J&K Chief Minister greets people on 'Nauroz'

Omar Abdullah extended his heartfelt greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir on the joyous occasion of Nauroz, a festival that marks the arrival of spring.

In his message, the Chief Minister emphasised the significance of Nauroz as a symbol of renewal, hope, and harmony, bringing new life to nature and inspiring people to embrace positivity, peace, and prosperity.

Highlighting the cultural and spiritual importance of Nauroz, he noted that the festival has been an integral part of Kashmir's rich heritage, celebrated with traditional enthusiasm and devotion.

CM Omar urged people to use this occasion to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, compassion and mutual respect, reinforcing the spirit of communal harmony.

Conveying his warm wishes, he hoped that this Nauroz would bring prosperity, happiness, and fulfillment to every household and reinforce the values of peace and co-existence among diverse society of Jammu and Kashmir.

Nauroz is the Iranian New Year or Persian New Year. Historically, it has been observed by Persians and other Iranian peoples, but is now celebrated by many ethnicities worldwide.

It is a festival based on the Northern Hemisphere spring equinox, which marks the first day of a new year on the Iranian calendar.

It usually coincides with a date between 19 March and 22 March on the Gregorian calendar.

For the Northern Hemisphere, Nauroz marks the beginning of spring. Customs for the festival include various fire and water rituals, celebratory dances, gift exchanges, and poetry recitations, among others; these observances differ between the cultures of the diverse communities that celebrate it.

Shia muslims in J&K celebrate Nauroz as a festival because of its connect with the roots of the Shia community in Iran.

Nauroz is observed as a holiday in J&K as government offices, educational institutions, banks and post offices remain closed.