The people of Turkmenistan joyously welcome the National Spring Holiday – International Nowruz Day, with the warmest hopes. As per tradition, the main festivities take place at the “Nowruz ýaýlasy” site in Ak Bugday etrap of Ahal velayat.
Since ancient times, Nowruz has symbolized the awakening of nature and the renewal of life. With the arrival of spring, everything transforms before our eyes, bursting with vibrant colors, and the earth is adorned in an emerald attire. The picturesque beauty of the Kopetdag foothills, the refreshing clean air scented with herbs and flowers, uplifts everyone’s spirits. The centuries-old traditions and customs of this festive holiday, deeply ingrained in the rich cultural heritage of the Turkmen people, take on new significance in the era of the Revival of the new epoch of the powerful state.
In 2009, Nowruz was officially recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. In 2010, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution to celebrate March 21 as International Nowruz Day, under the agenda item “Culture of Peace.” This serves as evidence of the holiday’s significance and role in promoting friendly relations and solidarity among peoples. Thus, Nowruz is a beautiful example of fruitful intercultural dialogue, embodying the unbreakable bond of time and the continuity of generations, and the unwavering universal values of humanity.
In his congratulatory address to his fellow citizens, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov emphasizes: “In the International Year of Peace and Trust, as we celebrate the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s neutrality, the historical significance of the National Spring Holiday – International Nowruz Day – becomes even more significant.” As the head of state notes, this holiday awakens pure feelings of love, beauty, and peace in people’s hearts. “With historical roots dating back thousands of years, Nowruz has been an integral part of the life and culture of Eastern peoples. The traditions of Nowruz reflect the uniqueness of each nation, strengthening friendship, unity, peace, and trust among peoples,” highlights the President’s festive address.
Today, “Nowruz ýaýlasy” is filled with the atmosphere of a grand Turkmen toi, with music and songs resonating. The festive celebrations showcase meaningful works by the Hero-Arkadag and Arkadagly Hero Serdar, as well as the wise traditions and customs of our people, whose mentality is rooted in peace, good neighborliness, friendliness, openness, diligence, and a drive for creativity.
In the makeshift village set up at “Nowruz ýaýlasy,” with elegant yurts, one can experience the way of life of the Turkmen people, their wise family traditions and rituals, and the unique aspects of rural life. Here, a panorama of the rich national decorative and applied arts and crafts is also displayed.