Azerbaijan’s timeless tradition: Presidential aide marks Novruz as millennia-old celebration

The people of Azerbaijan have been celebrating Novruz for millennia, according to Hikmet Hajiyev, Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan and Head of the Foreign Policy Department of the Presidential Administration.

Hajiyev made the remarks on his social media page on X, Caliber.Az reports.

He highlighted that the UN GA Resolution 64/253 recognizes the March 21 as the International Day of Novruz. 

"Novruz - the day of vernal equinox, is celebrated as the beginning of spring and revival of nature by the people of Azerbaijan for thousands of years," he wrote.

His post also included an excerpt from the UN resolution, which recognises Novruz as an ancient tradition observed across various cultures.

Notably, Novruz, one of Azerbaijan’s most cherished holidays, marks the arrival of spring. Rooted in ancient traditions dating back millennia, the festival symbolises rebirth, prosperity, and unity.

Families prepare traditional dishes such as shekerbura, pakhlava, and shor-gogal, while bonfires are lit, and festive gatherings take place. 

The celebrations begin weeks in advance with four pre-holiday Tuesdays, each dedicated to one of the four elements—water, fire, wind, and earth.

• Water Tuesday – Representing purity and renewal.
• Fire Tuesday – Honouring warmth and energy.
• Wind Tuesday – Embracing movement and change.
• Earth Tuesday – Awakening nature’s vitality.

The celebrations feature a rich array of customs and symbolic foods. A key tradition involves setting a table with seven items beginning with the letter "S" in Azerbaijani, such as sumac, vinegar, milk, and sprouted wheat (samani). A mirror and candles take centre stage, reflecting light and clarity for the year ahead, while vibrantly dyed eggs rest upon the mirror.

With over 92 days of spring ahead, Azerbaijan steps into the season with joy and optimism. Recognising its cultural significance, UNESCO inscribed Novruz on the Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2009, ensuring its traditions endure for future generations.

By Aghakazim Guliyev