The 40th day after Nowruz, considered in some traditions as the complete end of the Nowruz period. The number forty symbolizes completion and wholeness in Persian culture.
Origin
Persian tradition; symbol of completing the Nowruz cycle
Historical Context
While the formal end of Nowruz festivities in ancient tradition is Sizdah Bedar, some believe the Nowruz period extends to forty days. The number 40 symbolized completion in ancient Near Eastern cultures and held special significance in Iranian rituals.
Fun Facts
The number 40 has special significance in Persian culture: "Chelleh of winter" refers to 40 cold days, Yalda night is called "Shab-e Chelleh," and in mourning rituals, the 40th day is significant. The formal end of Nowruz festivities in ancient tradition is Sizdah Bedar (day 13).
Related Events
Nowruz
Nowruz, the world's oldest celebration, marks the Persian New Year and the spring equinox. This festival symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, warmth over cold, and life over death. Celebrated continuously for over 3,000 years since the Achaemenid era, Nowruz is observed by more than 300 million people worldwide across Iran, Central Asia, the Caucasus, and diaspora communities. Its rituals—including Haft-Seen (and its predecessor Haft-Shin), Chaharshanbe Suri, Sizdah Bedar, spring cleaning, and family visits—all symbolize renewal of nature and the human spirit.
Nowruz-e Bozorg (Great Nowruz)
The Great Nowruz (Khordad Sal) falls on the 6th of Farvardin (Khordad day). In Zoroastrian tradition, this is the birthday of Zoroaster and the spiritual peak of Nowruz. Sassanid kings held public audiences on this day.
Sizdah Bedar
Nature Day marking the end of Nowruz holidays. Families picnic outdoors, tie sabzeh (greens), and enjoy communal games.
Rapithwin Festival
Rapithwin festival on the 3rd of Farvardin celebrates the return of warmth and light after winter. Rapithwin is the Yazata of noon and summer warmth who retreats underground during winter and returns with spring.