As the calendar turns to March 20, Azerbaijan joyfully embraces Novruz, the festival of renewal, light, and the rebirth of nature.
At exactly 13:01:25 Baku time, spring will officially begin, marking the moment when day and night stand in perfect harmony. The Sun will rise precisely in the east and set in the west, symbolizing balance and the awakening of a new season.
Novruz is more than just a holiday—it’s a time-honored celebration of life’s renewal. For at least four weeks leading up to the big day, Azerbaijanis prepare with four sacred Tuesdays, each dedicated to one of nature’s essential elements:
Water Tuesday – Symbolizing purity and renewal.
Fire Tuesday – Honoring warmth and energy.
Wind Tuesday – Embracing movement and change.
Earth Tuesday – Awakening nature's vitality.
Each element plays a role in welcoming spring and ensuring a prosperous year ahead.
The Novruz feast is a visual and culinary delight, filled with symbolism and deep-rooted traditions. The table is set with seven items that start with the letter "S" in the Azerbaijani language, including sumac, vinegar, milk, sprouted wheat (samani), and fresh greens. A mirror and candles take center stage, reflecting light and clarity for the year ahead, while beautifully dyed eggs rest atop the mirror.
A cherished belief holds that everyone must stay home on the first day of Novruz—a tradition said to ensure happiness for the next seven years. In the past, doors remained open, welcoming prosperity and good fortune. Throughout the night, lights burned brightly, as letting them go out was thought to bring misfortune.
With 92 days, 17 hours, 40 minutes, and 46 seconds of spring ahead, Azerbaijanis step into the new season with hope, joy, and the warmth of Novruz.
Recognizing its deep cultural significance, UNESCO officially added Novruz to the Intangible Cultural Heritage list on September 30, 2009, preserving its beauty and traditions for future generations.
Let the festivities begin—Happy Novruz!
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