Introduction
Nowruz, meaning “New Day,” is the ancient Persian New Year celebrated at the spring equinox (March 20-21). While deeply rooted in Zoroastrian tradition, Nowruz transcends religious and ethnic boundaries, bringing communities together in Pakistan, Iran, Afghanistan, Central Asia, and beyond. In Pakistan, the festival is particularly vibrant among the Baloch, Pashtun, and Ismaili communities, as well as in Gilgit-Baltistan and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP).
This guide explores how Nowruz is celebrated in Pakistan, where to experience the festivities, and the cultural significance of this 3,000-year-old tradition.
When is Nowruz Celebrated in Pakistan?
Nowruz marks the first day of spring and the beginning of the Persian solar calendar. In 2025, it will be observed on:
📅 Thursday, March 20, 2025 (exact time varies with the vernal equinox).
Celebrations typically last 13 days, with the most vibrant events occurring in the first week.
Where is Nowruz Celebrated in Pakistan?
While not a public holiday nationwide, Nowruz is enthusiastically celebrated in:
1. Gilgit-Baltistan
- Hunza, Nagar, and Skardu come alive with music, dance, and feasts.
- Traditional polo matches and folk festivals are held.
- The Jashn-e-Baharan (Spring Festival) in Hunza features cultural performances.
2. Balochistan (Quetta, Kalat, and Chagai)
- Baloch tribes celebrate with Samanak (sweet wheat pudding) and folk dances.
- Fire-jumping (Chaharshanbe Suri) takes place on the eve of Nowruz.
3. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Peshawar, Chitral, and Swat)
- Pashtun communities hold street fairs, poetry recitals (Pashto landay), and music.
- Buzkashi (horseback tug-of-war) is played in some regions.
4. Karachi & Islamabad (Ismaili & Persian Communities)
- The Ismaili Muslim community hosts grand feasts and cultural events.
- Embassy of Iran in Islamabad organizes Nowruz gatherings with traditional music and food.
How is Nowruz Celebrated? Key Traditions
1. Haft-Seen Table (The Seven ‘S’ Items)
Families set up a Haft-Seen table with seven symbolic items starting with the Persian letter “S” (س):
- Sabzeh (Sprouted wheat/lentils) – Rebirth
- Samanu (Sweet pudding) – Abundance
- Senjed (Dried oleaster fruit) – Love
- Seer (Garlic) – Medicine & Health
- Seeb (Apple) – Beauty
- Somāq (Sumac) – Sunrise & Patience
- Serkeh (Vinegar) – Age & Wisdom
Additional items include a mirror (reflection), goldfish (life), candles (light), and the Quran/Holy Book.
2. Spring Cleaning & New Clothes
- Homes are thoroughly cleaned before Nowruz.
- People wear new clothes to symbolize a fresh start.
3. Fire Festivals (Chaharshanbe Suri)
- On the last Wednesday before Nowruz, people light bonfires and jump over flames, chanting:
🔥 “Zardi-ye man az to, sorkhi-ye to az man!”
(“My yellowness to you, your redness to me!”) – Wishing to take away sickness and bring energy.
4. Visiting Family & Friends (Eid-e-Norooz)
- The first day is spent with family, exchanging gifts, and feasting.
- Elders give Eidi (money or sweets) to children.
5. Sizdah Bedar (13th Day Picnic)
- On the 13th day, families picnic outdoors to avoid bad luck.
- In Hunza, people gather at Attabad Lake or Karimabad for music and dancing.
Nowruz Foods in Pakistan
🍽️ Samanak (Slow-cooked wheat pudding) – A Baloch/Pashtun delicacy.
🍽️ Sabzi Chalaw (Herb rice with fish) – Symbolizing prosperity.
🍽️ Kabuli Pulao (Afghan-style rice with raisins & carrots).
🍽️ Sheer Khurma (Vermicelli milk dessert) – Shared with neighbors.
Where to Experience Nowruz in Pakistan? (Best Events)
🎉 Hunza Valley – Jashn-e-Baharan festival with polo, music, and local crafts.
🎉 Quetta – Samanak-making gatherings and Baloch cultural shows.
🎉 Peshawar – Pashtun folk dances and street fairs.
🎉 Islamabad – Iranian Embassy’s Nowruz celebration (open to the public).
Travel Tips for Nowruz in Pakistan
✔ Plan Ahead – Hotels in Hunza/Quetta fill up fast.
✔ Respect Local Customs – Ask before photographing private events.
✔ Try the Food – Don’t miss Samanak and sheer khurma!
✔ Dress Modestly – Especially when visiting conservative areas.
Conclusion: A Unifying Festival of Renewal
Nowruz in Pakistan is a beautiful blend of Persian, Central Asian, and local traditions. Whether you’re in the mountains of Hunza, the deserts of Balochistan, or the bustling streets of Karachi, the spirit of rebirth, joy, and community shines bright.
Will you be celebrating Nowruz in Pakistan this year? Share your plans in the comments! 🌸
