Afghanistan — Name Day Description

Afghanistan flag
Afghanistan
Date
March 21
Names
Nowruz (symbolic), Rokhshana, Shamsuddin
Description

March 21 in Afghanistan coincides with Nowruz, the Persian New Year, a symbolic celebration of renewal and cultural identity. On this date, names such as Nowruz, Rokhshana, and Shamsuddin are observed.

  • Nowruz – From Persian, meaning new day. Although more symbolic than personal, it represents rebirth, hope, and the arrival of spring.
  • Rokhshana – A Persian-derived female name meaning bright-faced or illuminated. Historically linked to Afghan poetry and literature, including the tragic story of Rokhshana in Afghan folklore.
  • Shamsuddin – An Arabic name meaning sun of the faith (shams = sun, din = religion). It reflects strong religious devotion.

March 21 marks the start of the new year in the solar Hijri calendar, widely celebrated in Afghanistan and across the Persian-speaking world.