INDIANAPOLIS — For the Northern Hemisphere, the first day of spring is approaching. For some countries in the Southern Hemisphere, it’s also the beginning of the new year.
Nowruz, also known as the Persian New Year, marks the first day of the spring equinox. This is when the sun crosses the equator and day and night are of equal length.
It also marks the first day of the year for those who follow the solar calendar.
The holiday is celebrated by Iran, Afghanistan, the Kurdish regions of Iraq, Turkey and Syria and throughout Central Asia.
“It’s the first day of the new year and first day of the spring season. This is a big celebration in the Afghan community,” Najia Sherzad Hoshmand said.
Hoshmand is the coordinator of the first annual Nowruz Festival. It was held Sunday afternoon at the Global Village Welcome Center.
The celebration was filled with traditional flowers, bright spring colors and traditional Afghan food. There were speakers and activities for kids.
“We’ve had a very hard journey making it out of Afghanistan, risking our lives. Many of the families you see here had to leave and flee the country,” Hoshmand said.
The festival also marked the launch of Afghan American Community Center, an organization that will provide information and bring support to the Afghan community residing in Indiana.
“Our community is increasing day by day, more families are coming and resettling here. As new neighbors, we hope that our American friends acknowledge us,” Hoshmand said. “The most important thing that we need is support, care and love.”
The Afghan Community Center accepts monetary donations or household items for new refugees.
To learn more about the organization, click here.
-
IU Bloomington students react to the killing of Charlie Kirk
Conservative political activist Charlie Kirk was killed during a speaking engagement at a college campus in Utah on Wednesday. Kirk was scheduled to speak in Bloomington next month.
Nonprofits helping the homeless grapple with funding issues amidst growing need
Nonprofits across Indianapolis grapple with need for more funding as the homeless population continues to grow.
Carmel-based organization looks to spread civility as political violence grows
A new effort in Carmel is encouraging neighbors, leaders, and lawmakers to embrace civility in conversations at a time when public discourse often feels divided.
Colts chase another milestone with 1st 2-0 start since 2009 in Week 2 matchup
Now that the Indianapolis Colts have ended their 11-game opening day winless streak, they can focus on their next milestone — their first 2-0 start since 2009.
