Azerbaijani observatory names the date on which spring will begin

Khydyr Mikailov, Deputy Director of Shemakhi Astrophysical Observatory, told APA news agency the dates, on which 4 Tuesdays (dedicated to 4 elements) leading up to Nowruz holiday would be marked.
The first Tuesday should be marked on February 21 (Water Tuesday). It will be followed by Fire Tuesday, Wind Tuesday and, finally, the Earth Tuesday – March 14.

As APA further reported, ‘Khydyr Mikailov added that spring would begin in Azerbaijan at 2:29 p.m. (Baku time), on March 20.’

• Nowruz is an ancient Zoroastrian holiday. In olden times, the day of spring equinox was regarded in Azerbaijan, like in some other Asian countries, as the beginning of the new year.
• On Nowruz, people traditionally cook sweet treats and jump over the fire. Public opinion surveys have proved that Azerbaijanis regard it as the major national holiday.
• Four Tuesday ahead of Nowruz are symbolic of 4 elements (water, fire, wind and earth) and they are also marked by special rituals.Published: 25.01.2017