
Nowruz
Table of Contents
iturn0image0turn0image1turn0image2turn0image3On March 20, 2025, Google commemorated Nowruz, the ancient Persian New Year, with a vibrant Doodle that celebrated the 3,000-year-old tradition of welcoming spring. Nowruz, meaning “new day” in Persian, marks the first day of spring and the beginning of the year in Iran’s solar calendar. The festival’s origins trace back to ancient Persia, symbolizing renewal and the rejuvenation of nature. citeturn0search1
Nowruz Historical Significance
Nowruz has been celebrated for over three millennia, with its earliest origins lying in Zoroastrianism, the ancient pre-Islamic religion of the Persian Empire. The festival coincides with the vernal equinox, usually occurring on March 20 or 21, when day and night are equal in length. This alignment signifies balance and harmony, themes central to Nowruz celebrations. citeturn0search0
Over the centuries, Nowruz transcended its Persian roots, spreading along the Silk Roads and being embraced by various cultures and communities. Today, it is celebrated by over 300 million people worldwide, including regions in the Middle East, Central Asia, the Caucasus, the Balkans, and parts of the Mediterranean. citeturn0search5
Nowruz Traditional Customs
Central to Nowruz celebrations is the “Haft-Sin” table, a setting of seven symbolic items, each starting with the Persian letter ‘S’. These items represent different hopes for the new year:
- Sabzeh (سبزه): Sprouted wheat or lentils symbolizing rebirth and growth.
- Samanu (سمنو): A sweet pudding representing power and strength.
- Senjed (سنجد): Dried oleaster fruit symbolizing love.
- Seer (سیر): Garlic cloves representing medicine and health.
- Seeb (سیب): Apples symbolizing beauty and health.
- Somāq (سماق): Sumac berries representing the sunrise and patience.
- Serkeh (سرکه): Vinegar representing aging and wisdom.
These items are arranged on a table, often accompanied by other objects like a mirror, candles, goldfish, coins, hyacinth flowers (sonbol), and a holy book, creating a setting that embodies themes of renewal, prosperity, and enlightenment. citeturn0search1
Nowruz Google’s 2025 Nowruz Doodle

Google’s Doodle for Nowruz 2025 was crafted by Iranian artist Pendar Yousefi. The artwork drew inspiration from traditional illuminated manuscripts, a significant aspect of Persian artistic heritage. Yousefi aimed to encapsulate the diverse customs associated with Nowruz while evoking feelings of joy, togetherness, and hope. The Doodle depicted animals gathered in a flower-filled courtyard under a blossoming tree, symbolizing the arrival of spring and the spirit of renewal. citeturn0search1
Nowruz Global Celebrations and Recognition
Nowruz is more than just a cultural festivity; it is a celebration that promotes values of peace, solidarity, and cultural diversity. The United Nations recognizes Nowruz as an international holiday, acknowledging its role in fostering unity and goodwill among different communities. In 2010, the UN declared March 21 as the International Day of Nowruz, emphasizing its significance in promoting cultural understanding and friendship. citeturn0search5
In countries like India, Nowruz is celebrated with unique customs, reflecting the country’s rich tapestry of cultures. Parsis in India observe Nowruz with prayers, Nowruz is more than just a cultural festivity; it is a celebration that promotes values of peace, solidarity, and cultural diversity. The United Nations recognizes Nowruz as an international holiday, acknowledging its role in fostering unity and goodwill among different communities. In 2010, the UN declared March 21 as the International Day of Nowruz, emphasizing its significance in promoting cultural understanding and friendship. citeturn0search5
In countries like India, Nowruz is celebrated with unique customs, reflecting the country’s rich tapestry of cultures. Parsis in India observe Nowruz with prayers, feasts, and community gatherings, marking the day with traditional dishes and rituals that honor their Zoroastrian heritage. citeturn0search4Nowruz is more than just a cultural festivity; it is a celebration that promotes values of peace, solidarity, and cultural diversity. The United Nations recognizes Nowruz as an international holiday, acknowledging its role in fostering unity and goodwill among different communities. In 2010, the UN declared March 21 as the International Day of Nowruz, emphasizing its significance in promoting cultural understanding and friendship. citeturn0search5
In countries like India, Nowruz is celebrated with unique customs, reflecting the country’s rich tapestry of cultures. Parsis in India observe Nowruz with prayers, feasts, and community gatherings, marking the day with traditional dishes and rituals that honor their Zoroastrian heritage. citeturn0search4feasts, and community gatherings, marking the day with traditional dishes and rituals that honor their Zoroastrian heritage. citeturn0search4
Nowruz Conclusion
Google’s 2025 Nowruz Doodle served as a vibrant tribute to an ancient tradition that continues to unite millions worldwide. By highlighting the cultural richness and universal themes of renewal and unity, the Doodle not only celebrated the arrival of spring but also honored the enduring legacy of Nowruz as a bridge connecting diverse cultures and communities across the globe.