Newroz Piroz Be 2725 and Happy Eid al-Fitr to Everyone

[Anthea]

Newroz Unites the Kurds
and the Region’s Peoples

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — Kurdistan President Nechirvan Barzani extended his heartfelt congratulations on the occasion of Newroz to the people of Diyarbakir and all Kurds across the region. He expressed his hopes that this year’s celebration would bring peace, joy, and prosperity to everyone

In a message marking the festivities in Diyarbakir, Pres. Barzani highlighted the symbolic significance of Newroz as a celebration of renewal, hope, and resilience. "Newroz is a historic celebration that represents revival and unity. For thousands of years, it has connected the Kurdish people and other communities in this region," he said.

A Call for Peace and Unity

Addressing the people of Diyarbakir, the president emphasized the importance of embracing the spirit of Newroz to foster peace and harmony. "May this Newroz serve as a renewed opportunity for reconciliation and understanding," he remarked, acknowledging the ongoing efforts by various parties, including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and those supporting the peace process.

Pres. Barzani also paid tribute to the role of Abdullah Ocalan the Imprisoned leader of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), and others who have supported initiatives for peace. He urged all sides to seize this historic opportunity and work sincerely towards lasting stability.

"Peace is the path that brings communities together, builds nations, and ensures security for all. The Kurdish people, with their rich cultural heritage and resilience, can strengthen their voice and secure their rights through peaceful means," he added.

Commitment to Supporting Peace Efforts

President Barzani reaffirmed the Kurdistan Region's unwavering support for any initiative that promotes peace and reconciliation. "We stand ready to contribute in every possible way to ensure the success of the peace process, believing that peace is a victory for all," he said.

Concluding his message, Barzani extended his best wishes to everyone celebrating Newroz, expressing his hope for a year filled with peace and happiness.

"May this Newroz be a celebration of unity, bringing joy and prosperity to all"

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/83 ... es-barzani

[Anthea]

PM Masrour Barzani Hosts Diplomats

for Newroz Celebrations

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani hosted a special gathering on Friday evening at the Korek Mountain Resort in the Soran Independent Administration, welcoming numerous diplomatic figures to celebrate the Kurdish New Year, Newroz

The event was attended by Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, alongside ambassadors, consuls general, diplomats, and envoys representing various countries accredited to Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.

The celebration served as an opportunity to highlight the rich cultural heritage of Kurdistan and foster stronger ties between the region and the international community. With traditional Newroz festivities symbolizing renewal and hope, the gathering reflected a spirit of unity and cooperation.

Link to Article - Photos:

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/83 ... lebrations

[Anthea]

Guerrillas: Newroz creates the spirit of our resistance

2725 Newroz is being celebrated this year with great enthusiasm by millions of people under the slogan: Newroz of Democratic Society for Freedom. The freedom guerrillas fighting in the Medya Defense Zones (guerrilla areas in northern Iraq) are also welcoming Newroz with great enthusiasm and excitement.

Ferman Penaber: Happy Newroz 2025 to our people, to our freedom, to the prisoners of freedom, to the comrades fighting in the emplacements and to the martyrs of Kurdistan freedom in the persons of Mazlum Doğan, Rahşan and Zekiye. As HPG forces, our belief and determination are complete. This Newroz will be the Newroz when Kurdistan is freed.

We will definitely fight for this Newroz to be the Newroz of freedom

Newroz has a different meaning for us. In our history, Kawa the Blacksmith lit the Newroz fire of freedom by achieving victory as a result of his rebellion against the tyrant Dehaq. Mazlum Doğan, a follower of Kawa the Blacksmith, lit the first spark in the Amed dungeon and raised the Newroz fire again.

After that, Rahşan, Zekiye and many other comrades made great sacrifices and ensured that Newroz is celebrated by millions of people today. It is thanks to them that we have reached this stage. Newroz is freedom. It is a national holiday for us. Once again, happy Newroz to our leaders and all the peoples in the region.

Mahir Apoci: Happy Newroz Day to our people and our comrades fighting in emplacements. We hope that this Newroz will lead to the freedom of the peoples of Kurdistan and the region. We welcome Newroz with this claim Bijî Newroz.

Mazlum Çiyager: We wish a happy Newroz to our comrades who are fighting in the emplacements, to the martyrs of Kurdistan's freedom struggle and the Kurdish people. We promise that we will crown their struggle with victory. Within this framework, the aim of all of us must be to achieve freedom and a democratic society.

Newroz is sacred to our people. It has a great meaning. Newroz is an uprising for the Kurds. Today is the day of liberation from genocide, dictatorship and oppression. As guerrillas, we celebrate this day in a way worthy of its meaning. For us, the meaning of Newroz is very valuable; it creates the spirit of our resistance.

Kurtay Dêrazor: Happy Newroz to the Kurdish people, to the prisoners of freedom and to all the comrades resisting in emplacements. Newroz has a great meaning our people and our movement. We, too, will struggle to make the fire lit by comrade Mazlum Doğan brighter. We will live to carry Mazlum Doğan's Newroz spark to victory. No matter what, we will fight to make Newroz 2725 the year of freedom for KURDISTAN

[Anthea]

One Dead, Several Wounded

A knife attack at a Kurdish Newroz celebration in Parsberg, Bavaria, on Sunday afternoon left one person dead and several others possibly injured, according to German media reports

The incident took place during an outdoor gathering of at least 800 people marking the Kurdish New Year. Police have not yet disclosed further details, and the motive for the attack remains unclear.

Initial reports mistakenly suggested that the event was a wedding, but local media later confirmed that it was a Newroz celebration.

Reports indicate that the attack may have stemmed from a long-standing family feud, with two estranged cousins encountering each other unexpectedly at the event.

One allegedly drew a 30-centimeter-long kitchen knife and fatally stabbed the other.

The suspected perpetrator was immediately arrested, and authorities have cordoned off the area. Hundreds of attendees, now considered witnesses, are being held at the scene for questioning by police.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/878870

[Anthea]

Barzani Praises Kurdish Diaspora for
Strong Newroz Celebration in Cologne

Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani, president of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), has expressed his appreciation for the large turnout of Kurdish citizens at the Newroz celebration in Cologne

He emphasized that the spirit of Kurdish identity and patriotism prevailed despite attempts to disrupt the event.

In a statement, Barzani hailed the participation of thousands of Kurds in the celebrations, calling it a clear demonstration of the strength and resilience of the Kurdish diaspora.

He described the attendees as a powerful force, showcasing their unwavering commitment to their heritage and homeland.

“An insecure hand tried to disrupt and mislead the message of the Newroz rally in Cologne, but the true voice and spirit of the participants did not allow these attempts to succeed,” Barzani stated.

He expressed gratitude to those who upheld the peaceful message of their people, adding, “The path of loyalty to the country and Kurdishness succeeded. I extend my heartfelt thanks to all who conveyed their people’s message with enthusiasm and patriotism in this glorious gathering.”

Barzani concluded by sending his regards to all Kurdish freedom fighters and loyalists worldwide, wishing them continued strength and happiness

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/878858

[Anthea]

Newroz in Istanbul

phpBB [video]

Direct Link:

https://www.youtube.com/live/t25N5lTS2pw?feature=shared

[Anthea]

The Kurds' Biggest Newroz Celebration
An Unforgettable Night in Akre

phpBB [video]

Direct Link:

https://youtu.be/j_-Je1yOXgY?feature=shared

[Anthea]

Seven arrested in Eastern Kurdistan

Iranian authorities on Sunday said they arrested seven Kurdish individuals accused of participating in “anti-regime propaganda activities” under the guise of Newroz celebrations in Kurdistan Province, west of the country

“Since early March and February 2025, the Kurdistan province judiciary has prioritized taking action against individuals and groups” who “sought to use the [Kurdish New Year, Newroz] occasion as a platform for anti-regime propaganda,” Mohammad Jabbari, the prosecutor of Kurdistan province told the IRGC-affiliated Tasnim News Agency.

Newroz, which marks the first day of spring, is widely celebrated by Kurds in Western Iran / Eastern Kurdistan.

However, Iranian authorities have frequently clamped down on Kurdish celebrations during Newroz, banning some Kurdish symbols and songs, and prohibiting certain types of Kurdish attire, namely the Jamaneh and Khaki.

The Jamaneh and khaki are traditional Kurdish outfits often worn by Kurdish groups that oppose the Iranian establishment. They are widely seen as symbols of resistance among Kurds, many of whom share images of themselves wearing them on social media as an act of dissent.

Iran additionally prohibits the Kurdish folk dance, known as Halparke, which is performed by mixed groups of men and women who dance holding hands, a custom not welcomed by Iran’s political and religious authorities

Jabbari stated on Sunday that the judiciary is “officially addressing” the issue of those who are “breaking the norms and demonstrating insulting behavior.” He emphasized that serious measures were taken, leading to the identification of “a number of these [groups’] main leaders” and the arrest of “around seven individuals.”

According to Jabbari, the arrested individuals “had organizational and group affiliations” and that their actions were carried out with the “reinforcement, backing and direct overseeing of those groups.”

Last week, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) deployed to Kurdish-majority regions and set up temporary checkpoints to interrogate people, according to the Paris-based Kurdistan Human Rights Network.

Meanwhile, the Oslo-based Hengaw Human Rights Organization reported on clashes between the Newroz celebrators and Iranian security forces in Kurdish-majority regions.

Many people have reportedly been threatened and barred from participating in Newroz celebrations over the past month, according to human rights watchdogs, with a number of them arrested.

Earlier this month, Hengaw reported that several Kurds in Bukan and Oshnavieh were summoned by intelligence agencies and warned against participating in Newroz events.

https://www.rudaw.net/english/middleeast/iran/230320253

[Anthea]

Largest Newroz celebration in Europe

Thousands of Kurds gathered in the German city of Cologne over the weekend to celebrate what organizers hailed as the largest Kurdish New Year, Newroz, celebration in Europe

At the start of the event, the Kurdish flag was waved and the national anthem Ey Reqib (Oh Enemy) was played. The anthem, recognized by Kurds as the national anthem of the Kurdistan Region and Western Kurdistan, includes the stirring lines: “Let no one say Kurds are dead. Kurds are alive, are alive."

Their flag will never fall.”Newroz, which marks the first day of spring, is celebrated by millions of Kurds in the Kurdistan Region as well as in Kurdish-majority areas in Turkey, Iran, and Syria.

On Newroz eve, bonfires are traditionally lit on mountaintops and hills. In the following days, families go on picnics and continue the celebrations outdoors. One of the central features of the festivities is the Kurdish folk dance, Halparke, where people of all ages join hands to form a circle and dance together.

“This Newroz is very important for us. To tell you the truth, we have been waiting for this day for so many years,” one of the participants told Rudaw. “It was a very beautiful Newroz, people celebrated with such enthusiasm.”

A participant also compared this year’s Cologne celebration to the one held in Afrin, a Kurdish-majority city in northwest Syria, where tens of thousands of Kurds gathered in the city square to celebrate.

“After seven years, the people came here with the support of the people of Afrin. It was indeed a very beautiful Newroz celebration,” he explained.

This year marked the first time in seven years that residents of Afrin could freely celebrate Newroz, following the enclave’s takeover by Turkish-backed armed groups.

In 2018, Turkey and its allied Syrian armed groups seized control of Afrin prompting hundreds of thousands of Kurds to flee.

The event in Cologne was organized in coordination with the Kurdistan Diaspora Confederation and the Kurdish community in Germany. A message from Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) leader Masoud Barzani was also shared during the celebration.

According to the Cologne Police spokesperson Sascha Wallmeroth, the event far exceeded expectations.

“Today we had a gathering in Deutzer Werft [square in central Cologne] for the occasion of the Kurdish New Year celebration. A permit application had been submitted for a gathering of 10,000 people, but tens of thousands participated,” Wallmeroth said.

“Many more people arrived than anticipated, and we contacted the event manager multiple times … to manage the crowd,” the Cologne Police spokesperson stated, adding “we had to stop the event repeatedly to clear ambulance routes.”

https://www.rudaw.net/english/world/23032025

[Anthea]

Trump Extends Newroz Greetings

to Celebrants Worldwide

"On behalf of the United States, I extend my kindest regards for a joyous holiday. Newroz Pirouz," said Donald Trump

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – US President Donald Trump has extended warm wishes to people across the United States and around the world celebrating the ancient festival of Newroz, a cherished tradition that symbolizes renewal and hope.

In his official statement on the occasion, President Trump conveyed his heartfelt greetings:

“Warmest wishes to all those in the United States and around the globe celebrating the ancient holiday of Newroz. This long-standing tradition presents a time to reflect on the blessings of the previous year and prepare for the coming spring with a renewed spirit of optimism. On behalf of the United States, I extend my kindest regards for a joyous holiday. Newroz Pirouz.”

A Tradition of Resilience and Renewal

Newroz, meaning “New Day” in Kurdish, marks the arrival of spring and the beginning of the new year in several countries across the Middle East, Central Asia, and beyond. Celebrated for over 2,725 years, it remains an enduring symbol of resistance, resilience, and unity — particularly for the Kurdish people.

In Kurdish culture, Newroz holds profound historical significance, commemorating the legendary triumph of Kawa the Blacksmith over the tyrannical ruler Zahak. According to the ancient tale, Kawa’s victory ignited the flames of freedom, and to this day, Kurds celebrate by lighting bonfires, wearing traditional Kurdish attire, and gathering in joyous festivities.

Global Celebrations of Newroz

While Newroz is deeply rooted in Kurdish heritage, its observance spans diverse cultures and regions. From Mongolia and Central Asia to Albania, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Turkey, and parts of Russia, millions come together to welcome the arrival of spring. The holiday is marked by vibrant ceremonies, family gatherings, music, and traditional cuisine.

This year, the city of Akre in the Kurdistan Region, AKA (the capital of Newroz), will host a grand celebration, featuring the ceremonial lighting of the Newroz fire, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. The festivities will include cultural performances, traditional dances, and public gatherings, highlighting the rich heritage of the Kurdish people.

The symbolic flame of Newroz continues to burn brightly, echoing the resilience and determination of millions worldwide who celebrate this ancient tradition, marking the beginning of a new year with optimism and joy

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/83 ... -worldwide

[Anthea]

Tens of Thousands Celebrate
Kurdish New Year in Cologne

The lively event at Deutzer Werft saw large crowds come together to celebrate Kurdish traditions, with revelers waving Kurdish flags, enjoying picnics, and enjoying music and performances throughout the day

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In a vibrant celebration of culture and unity, tens of thousands gathered in Cologne on Saturday to celebrate the Kurdish New Year, known as Newroz. According to WDR, more than 50,000 people participated in the festivities at Deutzer Bridge, far exceeding initial estimates of 10,000 attendees.

The lively event at Deutzer Werft saw large crowds come together to celebrate Kurdish traditions, with revelers waving Kurdish flags, enjoying picnics, and enjoying music and performances throughout the day. Police confirmed the large turnout, estimating that tens of thousands of people were present at the gathering.

While the crowd grew significantly as the day progressed, authorities took precautionary measures, cordoning off parts of the event in the late afternoon to ensure safety and manage the large numbers. Despite these measures, the event remained peaceful, with no major incidents reported.

A key aspect of the rally was its political dimension, with speeches highlighting the ongoing struggles of Kurds in the Middle East, who face oppression and displacement. Participants expressed solidarity with those affected, drawing attention to the challenges faced by Kurdish communities across the region

As part of security measures, police were present in larger numbers than at typical rallies, in part to enforce a ban on flags associated with the banned Kurdish Workers' Party (PKK), which has been classified as a terrorist organization in both Germany and the EU. Some flags bearing PKK symbols were confiscated by authorities, but the overall atmosphere remained celebratory and peaceful.

The Kurdish New Year celebrations in Cologne provided a powerful display of cultural pride and political solidarity, underscoring the ongoing significance of Newroz to the Kurdish people both in Germany and worldwide.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/83 ... zer-bridge

[Anthea]

Washington celebrates Newroz
with cultural showcase

The event featured discussions on Kurdish history, culture, and the broader significance of Newroz beyond its traditional festivities. Attendees highlighted the occasion as a moment of renewal and unity

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The Kurdish community in the United States marked the national celebration of Newroz with a vibrant ceremony at the American University in Washington, DC, on Thursday. The event brought together students, US citizens, and Kurdish diaspora members to honor the occasion's cultural and historical significance.

Hawzhin Abdurrahman, a Kurdish-American, emphasized the importance of passing Newroz traditions to younger generations. Speaking to Kurdistan24, he stated, “We pay attention to this occasion to introduce it to our children because it is not only about lighting fires and drinking but also about the history of a nation.”

The event featured discussions on Kurdish history, culture, and the broader significance of Newroz beyond its traditional festivities. Attendees highlighted the occasion as a moment of renewal and unity

“I see Newroz as a beautiful occasion to prepare for the New Year,” said Znaida Rob, a US citizen who attended the celebration.

The Kurdish diaspora also commemorated Newroz the previous evening across various regions of Kurdistan, reflecting the widespread observance of this deeply rooted cultural tradition.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/83 ... l-showcase

[Anthea]

A musical celebration of Nowruz
with Persian, Kurdish and Azari music

Early happy Nowruz / Newroz / Novruz and spring equinox to all

You are cordially invited to a musical celebration of Nowruz, organised by The Voice of Santur and The SOAS Art society, featuring Persian, Kurdish and Azari music.

Performers:

Peyman Heydarian [santur, daf, dohol]

Sulaiman Haqpana [tabla]

Bassel Saleh [ud, voice]

Sattar Chamanigol [daf]

Erim [zorna]

And guest performers

Date/Time: Friday 25 March 2025 at 7pm

Venue: Brunei Gallery Lecture Theatre, SOAS University of London, Thornhaugh Street, Russell Square, London WC1H 0XG

Time: concert starts at 7pm, doors will be open from 6.30pm

Ticket prices are £25 Full / £15 Concs / £10 students

If you wish to purchase your tickets online and pay in advance (no booking fee), please go to our event page at www.thesantur.com

If you wish to reserve a place and pay at the door, please write to events.santur@yahoo.com, stating the names of all persons requiring tickets. Confirmation will be sent by return. Please note that all places must be booked in advance.

Event on FB: https://fb.me/e/5gi2CsUlL

We have another events in North London on Tuesday 25 March 2025:

Music, Poetry, and Tech Talk which is preceded by a music workshop.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1287359389589

Music classes

Group daf class, and private santur/piano/daf class with prior appointments. (Booking for santur & daf classes via email: events.santur@yahoo.com)

See our website for further details and updates.

Hope to see you soon!

With Best Wishes,

The Voice of Santur

About Nowruz

Nowruz (tr. New day) is the Persian, Kurdish and Azari new year.

The new year's eve falls on Wednesday 20 March 2025 at 3.06am. Nowruz is the first day of spring and is celebrated and observed by Iranian peoples and the related cultural continent and is celebrated in several other parts of the world, including parts of Central Asia, Caucasus, South Asia, Northwestern China, the Crimea and by some groups in the Balkans.

Iranians make a special Nowruz table and get together, give gifts to each other and celebrate Nowruz until the 13th and last day of Nowruz, when everyone goes out for picnics. In 2010 the UN General Assembly recognised the International Day of Nowruz, describing it a spring festival of Persian origin which has been celebrated for over 3,000 years.

Originally being a Zoroastrian festival, and the holiest of them all, Nowruz is believed to have been invented by Zoroaster himself. Since the Achaemenid era the official year has begun with the New Day when the Sun leaves the zodiac of Pisces and enters the zodiacal sign of Aries, signifying the Spring Equinox.

The term Nowruz first appeared in writing in Persian records in the 2nd century AD, but it was also an important day during the time of the Achaemenids (c. 548–330 BC), where kings from different nations under the Persian empire used to bring gifts to the King of Kings on Nowruz.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-musical- ... keep_tld=1

[Anthea]

First Ever Newroz Events Held Across the UK

Centre for Kurdish Progresshttps://kurdishprogress.com

The Centre for Kurdish Progress hosts Newroz celebrations every year in London, bringing the Kurdish community in touch with senior political figures and speakers while celebrating the start of a new year.

For the first time, and with the help of its supporters, the Centre for Kurdish Progress will be hosting Newroz Celebrations Across the UK, bringing the Kurdish community in touch with senior community and political figures across the country.

See below for a comprehensive list of all our celebrations and the links via which you can RSVP. These events will be free.

Birmingham

Highbury Hall, 4 Yew Tree Rd, Moseley, Birmingham B13 8QG

7th March 2023

6pm-8pm (room booked from 5:30-9pm)

SPEAKERS: Andy Street (TBC)

SIGN UP: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/500125166837

Edinburgh:

Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1SR

8th March 2023 (Waiting for Final confirmation)

7pm-8:30pm

SPEAKERS: Michael Marra MSP, Ross Greer MSP, Angus Robertson MSP (TBC)

SIGN UP: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/500132298167

LONDON

Atlee Suite, Portcullis House

14th March 2023

6pm-8pm

SPEAKERS: Steve Reed MP, Bob Seely MP

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/476512781557

Cardiff:

The Neuadd , Welsh Parliament (Senedd), Cardiff Bay Cardiff CF99 1SN

28th March 2023

6pm-8pm

SPEAKERS: Darren Millar MS, First Minister Mark Drakeford (TBC), Jack Sergeant MS (TBC)

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/500133531857

We hope to see you there

Kind regards

Ibrahim Dogus

PS. This is the first time the Centre for Kurdish Progress has hosted events across the UK. If you are able to assist in the sponsorship of these events and contribute to the cost of putting on these celebrations, please get in contact at kurdishprogress2014@gmail.com

https://kurdishprogress.com/first-ever- ... ss-the-uk/

[Anthea]

LONDON Kurdish community centre
Nowruz celebrate 2025

Britain Alxas Community Centre is a recreation center located in London, England. The center was established with the purpose of providing a space for the local community to come together and engage in cultural and entertainment activities.

The company prides itself on being a unique and inclusive space that welcomes people of all backgrounds and ages.

phpBB [video]

Direct Link:

https://youtu.be/0Fn8fBk73jo?feature=shared