Parsi New Year 2023: Why it's celebrated twice a year
August 16 this year is being celebrated as Parsi New Year, marking the renewal of nature and fresh beginnings. Also called Navroz, people from the Parsi community believe that during this time, the souls of the dead return to meet their loved ones and shower them with blessings. However, did you know that this new year comes twice an annum? Here's why.
History: Navroz has been around for over 3,000 years
Navroz is among the oldest festivals with a rich history aging more than 3,000 years. It belongs to an ancient religion named Zoroastrianism, which emphasized a lot on physical rejuvenation and spiritual renewal. The festival first originated in Persia and is now also celebrated in various parts of India. Many also refer to this occasion as Jamshedi Navroz, named after the Persian King Jamshed.
Significance: The festival is celebrated twice a year
Navroz celebrations occur twice a year due to calendar variations. The first Navroz happens during the March equinox to symbolize the arrival of spring. It also marks the New Year according to the Iranian calendar. Zoroastrians in Pakistan and India, using the Shahenshahi calendar, observe a second Navroz on August 16, which was introduced after fleeing Persia, maintaining two celebrations.
Essence: The festival focuses on 4 Fs'
Parsi New Year is all about 'Four Fs' which are fire, fragrance, food, and friendship. On this day, people seek forgiveness for their past deeds, indulge in mental purification, relish delicious traditional foods, and begin a fresh year on a positive note. Some also make philanthropic contributions and start their relationships with a lot of peace and harmony.
Celebrations: People clean their houses, wear new clothes, exchange gifts
Those observing Navroz celebrate the festival by cleaning their houses, wearing traditional clothes, making donations, and exchanging gifts. They make beautiful rangolis and decorate their space with flowers. Additionally, they offer prayers called Jashan by visiting fire temples (Agiary) and offering milk, fruits, flowers, and sandalwood to the sacred fire. People also cook dishes including egg patties, haleem, jardala chicken, sali boti, farcha, etc.
