In Iran, where Zoroastrianism originated between 1500 and 1000 B.C., Naw-Ruz is celebrated for 13 days. In the West, it is March 21 only, Kotwal explains. Other aspects of the holiday are dispensed with here, he adds, such as jumping over a bonfire to show spiritual reinvigoration. Rich foods are eaten, such as steamed rice with herbs and fried fish. In Zoroastrian homes, which undergo a thorough cleaning, a special table is prepared.
Families light a candle or oil lamp, set near a mirror and a portrait of Zarathustra.
A variety of fruits, nuts and coloured eggs are also displayed. Some homes may also display a goldfish in a bowl to symbolize an active life. Zoroastrianism is a small religion, with about 140,000 members worldwide. Yet its importance to humanity has often been described as much greater than its numbers suggest. It is one of the oldest religions still in existence, and to some, vies with Judaism as the first monotheistic faith.