Central Asian countries celebrate spring equinox holiday

Central Asian countries celebrate spring equinox holiday

The Central Asian countries are also celebrating Nauryz, which has been inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. In Turkmenistan, the holiday was marked on a grand scale at the Novruz Valley site, featuring a variety of musical and theatrical performances. An exhibition showcasing national decorative and applied arts was also organized there. Top chefs from the country prepared traditional dishes for guests, while athletes displayed their skills in traditional competitions. Additionally, the Galkynysh group presented an exciting equestrian performance that captivated the audience.

«On this day, we wish each other peace, kindness, stability, and family well-being. Those who have endured the harsh winter now look to the future with hope, expecting warmth and brighter days. And today, through this celebration, we have witnessed the unique culture, traditions, and folk crafts of the Turkmen people,» shared Kazakh Ambassador to Turkmenistan Nurlan Nogayev.

«Today is a wonderful holiday, and we are celebrating it together. Nauryz is a holiday of spring, joy, and the awakening of nature. It is truly delightful that Turkmenistan upholds these remarkable traditions, preserving its culture, ancient customs, and heritage. Just look at how beautifully everything is decorated today!» said Russian Ambassador to Turkmenistan Ivan Volynkin.

Navruz was also celebrated in Tajikistan, where bonfires were lit in Dushanbe before dawn, marking the official start of the holiday according to ancient traditions. The fire is believed to guide the way for spring, burning away the troubles of the past year while providing energy and strength. The festivities began early in the morning with lively dances and songs, expressing joy. Special caravans then traveled across the capital, announcing the arrival of the Spring Festival. karnai, the main musical instruments of Navruz, carried the joyful news far and wide. The warm and vibrant holiday captivates many foreigners, drawing visitors from around the world.

«We Iranians traveled from Germany to participate in the Navruz celebrations. The scale of the festivities in Tajikistan is truly extraordinary and deeply impressive. I feel at home here,» noted a visitor.

«I believe that to fully experience Navruz, one should visit Tajikistan. Here, this holiday is widely celebrated and observed with special significance. I see joyful faces, and this is very inspiring,» added another visitor.