On a Holiday of Renewal, Iranians Are Mourning and Fearful
The New York Times • • general
Key Points:
- Tajrish Square in Tehran, usually vibrant and bustling before Nowruz, is subdued this year due to the country's ongoing hardships.
- Iranians are closing out a year marked by economic struggles, a government-led massacre, and U.S.-Israeli bombardment.
- Nowruz, celebrated since at least the fifth century B.C., marks the first day of spring and symbolizes new beginnings in Iran.
- Traditional Nowruz customs include decorating homes with symbolic items, buying new clothes, spring cleaning, and visiting loved ones.
- The holiday's significance is akin to a blend of Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and Independence Day in terms of celebration and mood.
