Tehran, Iran - March 20, 2026 (CGTN - No access Chinese mainland/Al-Arabiya/Persian language TV Stations outside Iran. Strictly No Access BBC Persian/VOA Persian/Manoto TV/Iran International/Radio Farda)
1. Various of people at street market; goods for sale; Tehran resident Vida shopping
2. SOUNDBITE (Farsi, dubbed in English) Vida, Tehran resident (full name not given):
"Nowruz is very important to us. My father in Bijar, Kurdistan, even if the New Year moment is at four in the morning, makes sure we all gather together. But this year, even my daughter, her husband and my grandchildren have left Tehran. The bombings scared them too much."
3. Various of well-laid Haft-Seen table

Some Iranians are clinging to the traditional celebration of Nowruz, the beginning of the Iranian New Year, even under the shadow of war that has cast a pall over what is usually a season of hope and renewal.

Nowruz, which fell on Saturday this year, traditionally brings families together for joyful reunions and festive travel. This year, it arrives amid deep political uncertainty. Across Iran, many families are forgoing celebrations and instead seeking safety, with some already leaving major cities.

In homes throughout the country, however, many Iranian mothers are holding on to tradition, determined to keep the spirit of Nowruz alive despite the circumstances. Markets still offer the essentials for the Haft-Seen table, like fish, fresh greens, and symbolic items, yet the mood is subdued.

"Nowruz is very important to us. My father in Bijar, Kurdistan, even if the New Year moment is at four in the morning, makes sure we all gather together. But this year, even my daughter, her husband and my grandchildren have left Tehran. The bombings scared them too much," said Vida, a Tehran resident.

As tradition dictates, the new year begins with a simple meal, sabzi polo with fish. Even under the threat of war, many Iranians are holding on to this moment, hoping that by next Nowruz, families across the country can gather in peace.