‘You can’t smell Nowruz in the air’: Iran marks Persian new year under threat of strikes
You can’t smell Nowruz in the air’: Iran marks Persian new year under threat of strikes
As the Persian new year festival of Nowruz approaches, Iranians are finding themselves in a unique situation. Traditionally, preparations involve thorough house cleaning, purchasing new attire, and gathering treats. But this year, the atmosphere is heavy with uncertainty, according to Mina, a woman in her 50s from Damavand, northeast of Tehran. “Every day feels like an eternity,” she says, her voice trembling. “It’s as though I’ve lost track of time.”
A time of renewal and tradition
Nowruz, meaning “new day,” is a time-honored celebration that marks the spring equinox, symbolizing nature’s rebirth and the beginning of a new year. With roots stretching over 3,000 years, it is one of the world’s oldest festivals. This year, it falls on 20 March, followed by the Iranian new year on 21 March. For many, the event represents history, culture, and heritage. Yet, this year’s Nowruz will be the first experienced amid ongoing conflict.
Iran has been targeted by US and Israeli strikes since 28 February, with the Human Rights Activists in Iran reporting 3,114 deaths, including 1,354 civilians and at least 207 children. In response, Tehran has retaliated by attacking Israel and US-aligned nations in the Gulf. For Mina, the war has transformed the festive spirit. “People are losing jobs, and the country’s infrastructure is at risk,” says her son Amir, who relocated to Damavand with his family. “I fear there may not be much left of Iran. This could be our final Nowruz.”
The festival is steeped in rituals, such as cleansing homes to remove past misfortunes and welcoming a fresh start. Mina reflects on the anxiety surrounding the celebration. “I wonder if the sound of the holiday announcement on TV will blend with missile and drone noises,” she says. “But I hope it doesn’t.”
During the two-week Nowruz holiday, families typically visit each other. However, this year, some are hesitant to return to Tehran, the city bearing the brunt of attacks. “Visits are minimal,” Mina explains. “We left Tehran for safer ground. I wish the war could be erased from our memories, like waking from a nightmare.”
Defiance in the face of war
Despite the dangers, certain traditions persist. Parmis, a 20-something woman in Tehran, recounts her efforts to celebrate. “Finding Nowruz items used to be simple,” she says. “Now, even stepping out feels risky, as air strikes could strike at any moment.” Yet, she still ventured out on 17 March to get her nails done. “I saw flowers and vendors,” she says. “But it wasn’t the same as before.”
Maryam, another resident of Tehran, notes that some people are determined to uphold the festival. “People were buying Haft Sin items,” she says. “Even though things are different, we must keep our traditions alive. I’ve already set up part of the table at home.”
Meanwhile, others in the country view Nowruz through a different lens. Ramtin, a man in his 30s, argues that the festival has lost its meaning in the context of war. “Why celebrate Nowruz if the Islamic Republic remains in power?” he asks. “We must endure endless struggles. This time, the regime has to fall.”
Kian, also from Tehran, echoes this sentiment. “My mother would accept the house collapsing on her head if it meant the clerics would disappear,” he says. “I feel the same. We no longer care about Nowruz. We’ve even skipped the Haft Sin table.”