Javanrud- The people of Javanrud could celebrate Newroz on April 7, instead of March 21, due to the threats and oppression by the Iranian regime. People from all ages attended the celebrations by wearing their traditional clothes. The celebrations started after a minute's silence in memory of those who lost their lives in the “Jin, Jiyan, Azadî” uprising.

The program of the celebrations included the presentations about the history of Newroz, performances of Erbane and musical groups and a horse riding ceremony and the lighting of the fire of Newroz.

The Iranian regime and the extremists supporting Wahhabism and Salafism tried to prevent the Newroz celebrations and women’s participation in the celebrations by spreading rumors saying that they would create chaos if Newroz celebrations were held. According to the people of Javanrud, these extremist groups aimed to prevent women from participating in the celebrations. Despite all the threats and oppression, Newroz was celebrated in the city with great enthusiasm and participation of women.

Somayeh Ahmadi was one of the women celebrating Newroz in the city despite the threats. “Newroz is not only the arrival of spring for us but also a day of resistance against those who aim to make us forget our Kurdish identity,” said Somayeh Ahmadi. “Although we receive threats every year, we welcome Newroz stronger. The Kurds have lit the fire of Newroz every year to show all their enemies that the Kurdish people can never be annihilated. Our ancestors and our parents lived here and passed down their identity and traditions to the next generations. We will pass down our identity and traditions to the next generations so that the fire of Newroz will be lit forever.”