Baku: Azerbaijan marked the first of the four symbolic Tuesdays leading up to the Novruz holiday, known as Water Tuesday, which heralds the arrival of spring.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the four Tuesdays preceding Novruz are associated with the elements water, fire, earth, and wind, each symbolizing a specific aspect of nature’s rejuvenation.

Water Tuesday, or ‘Su chershenbesi,’ is celebrated with unique traditions. On this day, girls gather water from rivers or springs while singing, and a bowl of pure water is placed on a tray called ‘khoncha.’ This tradition signifies purification and new beginnings, as jumping over flowing water is believed to cleanse one of past mistakes. Families also sprinkle water on themselves before sleeping on New Year’s Eve, emphasizing the symbolic role of water in welcoming the New Year.

Novruz, observed on the spring equinox around March 20 or 21, carries rich traditions and games, including symbols like Khidir Ilyas for productivity and Kos-Kosa as a harbinger of spring. Recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2009 and declared by the UN as the International Day of Novruz in 2010, this holiday is celebrated with enthusiasm across Azerbaijan.