographic photographer Babak Tafreshi about the shimmering origins of this ancient Persian holiday that encourages us to make poetic connections between life and death. Listen now on Apple Podcasts.)
On the last Wednesday before Nowruz, many celebrate Charshanbe Suri, a night in which they jump over fire or go to doors banging spoons to scare away bad luck. People also visit cemeteries and bring offerings for the dead, whom some believe visit before the spring rite begins.

The spring festival's focus is fertility and new life, so it's appropriate that many revelers celebrate with seeds and eggs. Households set up tables covered with seven symbolic items they call haft-seen. Haft means "seven" and "seen" is "s" in Farsi, and all of the items start with the letter. These include seed sprouts (usually wheat, oats and other seeds, which symbolize rebirth), senjed (also known as silverberry or Persian olive, which is thought to spark love), garlic (protection), apple (fertility), sumac (love), vinegar (patience), and samanu, a pudding made of sprouted wheat (affluence). The table also can include a Koran, eggs, mirrors, and poetry.

Though Nowruz is old, the table tradition isn't: As A. Shapur Shahbazi notes in Encyclopedia Iranica, it only came into effect in the last century.

Who celebrates Nowruz?

Nowruz has proven resilient in the modern era, too. After Iran's Islamic Revolution in 1979, the new government attempted to suppress the festival out of fear it might detract from the state religion. But those attempts failed, and Nowruz is now celebrated as an official state holiday in Iran. (Related: This ancient Persian empire once captured a Roman emperor.)

It's also an official holiday in Afghanistan, Albania, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Iraqi Kurdistan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia's Bayan-Ölgii province, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, and it's widely celebrated in places like Turkey, Indian and other places with Persian enclaves.

In 2009, UNESCO, the cultural arm of the United Nations, listed the holiday on its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, noting that it "promotes values of peace and solidarity between generations and within families as well as reconciliation and neighborliness." March 21 is officially recognized as International Nowruz Day, though the holiday itself is celebrated between March 19 and 22, depending on calendars and vernal equinox calculations.

Editor's note: This story was originally published on March 19, 2020. It has been updated.

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Nowruz is a celebration of springtime-and a brand new year

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Nowruz, also known as Persian New Year, has been observed for more than 3,000 years as the victory of spring over darkness.

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Overview of how people celebrate the Iranian New Year.

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Monday marked the beginning of spring, and that means celebrations commemorating the centuries-old holiday of Nowruz are underway.

Commonly known as the Persian New Year, Nowruz translates to "new day" and symbolizes revival and renewal for its more than 300 million celebrants in modern-day Iran and beyond. Historically, the holiday has been observed in the Middle East and parts of Asia.

The roughly two-week festival typically includes food, dancing, singing and poetry.

This year, Nowruz will overlap with the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, when observers typically fast during daylight hours.

Nowruz is more than 3,000 years old

Though the exact origins of Nowruz are murky, the holiday's roots are ancient. Marking the new year using the vernal equinox - when the Sun moves above the Earth's equator - may have started as a Babylonian tradition.

But it's said that Nowruz has at least some of its beginnings in one of the world's oldest religions, Zoroastrianism, which has many of its contemporary adherents in Iran, India and North America.

Under Zoroastrian tradition, Nowruz marked the return of a spirit that had been banished underground during the colder winter months, according to UNESCO. The holiday may also be related to Jamshid, a Persian king of mythology.

The vernal equinox, which marks the start of Nowruz, occurs when the tilt of the Earth aligns with the Sun and presages the warmer months of spring and summer ahead for the Northern Hemisphere.

The tradition has evolved into a widely celebrated secular holiday

Nowruz later spread across the vibrant trade routes of the Silk Road, and along the way incorporated new "new social, religious and cultural influences," UNESCO said.

It's now celebrated by a wide array of ethnicities and religious groups in countries beyond Iran, including India, Afghanistan, Turkey and Pakistan.

Reza Goharzad, host of Politics Today on KIRN Radio in Los Angeles, told NPR that "resistance and solidarity" against oppressive governments have been hallmarks of Nowruz.

"When any kind of foreigners attacked Iran," Goharzad said, people still gathered for Nowruz.

Those celebrating the holiday may get together with family and feast, sing songs and dance as well as take part in the Nowruz custom of jumping over fire, a tradition that's meant to symbolically burn away negativity from the past year.

Iranians applauded Disney last week after the company aired a video of Mickey Mouse celebrating Nowruz by leaping over a paper fire and explaining the holiday table known as the haftseen.

It's the first Nowruz since protests erupted across Iran last year

Nowruz celebrations in Iran this year come as the country continues to grapple with widespread social and political unrest.

Outrage sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini in the custody of Iran's so-called morality police last year ballooned into widespread protests against the country's theocratic government. Though the demonstrations have slowed, anger toward Iran's political leaders has persisted.

Meanwhile Iran's economy is sputtering, causing prices for goods in the country to surge.

Soraya Batmanghelichi, an associate professor for the study of modern Iran at the University of Oslo in Norway, told NPR she had been asking people how they were celebrating Chaharshanbe Suri, the last Wednesday before Nowruz.

"In Tehran, those who went to the parks and put on music and danced, it's like if the government says not to do it, they fight back even more by dancing. But it's not a dancing of happiness. It's a dancing of, 'I'm going to stick it to you,'" Batmanghelichi said.

"It's like, 'I'm told to not show my hair, to wear hijab in a particular way. OK, I'm just going to wear my hair down.' But it's really not just about hijab. It's about how to survive the moment and do it in a way where one can control his or her fate," she added.

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Celebrations are underway for Nowruz, Persian New Year, marking the start of spring

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Revelers feast and jump over fire to mark the beginning of the new year, but recent protests across Iran and the faltering economy have cast a pall over this year's celebrations.

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An overview of the importance of the Haft Sin table and what each item on the table represents.

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Nowruz marks the first day of the Zoroastrian calendar and always falls on the spring equinox, usually March 21st. While Nowruz may be most famously celebrated in Iranian and Persian households, it is also celebrated all around the world. Nowruz is rooted in Zoroastrianism, a Persian religion that dates back further than Christianity or Islam. Over the 13 days of festivities, Nowruz celebrates nature, reinforces familial and community ties, and is based on the values of peace, coexistence, and respect.

Before Nowruz, many families will set up a Haft Sin, which is a display, often on a table or the floor, that as a whole represents renewal for the new year. A Haft Sin table hosts a collection of symbolic foods which vary from family to family. However, the staple seven in this article must always be present. The reason there are seven, and all start with the letter "s," or in the Farsi alphabet "sin," is incredibly intentional.

Seven represents the seven eternal laws of the Iranian prophet Zarathushtra. The "s" or "sin" is because Haft Sin used to be known as Haft-Sheen, or seven "sh's," with sharab (wine) being the most important. After Islam came to ancient Persia, sharab was outlawed and replaced by serkeh (vinegar). Subsequently, each Haft Sin item was also changed to start with the letter "s."

Keep reading to know a little bit more about the specific components of a Haft Sin and what they individually represent for the new year.

Seer

While the order of the seven s's is not as important as their individual presence, the first item that we will start with is seer, which in Farsi means garlic (and any variation of garlic will do). Each item included in a Haft Sin represents something important that is being hoped for in the new year. Seer in particular represents health and medicine, two incredibly valuable aspects of a quality life.

For obvious reasons, wishing for good health and wellness in the new year is an essential part of Nowruz tradition and therefore, an equally important aspect of a Haft Sin. Garlic is also seen as having a cleansing power and as a symbol of dignity and environmental purity.

Some people believe that garlic is included because it represents Ahura Mazdā, the supreme god in ancient Iranian religion and Zoroastrianism. Zoroastrianism is the religion of the Iranian prophet Zarathustra who stated that Ahura Mazdā was the creator of the universe. Therefore, including garlic in a Haft Sin is also a symbol of protection against evil.

To include seer in your display, you can simply place one or two whole heads of garlic in a small dish and add it to your arrangement to complete the symbolic placement. The garlic is shelf-stable so can sit out with the other non-perishable items for the days leading up to the new year.

Seeb

The next item in a Haft Sin is seeb, which in Farsi means apple. These unassuming fruits that we often take for granted are a must-have in any Haft Sin and have a very important symbolic meaning. However, apple's importance is cross-cultural. These red, green, yellow, or speckled fruits hold many meanings in many cultures. For example, on Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year, apples are dipped in honey to symbolize prosperity and people's hopes for the year to come.

In Persian and Iranian cultures, seeb included in a Haft Sin represents health, similarly to seer. However, unlike seer, seeb symbolizes health from the angle of beauty and is specifically oriented around keeping family members safe and in good health. While seer is a more general symbol of environmental health, seeb is a way to protect and wish for those around a given table to be protected from disease in the year to come.

As we mentioned, seeb also represents beauty, since apples, specifically red apples, are typically associated with beauty. This is also not an uncommon narrative and can partly be explained by red apples' natural shine, bright color, and often candy-sweet taste. Like seer, seeb are shelf-stable, at least before they are cooked or cut into, so it is fairly simple to include them in a Haft Sin.

Sabzeh

Sabzeh, which refers to sprouted grains, is another essential component of a Haft Sin. These sprouted grains, with their vibrant green, fresh leaves, bring some brightness to the display. They are also an excellent indication of the beginning of spring.

Nowruz, the Persian new year, is the celebration of light over dark. At its core, Nowruz is a way to acknowledge and appreciate the changing of the seasons from winter into spring. The Spring equinox is very important because it is a tipping point for the solar calendar, and indicates the transition from days getting shorter to longer. Although the equinox is a very important day, Nowruz celebrations will carry on for weeks after the equinox as a way to celebrate the triumph of good over evil and the warming of weather. By now perhaps you have some idea of why sabzeh is an essential part of Haft Sin. These sprouts, whether they are wheat, lentils, or barley, symbolize new beginnings and rebirth.

In order to have sabzeh ready for Nowruz, specifically the New Year's Day celebrations on March 21, some prior planning must be undertaken. Planting the lentil, barley, or wheat a couple of weeks before Nowruz and the equinox will ensure that you have vivacious green sprouts to celebrate with. The grass sprouts are grown in a dish that can be placed next to your other items as a welcoming splash of spring greenery.

Serkeh

Because the Haft Sin table has been prepared for centuries, there are few written records of the traditions. However, some historians agree that Haft Sin originated as a way to celebrate nature and the good it brings. At the beginning, the name of each item on the Haft Sin table started with a different letter, but after the eighth or ninth centuries, it became customary for the items to begin with the letter "s."

In Persian culture, vinegar is an essential component of a Nowruz Haft Sin display. There are many different types, of course, but in Farsi, vinegar translates to serkeh. Often served in a small bottle or dish, serkeh is a must-have during Nowruz. The serkeh at a Haft Sin represents various things, with the most common symbolism being patience and age. More specifically, it represents the patience that comes with age, as well as understanding. Serkeh also symbolizes the angel of immortality and satisfaction, which in this context means the acceptance of the difficulties and hardships in life in order to reach happiness.

In the original Haft Sin, serkeh was not included. Rather, sharab was used in place of serkeh. Sharab means wine in Farsi, and after the Islamic conquest of Persia, sharab became forbidden under Islamic law. Therefore, sharab was replaced with serkeh for Haft Sin, and to this day serkeh remains an essential offering.

Senjed

While the English translation of senjed is dried fruit, the actual senjed that is always included in a Haft Sin is specifically from oleaster. This senjed represents love and affection. This can be interpreted in many ways, but the main interpretation is that oleaster is a major symbol for familial love, and serves as a way to wish for the affection between family members to grow stronger in the new year.

So we know what senjed is, but what exactly is oleaster? Oleaster is also known as a Russian olive or trebizond date, which may be because of the fruits the oleaster tree produces, which are about the size of an olive and pale yellow in color.

These small berries, which are sweet when fresh, and even sweeter once they have dried, are an essential component of Haft Sin. While senjed does represent love and affection, it is said that senjed represents the angel of Khordad, also known as the angel of attachment. Senjed is then placed on the table as a way to wish for health of the body, especially for children and the elderly. Senjed also represents caution. Placing senjed on the Haft Sin table is a way to remind all family members to be careful in the new year.

Somagh

If you have ever seen or eaten sumac, you will understand why it symbolizes what it symbolizes in the Haft Sin display. Sumac is a berry that grows in the Southwest Asian and North African (SWANA) region, primarily in Iran and Turkey. Sumac berries are harvested and then either soaked to infuse water or dried and ground into a powder that is often bright red. The color of the final sumac powder is determined by the color of the berries which can come in many varieties, with the iconic sumac red being the most common. Some sumac berries, such as the white ones, are poisonous.

As you probably gathered, sumac, or somagh in Farsi, is one of the essential seven items that must be placed on the floor or table to complete Haft Sin. Somagh, it should come as no surprise, represents the sun and sunrise thanks to its vibrant red color. And since somagh symbolizes the sun, it also symbolizes the life and prosperity that can come from the sun.

Somagh also represents patience and is a way to encourage those around the Haft Sin table that they must approach everything with patience. Especially in regard to the new year, somagh is a reminder to enter and proceed through the new year with forbearance and tolerance. The bright red color of this beloved spice will bring a warm glow to the whole room and you will understand why it is the embodiment of the sun.

Samanoo

The other items in a Haft Sin are all shelf-stable items that can stay at room temperature for months. However, samanoo is the only prepared food item on the list, and this means that it must be stored in the refrigerator until the day of.

To make samanoo, you must start a couple of days before in order to give the wheat berries ample time to sprout. The first step involves soaking the wheat for two to three days until it has sprouted. Then the wheat needs to be dried so that it can be ground into flour before being stewed into samanoo. Once the flour is ground, you can finally make samanoo by combining your wheat flour with water and letting it simmer for anywhere from three to 24 hours.

The samanoo is finished when it is reddish brown, and thanks to the natural sweetness of the wheat, it does not need any additional sugar. This lengthy process is well worth it because the final samanoo is smooth, comforting, and slightly sweet. This slight sweetness aligns well with samanoo's symbolism, which is the sweetness of life.

Samanoo also represents affluence as well the reward of patience, like sabzeh. Altogether, this makes samanoo a very important addition to a Haft Sin because it signifies the coming of sweetness and happiness in the new year, and hopefully beyond.

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Haft Sin: The 7 Symbolic Tastes Of The Persian New Year - Tasting Table

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Never heard of a Haft Sin? Not to worry, because we're here to guide you through the seven items it consists of and what each represents in the year to come.

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Personal reflections on the Iranian New Year written by an Iranian.

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In a few days spring will arrive and Persians everywhere will be celebrating Nowruz, first day of spring, and of its beauty and pleasant weather. This is the season to be in harmony with nature and put away the old and look forward to a new beginning. This is also the time to allow the warmth of the sun to help rejuvenate our creativity and shed the layers of dormancy. Starting from the time of the first Zoroastrians, this is the season that ancient Persians celebrated this changing of the season with well wishes for each other and for all that nature had provided for them.

The early Persians had a great appreciation for nature and the four seasons, and respected the earth, the sun, and the Supreme Being.
To this day, the precise moment that spring arrives is celebrated by following the virtually unchanged rituals that were observed hundreds of years ago in a ceremony called Nowruz, which means New Day.

The preparation for this day begins a few days prior to the arrival of spring in another ceremony to bid goodbye to the old year with whatever ailment or unhappiness that entailed. This ceremony is called Chaharshanbeh Suri, which is a festival of fire. The festivities begin on the evening of the last Tuesday of the year and continues until the early morning hours of Wednesday (Chaharshanbeh). Small bonfires symbolizing light, warmth and energy are built and while jumping over these fires you can hear this song: " Zardi ye man az to, sorkhi ye to az man," which translates to: Take away all of my ailment and give me your health and energy. The evening is filled with joy, merry songs, and eating good food with family members.

One very specific food item is Ajil e Chaharshanbeh which is made up of assortments of unsalted nuts such as hazelnuts (fandogh), pistachios (pesteh), cashews (badam hendi), almonds (badam), walnuts (gerdoo), roasted chickpeas (nokhod) and dried fruit such as raisins (keshmesh) and dried white mulberry (toot). This ajil is sold at dried food stores (ajil forushi) in Iran as a prepared mix close to Nowruz. Those living outside Iran might not be able to prepare the exact mix but you can easily make your own with what is available at the stores. I mix my favorite roasted unsalted nuts with dried fruits such as dried cherries, cranberries, raisins, apricots.

Iranians and people of several other countries celebrate Nowruz the moment that spring arrives ( Tahvil e Sal) with family members. The preparation for Nowruz by tradition is a very simple table or Sofreh (cloth) called Sofreh Haftseen which usually includes: Mirror, candles, colored eggs, flowers, fruits, nuts and sweets as well as 7 items that their name start with the sound of "S" in Persian. Each of these seven items symbolize what is really important to us in our lives. The selection as well as what each actually symbolizes, varies from family to family, but they may include any of the following:
Sabzeh Eid (sprouting seeds) - Rejuvenation and spring
Serkeh (vinegar) - Age and patience
Sib (apple, usually red) - Beauty and health
Seer (garlic) - Medicine and health
Somagh (sumac) - The crimson color of sunrise and spice of life
Sonbol (Hayacinth) - Beauty and fragrance of spring
Samanu (wheat germ pudding) - Prosperity
Sekkeh (coin) - Wealth
Sabzeh Keshmesh (raisins) - Sweetness of life
Mahi Ghermez (gold fish) - Life
Tokhm Morgh e Rangi (colored eggs) - Fertility and humanity
Ayneh (Mirror) - Reflecting on life
Candles or lanterns - Light, warmth and joy

Family members sit around the Haftseen table and await the arrival of spring, no matter if it is morning or middle of the night. At that precise moment they all kiss each other and wish one another a healthy and happy new year. The adults give presents to the younger members of the family and the celebrations continue for 12 days with welcoming relatives and friends to one's home and reciprocating every visit.

Then on the early morning of the 13th day (Sizdeh Bedar) everyone leaves their homes for a previously planned mass picnic to outdoors in the foothills or by the river bank or a lake. The significance of a river or a body of water is that the Sabzeh Eyd (sprouting seeds) is kept until this day and then thrown in the water for good luck and also to symbolize the return to nature.

These are the common phrases that you will hear when you're around Persians, a few days before Nowruz and through a couple of week after Nowruz: "Nowruz Mobarak" (Happy Nowruz). "Eyd e Shoma Mobarak" (Happy Eyd e Nowruz). "Sal e No Mobarak" (Happy New Year). If you're in Tabriz, Iran; you will hear "Bayramiz Mubarah."
SOME TRADITIONAL RECIPES FOR NOWRUZ:
SABZI POLO BA MAHI سبزی پلو با ماهی

BAKLAVA CAKE|BAGHLAVA CAKE کیک باقلوا

GHORABIEH TABRIZ قرابیه تبریز

SHIRINI KESHMESHI شیرینی کشمشی | PERSIAN RAISIN COOKIES

SHIRINI LATIFEH شیرینی لطیفه

BLACKENED SALMON WITH STICKY HERB RICE

Sabzeh for your haftseen:

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Persians have been celebrating Nowruz (New Day) for centuries. Nowruz marks the Persian New Year and it coincides with arrival of spring.

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Popular Iranian music!

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Iranian dance music to get the party moving.

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Old School PERSIAN Dance Music 💃🏻 بهترین اهنگهای قدیمی شاد 💃🏻 Irani Party DJ Mix

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A Spotify playlist packed with music perfect for the Iranian New Year.

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Delicious foods to cook for the Iranian New Year.

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Persian New Year food you need to try. Also called Nowruz food you don't want to miss at this tasty time like Nan e Ba… | Nowruz food, New year's food, Persian food

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May 20, 2021 - Nowruz is Persian New Year and celebrates Spring equinox. Don't miss essential Persian New Year food, 23 Nowruz food you must try.

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Overview of the importance and symbolism of the items and foods prepared for the Iranian New Year.

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Everything you need to know about the Persian New Year (the first day of spring), from Nowruz traditions, the s… in 2023 | Nowruz traditions, Persian food, New years dinner

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Mar 10, 2023 - Everything you need to know about Persian New Year (the first day of spring): Nowruz traditions, the sofreh haft seen and the foods we eat.

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Simple tissue paper hyacinth craft.

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I'm excited to share this fun and festive craft to celebrate Norooz! It's easy, looks pretty, and can be made by kids and adults alike. I'll share a little background about the Persian New Year and then share instructions for the hyacinth craft below.

The Persian New Year, known as Norooz or Nowruz, is the biggest celebration of the year in the Persian culture. It is a time of renewal and rebirth and happens at the moment of the Spring Equinox around March 20th.

In preparation for Norooz, Persians and people from other cultures, get ready by spring cleaning their homes and getting everything ready as they embrace the changing of season and the new year to come. They participate in Charshambeh Soori which is the celebration of light and fire where they jump over a series of three small bonfires and eat the Persian trail mix called Ajeel.

At the moment of the equinox, friends and family gather around a place setting called the Sofreh Haft-Seen which is a collection of seven symbolic items in addition to a mirror, candles, and sometimes a goldfish or fish representation. The haft-seen is typically placed on a beautiful fabric and can be simple or ornate based on the individuals personal preferences.

The seven symbolic items and meanings include:

Seeb - apple, representing health

Seer - garlic, representing good health

Somagh - sumac, the color of sunrise

Sombol - fragrant flower, the Hyacinth flower

Serkeh - vinegar, patience and aging

Sabzeh - the Persian grass or sprouted legumes/lentils, representing growth and renewal

Senjed - wild olive fruit, representing love

Samanou - wheat germ pudding, representing patience, power, and bravery

Sekeh - coins; representing prosperity

The Haft Seen pics here are the spreads I have made over the last few years. As you can see, I like to make mine more compact but a haft seen can be presented in any way you like!

Traditional foods to eat on Norooz are filled with the fresh herbs of the season and include Ash Reshteh, Koo Koo Sabzi and the herbed rice called Sabzi Polo.

It is tradition for younger generations to go pay respects to the elders in the community and visit them during the 13 day Norooz season. They can eat some of the fresh foods of the season, Persian cookies, or sip on tea brewed with cardamom seeds. In return, the elders may give out "Eidey" or money to the young for good luck in the new year.

On the 13th day of Norooz, it is customary to get out of the house and celebrate Sizdeh-be-Dar with a picnic or time outdoors. Parks are great meeting places for communities to enjoy sizdeh-be-dar together, and groups will often share some of their picnic foods with each other. My favorite things to eat on this day is Lubia Polo and Salad Ooloovieh which is a Persian chicken and potato salad!

Aideh Shomah Mobarak! Meaning Happy New Year in Persian!

If you'd like to learn more, check out our podcast episode about Norooz and the Haft Seen on the Modern Persian Food Podcast!

Tissue Paper Hyacinth Flower Craft

For the craft hyacinth, I glued small pieces of colored tissue paper to a drawing of the hyacinth base. I lightly crumpled and folded the pieces of tissue paper, then used a regular glue stick to glue it to the paper. The tissue paper can be squished to little balls as well.

The result is an easy craft that is perfect to share in a classroom or just a festive activity to do on Norooz.

I made a simple template that I printed and shared with my daughter's classroom. I included tissue paper squares of various colors as well. Stay tuned to hear how that all goes!

Thanks so much for reading and learning about Persian New Year. I hope you are inspired to try setting out your own haft-seen or creating a hyacinth craft this Norooz season.

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Norooz/Nowruz Persian New Year and Festive Craft

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I'm excited to share this fun and festive craft to celebrate Norooz! It's easy, looks pretty, and can be made by kids and adults alike. I'll share a little background about the Persian New Year and then share instructions for the hyacinth craft below.

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This holiday is celebrated after the Iranian New Year and involves throwing the perishable items from the Haft Sin table into a body of water, followed by a communal picnic.

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Sizdah Bedar: The Persian Spring Tradition of Nature and Joy

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Sizdah Bedar is an Iranian festival celebrated on April 2nd, marking the end of Nowruz. It originated from ancient Iranian mythology and celebrates nature.

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Fun Nowruz children's craft project.

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Children's Nowruz Hyacinth "Sonbol" Craft Project With Farhang's Neda Rouhani

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Educational overview of the Iranian New Year.

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This article is about the festival observed on the solar Iranian calendar. For other solar new year festivals, see Solar New Year. For other uses, see Nowruz (disambiguation).