Navroze or "New Day" in Farsi marks the first day of the Spring Equinox for the Northern Hemisphere, which falls on March 20th/21st each year. It reminds us that the cold is coming to an end and it's time to cleanse our homes that have remained closed over the wintry days, a new year to start afresh. The occasion is celebrated with friends, families, and neighbours, sharing what we are forunate enough to have with others
Navroze is a celebration of good health, happiness and prosperity, thought to be celebrated by over 190 million people worldwide, particularly by those from the Middle East and Central and South Asia.
The Haftseen table is a symbolic tribute to the seven creations of the universe; fire, water, air, earth, metal, the plant and animal kingdom. It thanks the universe for what we have and pray for continuity in the days to come. It is called Haftsheen or Haftseen, where 7 items start with the sound 'S' or 'Sh' are placed on the table alongside other symbols.
Sumac - dried berry powder represents sunrise
Semanu - sweet semolina pudding
Seb - apple representing health and beauty
Sabzi - greens or lentils representing life and rebirth
Seer - garlic representing health
Senjed - olives representing love
Serkeh - vinegar representing age and patience
The table usually features candles, a mirror, coins, flowers, painted eggs, nuts and dry fruit, and gold fish in addition to the main 7 'S's.
Originating in the Persian Empire centuries ago when King Jamshed the Great declared this day as Jamshedi Navroze, the table continues to be a tradition in modern-day Iran, and other Middle Eastern and Central and South Asian countries, and of course amongst their diaspora around the world.
The table and its offerings are a celebration of life. A thanksgiving for the abundant creations of nature and the universe, and a reflection on and appreciation of the beauty of all things around us.
The Western world in its own small way of recognition has declared this date as Poetry Day and United Nations Day. Some refer to it as International Day of Happiness.
I am guessing this date its not quite the same for the people in the Southern Hemsiphere, where its the Autumnal Equinox. But, hey you can't possibly have it all. There is always an exception to every rule.