CURRENT AFFAIRS

Detailed explanation-1: -The Parsi community in India is celebrating the Parsi New Year also known as Navroz. While the rest of the world celebrates the day in March, in India Parsis observe the new beginning in August. The term Navroz or Nouroz is from the Persian language meaning ‘new day’.

Detailed explanation-2: -Historical Significance The tradition began 3000 years ago and was baptized after the Persian King, Jamshed, who introduced the Parsi calendar. Thus, the name - Jamshed-i-Nouroz. King Jamshed was held on high for his righteousness and truthfulness.

Detailed explanation-3: -Though across the world, Navroz is celebrated at the time of the vernal equinox around March 21 however, Parsis in India follow the Shahenshahi calendar which does not recognise leap years.

Detailed explanation-4: -Interestingly in India, people celebrate it twice a year - first according to the Iranian calendar and the second according to the Shahenshahi calendar which is followed by people here and in Pakistan. This year, Navroz is being celebrated in India on Tuesday, August 16.