Following an annual tradition, the Pasargad Heritage Foundation has selected a name for the upcoming solar year 1404 on the eve of Nowruz, the most significant holiday and celebration in Iranian culture.
This year, the Foundation has designated the new year as the year of “Celebration of the Persian Language.” As always, the Foundation’s goal for naming the year is to highlight the rich and compassionate aspects of Iranian culture while raising awareness of detrimental practices that threaten our heritage and culture.
While we celebrate the diversity of languages spoken in our land, it is important to recognize the unique role of Persian language. As one of the first languages used in our ancient land, and the language in which most of our cultural, historical and literary works have been written—even during periods of Turkish and Arab invasion—Persian is inextricably linked to our national identity.
The Pasargad Heritage Foundation has always been dedicated to preserving Iranian history and culture. In light of the recent resurgence of national pride and the hope for a brighter future for our homeland, we believe it is crucial to further strengthen our national identity.
We have therefore designated the upcoming year as the “Year of the Persian Language.” We invite you to join us in celebrating and promoting our rich linguistic heritage.
This year marks the 90th anniversary of the establishment of the first Academy of Iran in 1935. This institution was founded by decree of Reza Shah and with the approval of Mohammad Ali Foroughi and the cabinet to reform the Persian language and script. Its goals included refining the Persian language by removing inappropriate non-Persian words, reforming the Persian script, preparing a modern grammar, and encouraging poets and writers to create valuable works in Persian.
We believe that recognizing this anniversary is especially important now as the Persian language faces challenges in our country. It is concerning that even members of the ruling government use non-Persian words, prayers, and slogans in their Nowruz announcements. Commemorating the Academy’s establishment can serve as a reminder and a positive step toward preserving the Persian language.
The Pasargad Heritage Foundation has designated the solar year of 1404 (globally 2025) as the “Year of Celebrating the Persian Language.” We invite everyone to join us in this celebration by writing and speaking about the Persian language. By sharing knowledge and insights, we can help to familiarize the roots and values of this language, especially among the younger generations.
We believe that by working together, we can raise awareness of the importance of the Persian language and ensure its continued vitality for generations to come.
Happy Nowruz! Wishing everyone a beautiful and blessed Iranian New Year.
Shokooh Mirzadegi
Pasargad Heritage Foundation
Nowruz 1404 – March 2025
