Baku: Azerbaijan marked the first Tuesday of Novruz, known as Water Tuesday, celebrated as a symbol of renewal, purity, and abundance. This day is part of a series of four Tuesdays leading up to the Novruz holiday, each dedicated to one of the four elements: water, fire, wind, and earth.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Atesh Ahmadli, PhD, a leading researcher in ceremonial folklore at the Institute of Folklore of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS), provided insights into the significance of Water Tuesday. Ahmadli explained that Water Tuesday is also referred to as the 'First Tuesday' and is considered the beginning of nature's awakening. Water is believed to be the first element created at the origin of the universe, symbolizing the source of life.

The day is marked by various traditions and rituals, where people place faith in the power of water for spiritual and physical cleansing. Water is seen in folklore as a sacred beginning, associated with beauty and divinity. It is a fundamental element in the creation of the world and the renewal of life.

Ahmadli noted that the Tuesdays leading up to Novruz hold unique energy and meaning. However, not every Tuesday is considered genuine, as some are known as 'thief' or 'false Tuesdays' due to temporary weather changes that deceive people into thinking spring has arrived.

In Azerbaijan, Water Tuesday is celebrated with distinctive customs. In regions like Guba and Gusar, locals collect river water early in the morning to sprinkle in their yards and at the base of trees, believing it will bring prosperity. In some areas, washing with river water from clay vessels is believed to protect against misfortune, while pouring water at the house entrance and tying a red ribbon is thought to bring happiness.

Although myths evolve, Water Tuesday's spirit of faith in purity, abundance, and new beginnings remains unchanged. This tradition teaches respect for the past while embracing the future with hope. Water Tuesday symbolizes that every new beginning should be guided by sincerity and belief.

Spring will officially arrive in Azerbaijan on March 20, when day and night are equal. The Sun will cross the equator from the Southern Hemisphere to the Northern Hemisphere, marking the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere and autumn in the Southern Hemisphere. Spring will last for 92 days, 17 hours, 38 minutes, and 28 seconds.