Diyarbakir celebrates Newroz with Kurds waving Kurdistan flag

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Thousands of people in Diyarbakir, southeast Turkey (Bakur), celebrated Newroz and the Kurdish New Year.

Every year, tens of thousands of Kurds from all over Turkey gather in Diyarbakir to celebrate Newroz, the Kurdish New Year.

This year, politician Leyla Zana will attend the ceremony, which will be closely monitored by Turkish security forces.

Every year, Newroz bonfires are lit in Newroz Square in the center of Diyarbakir to celebrate the Kurdish New Year. However, clashes with security forces often ensue at the end of the festivities, mainly due to political messages being conveyed.

Newroz is the oldest national holiday celebrated by the Kurds worldwide, especially in their homeland. It begins on Mar. 21 and features various traditional celebrations and rituals.