Manitoba’s Iranian community set to celebrate Persian New Year

The Centro Caboto Centre will soon be filled with members of the Iranian community celebrating Nowroz, also known as the Persian New Year.

Given Iran’s political turmoil in recent months, for many, Nowruz celebrations will have a different meaning this year.

“This year, because of what’s happening in Iran, we’re not only going to celebrate the arrival of spring but we are also going to commemorate the memory of all those we lost in the last six months and also in the last 44 years,” explained Arian Arianpour, president of the Iranian Community of Manitoba.

Woman, Life, Freedom — that’s the theme of this year’s event. It’s a reminder of what’s happening back home.

“The Woman, Life, Freedom revolution is ongoing, the protests are still happening and civil disobedience is at an all-time high,” said Arianpour.

In the Iranian community, Nowruz, which translates to “new day” is the biggest celebration of the year. The ancient holiday marks the first day of spring and symbolizes a new beginning as well.

“This is a “haft-seen” table, this is a very ancient tradition of Iranian people. There are seven elements in this table that start in the letter ‘S’,” explained Maryam Bagheri, co-designer.

Both Arianpour and Bagheri say celebrating Nowruz this year, is more important than ever.

“So this year we are going to celebrate Nowruz, while having the picture of those people who we lost, at this table, to bring their name,” said Bagheri.

Arianpour adding, “we are going to end the night with a party because although so many tragedies are happening. I think personally, happiness is a civil obedience when you’re facing a ruthless regime.”

As the first day of spring brings a change in season, members of Winnipeg’s Iranian community hope for brighter days ahead.

“I think we only have two options, to either support the Woman Life Freedom revolution or face the consequences,” said Arianpour.