Ever heard of Naw-Ruz? It is the Bahá’í New Year celebration held after fasting for 19 days. It marks the first day of the new spring. It focuses believers on spiritual development, a time for reaffirming and strengthening commitment in one’s personal transformation.
“During Naw-Ruz, the Bahá’í followers visit each other and sit down in large groups for a communal meal. Friends from other faiths are invited to join in the celebration,” said Associate Professor Dr Perumal Nallagownden, the chairman of the Local Spiritual Assembly of Ipoh.
This year, Naw-Ruz started at sunset on Tuesday, March 20.
On Sunday, March 25, in the true spirit of unity and “1Malaysia” the Bahá’ís held an open house at the Royal Ipoh Club to celebrate Naw-Ruz. Over 200 people attended the dinner.
The joyous and intimate atmosphere was no less festive and significant with food, prayers and lots of fellowship. Performances for the evening included dances, skits and choral speaking.
It was, by all reckoning, a successful evening contributing to goodwill and harmony amongst the multiracial, multi-religious and multi-cultural society in Malaysia.
Amy Chan
