Today, 21^st March, 2026 is Navruz – officially the first day of Spring, a time when Nature reawakens in the Northern hemisphere, characterized by blooming flowers, blossoming trees, warmer weather and longer days. It signifies a period of renewal, new life and increased activity for animals, often marked by the melting of snow and the arrival of green, vibrant landscapes. It is truly, Nature’s New Year!

Celebrate hope amid adversity

Looking to the conflict and turmoil in our spiritual motherland – Iran, should we be celebrating? We could perhaps moderate our feasting and merriment and focus more on prayers for harmony and celebrate hope for peace and happiness in the Middle East and indeed the world at large! Hope acts as the driving force in the pursuit of happiness, transforming adversity into a purposeful journey rather than just an emotional state. It represents the resilience to chase dreams despite hardships. Hope helps maintain, and eventually, achieve happiness.

What is happiness?

Happiness is that quiet, uplifting feeling that arises when life seems to fall into place, often expressed through a simple, unprompted smile. It reflects a sense of well-being, joy and contentment. It may come when pain subsides, when a loved one unexpectedly visits, or when someone finds stability after hardship. Success in work or studies, a sense of safety during uncertain times, or even small strokes of good fortune can also bring moments of happiness. Though often fleeting, these experiences are deeply valued.

Most people do not need a formal definition of happiness; it is instinctively recognised through emotions such as joy, pride, gratitude and peace. Philosophers have long explored its meaning. The ancient Greeks saw happiness as the fulfilment of one’s true potential, while Aristotle viewed it as an active state. Yet, happiness is not always tied to constant activity – it can also be found in rest and simple pleasures.

Ultimately, lasting happiness is less about isolated moments and more about meaningful engagement – with one’s passions, purpose and relationships. Whether through connection with family, friends or a higher sense of purpose, research consistently shows that strong relationships and a sense of belonging are central to a fulfilling and happy life.

Who does not seek happiness? Everyone does. Yet, desiring happiness is far easier than truly attaining it. While most of us spend our lives pursuing it, only a few experience a deeper, lasting sense of fulfilment. An old saying wisely reminds us, “there is no path to happiness; happiness is the path.” The Bhagavad Gita offers a profound perspective by describing three kinds of happiness – Satvik happiness arises from inner growth, discipline and spiritual elevation, it may feel difficult at first but leads to lasting fulfilment. Rajasik happiness comes from sensory pleasures and achievements, offering temporary satisfaction but lacking depth. Tamasic happiness, rooted in inertia and indulgence, provides momentary comfort but ultimately leaves the soul unfulfilled. Understanding these distinctions allows us to move beyond fleeting pleasures and consciously choose a more meaningful, enduring form of happiness.

The Buddha described happiness as a key element of enlightenment. In early Pali texts, Piti refers to a deep sense of tranquility and inner joy, often attained through the simple yet powerful act of letting go. Releasing what causes grief, illusion or false security is not easy, but it can be transformative. We are conditioned to believe that strength lies in holding on, yet true strength often lies in knowing when to release. Letting go of what we cannot control frees valuable time and energy for more meaningful pursuits.

Gratitude And Contentment

Cultivating gratitude fosters deep contentment and inner calm. Most people express gratitude only when things go their way, but true growth lies in being thankful for everything – pleasant and difficult experiences. A Zen story illustrates this well… A monk, refused shelter by villagers on a cold night, rested under a cherry tree instead. At midnight, she awoke to a breathtaking sight – the blossoms glowing under a misty full moon. Filled with awe, she bowed in gratitude toward the village, realising that their refusal had gifted her this rare moment of beauty. This perspective reflects a deeper truth: happiness belongs to those who accept life fully, finding grace and meaning in every experience.

Relationships matter

No matter how much we may deny it, relationships matter in life. One could have a successful career, wealth and good health, but without supportive, loving relationships one could feel incomplete and therefore unhappy. Most human misery is not due to economic factors but due to failed relationships and physical and mental illness. This truth is among the findings presented at a landmark conference on wellbeing at the London School of Economics (LSE), where Lord Layard declared: “The evidence shows that the things that matter most for our happiness and for our misery are our social relationships and our mental and physical health. This demands a new role for the state – not ‘wealth creation’ but ‘well-being creation’.”

Relationship with Divinity

In the Zoroastrian tradition and particularly in the Gatha, the Supreme Divinity is referred to as ‘Friya’ (Sanskrit Priya or beloved) which means friend. Thus, a Zoroastrian’s relationship with God is built on friendship and love. God is to be loved and not feared.

In Zoroastrianis, God is not to be pleased with sacrifices or fasts. Ahura Mazda wants all His friends to enjoy Ushta or happiness. But, how best can we befriend Ahura Mazda? Those who pray the Hoshbam at dawn would recollect praying, “Asha vahishta, asha sraeshta, daresāma thwā, pairi thwā jamyāma, hamem thwā hakhma” – which means, “Through the best righteousness, excellent righteousness, O Ahura Mazda, may we catch sight of Thee and may we come near Thee and attain Thy eternal friendship.”

Ushta or happiness is central to Zoroastrian theology and the key to happiness is given by Zarathushtra in the Ushtavaiti Gatha, “Ushta ahmai yahmai ushta Kahmai chit” – Happiness (be) to him through whom happiness (is caused) to another! Navroz Mubarak!