Parsi New Year, also known as Navroz or Nowruz, will be celebrated on August 16, 2024, by the Parsi community in India and worldwide. This significant festival marks the beginning of the new year in the Zoroastrian calendar and is steeped in ancient Persian traditions.
The festival aligns with the vernal equinox, symbolizing the arrival of spring and the renewal of nature. It is a time for the Parsi community to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, reflecting core Zoroastrian values.
Preparations for Parsi New Year involve thorough cleaning of homes, wearing new clothes, and participating in religious ceremonies at the Agiary (fire temple). These practices signify a fresh start and the importance of spiritual and physical cleanliness.
Feasting is a central aspect of the celebrations, with families sharing traditional dishes like Patra, Sali Boti, and Mawa Cake, emphasizing hospitality and community bonds. As the Parsi community gathers to celebrate Navroz, they honor their rich heritage and embrace the promise of a new beginning.