Parsi New Year: The Parsi New Year is a festival that is observed on the first day of the Farvardin, the starting month of the Zoroastrian calendar. This festival is also called Navroz. This word is derived from the two Persian words Nav and Roz which means ‘new day’. The festival occurs around the Spring Equinox around 21st March, every year. However, in India, the Parsi community follows the Shahenshahi calendar which does not count the leap years. So, the festival has come 200 days late from its original date of the spring equinox. In India, the Parsi New Year is celebrated in the month of July or August. Navroz 2024 in India is on 16th August.
Navroz: History & Significance
Zoroastrianism is one of the earliest monotheistic faiths, which is practiced by Parsis. Over 3500 years ago, Prophet Zarathustra created this in ancient Iran. It was the official religion of Persia (now Iran) from 650 BCE to the 7th century.
At the time of the Islamic troops’ invasion of Persia, Zoroastrians came to India and Pakistan lands.
The Zoroastrians in Iran and other Middle Eastern countries follow the Fasli/Bastnai calendar to celebrate Persian New Year.
Parsi New Year Celebration
The Parsi community people visit the Fire Temple in the traditional costume and conduct a prayer called Jashan to thank the god, pray for prosperity, and seek pardon. Milk, water, flowers, fruits, and sandalwood are given as an offering to the sacred fire.
The Parsis cook Pulav, Moong Dal, Sali Boti, Sweet Ravo, etc on a festive day. Guests are greeted with rose water sprinkles and are offered Faluda to drink. Some individuals make philanthropic contributions to mark Parsi New Year.
