Google celebrates the global celebration of Nowruz, the Persian New Year, by paying homage through a vibrant Doodle on its homepage on March 19. Derived from Persian, Nowruz translates to “new day” and aligns with the vernal equinox, marking the onset of spring in the Northern Hemisphere.
What Is Nowruz?
This astronomical event signifies Earth’s axis neither tilting towards nor away from the sun, ensuring equal parts daylight and darkness across latitudes, symbolising renewal and rebirth.
Originating over 3,000 years ago in ancient Persia (now Iran), Nowruz has traversed borders, embraced by nations such as Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, and Turkey. Recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, it embodies the rich tapestry of the Iranian plateau’s cultural heritage.
Motifs, Calligraphy, More
Google’s Doodle captured the essence of Persian culture, featuring intricate floral motifs, traditional calligraphy, and the symbolic Haft-sin table. This special setting includes seven items, each commencing with the Persian letter “sin,” symbolising concepts pivotal for the forthcoming year.
Pendar Yousefi, the Iranian guest artist behind the Doodle, shared his inspiration, stating, “In constructing the scene, I’ve drawn from my own happy childhood memories of Nowruz, which evoke feelings of joy, togetherness, and hope. These are captured by the animal friends who have gathered in a flower-filled courtyard to ring in the coming of spring under the blossoming tree.” He added, “Even in challenging times, the spirit of Nowruz-the promise of renewal and a ‘new day’ on the horizon-offers a beacon of hope.”
Nowruz festivities centre around the Haft-sin tradition, where families assemble seven symbolic items, including wheat for rebirth, olives for love, and apples for beauty. This year’s Doodle, a testament to cultural unity and resilience, encapsulated the essence of Nowruz, ushering in hope and anticipation for the year ahead.