Context
The Prime Minister of India recently extended greetings on the occasion of Navroz, celebrated by the Parsi community.
Q1. What is Navroz?
- Navroz (Nowruz) is the Persian/Iranian New Year.
- The word comes from Persian:
- ‘Nov’ = New
- ‘Roz’ = Day → meaning “New Day”.
- It marks the beginning of spring and is celebrated with enthusiasm by the Parsi community worldwide.
Q2. What is the historical background of Navroz?
- Its origins lie in the ancient Persian Empire and the Zoroastrian calendar, where it was considered a sacred festival.
- The festival is associated with the legendary Persian king Jamshed, after whom the Shahenshahi calendar is named.
- It was introduced in India in the 18th century by Nusservanji Kohyaji, a trader from Surat who brought the tradition from Iran.
- Navroz is recognised as part of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity of India.
Conclusion
Navroz represents the arrival of spring, renewal, and cultural continuity, reflecting the rich Persian and Zoroastrian heritage preserved by the Parsi community.
