In the days leading up to the Persian New Year festival of Nowruz, Iranians typically prepare with excitement, cleaning their homes, buying new clothes, and gathering snacks. However, this year paints a different picture as the days drag on painfully. Mina, a resident of Damavand near Tehran, expresses her despair, saying, Every day feels so long. It's like I've lost track of time.
Nowruz, meaning 'new day', represents a time for renewal and celebration, occurring on March 20 this year. However, as Iran grapples with a war prompted by US and Israeli attacks beginning on February 28, the festive spirit is muted.
Reports from Human Rights Activists in Iran indicate over 3,100 deaths, including many civilians and children, leaving many in shock as they lament the loss of lives and stability.
Mina's son Amir highlights the economic toll the conflict has taken, saying, People are losing their jobs ... my biggest worry is our country’s infrastructure.
As this Nowruz arrives, many Iranians like Mina and Amir find themselves displaced, having fled from Tehran, which has received the brunt of the bombing. Their sentiments reflect a deep sorrow overshadowed by uncertainty.
While some markets in Tehran remain open, shoppers often feel apprehensive about potential airstrikes. Parmis, a young woman in Tehran, notes the decreased hustle and bustle associated with the holiday shopping season, saying, You're always worried whether you will be caught up in an air strike or not.
Despite these challenges, some continue to set up the Haft Sin table, a traditional centerpiece for Nowruz, symbolizing prosperity and renewal. The resilience of traditions is tested, yet the spirit of Nowruz holds significance, prompting people like Maryam to gather what they can to prepare for the holiday.
In this atmosphere of destruction and loss, many wonder whether the joy of celebrating when the bombings occur will still resonate. As the sounds of fireworks and saltwater symbolizing renewal approach, they remain hopeful yet heavy-hearted, clinging to memories of less troubled times.
Nowruz, meaning 'new day', represents a time for renewal and celebration, occurring on March 20 this year. However, as Iran grapples with a war prompted by US and Israeli attacks beginning on February 28, the festive spirit is muted.
Reports from Human Rights Activists in Iran indicate over 3,100 deaths, including many civilians and children, leaving many in shock as they lament the loss of lives and stability.
Mina's son Amir highlights the economic toll the conflict has taken, saying, People are losing their jobs ... my biggest worry is our country’s infrastructure.
As this Nowruz arrives, many Iranians like Mina and Amir find themselves displaced, having fled from Tehran, which has received the brunt of the bombing. Their sentiments reflect a deep sorrow overshadowed by uncertainty.
While some markets in Tehran remain open, shoppers often feel apprehensive about potential airstrikes. Parmis, a young woman in Tehran, notes the decreased hustle and bustle associated with the holiday shopping season, saying, You're always worried whether you will be caught up in an air strike or not.
Despite these challenges, some continue to set up the Haft Sin table, a traditional centerpiece for Nowruz, symbolizing prosperity and renewal. The resilience of traditions is tested, yet the spirit of Nowruz holds significance, prompting people like Maryam to gather what they can to prepare for the holiday.
In this atmosphere of destruction and loss, many wonder whether the joy of celebrating when the bombings occur will still resonate. As the sounds of fireworks and saltwater symbolizing renewal approach, they remain hopeful yet heavy-hearted, clinging to memories of less troubled times.
