Westminster welcomes spring with Nowruz Celebration

Nowruz, meaning New Day in Persian, is an age-old celebration that marks the spring equinox, symbolising the rebirth and growth of nature after the winter period. With roots stretching back over 3,000 years in Zoroastrianism, the tradition is embraced by over 300 million Afghan, Kurdish, Paris, Persian, Tajik, Uzbek and other people in Asia and in diaspora.

This year’s Nowruz celebration was a testament to the power of cultural exchange and the unifying spirit of tradition. Upon entering, attendees were greeted by the sight of the Haft-sin table. This table, arranged with seven symbolic items beginning with the Persian letter S, such as Sib (apple), representing health and beauty, served as a poignant reminder of the hopes and aspirations for the year ahead. Guests were also treated to Haft Miwah, a special Afghan delicacy, and Samanoo or Sumalak, a sweet wheat-based dessert, both embodying the promise of spring and abundance.

The evening commenced with a symbolic countdown, which mirrored the anticipation of the moment of equinox, allowing everyone to collectively usher in the New Year. As the countdown ended, a Persian performer brought sprouted greens, also known as Sabze, a vital Haft-sin element symbolising rebirth, to the table through a dance.

The celebration included live music, with a lively Bandari group playing southern Iranian music, which ignited the room and drew everyone into a spontaneous dance of joy and unity. Following this, a dancer showcased the unique Nowruz traditions of Afghanistan, highlighting the blend of cultural expressions. The performances culminated in a spiritual Sama dance, a display of devotion and transcendence.

Adding to the feast, attendees enjoyed an array of Iranian and Afghan cuisine, offering a culinary journey through the flavours of Nowruz.

Maryam Seyedsalehi, the International Student Support Champion and lead organiser of the event, said: “This year’s Nowruz Celebration was magical to see not only that we had the chance to celebrate this ancient celebration with people from my own country but beyond from around the world at Fyvie Hall. In Persian culture, we have a saying which translates to ‘We know it is going to be a good year when it has a good spring’ or in other words ‘start’ and this one was surely a fantastic start!”

Fakhria Joha, Finance and Business Management BA Honours student, added: “Nowruz has been one of my favourite festivals since childhood and celebrating it this year felt truly special. The atmosphere was warm, the energy was uplifting and it was wonderful to be surrounded by people who appreciate and celebrate cultural traditions. I feel lucky to study at a university where everyone has a space to belong and every voice is valued. It was a beautiful event that I will remember and keep as part of my memories!”

Heliya Almasi, Tourism Management BA Honours student, said: “This Nowruz felt different. Somewhere between missing home and feeling comforted. Being far from family and home isn’t easy, especially knowing that on the other side of the world, they’re all gathered, and their absence feels even heavier. But in this moment, there was a sense of familiarity, something that seemed to lessen the distance. Being surrounded by people who understand these moments just like you do and share the same memories of Nowruz, felt a little like home. For a while, the loneliness faded, and the distance didn’t feel as heavy. There are moments that remind you how deeply connected you are to your roots. Moments that make you proud of your Persian identity, of the language that carries your laughter, of a culture that follows you wherever you go. This day was one of those moments.”

Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Global Engagement and Employability Professor Dibyesh Anand, who co-chairs the University’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Committee and leads the World in Westminster series, said: “We are an institution where we want everyone to feel they belong and be free to be themselves without impositions. Nowruz was a reminder of how festivals can bring joy, colour and togetherness through celebrations. It is an illustration of our pluralist culture.”

Bringing the community together at events such as this directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 3: Good Health and Wellbeing and 4: Quality Education. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.  

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