New Delhi, Aug 15 : President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday extended greetings to the countrymen on the occasion of Parsi New Year, while hailing the Parsi community's contributions across sectors and wishing good health and prosperity for everyone.

Taking to X, President Murmu said, "On the auspicious occasion of Parsi New Year Navroz, I extend my warm greetings and best wishes to all fellow citizens living in India and abroad, especially Parsi brothers and sisters."

"Navroz symbolises new beginnings and renewed hope. This festival of joy and harmony reminds us of the values of co-existence and service to humanity. The Parsi community has made significant contributions to India's development through its spirit of enterprise and philanthropy," she said.

"I am confident that this sacred festival will inspire all citizens to work together towards building an inclusive and developed India. May this festival bring happiness, peace and prosperity to all," the President added.

Prime Minister Modi also took to social media to extend greetings on the occasion.

"Greetings on the start of the Parsi New Year. The Parsi community's remarkable contribution across sectors has enriched our nation in countless ways. May the year ahead be filled with peace, joy, prosperity and good health for everyone. Navroz Mubarak!," PM Modi said in a post on X.

Parsi New Year, also known as Navroz or Nowruz, signifies the arrival of spring and the rejuvenation of nature.

The term itself is derived from Persian, where 'Nav' means new and 'Roz' means day, together signifying a "new day." While traditionally linked to the March equinox, Parsis in India follow the Shahenshahi calendar, which places the celebration in July or August.

The origins of Navroz trace back to the time of Prophet Zarathustra, the founder of Zoroastrianism, one of the earliest known monotheistic religions.

Rooted in Persia, now modern-day Iran, Zoroastrianism was a major faith of the ancient world before the rise of Islam in the seventh century.

Today, the festival continues to be celebrated with devotion and enthusiasm by Parsis across India, embodying the values of renewal, unity, and cultural heritage, while reminding the nation of the community's remarkable legacy and contributions.

/IANS