MASHHAD: Millions of people around the world began celebrating the Persian new year, or Nowruz, on Thursday. Nowruz, meaning 'new day,' is an ancestral festivity marking the first day of spring and the renewal of nature. It marks the spring equinox, when night and day are of equal length, and falls on March 20 or 21. Under the Iranian and Afghan calendar, the year 1404 has now begun. The day is marked by rituals, ceremonies and cultural events, as well as a special meal with loved ones. People wear new clothes, visit family and friends and exchange gifts, especially for children. Nowruz promotes peace and solidarity between generations and within families as well as community and reconciliation, according to the UN. — dpa
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