Nowruz is a rite dating back to at least the 6th century BCE, marking the new year and ushering in spring. Variously known as Novruz, Nowrouz, Nooruz, Navruz, Nauroz or Nevruz, this historic rite is observed on 21 March in many countries along the Silk Roads, including Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, India, Iran, Iraq, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.Nowruz is celebrated by peoples of many different religions and cultures across this vast region The return of the spring was seen to have great spiritual significance, symbolising the triumph of good over evil and joy over sorrow.The arrival of Nowruz is announced by street singers, known as Haji Firooz, who wear colourful outfits and play the tambourine