Nawroz, the festival of Spring is a joyful time for Zoroastrians, as the start of the new year.
Navroz is a festival of new beginnings and marks the victory of light over darkness. It is the Persian or Iranian New year celebrated by people of different ethnicities worldwide. It is celebrated twice a year in India according to Shahenshahi and Iranian calendars.
In Kashmir valley, the famous almond blossom festival at Badam Wari on the foothills of Hari Parbat in Srinagar city has become the symbol of the onset of spring as well as Jashn-e-Bahar – Nowruz festival in recent times. Contrary to what many people believe, Nowruz is not a Muslim festival but has roots in ancient Zoroastrian and Vedic culture of ancient Persians and Vedic Aryans. The Parsi community of Gujarat and Maharashtra continues to celebrate Nowruz till this day as part of thousands of years old Parsi Zoroastrian cultural heritage
While Kashmir remains among few places in South Asia with a recorded history as exhibited brilliantly in the Sanskrit language epic work of “Rajtarangini”, written by Kashmiri Pandit writer, Kalhana, there are many aspects of Kashmiri culture that make Kashmir a far more complex, mysterious and interesting places and the celebration of the spring festival of Persian new year Nowruz is one of them.
Given the cultural significance of this festival across Central and South Asian nations, the United Nations also declared the marking of ‘International Nawroz Day” as a cultural legacy of entire humanity.
Navroz is celebrated by both the Shia and Sunni communities in Kashmir. It holds immense significance as it is believed to bring luck, prosperity, and abundance in the coming year. The festival is also a symbol of unity and togetherness, as people from different communities come together to participate in the festive celebrations.
The preparations for Navroz in Kashmir begin well in advance. Homes are cleaned and decorated with flowers and lights to welcome the festival. Traditional delicacies are prepared, and new clothes are bought to wear on the day of Navroz. Markets, especially in the capital city of Srinagar, are adorned with colorful stalls selling a variety of items like clothes, jewelry, handicrafts, and local produce.
On the day of Navroz, people wake up early and wear their new clothes. They visit their local mosques or shrines to offer prayers and seek blessings for the year ahead. Special communal prayers are held, and religious leaders deliver sermons emphasizing the importance of unity and harmony. After the prayers, people gather with their friends and family to enjoy a lavish feast.
The feast, known as ‘haakh and rista,’ is a traditional meal comprising of various dishes, including Kashmiri saag (greens) and meatballs. The aroma of these delicacies fills the air as families come together to share a hearty meal and exchange gifts. It is also common for people to visit friends and neighbors, bearing gifts and sweets, as a gesture of goodwill and friendship.
The celebrations of Navroz in Kashmir go beyond religious customs and extend to cultural performances and activities. Colorful processions are taken out on the streets, with people dressed in vibrant traditional attire. The streets are filled with music, dance, and joy as locals showcase their cultural heritage through various art forms.
Traditional Kashmiri music, known as Sufiana Kalam, adds to the festive spirit. Local artists perform traditional dances like Rouf and Hafiza, mesmerizing the audience with their graceful movements and intricate footwork. Craftsmen and artisans display their skills with exquisite handcrafted items, such as papier-mache products, shawls, and traditional jewelry.
Navroz is an ideal time to visit Kashmir and experience the region’s vibrant culture and natural beauty. While in Kashmir, make sure to explore the iconic Dal Lake and take a shikara ride amidst the picturesque surroundings. Visit the Mughal gardens, like Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, which are adorned with colorful flowers during this time of the year.
For adventure enthusiasts, kite flying is a popular activity during Navroz, and you can try your hand at flying colorful kites against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Don’t forget to indulge in the delectable Kashmiri cuisine, known for its rich flavors and aromatic spices.
Navroz is a festival that brings people together to celebrate the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new year. In Kashmir, it is a time of joy, unity, and cultural festivities. From traditional feasts to colorful processions and cultural performances, Navroz offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich heritage and traditions of the region.
