Azerbaijani ethnographer: Novruz has always been most revered holidays of Azerbaijanis

Can you talk about where and how Novruz holiday originated first?

Novruz, which marks arrival of a new astronomical year and awakening of nature was the most revered among other holidays of Azerbaijanis in all periods.

Novpuz Bayram has very deep historical roots. According to scientists, its history goes back to ancient Mesopotamia. New Year was celebrated for a few days in Babylon and each day had its own rituals. The origin of the festival is also associated with Zoroastrianism, ancient religion of Azerbaijanis.
 
Most probably the holiday was celebrated in pre-Islamic period. He appeared at in the Middle and Central East at times of fire-worshipers. People considered it beginning of a new year. In Persian Novruz means "new day" and is connected with the arrival of spring. Despite the fact that this holiday is mainly celebrated in the Muslim countries, this is not religious and indicates onset of vernal equinox.

How was the Novruz Holiday celebrated in Baku earlier?

Nowruz has always been celebrated in Baku much more solemn than other festivals. A bonfire was made at courtyard of any house every Tuesday. Women threw herbs Ruta into the fire, repeating the words, intended to deflect all the troubles and misfortunes from their families. People were cleaning their houses close to Novruz. They were preparing for the festive table, cooking shaker-chorek, badachorek, baklava and other sweets. Everything was so lively before the holiday.

By tradition, the holiday is preceded by four Tuesdays. Which one of these days is the most important?

Most important among these is the last Tuesday. In old times this day was filled with various rites, including growing wheat sprouts in a dish which was symbol of rebirth and also was thought to purify infertile women.

What does the holiday bonfire embody?

As a cradle of a fire-worship, Azerbaijan has rich traditions associated with the fire, which is also considered a means of purification. Widespread celebratory bonfires in the streets, rooftops, hills, and jumping through fire on the last Tuesday before the Novruz is considered obligatory rite for every person regardless of sex or age.

The numerous Novruz actions also include racing, saber fencing, throwing lassos, strongman competition, etc.

Every year when we jump through the fire, we believe that our troubles, illness, illnesses and grief remain in fire, and in the New Year we will be happier than the previous year. We pass on this faith from generation to generation.

What are signs of Novruz?

As a rule, during the holidays exterior doors are not locked. Thus, the owners make it clear that the family is at home and is pleased to welcome visitors.

Light is usually on during the night. This is a sign of prosperity. Extinguishing fire is a sign of misfortune.


R. Ashrafli