Navruz is one of the ancient traditional holidays celebrated for centuries by the nations in Central Asia and Near East. Historical manuals show that it has been celebrated since the reign of Ahmoniys (B.C. VI cen.), but it was not widely celebrated during the Arab reign in the IX-X centuries. After the Arab reign ended, Navruz became an official public holiday again. It is celebrated on March 21st, the day when prisoners were traditionally released. The holiday symbolizes the beginning of the new year for the nations of Central Asia.