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.
-
'We're still open!': Fountain Square businesses dealing with road closure woes
The Fountain Square Area Drainage Improvements Project aims to help alleviate historical flooding. Over the next few months, expect closures on Shelby Street between Morris Street and Cottage Avenue.
Raymond Park Middle School band director to march in Rose Parade
One local band director will have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to participate in one of the country's biggest traditions.
Local towing companies work overtime as icy conditions hit across Indianapolis
Local tow companies worked overtime on Friday as rain and freezing cold led to icy conditions on many Indianapolis roadways
Marijuana shift at federal level could impact Indiana CBD, hemp products
The order was signed as hemp products face a possible federal ban. That ban has potential consequences for shops like The Health Club in Indianapolis.
