No official celebration of Nawroz: Mujahid

KABUL (Pajhwok): Government is not celebrating Nawroz officially but it will not prevent public celebration of the festival, an official says on Monday. Acting Government Spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid says government doesn’t celebrate events not advised and preached by the teachings of Islam, adding if people celebrate the event government will not prevent them.
This comes that government has not declared Nawroz — Monday — as public holiday. Nawroz is celebrated culturally and historically in Afghanistan over centuries. People visit each other at homes and prepare delicious food on the occasion of this festival.
Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, UN Secretary General António Guterres, EU envoy and others have offered their best wishes on the occasion of Nawroz to those celebrating the festival. UN Secretary General António Guterres said “As humanity faces unprecedented challenges, let us be guided by the #Nowruz spirit of solidarity and renew our pledge to live in harmony & protect our planet. I wish everyone a happy, healthy and peaceful Nowruz.”
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on in his message said: “Nowruz is about coming together to reflect on the past year and celebrate new beginnings. To everyone marking this occasion, Sophie and I are wishing you a happy and safe Nowruz! Har Ruz etan Nowrouz, Nowruz etan Pyrouz.” US President Joe Biden in his message said: “Jill and I want to extend our best wishes to all who are celebrating Nowruz around the world. The Nowruz holiday means gathering at the Nowruz table to give thanks for loved ones, reflect on your blessings, and welcome all the possibilities of a new season. Happy Nowruz!”
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said: “Wishing a #HappyNowruz to all our friends across the world celebrating and welcoming Spring. May you all have a healthy and joyous new year ahead, filled with hope and renewal.” EU Ambassador Von Brandt said: “Happy #Nowruz2022 to all in #Afghanistan and wherever you celebrate this millennia-old beautiful commencement of spring and renewal!”