Putin congratulates Russians on Nowruz
MOSCOW. March 21 (Interfax) - Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Russians, who are marking Nowruz, a holiday of vernal equinox, on March 21.
"I am glad that ancient Nowruz traditions are carefully passed from one generation to another, and today, as many centuries ago, broad mass gatherings are held in cities and villages, skillful craftsmen are displaying with honor their pieces of folk crafts, national dishes are cooked in each home and guests are generously treated with them. And, of course, people traditionally remember their ancestors on these days, and are helping those who need their care and support," the head of state said in a congratulatory telegram, the text of which was published on the Kremlin website.
"This fascinating holiday makes an important and integral part of the historical, cultural and spiritual heritage of many peoples in our country and heralds the spring renovation of the nature, the cleansing of the soul and the beginning of a new life," Putin said.
The Nowruz holiday, or the day of vernal equinox, symbolizes the end of winter and the onset of spring.