Iranians Mark Subdued Nowruz Amid Bombings

Iranians marked the Persian New Year, Nowruz, on March 21, 2026, with subdued celebrations amid ongoing bombardments by Israel and the United States that have devastated cities and claimed nearly 1,500 lives since late February. The ancient festival, which coincides with the spring equinox and symbolizes renewal and rebirth, unfolded across Iran and in diaspora communities worldwide, serving as a poignant act of cultural defiance for many.

Nowruz, meaning "new day" in Persian, begins the Iranian solar calendar, established in 1079, and spans two weeks in Iran, including a four-day national holiday with schools closed. Rooted in Zoroastrianism, the faith of ancient Persia dating to the sixth century BCE, the holiday originated during the Sassanian dynasty from 224 to 651 CE and is now recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage. It is observed in countries once part of greater Iranian spheres, including Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Iraq, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkey, and Uzbekistan, often blending with local traditions.

Preparations typically involve "khaneh tekani," or spring cleaning, to sweep away the old year’s negativity, followed by the purchase of new clothes. The...