Nowruz Mobarak!

Voices Staff

Nowruz (or Novruz, Navruz, Nooruz, Nevruz, Nauryz), literally translated as “new day,” is the name of the Iranian New Year, also known as the Persian New Year. While the origin of the holiday was rooted in Zoroastrianism (an Iranian religion and one of the world’s oldest, continuously practiced organized faiths), it has been celebrated in diverse religious and secular communities across Eurasia for thousands of years, leading to many different spellings and pronunciations of the holiday from country to country. 

Whether you already celebrate Nowruz or are just learning about this holiday, we’re sharing some of our favorite pieces on the Persian New Year!

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“Nowruz and the Night Sky,” featuring photographer Babak Tafreshi:

Listen to and read the full transcript of “Nowruz and the Night Sky”, episode 9 of National Geographic’s “Overhead” series. This beautiful and poetic piece invites readers to reflect on the astronomy and imagery that connects Nowruz to the past.

Babak Tafreshi, National Geographic

Collection of works by Naz Deravian, a Persian cookbook author and recipe developer:

“For Afghans Abroad, Nowruz Is a Chance to Reflect”: Join Naz Deravian, a Persian cookbook author and recipe developer, as she reflects on the symbolism of Nowruz, the importance of food, and gathering with friends and family. (Don’t have a subscription? No worries! This is a “gift” link, which means you can access it free of charge!) 

Johnny Miller for The New York Times

Also by Naz: 

• “Steal My Party: How to Celebrate Nowruz, the Iranian New Year, With an Herb-Laden Feast,” A brief rundown of how Naz celebrates Nowruz with her family. From recipes to set up, follow her journey through the days leading up to Nowruz and the celebration of the holiday itself! 
• “Bottom of the Pot,” Naz’s Persian food blog where she shares recipes and essays (you can also follow her on Instagram @bottomofthepot) 

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