Translated from Turkic, the word Nardugan means « born of the sun» and symbolizes the pagan cult of the Sun.
The celebration occurs just at the time when daylight begins to grow. The most common opinion is that December 25th.
The main celebrations unfolded along with the increase in daylight hours and, accordingly, the strengthening of the sun, when, according to legend, the effect of dark forces weakens.
The holiday symbolizes the awakening of nature and the triumph of life. On the holiday, mummers went home with ritual songs, wishing everyone joy, health, and prosperity. The mummers were treated to food, just like on Christmas carols. Nardugan also contains fortune telling, characteristic of Christmas holidays.
This holiday is known under different names among all the eastern peoples of Russia. Tatars, Bashkirs and Udmurts celebrate Nardugan, Kryashen Tatars — Rashtua, Chuvash — Nartavan, Erzya — Nardava, Moksha — Nardavan.