FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 21, 2011
Media Contact: Fettah Anadol: (202) 333-8702 and [email protected]
Washington, D.C. – Amid a backdrop of beautiful spring weather at one of Maryland's most exquisite historic mansions, some 300 Azerbaijanis and Americans gathered yesterday for the annual Novruz celebration marked with friendship, ancient traditions and artistic performances.
Azercell Telecom, Azerbaijan's leading mobile operator and devoted supporter of national and cultural values, sponsored the afternoon celebration at historic Glenview Mansion in Rockville, Maryland featured a traditional dance performance from the Silk Road Dance Company, as well as live music from Imamyar Hasanov, known internationally for his playing of the kamancha, an ancient stringed instrument.
Meaning "new day" in Persian, Novruz marks the beginning of the year for people in Azerbaijan, Iran, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and other common cultural heritage countries. It has been celebrated for some 3,000 years and is rooted in the ancient traditions of the Zoroastrian belief system.
Guests at the 150-acre estate enjoyed sumptuous culinary dishes and a traditional Azerbaijani tea ceremony as they wished one another well in this time-honoured celebration. The event also featured the traditional jumping over of a small outdoor fire as a sign of renewal and hope.
Organized by the Azerbaijan Trade and Cultural Center (ATCC), part of the U.S.-Azerbaijan Chamber of Commerce (USACC), the celebration was also made possible with the support of Coca-Cola and Digital Closing & Settlements.
"This event has grown every year and is a wonderful way to bring together Azerbaijanis here in the United States, as well as to share our traditions with all of our American friends," said Mahir Iskender, Executive Director of the USACC. "It's a little bit of Azerbaijan in America, and is always a great time for families and friends."
About the ATCC:
The Azerbaijan Trade and Cultural Center (ATCC) was founded by U.S. Azerbaijan Chamber of Commerce in September 2000 to promote mutual understanding and cooperation between the United States of America and the Republic of Azerbaijan. ATCC hosts Azerbaijan Gallery, USACC offices and an apartment for USACC interns. Located on two floors, the Azerbaijan Gallery displays an exhibition of rugs, paintings and ethnic crafts from Azerbaijan. The Gallery is open to public from 10.00 a.m. through 6.00 p.m. Monday through Friday.
About the USACC:
The United States - Azerbaijan Chamber of Commerce (USACC) is a Washington, D.C.-based non-profit organization that seeks to promote trade and investments between the United States and Azerbaijan by rendering various business services. The USACC actively seeks U.S. and international investments and companies whose products and strategic interests can be advanced in the Azerbaijani market. It also serves as a liaison between foreign companies and Azerbaijani businesses and government officials. To learn more about the USACC, please visit www.usacc.org.
Source: USACC
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