Celebration of Ilakhir Charshanba Commences in Azerbaijan Ahead of Novruz Holiday

Baku, The Gulf Observer: Today, Azerbaijan embarks on the joyous celebration of Earth or Last Tuesday (Ilakhir Charshanba), marking the penultimate event of the four festive Tuesdays leading up to the revered Novruz Holiday. As reported by the Azerbaijan Press Agency (APA), this occasion holds profound cultural significance and heralds the arrival of spring with customary fervor and jubilation.

The four consecutive Tuesdays preceding Novruz symbolize the four elements, known as Su Charshanbasi (Water Tuesday), Od Charshanbasi (Fire Tuesday), Hava Charshanbasi (Wind Tuesday), and Torpag Charshanbasi (Earth or Last Tuesday). Each Tuesday is steeped in tradition, reflecting ancient beliefs that attribute distinct roles to water, fire, earth, and wind in rejuvenating nature and heralding the advent of spring.

Distinguished by its paramount importance and grandeur, the Last Tuesday holds a special place in the hearts of Azerbaijanis. It is revered not merely as a holiday but as a manifestation of the nation’s cherished virtues, including benevolence, hospitality, and humanity.

A quintessential feature of the Last Tuesday festivities is the Khoncha (xonça), an ornate tray laden with an assortment of sweets, nuts, candles, and other delectable treats. Each sweet confection baked for Novruz carries symbolic significance, with Pakhlava representing the four cardinal directions, goghal symbolizing the sun, shakarbura embodying the moon, and painted eggs serving as a testament to life. Adorning the center of the tray is Samani, a sprouting wheatgrass, adorned with a red ribbon.

Throughout the day, various ceremonies, games, and entertainments captivate participants, fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie and joy. Traditional activities such as Papaqatdı (hat throwing), dasmalatdi (kerchief throwing), and Chovgan (polo) resonate with cultural heritage, while bonfire lighting and spirited dances serve to cleanse souls and ward off malevolent spirits.

The rich tapestry of traditions and rituals associated with Novruz Tuesday bears profound historical significance, deeply entrenched in Azerbaijan’s cultural heritage. Archaeological findings, including the rock drawings of Qobustan, offer testament to the enduring legacy of these ancient practices.

Novruz holiday stands as one of the most cherished and significant occasions in the Azerbaijani calendar, embodying the spirit of renewal, unity, and hope. Celebrated on the vernal equinox, March 20-21, it heralds the arrival of spring and the promise of a new beginning as the astronomical New Year unfolds.

The festivities surrounding Novruz Holiday serve as a testament to the enduring resilience and cultural richness of the Azerbaijani people, reaffirming their commitment to preserving cherished traditions while embracing the spirit of progress and renewal.