Facts about Navroz

Discussion on R&R from all regions
kmaherali
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Families usher in Navroz with delectable feast & prayers for harmony

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city ... 741357.cms

Special prayers, sumptuous meal mark Navroz celebration in Thane

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city ... 739023.cms

President Pranab Mukherjee extends Nouroz greetings to Iran

http://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/ ... an/1010818



Happy Nauroz: Karachiites ring in the Persian new year in style

https://tribune.com.pk/story/1360790/ha ... ear-style/

People across Kashmir are celebrating Navroz today

http://brighterkashmir.com/navroz-today ... et-people/

Dr. Farooq, Omar Abdullah greet people on Navroz

http://www.scoopnews.in/det.aspx?q=65784
kmaherali
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Secretary-General's remarks at Nowruz Celebration [as delivered]


Happy Nowruz to everyone!

I am grateful to the Ambassadors from a dozen countries celebrating Nowruz for bringing us together today.

Thank you for enabling the United Nations to be part of this timeless ceremony.

Nowruz is a new beginning. A new year. A chance to be with family and friends.

The United Nations family celebrates Nowruz because this holiday has meaning for the whole world.

Nowruz is a reminder of all that we have in common – and the richness of our diversity.

I understand that later a video will be shown featuring how different communities celebrate Nowruz. They each find their own beautiful way to express our shared values.

And the feasts of Nowruz have so many symbolic items, including sprouted wheat to symbolize Springtime.

About a millennium ago, the poet Nasir-i Khusraw – I believe he was born in Iran and lived [a] large part of his life in what’s today Tajikistan – wrote about this inspiring transition to a new season.

He said, “Spring has come – the air is cool and fresh and the aged world is young again.”

So we are all young on Nowruz!

And the poet points out that the grass and trees are revived thanks to their seeds. And he teaches that for man, “Knowledge is the seed.”

This is a profound lesson inspired by Nowruz: Knowledge renews us.

Nowruz is a time to learn about each other and our world.

It is a chance to renew our pledge for peace, friendship, human rights and human dignity.

I wish all families and communities that celebrate a prosperous, happy, healthy and peaceful Nowruz.

Let us mark this new beginning with fresh resolve for our world.

Thank you.

Nowruz Mubarak.

https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/sg/sta ... -delivered

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For Afghan Immigrants, Nowruz Celebrations Of Spring Are A Taste Of Home

If you saw any people leaping over fires, grilling fragrant kebabs or holding elaborate picnics this weekend, you may have witnessed celebrations of Nowruz, the Persian New Year, which marks the start of spring across large parts of the Middle East and Central Asia.

Nowruz is often associated with the Iranian community, but it is also popular among Afghans, among others. And though the holiday officially falls on Tuesday, March 21, this year, many Afghan immigrants and refugees in the U.S. took advantage of its proximity to the weekend and celebrated it early in community centers, hotel ballrooms, private homes — and, wherever possible, the great outdoors.

Nowruz originates from pre-Islamic Zoroastrian traditions. During the Taliban years in Afghanistan, the government's rigid adherence to fundamentalist Islam resulted in a ban on the holiday. But in many parts of the country, it continued to be celebrated in secret.

Perhaps it is not surprising, then, that the holiday that resisted regime and religious change for three millennia has also survived the sometimes-long journeys of Afghan immigrants and refugees to the United States, often via Iran, Pakistan and Turkey. Nowruz and the feasts that accompany it are an important cultural and social link to Afghanistan.

More..
http://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/201 ... te-of-home
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NAVROZ MUBARAK When is Nowruz 2018, how is the Persian New Year celebrated and what is Haft-Seen?

Nowruz, or Navroz, is celebrated by hundreds of thousands of people across the world on March 21, but just what does this special day signify?

ON March 21, hundreds of thousands of people across the world will be welcoming in the New Year and celebrating the first day of spring in a festival called “Nowruz” or “Navroz”.

Several countries mark this day as a national holiday. Here’s the lowdown on this exciting traditional celebration.

More...
https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/5830079/n ... haft-seen/
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The New Day of Persia!

In the month of March, when the day and night become equal in length — vernal equinox, the Sun enters the first degree of Aries completing its journey of all its 12 stations and it begins to regain strength and overcome winter’s cold and darkness, it is a time to welcome the New year and say: Navroz Mubarak!

‘Nav’ means ‘new’ and ‘roz’ means ‘day’. Navroz or “(festival of the) New Day” is a time that signifies the end of winter and the beginning of the spring and, perhaps, the most visually spectacular of the Persian festivals, celebrated amongst the nations of Iranian background. It is the first day of the month of Farvardin that ushers in the loveliest season of the year, a time that is a moment of celebration of the rejuvenation of growth and vigour in nature. It marks a moment of joyous festivities for people across the globe, to share and convey to the world a message of renewed hope of happiness and optimism.

More...
ismailiwellsprings.wordpress.com/2017/03/22/on-navroz-magnificent-day/

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Navroz is a time for renewal and reflection

ismailimail.wordpress.com/2018/03/20/navroz-is-a-time-for-renewal-and-reflection/#more-180534
kmaherali
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Statement by the Prime Minister on Nowruz

Ottawa, Ontario
March 20, 2018
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Nowruz:

“Today, we join Persian, Kurdish, Afghan, Zoroastrian, Bahá’í, Central Asian, and Ismaili communities in Canada and around the world to celebrate Nowruz and the arrival of spring.

“To mark this occasion, families and friends will join together around the haft-seen table to reflect on new beginnings, enjoy music and food, and appreciate life’s many gifts.

“Nowruz – which means ‘new day’ in Farsi – marks the beginning of spring and the New Year in the Persian calendar. It is a time to look back on the year behind us, and turn toward the year ahead with optimism and hope. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the values of harmony, peace, and acceptance, and recommit ourselves to putting them into practice.

“These celebrations remind us that diversity is our greatest strength. Today, we take time to honour the many communities that observe Nowruz, and their important contributions to building a better Canada.

“On behalf of our family, Sophie and I wish everyone celebrating a happy, prosperous, and healthy Nowruz.

“Har Ruz etan Nowrouz, Nowruz etan Pyrouz.”

https://pm.gc.ca/eng/news/2018/03/20/st ... ter-nowruz
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Toronto, Ontario

1:30 p.m. The Prime Minister will attend a Navroz celebration and deliver remarks.

The Ismaili Centre
49 Wynford Drive

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kmaherali
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On 21 March, Ismaili Muslims worldwide observe Navroz (Nowruz), a festival that marks the beginning of a new year and the first day of spring. More generally, it signifies a time of spiritual renewal and physical rejuvenation, as well as a spirit of gratitude for blessings and an outlook of hope and optimism.

On 21 March, Ismaili Muslims worldwide observe Navroz (Nowruz), a festival celebrated in many Muslim communities and cultures, particularly those belonging to the Shia. For many communities, it marks the beginning of a new year and the first day of spring. More generally, it signifies a time of spiritual renewal and physical rejuvenation, as well as a spirit of gratitude for blessings and an outlook of hope and optimism towards the future.

The festival of Navroz commemorates a centuries-old, agrarian custom that over time was integrated into various cultures and faith traditions. Today, Navroz is celebrated in many parts of the Middle East and Central and South Asia, particularly among peoples influenced by Persian and Turkic civilisations. In countries such as Iran, Iraq, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan, Navroz is observed as a public holiday.

In Surah Ya-Sin of the Holy Qur’an, Allah says:

Let the once dead earth be a sign to them. We gave it life, and from it produced grain for their sustenance. We planted it with palm and the vine and watered it with gushing springs, so that men might feed on its fruit. It was not their hands that made all this. Should they not give thanks?

— Surah 36, Verses 33–35

Ismailis across the globe celebrate Navroz with the recital of devotional poetry in the form of ginans, qasidas, and manqabas. Dried fruits, nuts, and grains are distributed among Jamati members, symbolising blessings of abundance and sustenance. Navroz is also a time of family gatherings and celebratory meals, thus strengthening family bonds and fraternal ties.

Navroz Mubarak!

https://the.ismaili/navroz
kmaherali
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Prime Minister Trudeau joins Navroz celebrations at the Ismaili Centre Toronto

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau celebrated the occasion of Navroz yesterday at the Ismaili Centre, Toronto where it was announced that the Ismaili CIVIC 150 initiative surpassed its pledge of service.

In keeping with the Navroz theme of optimism and hope, Ismaili Council for Canada President Malik Talib announced to Prime Minister Trudeau and the assembled crowd that the Ismaili Muslim community of Canada had surpassed its Ismaili CIVIC 150 pledge of one million hours of service for Canada.
Introduced by Arif Virani, Member of Parliament for Parkdale-High Park, Prime Minister Trudeau offered a message of gratitude to the Jamat, saying "I want to thank and congratulate the Canadian Ismaili Muslim community on one million hours of volunteer service to mark Canada’s 150th anniversary. What a beautiful testament to your dedication to this country and all its citizens.”

Prime Minister Trudeau went on to pay tribute to the unique contributions of the community, saying "I want to thank all of you for being here today. This is always a wonderful moment for me, to come to this beautiful Centre to see friends old and new, and to celebrate a community that for me represents some of the very best of Canada."

The Ismaili CIVIC 150 initiative was launched in commemoration of the Diamond Jubilee of Mawlana Hazar Imam and Canada's 150th anniversary of confederation. The one-million-hour pledge is the cornerstone of the Ismaili CIVIC 150 initiative, rooted in the community’s commitment to improving the quality of life of all Canadians.

Launched in July 2017, Ismaili CIVIC 150 saw members of the community, across all age groups, engage in acts of service, individually and collectively. As of 21 March, 2018, the Ismaili community volunteered a total of 1,127,549 hours of service across the country, surpassing the original goal. Service partners included Habitat for Humanity, Terry Fox Foundation, the Food Bank, and Canadian Blood Services, amongst a host of others.

At the celebration, President Talib acknowledged Canada's role in fostering kindness and generosity in its citizens.

"Over the course of its history, Canada has been a fertile country of opportunity. It has encouraged people from all walks of life to plant strong roots for themselves and their families while being caringly cultivated by the kind and generous Canadian spirit" Talib said. He also noted the consonance between the values of the Ismaili community and Canada: "Over the last nine months, thousands of volunteers from Ismaili communities across our great land have engaged in a variety of activities. They have mentored others, they have cared for the elderly, they have cleaned local parks, and they have cared for public spaces. This work, shoulder-to-shoulder with our noble partners, and with our friends and neighbours in Canadian cities and towns has reminded us of what makes Canada so vibrant."

The Navroz celebration event brought together individuals from Iranian, Tajik, Afghan, Syrian, South Asian, and other nationalities and ethnicities, and provided an opportunity to share unique traditions related to the advent of Navroz or the New Year.

Navroz, a festival celebrated in many Muslim communities and cultures, particularly those belonging to the Shia, signifies a time of spiritual renewal, physical rejuvenation, and an outlook of hope and optimism.

The festivities were an embodiment of the Canadian approach to pluralism, honouring tradition while looking forward to a brighter future, all in the striking contemporary setting of the Ismaili Centre, Toronto — itself a modern expression of Muslim values.

The Centre was full of colour and activity with performances ranging from Tajik dance and tabla music, to children's Navroz-themed activities including egg colouring and storytelling, as well as artwork on display from a wide cross-section of genres and traditions. A Haft Seen table showcased Navroz traditions of different cultures.

A number of grassroots community groups were present, including invited guests from Thorncliffe Neighborhood office, Afghan Women's Association, Don Mills Residents Association, and the Japanese Cultural Centre.

Yasmin Ratansi, Member of Parliament for Don Valley East, closed the evening with a warm expression of gratitude to all present, and in particular to the Prime Minister for his support and encouragement of the principles of pluralism, service to others, and increased understanding.

More...
https://the.ismaili/news/prime-minister ... ns-toronto
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10-year-old Kiyaan Lavji performs for Canadian Prime Minister at the Ismaili Centre Toronto

https://www.facebook.com/GlobalToronto/ ... 803033543/

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UK Prime Minister Theresa May sends Navroz Greetings, marks the Diamond Jubilee of His Highness the Aga Khan

The message here:
https://ismailimail.wordpress.com/2018/ ... -aga-khan/

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Mayor Crombie’s Statement on Nowruz

Mayor Crombie’s Statement on Nowruz

“On behalf of the City of Mississauga and Members of Council, I would like to offer our city’s vibrant and thriving Persian, Kurdish, Afghan, Xoroastrian, Bahá’í, Central Asian, and Ismaili communities – best wishes for a happy, healthy and prosperous Nowruz.

“Nowruz marks the arrival of spring and is a welcomed opportunity for personal renewal. It is a time for all people to undertake resolutions, overcome challenges, and enrich their lives. Families will celebrate by joining together to reflect on new beginnings, enjoy music and food and look forward to the new year with hope.

“Let us all take this opportunity to remember and reflect on the important contributions that Persian, Kudish, Afghan, Xoroastrian, Bahá’í, Central Asian, and Ismaili-Canadians have made to communities across Canada, like Mississauga. Our City is a more inclusive and dynamic place because of these efforts.

“As we celebrate the arrival of Nowruz, let us also be mindful of those less fortunate in our community who need our sympathy, compassion and assistance.

“I ask all residents to be generous with their time and talents. I encourage Mississaugans to engage in random acts of kindness. It is up to all of us to strengthen our neighbourhoods and make our world-class city an even better place to call home.

“Once again, I wish everyone celebrating a happy, prosperous and healthy Nowruz.”

http://www.mayorcrombie.ca/nowruz-statement/

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Statement by Minister Joly on Nowruz

OTTAWA, March 21, 2018 /CNW/ - Today, we join Persian, Kurdish, Afghan, Zoroastrian, Bahá'í, Central Asian, and Ismaili Canadians to celebrate the festival of Nowruz.

Nowruz marks the first day of spring and the New Year in the Persian calendar. Meaning "New Day" in Farsi, Nowruz is a time to reflect on the renewal, rejuvenation, and hope that the spring season represents. It is a time for families, friends and neighbours to gather together to celebrate with music, dance and traditional cuisine.

This festival is an opportunity for all Canadians to learn more about Canada's Persian, Central Asian, Kurdish and Ismaili communities, and to celebrate their rich cultures and traditions. It is also opportunity to recognize the large impact that Persian, Kurdish, Afghan, Zoroastrian, Bahá'í, Central Asian, and Ismaili Canadians have had in shaping our culture and contributing to Canada's prosperity and growth.

As Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister responsible for Multiculturalism, I extend my best wishes for health, happiness, and prosperity to everyone celebrating Nowruz today.

Har Ruz etan Nowrouz, Nowruz etan Pyrouz.

SOURCE Canadian Heritage

https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/s ... 03703.html
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Prime Minister Trudeau delivers remarks for Navroz at the Ismaili Centre in Toronto

Thank you. Thank you my friends. Navroz Mubarak. Hello everyone, and thank you for that incredibly warm welcome. I want to begin by thanking Malik Talib, President of the Ismaili Council for Canada, for his invitation, for his kind words. I want to thank my colleagues Arif Virani, Alli Al Hasi, Yasmin Ratansi, who are here with me today, for all the incredible work they do in their communities and across the country.

More...
https://pm.gc.ca/eng/video/2018/03/23/p ... re-toronto
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Kurdish Nawroz Mythology:

The arrival of spring has been celebrated in Asia Minor since neolithic times. The root of this story goes back to ancient Iranian legends, retold in General History by Kurdish scientist Dinawari. The Meadows of Gold by Muslim historian Masudi the Shahnameh, a poetic opus written by the Persian poet Ferdowsi around 1000 AD, and the Sharafnameh by the medieval Kurdish historian Sherefxan Bidlisi.

Zahak, who is named Zuhak by the Kurds, was an evil Assyrian king who conquered Iran and had serpents growing from his shoulders. Zahak's rule lasted for one thousand years; his evil reign caused spring to no longer come to Kurdistan. During this time, two young men were sacrificed daily and their brains were offered to Zahak's serpents in order to alleviate his pain. However, the man who was in charge of sacrificing the two young men every day would instead kill only one man a day and mix his brains with those of a sheep in order to save the other man. As discontent grew against Zahak's rule, the nobleman Fereydun planned a revolt. The revolt was led by Kaveh (also known as Kawa) (in the Ossetian language, Kurdalægon), a blacksmith who had lost six sons to Zahak. The young men who had been saved from the fate of being sacrificed (who according to the legend were ancestors of the Kurds) were trained by Kaveh into an army that marched to Zahak's castle where Kaveh killed the king with a hammer. Kaveh is said to have then set fire to the hillsides to celebrate the victory and summon his supporters; spring returned to Kurdistan the next day.

March 20 is traditionally marked as the day that Kaveh defeated Zahak. This legend is now used by the Kurds to remind themselves that they are a different, strong people, and the lighting of the fires has since become a symbol of freedom. It is a tradition to jump across a fire at Newroz.

According to Evliya Çelebi, the district (sancak) of Merkawe in Shahrazur in the southeastern part of Iraqi Kurdistan is named after Kaveh. The 12th century geographer Yaqoot Hamawi mentions Zor), son of Zahhak (Aji Dahak), as founder of the famous city of Sharazor.

It is a tradition to jump across a fire at Newroz.
In the 1930s, the Kurdish poet Taufik Abdullah, wanting to instill a new Kurdish cultural revival, used a previously known, modified version of the story of Kawa. He connected the myths where people felt oppressed with Newroz, thus reviving a dying holiday and making it a symbol of the Kurdish national struggle. However, it should be noted that Kurds celebrated Newroz long before this, and the word "Newroz" was mentioned in Kurdish poetry from the 16th century.

Newroz customs and celebration
Newroz is considered the most important festival in Kurdish culture, and is a time for entertainment such as games, dancing, family gathering, preparation of special foods and the reading of poetry. The celebration of Newroz has its local peculiarities in different regions of Kurdistan. On the eve of Newroz, in southern and eastern Kurdistan, bonfires are lit. These fires symbolize the passing of the dark season, winter, and the arrival of spring, the season of light.
kmaherali
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Statement by the Prime Minister on Nowruz

OTTAWA, March 21, 2019 /CNW/ - The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Nowruz:

"As winter fades to spring and a new year begins, we join Persian, Afghan, Kurdish, Zoroastrian, Bahá'í, Central Asian, and Ismaili communities in Canada and around the world to celebrate Nowruz.

"Nowruz marks the beginning of spring and the New Year in the Persian calendar. For millennia, Nowruz – which means 'new day'– has brought family and friends together around the haft-seen table to celebrate, feast, and appreciate life's gifts.

"Around the globe, millions embrace Nowruz as a chance to reflect on the past year and share aspirations for a peaceful and harmonious year ahead. For Bahá'ís, this occasion is celebrated as a Holy Day, marking the end of 19 days of fasting and the beginning of a new year in the Bahá'í calendar.

"Nowruz reminds us that inclusion and respect for diversity is our greatest strength. Today, we take time to thank the many communities that observe Nowruz for their important contributions to building a better Canada.

"On behalf of the Government of Canada, Sophie and I extend our best wishes to all who celebrate Nowruz. May you have a prosperous and joyful New Year.

"Har Ruz etan Nowrouz, Nowruz etan Pyrouz."

This document is also available at http://pm.gc.ca

SOURCE Prime Minister's Office

https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/s ... 60012.html

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Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_cont ... UHn50D2fEI

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PM Khan felicitates communities celebrating Nauroz

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday felicitated the communities that are observing the Nauroz festival.

"A Happy Nauroze to all those celebrating it," he said on Twitter.

The spring festival of Nauroz marks the first day of the Persian year and is celebrated by the Parsi, Ismaili and Shia communities. It is observed in Iran, Afghanistan, Central Asian states and parts of Pakistan, according to Radio Pakistan.

In Gilgit-Baltistan, the government announced a two-day official holiday on Wednesday and the traditional Tukhmrezi festival kicked off in Yasin valley in Ghizer district.

https://www.dawn.com/news/1470996/pm-kh ... ing-nauroz
kmaherali
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The Philosophy of Navroz
Written By: Suhaib Uddin Hunzai
Translated by: Aisha Ali, Malika Bhola & Suhaib Uddin Hunzai
Dated: March 20, 2017

download at:

https://ismailimail.files.wordpress.com ... navroz.pdf
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NAVROZ: The day of a new beginning

Navroz Mubarak, new year and a new beginning.

THE ISMAILI INDIA

The 21st of March - for some it is just another date on the calendar, for others it is the beginning of spring. However, for a few religio-ethnic communities such as the Shia Ismaili Muslims, the Zoroastrians, the Iranians and some others around the globe, it is the day that marks the new year, a new beginning – Navroz.

This Persian word literally translates into “new day”, and it is the day of the summer solstice – the day when both the North and the South poles experience sunlight. This results in equal hours of light and darkness. The phenomenon symbolizes that the earth is reviving itself, beginning a new cycle - a cycle where light will increase and darkness will decrease. This is true in the northern hemisphere.


Navroz marks the first day of the first month (Farvardin) on the Iranian calendar. Al- Biruni, a 10th century scholar, wrote in his work Kitab al-Tafhim li Awa'il Sina'at al-Tanjim that, Iranians believe it was on Navroz that the universe started its motion.


If we weave our way back into history, we will find that the significance of the 21st of March or Navroz was given special importance by various communities around the world. According to an ancient Iranian belief, Navroz is the day when the Creator completed the creation of the world and created Man—the most supreme among his creations. On the solar calendar, the day also marks the birth of H. Ali. Even today, countries like Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Iran, Iraq, Ka-zakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan observe a public holiday on Navroz, and the celebrations go on for at least a week, sometimes they last for even 15 days.


Though there are various incidents linked to this date, it is important that people understand what they actually signify. We can safely say that they indicate a time of spiritual renewal and physical rejuvenation, where everyone unites in a spirit of gratitude, expressing thanks for all the blessings received. It is the time when people are optimistic - for a brighter and better tomorrow.


With people, nature rejoices too!


We see a transformation in our surroundings; bleak and dead winters pave the way for the warm, joyful summers; new shoots crop up marking the beginning of greenery and life. This transfor-mation can also be made spiritual--from the phase of ignorance towards the phase of contempla-tion and introspection.


A tradition that is specific to Navroz, is a beautiful combination of spiritual and physical signifi-cance of this day – the Seven ‘S’ or the Haft Sin, a traditional table setting for Navroz. The table includes seven items starting with the letter S or Seen in the Perso-Arabic alphabet. These items are: Greens (Sabze)- Wheat, Barley or lentil sprouts grown in a dish; Samanu- A sweet pudding made from germinated wheat; Senjed -the dried fruit of the Oleaster tree; Garlic (Sir); Apples (Sib); Sumac berries (Somaq) and Vinegar (Serke). Other symbolic items that also form a part of the Haft Sin are candles, a mirror, decorating coins, decorated eggs, a bowl of water with a gold-fish, a holy book and rose water. Each of them signifies prosperity, wealth, color, productivity, sweetness, happiness and creation.


Navroz is also a time for strengthening family bonds, observing rituals, preparing elaborate feasts, adorning ourselves with new attire, spring cleaning and offering special prayers and gratitude for always being blessed with spiritual and material blessings. In the Shia Ismaili tradition, Jamatkhanas are decorated beautifully and there is exciting and happy chatter everywhere--of people hugging and wishing each other ‘Navroz Mubarak’.


Navroz is all about everything ‘new’ - a new day, a new year, a new wish and a new opportunity to start afresh.


On this happy and auspicious occasion, let us all pledge to do something new, something useful with our lives. Let us up skill ourselves and contribute not just in projects or activities, but also try to achieve something bigger and more significant begin working on a new ‘version’ of our-selves.
Wishing each and every one of you Navroz Mubarak!

https://the.ismaili/india/navroz-day-new-beginning
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Post by swamidada_1 »

Kurds in Turkey Celebrate Newroz

Kurds celebrate Newroz (alternatively pronounced Nowruz in Iran, as phonetic spelling varies) as their New Year’s Day on March 20th, the first day of Spring. Newroz originated in Persia in the religious tradition of Zoroastrianism, and is celebrated by the cultural regions that came under Iranian influence or had Persian immigrants.

Kurdish New Year’s:

Newroz is the Kurdish celebration of the Persian new year holiday “Nowruz.” Kurdish Newroz coincides with the Spring Equinox, and is a festival celebrating the beginning of spring. Over the years, Newroz has come to represent new beginnings, as well as an opportunity to support the Kurdish cause. For these reasons, Newroz is considered to be the most important festival in Kurdish culture. Typically the festival is celebrated in the days running up to the Spring Equinox, and this year will be celebrated from March 21th to April 1st.

During Newroz, there are special foods, fireworks, dancing, singing, and poetry recitations. Spring flowers (such as tulips, hyacinths, and pussy willows) are cut, new clothes are worn, and pottery is smashed for good luck. Families spend the day in the country, enjoying nature and the fresh growth of spring.

The celebration of Newroz has its local peculiarities in different regions of Kurdistan. On the eve of Newroz, in southern and eastern Kurdistan, bonfires are lit. These fires symbolize the passing of the dark season, winter, and the arrival of spring, the season of light. During the thirteen days after Newroz, families visit each other and visit the graves of dead relatives. Everyone tries to resolve any conflicts or misunderstandings that may be carried from the year before.

Even though most Kurds are longer nomads, they continue to celebrate important dates associated with that way of life. These include lambing time, celebration before moving the herds to summer pastures, shearing time, and the time of return to the village in the fall. Islamic holidays vary in importance among individual Kurds.
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PM greets the nation on Navroz

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has greeted nation on the occasion of Navroz.

“Navroz Mubarak! Praying for a year filled with peace and prosperity. May everyone be happy and be blessed with good health”, the Prime Minister said.

https://www.narendramodi.in/pm-greets-t ... roz-544159
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Navroz Ginan translated in multiple languages.

Video series:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7xLUilS ... sr&index=1
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Spring’s Equinox: Nawruz in Ismaili Thought

Intellectual Interactions in the Islamic World: The Ismaili Thread, 2020Shafique Virani
Shafique Virani

The phenomenon of spring’s equinox, known as Nawruz in Persian, has fascinated humankind for millennia. Numerous traditions sprang up in Muslim lands to celebrate its advent. The symbolism of spring in general, and of Nawruz in particular, can be found in Ismaili literature spanning virtually every major historical period and is present in the literary heritage of the three principal linguistic groupings: the Arabic of the Islamic heartlands, the Persian of Iranian and Central Asian traditions, and the various South Asian languages of the Indo-Pakistan subcontinent. Intellectual interactions with the regional environment are readily apparent in the literatures, whether the timing of the festival in the Arab world, the vivid imagery and vocabulary of South Asian traditions that draw from the symbolism of wider mystical currents in the Subcontinent, or the metres and metaphors that permeate the Persian works, indelibly rooting them to the birthplace of Nawruz, and the conventions that sprung from it. Two prominent uniting themes permeate the three broad traditions, regardless of time period or language: vernal phenomena as metaphors for the blessing of the Imam of the time, and the sacralisation of the earth’s springtide finery by sublimating these symbols to convey knowledge of a spiritual world beyond sensory experience.

The article can be accessed at:

https://www.academia.edu/41991484/Sprin ... li_Thought
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Nawruz is filled with joy!
BY ISMAILIMAIL POSTED ON MARCH 11, 2020

In composing an ode in praise of you

Beautiful words spring to mind



But in praising someone other than you

My tongue falters, the words lie



For you are inherently gracious, exalted

Such gifts are innate to your very nature



Your right hand scatters blessed rain upon the creation

Your forehead is dawn itself, your face a glittering star



You are the illustrious one through whose light we are illuminated

Our beloved, for whom we would give our lives



Indeed, if the festival of Nawruz is to be filled with joy

It is only through your light that it becomes resplendent



God’s blessings upon you, O son of the Prophet

For indeed you are a time-tested sword to fight life’s sorrows



—Al-Amir Tamim b. al-Mu'izz.

Prince Tamim (d. 374/984), talented poet and the eldest son of the Fatimid imam-caliph al-Mu'izz (d. 365/975).

Faquir M. Hunzai, Shimmering Light: An Anthology of Ismaili Poetry (London, 1996), p. 41.
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Post by kmaherali »

Message from the President of the Local Council for Angola
My Dearest Brothers and Sister,

On behalf of the Angolan Council and Institutions, on this Navroz, I wish you all a heartfelt Navroz Mubarak!

Navroz marks the beginning of spring, it can also be also a time of spiritual renewal and physical rejuvenation. It is a time for us to be grateful for all the blessings we have from our beloved Hazar Imam. Let us come together in spirit on Navroz, a time of peace, love, happiness and, this year in particular, hope.
The current global situation has disrupted our lives, and the lives of our brothers and sisters around the world. Temporarily suspending our Jamatkhanas was the most difficult decision for all of us, we urge you all to hold on to our faith at a time like this. Complying with the national authorities recommendations is important, for the security and good health of our Jamat and the community in which we live.

Hope is a key word in these challenging times, we hope for many things around us to improve, we pray for the improvement of global health, for our brothers and sisters from around the world to keep safe and healthy. We also pray for the good health and safety of our Mawlana Hazar Imam and the Noorani Family.

I urge you all to continue to look after one another while practicing social distancing. Reach out to our families and those in our Jamat who are vulnerable. Keep in touch with one another through technology that is available. Know that we, as the Local Council and Institutions are still here to serve and support you. We will be consistently communicating to the Jamat as it is moment like this which require that extra effort so that we do not become isolated.

I pray that our unity and brotherhood will stand through these challenging times.
With the grace of our beloved Hazar Imam, I am sure that we will overcome these difficult moments and soon be together our Jamatkhanas.

Ameen

https://the.ismaili/portugal/message-th ... cil-angola
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Post by kmaherali »

Google translation of the article in Portuguese
https://the.ismaili/portugal/mawlana-ha ... e-al-yamat

https://the.ismaili/france/france-actua ... r-le-jamat

https://the.ismaili/global/news/imamat- ... -the-jamat

Mawlana Hazar Imam sends message to Jamat

On the occasion of Navroz, The Ismaili is pleased to share a message from Malik Talib, Chairman of the Ismaili Leaders' International Forum, which includes a message from Mawlana Hazar Imam.

Ya Ali Madad

On the occasion of Navroz, our beloved Mawlana Hazar Imam has graciously sent us a Talika from Mubarak to be shared with the Global Jamat, which reads as follows:

Dear Malik,

On the occasion of Navroz, I send our Jamat from all over the world my best blessings for peace and happiness in their lives.

I also send my special blessings for Mushkil Asan to my Jamats, wherever they may be, and pray for their health and well-being.

Affectionately,

Aga khan

******
I convey Mubarak to the global Yamat on this occasion of Navroz and, on behalf of all the Murids from all over the world, humbly express shukrana to our beloved Imam Mawlana Hazar for the kind Talika.

The Navroz festival is a time of hope, optimism, renewal and faith, even in times of uncertainty and difficulty.

I would like to assure Jamat that all Yamati institutions and leaders around the world are doing everything possible to ensure the safety of Yamat.

For many of us, the temporary suspension of the Jamatkhana is perhaps the most difficult among the vast situation of interruptions in our daily life. The decision to temporarily suspend our Jamatkhana meetings was not taken lightly, and was implemented in accordance with the guidance of Hazar Imam to comply with government and public health guidelines worldwide.

While we understand that this really is a very difficult interruption and that we can no longer physically meet at the present moment, we remain unified in our faith, in devotion and compassion.

These bonds of community have been maintained throughout the vagaries of time and history, and will continue in the difficult weeks and months to come. As we prepare, we will work together as a united Yamat.

It is of great importance that we follow the instructions given by Yamat institutions that work with AKDN to ensure compliance with government measures to mitigate the effects of COVID-19.

Ours is an esoteric faith. Our Imam has reminded us time and again of the importance of spiritual contemplation, reflection, personal search, and prayer. In these moments we will find peace and comfort to overcome our current challenges. We remind you of the Farman's of Mawlana Hazar Imam when it comes to practicing personal prayer, when we cannot attend Jamatkhana. I am convinced that complying with this guide will bring us comfort in these difficult times.

of our Jamatkhanas has resulted in the emergence of electronic and digital channels offering a "virtual Jamatkhana". This is clearly inappropriate, as a Jamatkhana can only be established and function under the Imam's authority, through his institutions and appointed Mukhi-Kamadias.

At this particular time, it is critical that we understand the risks of misinformation and miscommunication, and that we trust only credible sources from the government and institutions of Khamati, including The Ismaili, the official website, and social media channels for the Yamat.

In a time of increased economic anxiety, it is also imperative that we act rationally, with prudence and good judgment.

Current developments regarding the COVID-19 pandemic have been at the forefront of Mawlana Hazar Imam's thoughts, and I would like to inform Yamat that, following the guidance of Mawlana Hazar Imam, an international Steering Group has been established to coordinate efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of the Yamat, and to support the responses taking place in each national jurisdiction of each Yamat.

These are difficult times. However, as a Yamat, our faith unites us and gives us the strength, the courage and the hope to face this adversity and come out of it, a stronger community, united by our values ​​and our loyalty to the Imam of Time.

Let us offer our shukrana for the continued love, grace, protection, and guidance of Imam Mawlana Hazar Imam, and pray for safety, good health, and the Mushkil Asan of the Yamat.

Ameen.
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Post by kmaherali »

Video: Navroz Mubarak Song

To commemorate Navroz, The Ismaili is excited to release a new song entitled 'Navroz Mubarak.' With lyrics in English, Hindi, Farsi, Gujarati, Russian, Portuguese, Burushaski, Arabic, and a touch of Shughni rap, this creative expression of love and gratitude features over 100 Ismaili artists from 14 countries, reflecting our global celebration of Navroz together as One Jamat.

https://the.ismaili/global/news/global- ... barak-song

*****
Video: Navroz greetings from the global Jamat

Navroz Mubarak from the global Jamat! While we are practicing physical distancing, remain connected to each other and celebrate the new year together with these video messages from all over the world.

https://the.ismaili/global/video-galler ... obal-jamat
Last edited by kmaherali on Sun Mar 22, 2020 12:36 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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Post by kmaherali »

The Story of Navroz 2020

Today, Ismaili Muslims around the world observe Navroz – a festival that celebrates the beginning of a new year and the first day of spring. More importantly, it symbolises a time of spiritual renewal and physical rejuvenation, bringing with it a deep sense of gratitude and an outlook of hope and optimism for the future ahead.

Around the world, Navroz is generally observed on March 21 and finds its roots in an agrarian tradition that began some 3000 years ago. The occasion is honoured by many Muslim communities and cultures worldwide, particularly those belonging to the Shia faith. In many parts of the Middle East and Central and South Asia, communities commemorate the festival, especially those influenced by Persian and Turkic civilisations. In countries such as Iran, Iraq, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan, Navroz is respected as a public holiday.

The occasion of Navroz marks a time for festivities, which take place with much fervour. Among Ismaili Muslims, Navroz is celebrated by reciting sacred poetry in the form of ginans, qasidas, and maqabas. Members of the Jamat pray for prosperity and seek forgiveness of their sins, while sharing dried fruits, nuts and grains as a symbol of abundance and nourishment. Within families, many decorate their homes and hold gatherings held over celebratory meals to strengthen bonds with their loved ones.

This year’s Navroz is unlike any other Navroz that has been experienced. Indeed, in the presence of the COVID-19 pandemic, restrictions on public gatherings are in place and social distancing is being practiced – measures that are important in order to slow down the spread of the virus. Experts advise that since COVID-19 is spread from person to person through physically close social contact, the best approach to prevention is to keep people from being in close contact as much as possible. Our utmost priority is to keep our Jamats and the wider community safe and healthy.

As such, this year’s Navroz celebrations were marked by the Ismaili community in the Australia New Zealand region and around the world coming together virtually as One Jamat by participating in an online webinar. Rather than physically being in one place, the focus was to celebrate with immediate family in people’s own homes and take time to pray together. Indeed, while we may not be physically united, the collective power of our prayers still keeps us spiritually connected.

Nevertheless, the story of Navroz 2020 remains one of light, love, and hope. The physical separation is only temporary, and we look forward to celebrating together in the near future and returning to normality. For now, when we miss the fun of socialising with our friends in Jamatkhana, we encourage everyone to pick up the phone or video call friends and family, and use social media to connect with loved ones around the world.

As we work to prioritise health and safety during this challenging time, we encourage all members of the community to adhere to the safety precautions being advised to help combat COVID-19 – the regular washing of hands, social distancing, and in some cases, self-isolation. We pray for the safety, security, good health and tranquillity of the Jamat and those all around the world.

On the auspicious occasion of Navroz, we wish our readers and our Ismaili Jamats worldwide Navroz Mubarak. Keep healthy, stay safe, and look after each other.

https://the.ismaili/anz/the-story-navroz-2020

******
Video: Navroz Mubarak - with love from the Far East

https://the.ismaili/far-east/video-navr ... e-far-east

Experience the richness and diversity of the Far East countries — the institutional leadership and community wishes everyone globally Navroz Mubarak.

******
President Al-Karim Alidina, Council for the USA wishes the USA Jamat, Navroz Mubarak

Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0Y2GAgUBQM

******
Navroz UK Lower Primary & Upper Primary and Secondary

Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GCcdPbe06gA
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Post by kmaherali »

Statement by the Prime Minister on Nowruz

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Nowruz:

“Today, we join Persian, Afghan, Kurdish, Zoroastrian, Bahá’í, Central Asian, and Ismaili communities in Canada and around the world to celebrate Nowruz, the first day of spring and the beginning of the New Year in the Persian calendar.

“Nowruz is a time of spiritual renewal, and a chance to show gratitude for our blessings and share aspirations of hope and optimism for the year ahead. It is also a chance for all Canadians to recognize the important contributions the many communities that observe Nowruz make to our country.

“To the many families who will be spending their first Nowruz without the loved ones lost in the Ukraine International Airlines tragedy: know that all Canadians mourn with you.

“Most years, families and friends mark Nowruz by gathering around the haft-seen table to share festive meals. This year, as Canada and countries around the world feel the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, I urge people to celebrate differently by practising social distancing to help limit the spread of the virus. I thank organizers of Nowruz events for their responsible action in past weeks of delaying festivals until a time when we can all safely celebrate together.

“On behalf of our family, Sophie and I wish all those celebrating a happy New Year.

“Har Ruz etan Nowrouz, Nowruz etan Pyrouz.”
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Post by kmaherali »

Celebrate Navroz together as one Global Jamat, with a weekend full of enriching and inspiring programs


Navroz Celebrations

Next week, we will observe Navroz (Nowruz), a festival that marks the beginning of a new year and the first day of spring. Navroz signifies a time of spiritual renewal and physical rejuvenation, as well as a spirit of gratitude for blessings and an outlook of hope and optimism. It has now been one year since the closure of our Jamatkhanas. And over that period, we have seen our Jamat grow stronger, more resilient and united.

This Navroz, let us celebrate together as one Global Jamat, with a weekend full of enriching, reflective and inspiring programs.

On Friday, March 19, join us on Friday Night Reflections for a retrospective on the journey of the Jamat over the past year, reflecting on strengths, talents and connections that have sustained us.

Then on Saturday, March 20, enjoy a daytime Navroz Children’s program where Hafiz leads his siblings on an imaginary scavenger hunt for the seven items needed to complete the Haft seen table by the first day of Spring.

Later that evening, commemorate and celebrate with music and poetry as we explore the range of feelings and emotions to which the past year has given rise, with a new production entitled Pebbles to Penguins, a Story of Renewal.

And on Sunday, March 21, join us for a special program entitled Hope Springs Eternal, an inspirational and educational production that will explore the meaning, significance, history and celebration of Navroz.
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Post by pamira »

Interesting but I don't understand much. I'm going to have a good taste reading for a while.
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The Light of Navroz

Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HvZwjkt0pKA&t=17s

To coincide with Navroz, The Ismaili is pleased to present a collection of songs in various languages in the days leading up to Navroz. The first one is entitled "The Light of Navroz," which highlights that although we might be celebrating separately, we remain united as One Jamat.
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Post by kmaherali »

Naya Din

Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7p2b3VNw_0

The Ismaili is pleased to present "Naya Din (New Day)" performed by Fitoor the Band, inspired by the occasion of Navroz. The song describes the natural beauty of the spring season and encourages us all to keep this beauty alive for generations to come.
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Post by kmaherali »

Nairouzel-Mahaba Wal Khaeer

Image

Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1hpAB1R1UQ

Today, The Ismaili brings you “Nairouzel-Mahaba Wal Khaeer (Navroz is Love and Grace).” This Syrian Nasheed, performed in Arabic, is dedicated to the joy and radiance of the occasion of Navroz.
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Post by kmaherali »

"Navroz Na Din Sohamna" - Mac Virjee (With Harmonium) - Navroz 2021 Special Presentation

Navroz Na Din Sohamna
Beautiful Day of Navroz
Mohamed (Mac) Virjee recites Sayyed Fateh Ali Shah's popular Navroz ginan "Navroz Na Din Sohamna" with the accompaniment of the harmonium.

This ginan has a beautiful story. The composer of the ginan Sayyed Fateh Ali Shah travelled from Sind to Persia to meet Hazrat Imam Shah Khalilullah our 45th Imam.

On arriving at the destination on the day of Navroz, he learnt that the Imam had gone to the woods on a hunting expedition. Sayyed was disappointed but not in a mood to give up. He went into the woods in search of his Imam, was able to connect and was rewarded with a meeting - deedar - in the woods at the Fort.

In this ginan, Sayyed Fateh Ali Shah relates the combined experience of the zaheri deedar - the exoteric or physical glimpse or meeting, granted by the 45th Imam, Shah Khalilullah, and the inner joy of contentment and ecstasy that he experienced with the bestowal of Noorani - the spiritual or esoteric grace.

JollyGul.com is presenting this video to the Jamat with lyrics and translations as part of Navroz 2021 Celebrations on our platform.

Enjoy this wonderful and creative rendition of the ginan by Mac Virjee.

Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44d6TTAwJCw
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