BBC News Persian is gearing up for a festive Nowruz celebration, honoring the arrival of spring and the start of the new year in Iran and Afghanistan. Scheduled to air at 02:30 GMT on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, the program promises a delightful mix of music, culture, and tradition.
Nowruzs celebrated for thousands of years, holds a special place in the hearts of communities across Western and Central Asia, the Caucasus, the Black Sea region, the Balkans, and South Asia. It’s a cherished occasion in Iran, embraced by people of diverse backgrounds, languages, and beliefs.
Recorded at BBC’s London Broadcasting House, the show will feature nine talented singers and performers from Iran, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan, along with 35 musicians. Notably, many of the performers are women from various backgrounds, adding to the diversity and richness of the event.
In addition to musical performances, viewers can look forward to a cooking show judged by Iranian chef-influencer Alireza Sarraf. Iranian celebrities will team up with BBC News Persian reporters to compete in cooking a traditional meal, adding a touch of culinary flair to the festivities.
The Nowruz celebration will be broadcast on BBC Persian TV and streamed on the BBC News Persian YouTube channel, allowing audiences to join in the joyous occasion from anywhere in the world.
Nowruz, meaning “new day,” marks the beginning of spring, symbolizing renewal and the blooming of nature. It’s a time to reflect on values such as peace, prosperity, respect, and solidarity, strengthening bonds within families and communities.
The doodle commemorating Google was created by Iranian artist Pendar Yousefi, drawing inspiration from illuminated manuscripts and childhood memories of the festival. Despite challenges, the spirit of Nowruz offers hope and renewal, signaling a fresh start.
Recognized by the UN General Assembly, International Nowruz Day on March 21 celebrates the cultural significance of this ancient tradition. As we celebrate Nowruz, let’s embrace the spirit of renewal and look forward to the opportunities the new year brings.
On behalf of the State Department, warm wishes are extended for a Happy Nowruz to all those celebrating this ancient tradition and the arrival of Spring. Nowruz provides an opportunity to renew meaningful relationships, appreciate blessings, and look forward to the opportunities the future brings.
For centuries, communities around the world, including in Iran and the Middle East, Central and South Asia, Europe, and beyond have gathered to celebrate the renewal of nature and the promise of a new year. Nowruz embodies the spirit of seasonal rebirth and the renewal of nature, fostering values such as peace, prosperity, respect, and solidarity within families and communities.
As we reflect on the past year, we hope that the new year brings greater peace in the world, along with health, prosperity, and joy. Let us embrace the spirit of Nowruz, fostering meaningful connections and looking forward to the opportunities that lie ahead.