Kazakhstan Revives Nowruz, Issues New Format

Doha: Kazakhstan has introduced a new format for the Nowruz (Nauryz), an age-old holiday celebrated by numerous ethnicities worldwide. According to the Kazakh Ministry of Culture and Information, festivities under the concept of 'Nawryznama Decade' last 10 days with massive cultural gatherings, dress up in traditional attire, and folk games.

This year the celebrations kicked off on March 14 with the 'Amal' holiday ('Korisu' in Kazakh, meaning to see each other) or the Day of Greeting, a revered tradition in western regions of Kazakhstan, which now is observed nationwide symbolising the good neighbourliness and support for each other. March 15 is designated Mercy Day, dedicated to fostering charity and compassion. March 16 is declared the Day of Culture and National Traditions, promoting Kazakh culture, art, and national values.

March 17 is celebrated as Shanyrak Day (a symbol of a Kazakh traditional felt dwelling), highlighting family values. March 18 is dedicated to national clothing, focusing on promoting traditional attire throughout the country.

Zhanaru Day (Renewal Day) on March 19 encourages the continuation of the tradition of spring tree planting. March 20 is declared National Sports Day, featuring competitions in traditional Kazakh sports across all regions. March 21 is designated the Day of Solidarity, promoting peace and unity among the population. March 22 marks the commencement of the new year festivities, with cultural and sports events, ethno-villages, and fairs held nationwide.

The final day, March 23, symbolises purification and welcomes the new year with renewed goals and hope, marked by a nationwide environmental action.

For the third year in a row Nauryzhas coincided with the holy month of Ramadan, which makes some modifications to the celebrations.

On one of the Iftars hosted by President Kassym-JomartTokayev, the head of state, he delivered his congratulations on both Nauryz and Ramadan, stating that the coincidence of Kazakh national holiday with Ramadan – 'the Sultan of all months' as Kazakhs used to name it, can be considered a good sign for all of us.

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