THE HANOI TIMES — A vibrant celebration took place at the Hanoi College of Commerce and Tourism on March 19, showcasing a fusion of Azerbaijani and Vietnamese culture, cuisine, and heritage.
The event drew a diverse crowd. Photos: Hoang Nam/The Hanoi Times
This annual event honored the strong bond between the two countries, with a special focus on Vietnamese alumni who studied in Azerbaijan, strengthening the long-standing friendship.
The celebration brought together a diverse range of attendees, including government officials, diplomats, cultural enthusiasts, business leaders, media representatives, and Azerbaijani expatriates residing in Vietnam.
Students greet guests, blending Vietnamese ‘ao dai’ and Azerbaijani ‘chokha’ traditions.
Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to Vietnam, Shovgi Mehdizada, highlighted the cultural similarities between Novruz and Vietnamese Tet. Both celebrations follow the lunar calendar, emphasizing family reunions, honoring ancestors, and welcoming renewal and prosperity.
Ambassador Shovgi Mehdizada addresses the gathering.
The culinary delights of Azerbaijan were presented by the country’s renowned chef and Vice President of the World Barbecue Association, Don David, alongside chefs from Turkey, Serbia, Northern Macedonia, and Mauritius.
Don David, showcasing his culinary expertise.
Guests indulged in traditional dishes like pilaf, dolma, lamb shashlik, and Novruz sweets.
A buffet-style spread offered a variety of flavors.
Beyond the delicious food, the event featured a cultural program with musical performances from both countries. Guests also partook in traditional Novruz customs, such as lighting a bonfire, jumping over flames, and the egg-cracking game, all symbolizing renewal, purification, and a prosperous new year.
The ‘khoncha’, a festive tray adorned with samani, sweets, and decorated eggs, took center stage.
The carefully decorated Khoncha tray.
Guests engage in the Novruz bonfire ritual.
The traditional egg-cracking game, a fun and symbolic activity.
Novruz, a festival with deep roots in Azerbaijani culture, ushers in the spring season, celebrating renewal and prosperity. It brings together families and communities, uniting them through rituals, music, dance, and delicious feasts.
Much like Novruz, Tet is marked by traditional foods like banh chung (sticky rice cake) and the exchange of red envelopes for good luck, along with vibrant firework displays and dragon dances. These shared cultural traditions underscore the universal appreciation for seasonal transitions and fresh starts.
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