The Navruz festival in Uzbekistan is considered one of the oldest and most significant in the country. It is celebrated every year on March 21st, the day of the spring equinox. The Persian meaning is “new day,” indicating the beginning of spring and symbolizing renewal, growth, and rejuvenation.
Origins and Significance
The Navruz festival began thousands of years ago, long before the advent of Islam. Historians believe this festival originated in the 3rd millennium BC, but recent studies suggest it could date back to the 10th millennium BC. Navruz celebrates the awakening of nature after winter and the start of a new agricultural period.
Preparations and Traditions
Preparations for the Navruz festival begin well in advance. General cleaning is done everywhere, trees and flowers are planted, and charity events are organized. During this period, everyone loves to prepare sumak, a traditional sweet made from wheat that takes time to cook. It is often prepared in groups, and during the preparation of dishes, songs, dances, and local legends are shared.
Celebrations
During the Navruz festival, all cities, villages, and towns in Uzbekistan come alive with popular shows and festivals, games, and various events in theaters and circuses. Families gather during the festive days for banquets featuring traditional dishes like plov, samsa, sumala, sweets, bread, etc. The celebrations include games, kite flying, cockfighting, and the most popular sports during Navruz are Kurash (a traditional wrestling) and Kopkari (a game with horses).
Cultural Significance
The Navruz festival is not just a social event where people eat and have fun, but also a spiritual and reflective moment. During these days, gifts are exchanged, visits are made, and bonds between friends and relatives are strengthened. The festival is an opportunity to leave the past behind and think about the future (a better future full of optimism).
The Navruz festival is the most loved and respected festival in Uzbekistan.