Ask Mehmet

  • Published
  • By Mehmet Birbiri
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs host nation advisor
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  Question: Mehmet, I have heard so many things about "Nevruz." When and what is Nevruz, and why do people celebrate it? 

Response: Nevruz literally means "New Day." It falls on the first day of spring, March 21, and is also the Iranian New Year's Day. 

Some people who speak Indo-European languages believe that God created the universe and humans on this day. Nevruz celebrations are related to Zoroastrianism, a religion founded in Persia. 

During Nevruz celebrations, fires are started and people jump over the fire with resolutions and wishes. According to a tale, a Kurdish hero killed a cruel king to save his tribe on Nevruz. That's why Kurdish people celebrate Nevruz in a big way. 

For centuries, Nevruz has been a celebration of peace, brotherhood and good will in the Middle East, Caucasus, the Balkans and Central Asia countries. 

In 1995, the Turkish government declared Nevruz a national festival and since that decision and the government's participates in the celebrations. 

You may also occasionally see Turkish security forces taking preventation measures to ensure the celebrations remain peaceful.