Persian New Year 2024: Google Doodle Celebrates Nowruz and Persian Culture
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Photo by Fatane Rahimi on Unsplash
Persian New Year 2024: Google Doodle Celebrates Persian Culture
On March 19th, the Persian New Year, known as Nowruz, arrived, marking the beginning of spring in the northern hemisphere. To commemorate this special occasion, Google adorned its homepage with a beautiful doodle that incorporated vibrant elements of Persian culture.
Nowruz, which translates to “new day” in Persian, coincides with the vernal equinox, a time when day and night are roughly equal in length. It symbolizes renewal and rebirth, signifying the start of the blooming season.
The Google doodle showcased intricate floral designs, traditional calligraphy, and symbolic items like the Haft-Sin table. The Haft-Sin is a special table setting that features seven items, each beginning with the letter “sin” in Farsi, representing significant concepts for the coming year.
Nowruz has a rich history that dates back over 3,000 years to ancient Iran, also known as Persia. Originally celebrated on the spring equinox, the tradition spread along the Silk Roads, with various countries and ethnic groups adopting it.
A Symbol of Renewal and Rejuvenation
Families gather and set out seven items, each symbolizing renewal and rejuvenation for the year ahead.
These items typically include wheat for rebirth and good fortune, wheat pudding for power and strength, olives for love, berries for the sunrise, vinegar for age and patience, apples for beauty, and garlic for good health.
Nowruz is a time of joy and celebration, bringing together families and communities to welcome the arrival of spring and embrace new beginnings. The Google doodle beautifully captured the essence of this ancient Persian tradition, showcasing the richness and beauty of Persian culture to a global audience.
