British Embassy extends Novruz greetings to people of Azerbaijan

The British Embassy in Azerbaijan has issued a message of congratulations on the occasion of Novruz.

The greeting was shared on the embassy’s official X page, Caliber.Az reports.

Novruz Bayramınız Mübarək!

Novruz – ümid, sevgi, yeni həyat xatırlatması və yazın gəlişini qarşılamaq üçün bir fürsətdir.

Bu bayram yeni ümidlər və yeni başlanğıclar gətirsin. https://t.co/w1uXRnwh6m

— UK in Azerbaijan (@ukinazerbaijan) March 20, 2025

Notably, as Azerbaijan marks March 20, the nation joyfully embraces Novruz, the festival of renewal, balance, and nature’s rebirth.

At precisely 13:01:25 Baku time, spring officially begins, bringing day and night into perfect equilibrium. The Sun rises directly in the east and sets in the west, symbolising harmony and the arrival of a new season.

Novruz is steeped in tradition, with preparations spanning at least four weeks. Each Tuesday leading up to the festival is dedicated to a key element of nature:

• 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