The ancient festival of Nowruz commemorates the dawn of spring and the rebirth of nature. This auspicious day coincides with the vernal equinox, marking the arrival of spring in the Northern Hemisphere.
Celebrated with great fervour by Zoroastrians and Shia communities across the globe, Nowruz is variously known as Novruz, Nowrouz, Nooruz, Navruz, Nauroz, or Nevruz. This festival, which has been observed for over 3,000 years, has its roots in ancient Iran, formerly Persia. It symbolises a time of renewal and rejuvenation, and the balance of day and night. Nowruz holds deep significance in the Zoroastrian religion, which was once the predominant faith of Persia. In India, it is celebrated by the Parsi community in cities like Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, and more.