Nowruz 2024: Google doodle celebrates the Persian New Year

This doodle by guest artist Pender Youssefi celebrates Nowruz or New Year. It is a vibrant spring festival that promotes peace, respect, kinship and harmony in life and nature. Every year on this day, more than 300 million people around the world gather to celebrate the time of rebirth.

The annual festival has been going on for over 3,000 years. The earliest origins of Nowruz date back to ancient Iran (then Persia). It was held on the vernal equinox to celebrate the beginning of the flowering season. Over time, several countries and ethnic groups along the Silk Road began to adopt this tradition.

During Nowruz, the most important tradition is Haft Shin. The family collects and presents seven items, each representing rebirth and rejuvenation. These products usually include wheat for rebirth and well-being, wheat pudding for power and strength, olives for love, berries for sunrise, vinegar for age and patience, apple for beauty, and garlic for health.