Originated more than 3,000 years ago in ancient Persia (modern-day Iran), the festival of Nowruz, the Persian New Year, marks the arrival of spring and embodies renewal, hope, and fresh beginnings. This year, even as bombs continue to fall in Iran, Iranians defiantly upheld the tradition and welcomed Nowruz with courage and dignity.
Here in Luton, the Baha’i community also upheld its annual Nowruz celebrations. Guests were welcomed to a vibrant evening featuring traditional Persian cuisine, music, and dance. Dignitaries attending included both Luton MPs, the Bedfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), the Deputy Lord-Lieutenant, the Mayor of Luton, and representatives from Luton’s diverse faith communities.
The Luton Council of Faiths (LCoF) also convened a gathering of local faith leaders at the Shia Mosque Masjid‑e‑Ali. Opening the meeting, LCoF Chair Professor Zafar Khan invited attendees to observe a moment of silence for all victims of wars and conflicts around the world, but particularly in Iran. The meeting expressed solidarity with Luton’s Shia community and reflected on the world peace and what we can do locally to achieve that.
Addressing the gathering, the mosque’s religious leader Maulana Ahmed Abbas remarked, “Faith itself does not create division – it is the misuse of faith by individuals that causes harm. Across all traditions, we find both good and bad people, and our responsibility is to strengthen what is good.”
Guest speaker John Tizard, the Bedfordshire PCC, thanked all local faith communities for their leadership and support during a time of global instability. A joint statement by the PCC, the Chief Constable, and leaders from the three Bedfordshire councils, emphasised that international events often have a profound local impact, with many residents having family and friends in affected regions. This heightens tensions, anxieties and also increase the risk of hate crimes. The statement reaffirmed there is absolutely no place for faith or race‑based hate in Bedfordshire. Police patrols have been increased to provide visibility, reassurance, and support. The statement continued: “We are incredibly fortunate to have such strong communities and relationships across Bedfordshire to help maintain cohesion during such times. The leadership across our faith groups, and the vital contribution you all make to standing together in the face of division and turmoil, is what makes Bedfordshire so special.”
L to R: Luton MPs Sarah Owen, Rachel Hopkins, Farzad Forghani from Baha’i community, and the Mayor of Luton Cllr Amy Nicholls at Nowruz 2026 Celebrations in Luton
