Celebrating Nowruz: A Glimpse into Hunza's Rich Traditions

In history, Nawruz emerges as a tale of resilience and joy. Originating over three millennia ago in ancient Persia, Nawruz, meaning "New Day," paints a picture of fresh beginnings and vibrant celebrations. With its roots deep in the soil of Zoroastrianism, Nawruz blossoms with the arrival of spring, embracing the earth's renewal and marking the start of a new year in the Persian calendar. 

Across epochs and empires, Nawruz embarked on a journey, crossing borders and transcending time to spread its warmth and cheer to distant lands. Nestled amidst the breathtaking peaks of the Karakoram Range, the valleys of Hunza became a new canvas for Nawruz's colorful traditions, blending with local customs and infusing the region with an air of festivity and unity.

In the captivating valleys of Hunza, a timeless celebration unfolds with the arrival of Nawruz. Here, among the rugged peaks and lush meadows, traditions are as woven into daily life as threads in a cherished tapestry, and Nawruz holds a place of honor in the hearts of the people. As the evening settles on the 20th of March, excitement fills the air. Families gather, their hands busy with preparations for the festivities ahead. Mutoo Doodth/Dumanum Mamu (Fermented milk/Yougart) is poured with care, its tangy scent mingling with that of freshly baked chapatis. Bukak (Fava beans), shimmering with salt, are strung together to create delicate necklaces, each one a wish for blessings upon the children. And in the cozy kitchens, grandparents lovingly shape traditional bread known as Fiti, a treasured gift for the little ones to be presented when they wake up in the morning of 21st March.

As the clock strikes midnight, women and children gather, their hands adorned with the intricate patterns of Masma/Sharong (henna) and that tells stories of ancient customs and familial bonds. Henna isn't just for hands; it finds its way into the hair as well, turning locks into cascades of earthy hues, adding to the festive atmosphere. And with the dawn of the 21st of March, the valley comes alive with the echoes of prayers. In the hushed sanctuaries of Jamatkhanas, voices rise in unison, offering gratitude for the blessings of the past and prayers for the days to come. Here, people are served fermented milk, accompanied by Khamali (Chapati), Shishar, a type of fried bread made with fermented dough, and chai, adding warmth to the communal gathering.

With the sun's gentle caress, a new day dawns, bringing with it a sense of renewal and joy. Clad in garments of vibrant hues, the Kids of Hunza emerge, their necks adorned with the symbolic fava bean necklaces. From the youngest to the oldest, each receives a small salted Fiti, a token of love passed down through generations.

In the awakening gardens, children and women laugh and play on swings hanging from budding trees, their voices ringing out in songs that seem to stir the very earth over centuries. Women sing this ancient song verses that say “Shuun Bilii - Shari Bano Shari Shaskatey – Qari Qat-tuu” With each joyful sway, it's as if worries are gently brushed away, leaving behind only the sweet promise of new beginnings.

As the day unfolds, the valley comes alive with music and dance. Men and women gather, their movements fluid and graceful, as they sway to the rhythms of ancient melodies and the traditional music. And as the sun reaches its zenith, the air is filled with the tantalizing aroma of Sharbat/Harisa, a traditional dish made with crushed wheat, meat and butter and shared with all.

But amidst the celebrations, nature herself joins in the revelry. If rain graces the night of the 20th and the early hours of the 21st, it is known as آب رساں (Abb-e-Rasan) – pure water that is collected and cherished, a gift from the heavens to nourish both body and soul. Nawruz is more than just a celebration – it is a testament to the enduring spirit of a people bound by tradition, united in love, and uplifted by the promise of new beginnings. And as the sun sets on the final day of festivities, the valley echoes with the laughter of generations, a timeless symphony of joy and renewal.

And so, against the backdrop of history's grand tapestry, Nawruz remains a symbol of hope and rejuvenation, a celebration of nature's eternal cycle and the enduring bond between communities and the world around them.