Navruz is one of the oldest holidays in the world, symbolizing the arrival of spring, nature's renewal, and the beginning of a new year. In Central Asian countries, this day is celebrated on a grand scale with public festivities, traditional dishes, sports competitions, and communal feasts. Each country has its unique traditions, but they all share a common spirit of unity, joy, and hope for prosperity in the new year.
Kazakhstan
In Kazakhstan, Navruz symbolizes renewal and harmony. Celebrations begin with a thorough cleaning of homes and courtyards, symbolizing purification from negativity and preparation for a new life stage. People wear new clothes, visit relatives and friends, and exchange gifts and well-wishes. Cities and villages host fairs, concerts, and sports competitions. The traditional dish of the holiday is Nauryz kozhe, a soup made from seven ingredients, symbolizing the seven elements of life.
Kyrgyzstan
In Kyrgyzstan, the holiday is known as Nooruz and is celebrated with special traditions. Before the holiday, people clean their homes and courtyards, plant trees and flowers. On the day of the celebration, traditional dishes such as sumolok, a sweet dish made from sprouted wheat, and boorsok, fried dough pieces, are prepared. Folk games like kok-boru and various sports competitions take place. People visit relatives and friends, exchanging congratulations and good wishes.
Uzbekistan
In Uzbekistan, Navruz is one of the most significant holidays and is celebrated on a grand scale. On the eve of the holiday, a nationwide hashar, a collective clean-up and improvement of public spaces, takes place. The traditional dish sumalak, made from sprouted wheat, is cooked overnight in large cauldrons. On the day of the celebration, mass festivities, concerts, fairs, and sports competitions are held. People wear national costumes, visit relatives and friends, and exchange gifts and greetings.
Tajikistan
In Tajikistan, Navruz is celebrated as a symbol of renewal and the start of a new year. Festivities begin with cleaning homes and streets, as well as planting trees and flowers. Traditional dishes such as sumanak, a sweet dish made from sprouted wheat, and plov, pilaf, are prepared. Folk games, musical and dance performances take place. People visit the graves of their ancestors, give charity to those in need, and exchange greetings.
Turkmenistan
In Turkmenistan, Nowruz Bayramy is celebrated with special traditions. Large-scale festivities, concerts, fairs, and sports competitions are organized. Traditional dishes such as semeni, a sweet dish made from sprouted wheat, and plov are prepared. People wear national costumes, visit relatives and friends, and exchange gifts and greetings.