Nov 1987

PaW NOVEMBER 1987 Rs 7 [ * T B.D. Petit f Parsee General Hospital's platinum1 : 1 i; 1 ;s November 1987 Volume 10 Number 5 EDITOR Jehangir Patel MANAGING EDITOR Arnavaz Mama EXECUTIVE EDITOR Parinaz Toddywalla ASSOCIATE EDITOR Niloofer Madon DESIGN CONSULTANT Mini Boatwala DESIGN ASSISTANTS Kranti Shilotri, Varghese Fernandez, Deborah Fernandes MARKETING DIRECTOR Veera Patel ADVERTISING MANAGER Zarin Misery ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE Cheryl D'Penha CHIEF EXECUTIVE Rustom Thanavala FINANCE B.L. Arora CIRCULATION Behram Umrigar MANAGEMENT Minoo Patel, Jasmine Driver, Khurshid Daruwalla, Rohinton Daroga OFFICE Rajendra Nayak, Khurshid Panthaki, Patricia Lewis, Rajalakshmi Iyer, Bakhtavar Batliwalla 3 Readers' Forum 11 Events and Personalities 14 Zoroastrians Abroad 16 Parsee General Hospital's 75 by Arnavaz Mama 24 The Federation debates equal n^hts by Parinaz Toddywalla 31 The Tatary trio's feats of strength by Roxana Kaka 34 All-Parsees Football Tournament by NHoofer Madon 37 The first lady bachelor by Joy Fernandes 38 Milestones Cover: Patient-care at the B.D. Petit Parsee General Hospital Parsiana is published by Jehangir R. Patel for Parsiana Publications Pvt Ltd at C/o H.L. Rochat, Navsari Chambers, ground floor, 39 A.K, Nayak Marg, Fort, Bombay 400001 and printed by him at Parsiana Publications, 300 Perin Nariman Street, Bombay 400001 and phototypeset at Ace, Bombay 400001. All rights reserved. Phone: 2048730 Annual inland subscription: Rs 50 for one year (12 issues); Rs 90fortwo years (24 issues). Foreign subscription rates: Seamail Rs 100 for one year, Rs 180 for two years; Air mail Rs 250 for one year, Rs 475 for two years. For US cheques add $ 5 to cover bank charges. For Indian upcountry cheques add Rs 4 for bank charges. Cheques and drafts to be drawn in favor of Parsiana and posted to GPO Box 892, Bombay 400001 or C/o H.L. Rochat, Navsari Chambers, ground floor, 39 A.K. Nayak Marg, Fort Bombay 400001. < ? 1 ¦i¦“<^- 1*3^' ' ^1'^ ! > READERS’ FORUM S Hl 1111 liiiMl Hutu lOllll OHti't * mH »' »t).i. Hint Ulin i* 1, .}i »»¦ MW**.' It' ft ¦«» < -f« s'A Readers' views are welcome on any subject of interest to the community and should be sent to the Editor, Read­ ers' Forum, Parsiana, G.P.O.Box 892, Bombay 400 001. Letters are subject to editing for reasons cf space and clarity. >» attitude may be simple - it my evoke living community, that would be reli- applause, it may gain cheap renown - gion. but does not behove the stature of a - - - dastur who bears upon his shoulder (“Cama ’s new booklet, the responsibility of being a true disci- August ’87) the culture of the vulture pie of Zarathushtra. ” costs the Bombay Parsi Punchayet NOSHiRWAN F. cowASJEE (BPP) an average of Rs 1,500 per dead body consigned. Funeral ceremonies for one single death could cost a In my booklet The Inner Light of behdin five to six thousand rupees. Zoroastrianism, I have highlighted the The BPP spends over 20 lakhs on the sorry plight of the community as our maintenance of the Doongerwadi, be- professional clergy is unable to guide it sides tying down the adjoining expen ­ in its socio-religious life. Zoroaster in sive land to the dead. We thus have a his ethical Gathas has given us such religion, born in agiaries and ending at guidelines which our late Dasturji the Doongerwadi. Khurshed Dabu had rightly termed “safal sansar ni chavi (key to worldly purpose in this progressive age. Just as success). ” These educative recitals of nature wears a new look seasonally, our prophet are simply babbled over Zoroastrianism does not forbid a pro- the dead by our clergy as if it is some gressive life but rather advocates jadooi-vani (magical mantras) to reach reasoned change in all fields of life, all Parsis into paradise through their Zoroastrianism is the living of life many Avestan personified gods (yaza- here, on this earth. tas) whom they coax and cajole through the temple fire (atash). Zoroaster ’s religion is iconoclastic; but fire has become a Zoroastrian icon issue regarding the sale of tickets for which has usurped the place of Ahura the Gujarati plays with the letter by Mazda, the only Zoroastrian reality, the president of the Zoroastrian Stree Zoroaster has not uttered any word Mandal, Secunderabad (Parsiana, such as atash or agni but he has desired June 1987), but for the second para- that we keep our inner fire of graph of the said letter which states: conscience- — atar —burning. The word “However, the secrCtary-cum- atar, actually antar with a silent ‘n,’ treasurer would have preferred the means conscience. complainant to come directly to him My attack is not on the priests but with his complaint instead of writing to on their priestcraft. As mentioned by Parsiana.'' This I had done. Mr Rusi Pastakia (“Cama ’s new book ­ let, ” Parsiana, August ’87), in my “He would have straightaway clarified booklet I have tried ‘to separate the the matter to the satisfaction of the essentials from non-essentials, the complainant. ” This he was not able to ethical from the non-ethical. ” The ess- do. ence of our prophet ’s religion is to live to do right; instead we are engrossed thus avoided unnecessary correspond- in living for rites and ceremonials. For ence regarding a trivial matter! ” It de- this, about a hundred and odd agiaries pends on how one looks at the matter For Dr Soonavala ’s information Parsiana, London, UK Customs are good if they serve a DARA CAMA Good seats reserved for...” I would have closed the controversial <<< However, “The Inner Light... I would like to congratulate Mr Dara Cama for his courage to expose, in such great detail in his publication The Inner Light of Zoroastrianism, various actions of the priests of India and Pakistan in the “name of religion. ” The priests of the United Kingdom have and are rendering, free of charge, very honorable and faithful religious , service to the Zoroastrians. Dasturs and ervads should follow and atash bahrams are being main- (trivial or otherwise) that forms the the advice given by our late Shams-ul- tained in India and Pakistan. Can such crux of the issue. In this case, the presi- Ulema, Dastur Dr Maneckji Nusser- be religion, when the living gain no- dent seems to have been interested wanjee Dhalla, the High Priest of thing except to believe that God ’s only in the collections and the percen- Zoroastrians of Pakistan: “People good graces can be bought by them, tage share in the profits, whereas my must realize that the duty of a dastur is instead of being personally earned by letter only projects the dissatisfaction not the blind guardianship of ancient them though karni (deeds)? of the public on the issue of distribu- creeds and customs merely on the Instead of using temples to take care tion of ticket books and reservation of strength that ‘old is gold, ’ nor is it to of our dead, if we could bring some of ;eats. pamper popular sentiment. Such an them into use for the welfare of the If, at a future date, any organizing tained in India and Pakistan. Can such be religion, when the living gain no- Instead of using temples to take care of our dead, if we could bring some of them into use for the welfare of the 3 Parsiana November 1987 The same paragraph goes on to say: The last sentence ends with: “... andcommittee gives a thought to the prop- < advance reservation ticket books, the trians. Today they are being branded etc. Other Zoroastrian lauies prepared purpose of my earlier letter (^Parsiana, as orthodox and vilified for the views food themselves and brought various June 1987) will be served. This is what they hold. But they are only echoing dishes for the prayers in the evenings. J horl OcVorl fkan T 4-1*^ L.___J____ 1— __ 1_ _ _ J . ml « « . ’ am asking for now and for the future. K.J. TARAPORE _____ _______________ __________ ______ Hyderabad traditions and rituals were being gra- ban, along with other ervad sahibs. Thpll Have’ nnnfr/ivei-ev” dually eroded in the name of so-called During those 10 days of muktad uays eoniroversy progress. prayers, there were at least 90 to 100 I was very saddened to read the two \ " Z 1Z_-.Z____ here, want to keep our identity which days, and at weekends the number brothers, Zal and Darius (“The 11 religious practices and social traditions which was a Sunday, we had 10 ervad '87). Mr Vatcha ’s letter in particular making our younger generation aware farokhshi ceremonies in^ the prayer - - ----- —- —— — VXA VXk) W 6E6 and pray with (the Sethnas) and there- our community who are trying their present. What a spiritually beautiful f ,j £ J. .. . .... , .----- . ,----------------- fulfilling experience it was! On Farvardian day at Brookwood, truth. traditions to gain their selfish ends. 30 miles away from the center of Lon- My family and I, and hundreds of I " ' * » 4 - - - -- ----- — - -------- y J A* feUow Zoroastrians in London and junctions and legal actions by the few membering the dear departed both the Sethna brothers. They have ceremonies this year were performed . , . - . ity in London as they have gone out of pare the muktad hall for prayers, and er and judicious distribution of the their way to help their fellow Zoroas- to wash and replenish the flower vases, advance reservation ticket books, the trians. Today they are being branded etc. Other Zoroastrian lauies prepared purpose of my earlier letter (^Parsiana, as orthodox and vilified for the views food themselves and brought various I had asked for then, and this is what I the views of hundreds who had been The prayers were conducted every day t J unhappy with the state of affairs by the two Sethna brothers and their in the past and the way in which our three sons Farhad, Sam and Maraz- a dually eroded in the name of so-called progress. We, the majority of Zoroastrians Zarthostis present during the week- _ ' A J -------- J ~ 7 ---^AA^AA AAk.. AAAV AAWAAAA../WA CX” Irani of UK, maligning the two Sethna we can only maintain by following our ceeded 200. On the fourth Gatha day, brothers, Zal and Darius (“The 11 religious practices and social traditions which was a Sunday, we had 10 ervad days ’ controversy, ” Parsiana, March dating back thousands of years and by sahibs performing the afrinsan and K4.- _ ______ ____________________ .. .. . . f. ° says, “some of our ervads refuse to sit of them. It is the Zoroastrians within hall where over 250 Zarthostis fore do not come forward to serve the level best to undermine the whole con- community. ” This is far from the cept of our religious doctrines and traditions to gain their selfish ends. In spite of the various threats of in- don, at the prayer ceremony Uliana in i^viiuuii aiiu juiiciiulis and legal actions by the few membering the dear departed, per- other parts of UK, owe a great deal to so-called Zoroastrians, the muktad formed by our ervad sahibs, there both the Sethna brothers. They have ceremonies this year were performed were more than 150 Zoroastrians pre ­ helped Zoroastrians in times of dis- most successfully at the Zoroastrian sent. The bungli at Brookwood cemet- tress and also in times of rejoicing. House in London. During those 10 ery was not large enough to hold Both Zal and Darius are popular days, two Zoroastrian ladies gave their everyone and people had to stand out- members of the Zoroastrian commun- unstinting services to clean and pre- side the hall in the rain and wind. re- For Pure Diamonds JEWELLERS 324 . GRANT ROAD, BOMBAY 400007. TELEPHONE: 3714t3 APPOINTED VALUERS BY THE GOVERNMENT OF INDIA 5 Parsiana November 1987‘ ‘‘Si - »«•* 1 J Not SO in the North, if I may discri ­ minate, maybe because we are not ex- , especially Bombay, I know of H ¦ 1 .) J tions and desirous of setting up a unit can come together. . The Bombay Parsi Punchayet, the Federation of Parsi Zoroastrian Anju- ---of India and other anjumans can shareholders along with the The Sethna brothers have rendered religious service for over 15 years to the community of UK iri their honor- sons, for which we Anjuman of London, are very grate ­ ful. We are also grateful to the follow- Bhedv^r,^Eruch'^Daruwalla, Farokh that^^i^nfets™ eu «th« B“‘' inih'is'^c^omy.of high prtes » Eruch Daruwalla, Marzban Dastur “'"X; ones we had in the Parsi youth who ,s tn sejy.ce cannot Homi Desai, Rayomand Uazi,^ Ja^ Karkaria, Keki Kanga - i— voluntarily given their time an ser- nothing new But the tollowmg S?LtaaTrote: “rheh sons, might be done to help the Parsi self- posed to such things. But in other ----- • 11 _ T b-«r\\X7 of capacity, latterly joined by their parts, -r-—' j j life j^ans of India ana otner aiijuuim.e ?--------------, ,he zoroastnan “"V "J Isn't start such projects in whtch they can is restricted to such petty things. Isn t it time that they change their views and develop their hidden talents so ------- have many more doctors. than just talk of the ones we had in who have past? People work, earn and lose money- • • . But the following was Ms S.K. JASAVALA employed; Wimbledon, UK , • make available commercial/factory sites at fair market values; • agencies of well-known industrialists and organizations be given to deseving Parsi youth; • form a committee which would rep ­ resent the problems of Parsi business- .„_.i to the banks, financial institutions and insurance companies; established Parsi businesses give • agencies of well-known industrialists . .• 1____________________z^oo^*\7ina become others. It is the tradition of Parsis to donate. I this economy of high prices, a afford to donate even if he wishes to. Let me relate my own experiences^! Having done my graduation in com­ merce, I opted for the chartered accountants course, and landed up m Bombay to do my articleship with a reputed firm. Before I completed my studies I got myself an agency for the distribution of fertilizers m UP. lhe temptation of going home could not be overcome. I ran the agency without any assistance in a very successful an efficient manner, my sales heing around 70 lakhs a year. Imagine a 22- year-old earning so much money and all by his own efforts! Suddenly one born and brought up in Agra, UP. Help the self-employed During the course of the First All In­ dia Zoroastrian Youth Seminy held in Delhi last October, people pointed out that boys don ’t thrive and prosper as much as the girls. This is because boys men tend to take up jobs at an ear y age • Parsi ousincsscs giw finlnSlyP ndepSent Z that they their ancillary units to Zoroastrians as ---------------- can dress^well eat in restaurants, see far as possible, wherebv fine day Government policies movies and take their girlfriends on y proytde aualifi-S changed. They wanted to eliminate all their motorcycles. far as possible-, • provide «.* --o- boys and girls of different qualifica- 6 Parsiana November 1987 *^1 -x's: II si Many old landmarks in India Srks Horn visitors Uke me grrj^to^y Ce^l stntion the Nasik Security Press; the stately old Reserve Ku ld^g and many more-all X,i&CoPvtUd,overmelastl20ye^ Today keeping pace with me »a|^nl have changed the face ot ’’’e sky dine with sl^^cmpers tike the new Taj intercontirwntol Hoteis the new Reserve Bonk Building, * ott^pri.ftme. "Over 1 HOyeow of Sxpwtonco^ In Civil Projecis & ConstnicMon. me Ind^aCentre, 17 Cooperage Telex. 011-2124: Tel.; 2026614. 2020228,2020762 SHAPOORJ PALLONJ & CO. (PVT.) LTD. E.,l».r. 6 ConM,_uotion Comratno™ __ New.s ¦« middlemen and there I was very much loan from a bank and after preparing bank money, thereby incurring a loss in the middle. My agency was dis- the sheds and other infrastructure re- of Rs 83,000. ... banded overnight and I was without quired, I went to Punjab to buy the work. animals. As was destined, Indira Gan- With the money I had saved and the dhi, the then Prime Minister was assas- support of my family members I ven- u____ _ I-________ _ ___ _ --- -- T tured out again, but found myself life, to reach my home without mis- against heavy odds. I had no capital to hap, but in the bargain I lost out on purchase a shop or to pay for the de- health of my cows. posit which is needed when taking up Cows which were giving 30 liters of an agency. No financial agency is of milk gave only two to three liters. Not gf intermarriage any help for this. Moreover, to enter being disheartened I toiled away to ® the manufacturing line all sorts of make the project work. Maintaining assistance is available, though a bit dif- i ficult to obtain. The'problem here was off my savings, sold jewellery but still my background. Being basically a fi- it did not work. Ultimately, I had to nance and marketing man the know- part with the animals, which cost me middlemen and there I was very much loan from a bank and after preparing Thanks to my education and experi ­ ence, I managed to find myself a good > .....w _ ______ _ ___ job. I must mention that my wife has sinated. It became a virtual battle for stood by me through all this and today she works in Bombay while I am in the Delhi, trying to fill the kitty to start afresh. yezdi khambatta Intermarriage, whether of race, reli- IllClKV lilt/ J^lMJVVl IVXClAllkUIAllA*^ . the herd became a problem. I finished gion or creed, has never in principle been accepted as normal in the history of mankind. The sufferance and anguish experi- iiailW Olltl llictl rVV’VlAAg lllWH mv »» t VTILAI VAAW MX 11»» 111 I.. * 4. , ledge available was limited. Also, I more than a lakh, for a paltry sum of ©need by the parents when intemar- had a set notion of starting an ancillary Rs 5,000. « * »•<*" unit where there is some assurance of survival. It took me quite some time to the insurance cover would help me reconcile myself to the fact that assist- 1------ --------------- -------- . ance is generally given to people who claim to be settled and that too just 75 known. I have access to both influence and fi- percent of it, during which period the nance. interest kept on increasing. Not want- Ultimately, I decided to go in for ing to ruin my health (which was being dairy farming, having a family back- affected by all these problems) I de ­ ground in agriculture. I took a secured cided to clear out and paid off the riage is proposed by their children, and the cultural, religious and social embarrassment suffered by the inter- I still hoped that either the bank or but it took more than a year for the married couple is universally felt and The most unfortunate and distres ­ sing consequence of intermarriage is the trauma for the child facing the stig ­ ma of a half-caste, lack of identity and continued on page 44 Steamship agents — master stevedores dubashes — lighterage contractors Darabshaw B.Cursetjee's Sons (Bombay) Pvt. Ltd. Darabshaw House, Ballard Road, Bombay - 400 038. Grams: 'DEADWEIGHT' Phone: 260021 (4 Lines) (Dock Office: 262230) Telex: 5824 DBCB IN Also associates at Calcutta, Vishakhapatnam, Kakinada, Mangalore, Bhavnagar, Bedi-port, Navlakhi, Veraval, Porbunder & Kandla. 9 Parsiana November 1387 Also sole Government Landing contractors at Jamnagar, (Bedi) Bhavnagar.! I Events and Personalities The ‘success’ equation to the Government, it was de- care of in the husband ’s family, but the cided that anjumans, associations and son would have to maintain the re- Under the existing provisions of intes- individuals be given a chance to ex- maining members of the family. ” tate succession, a Parsi daughter gets press their views on this subject before Countered Gandhi, “The situation half the share of a son, the mother half the November 15, 1987 deadline. To which prevailed when the present law that of a father, the paternal grand- assist the community members in their was enacted is now materially altered, mother less than the paternal grand- decision making, it was agreed that the These days it is the daughter, whether father, and the maternal grandparents extracts of the correspondence ex- married or not, who looks after her none. changed last year between Bombay parents and younger brothers and sis- There is also reversal of sexual dis- Parsi Punchayet trustee Eruch Desai ters, and not the son. Nowadays, pa- crimination in that there is differential who had some reservations about rents are not welcome in the house of treatment meted out to sons-in-law. granting equal rights to a son-in-law, the son due to mother-in-law vs While widowed daughters-in-law, and Federation secretary Keki Gandhi daughter-in-law problems. The ex- grand daughers-in-law, etc are entitled who was in favor of sons-in-law being isting pattern is that the daughter ’s pa- to receive their deceased husband ’s treated on par, be circulated. rents reside with their married daugh- share, widowed sons-in-law, grand ‘ ' _ - . - — sons-in-law, etc would not be entitled amendment of the Act the widower much a part of the family as a to a share in their deceased wife ’s did have a share in the estate of the daughter-in-law and a married daugh- property. In fact, even distant relatives deceased wife, Desai wrote in his let- ter continues to be as much a part of get preference over widowed sons-in- * “ _ law, notes a press release issued by the this provision and giving the share to Federation of Parsi Zoroastrian Anju- the widower, we are departing from with many Parsi girls marrying outside mans of India which is seeking to eli- the existing provision at law, possibly the community, there is a greater minate discriminatfon on the grounds enacted after a great deal of thought likelihood of-the property being lost to of sex. and reasoning. ” Replied Gandhi in his the Parsi family and the community. Another amendment, sought to be letter of December 12: “ But so were Gandhi reasoned: “Under the existing introduced to the Indian Succession all the other provisions which are dis- laws, a Parsi mother ’s children by a Act, 1925 as applicable to Parsis, con­ cerns the “bequests to charity ” clause under which donations to charitable causes are invalidated if certain forma ­ lities are not complied with. Acting on Act had the widower been permitted the threat of losing the family wealth the suggestion (in 1984) of the then to enjoy a share in the property of his would also persist if the widowed vice-president of the Federation, the deceased wife.) daughter or daughter-in-law were to late Shiavax Nargolwala, the Federa- ~ tion secretariat in consultation with Hindu Law also, the position is the receiving her corresponding share of . leading Parsi luminaries Soli Sorab- jee, Eruch Desai and Rohinton Nari- the Parsi Law, ” to which Gandhi re- The other provision in the Act man, formulated the proposed amend- sponded, “The justification for each which has displeased the community is ments which were to be approved by community having its own separate the section nullifying any donation to a the Federation before submission to the Government of India. This issue once again came up for cial outlook, discussion at the last executive council ~ _ meeting of the Federation on Septem- share, according to Desai, ber 5 and 6,1987. Rather than have the well-reasoned principle that once the ecution. States Gandhi in his explana- community make different representa- daughter married she is well taken tory note, “This provision is totally un- Stating that prior to the 1939 ter and son-in-law. The son-in-law is as ter of September 4,1986: “By deleting the family as a married son.” To allay Desai ’s apprehensions that criminatory against the feminine non-Parsi father will be non-Parsis, sex... ” (Subsequently, Gandhi issued hence the property whether given to a a clarificatory statement that never in deceased daughter ’s children or son- the history of the Indian Succession in-law would go to non-Parsis. ” And Desai continued in his letter: “In remarry outside the community after same as the existing provision under the property, he added, the Parsi Law, ” to which Gandhi re- — and distinct personal laws is the differ- charitable cause unless the deceased is ence in customs, ways of living and so- not survived by a nephew/neice/any nearer relative or unless the will is The daughter is given only half the made 12 months prior to his death and on the registered within six months of its ex- 11 Parsiana November 1987Skill wins Mayor’s award Rs Adjudged one of the most skilled necessary for the Parsi community dala and Sion, said Pochkhanawala. which is not priest dominated and is The net profit of the Bank for the not subject to any pressures from the year ending June 1987 was clergy which would result in deathbed 5,71,386.71. The total number of ladies in needlework and craft, muni- bequests to charity. Besides, this pro- shareholders increased from 4,042 to cipal school teacher Ms Hilla Firoz vision is also undesirable because valid 4,074. The Bank ’s paid-up share capit- Bharucha received the Mayor ’s award bequests to charity made by philan- al stood at Rs 8,45,000 and its reserves for handicrafts this year, notes the thropic Parsis would be invalidated, at Rs 58,40,000, i.e. over six times the Jam-e-Jamshed of September 23,1987. contrary to the expressed wish of the paid-up capital, adds the jubilee A cash prize of Rs 1,000 was awarded testator, merely because of non- brochure. to her by the Mayor of Bombay, Dr. compliance with procedural formal!- j » 1 x Ramesh Prabhu, at a function held at ties or because the testator has met an iVlazda S annual prOSpCCtS Birla Kreeda Kendra on September 4. untimely or unexpected death. ” “The factory buildings are coming up The Mayor ’s award is presented to Parsi bank’s diamond Started by a group of enterprising Par- chairman of Vitta Mazda Limited, re ­ sis who in 1927 felt “the need of con- porting on the progress made by Maz- verging funds (which) could be used in da Textile Industries Limited, one of the exclusive interest of Parsi Zoroas- the Company ’s diversification ven- trians, ” the Zoroastrian Co-operative tures. Deboo was speaking at the Bank is celebrating its diamond jubilee Company ’s second annual general in 1987, notes The Indian Post of meeting which was held in Navsari on October 17, 1987. It was founded with September 19, 1987. The Company, the intention of encouraging self help, said Deboo, has also sought permis- thrift and cooperation. As part of their sion to give its shareholders and fixed sixtieth year celebrations, the Bank ’s depositors preferential allotment of board of directors wish to pay an shares in the Mazda Textiles, forth- • annual dividend at 14 percent per coming public issue worth Rs 105 annum, as against their regular 12 per- lakhs, cent, being the maximum permissible ~ under the Maharashtra Co-operative and Bike - International can be judged Societies Act, 1960. Accordingly, an from the fact that its print order of Bharucha: craftsmanship recognised application for permission has been 10,000 copies in June 1987 had to be made, notes the diamond jubilee increased to 40,000 copies for its bay. The selected teachers then have year ’s annual report. The Bank also September issue, said Deboo, talking to make three copies of a summary on intends to introduce a Cash Certificate about the Company ’s publications di- “what and how they teach, ” one each Scheme on the occasion, notes the vision. The magazine, he added, will for the inspector of schools, the educa- Financial Express of October 17,1987. also bring in net advertisement re- tion department and the Mayor. Formerly functioning as a bank in venue estimated at rupees five lakhs — - - the exclusive service of the Parsi com- for the current financial year, munity, this year its doors have been opened to other communities, said tinues to be a lucrative business with from Lalbaug to Dadar. “The students Noshir Sorabji Pochkhanawala who quite bright prospects. ” He pointed being quite poor cannot afford needles succeeded Rustom Gagrat as the out that with the disappearance of and threads, ” so she uses paper which Bank ’s chairman. The Bank will strive several small leasing companies, “the “being less costly can be afforded by to assist individuals to put up small- field has been left for the professional- the students, ” she says. Teaching stu- scale units, especially in the priority ly well-managed leasing companies." ’ ' sectors, noted the Bank ’s chief execu ­ tive, Limji C. Mistry. The Bank has gures of the past financial year. Deboo everyday. already sought the Reserve Bank ’s said that business worth Rs 290 lakhs Having been “always interested in permission to extend credit up to Rs 10 had been transacted in ’86-’87, and the needlework and handicraft right from lakhs per individual for purchase of Company anticipated “total addi- her school days at St Anne ’s,” Bhar- ’ flats or homes, adds the newspaper re- tional...business worth Rs 300 lakhs ” ucha acquired her teacher ’s diploma in port. for the next financial year. Besides an 1955, from the Gujarati Hindu Stree The Bank ’s first branch began oper- additional net income of three lakh Mandal, Bombay and later pursued a ating at Gamadia Colony, Tardeo, on rupees from the Company ’s “manage- teacher ’s training course in puppetry January 31 last year. In order to serve ment of leasing companies and lease and creative drama. Gorwala honored awaking the Reserve Bank of India ’s their management of the public share The Leslie Sawhny Programme (LSP), permission to set up new branches at issues of three limited companies, “one of the foremost organizations for Colaba, Dadar, Bandra, Andheri, Wa- added Deboo. continued on page 44 Mazda’s annual prospects “The factory buildings are coming up and...waterjet looms have already two teachers in each language group, been imported, ” said Dara K. Deboo, from every municipal ward of Bom- The popularity of the magazine Car Leasing, emphasized Deboo, “con- 1 Fifty-five year old Bharucha teaches handicrafts in municipal schools in Bombay ’s F south ward which extends dents of standards one to seven in Gu- Supporting his claims with the fi- jarati, Bharucha frequents two schools members of other communities effec- counselling services, ” the Company ’s tively, the Bank ’s management is profits would also be augmented by 13 Parsifina November 19871 6 i i I I ZOROASTRIANS ABRO^ Chiraon Darhp Mehr StaVS questionnaire is to oe araitea ro side the USA via the Zoroastrian Chicago uaroe IVienr stays reaction of Zoroastrians in Association of Chicago, as per a new Realestate agents and developers wish and around Chicago to the setting up policy approved by its board. Accord- to acquire the 53 acres of the Meadow- of a seminary for the training of future mg to the scheme, donors should, at brook subdivision, within which the Zoroastrian priests in the US. Re- the time of dtmation, make a written Chicago Darbe Mehr is located, with spouses will have to be backed by request to ZAC specifying the name of the intention of converting the land for pledges. “The same survey will also the recipient^chantable/religious orga- commerCial use by way of a shopping assess the community ’s needs for im- nization. After deciding whether the center and/or light industrial building, provement of facilities/services ” at the remittance will help further the aims of • warded to the organization, notes the Earlier at a special board meeting, newsletter, “all agreed that the establishment of a seminary would produce a continuing The Second North American Zoroas- line of Zoroastrian priests, trained in trian Youth Congress will be held m ¦ I Chicago at the Arbab Rustam Guiv of the establishment of Darbe Mehr at Hinsdale, Illinois in September 1988 over the Labor Day weekend, notes the Chicago newslet- The questionnaire is in fact the ^er. All inquiries should be sent to Ms S?x dolbre per square foot However, the board towards the establishment of Association of Metropolitan Chicago, SIX uulidia F'-‘ aquaiv ’ ___.____ _______ tV,,. CAI-s KfAaHnu/hrnnk Drive. Hinsdale. A questionnaire is to be drafted to glean the reaction of Zoroastrians in of a seminary for the training of future ing to the scheme, donors should,^ at Zoroastrian priests in the US. Re- I— ----- ----------- . commercial use by way of a shopping assess the community s needs ,for im- notes the October newsletter of the Zoroastrian Association of Metropoli- newsletter, tan Chicago (ZAC). To negotiate for a high rate of com­ pensation, Meadowbrook homeow ­ ners, residents of the area, have imc vi zAiiuoduiou ... formed an organization to deal directly the United States and would be a linch-pin Zoroastrianism in North America, adds the report. second of the three phases outlined by Dinsoo D. Rivetna, C/o Zoroastrian with Inland Corporation, the in­ terested realestate agents. A survey conducted amongst the residents re ­ vealed that the families would be will­ ing to sell their properties at the rate of “The ZAC board chose to inform the the seminary. Phase one involves the 8615Hinsdale, Homeowners Association that the for­ mer being a religious organization, its situation was unique, and quite diffe ­ rent from that of an average homeow ­ ner. The replacement cost for our - . Certter would be much higher than tionnaire, which will later be distn- that of an average home...ZAC has buted to other Zoroastrian associa^ Homeowner^ AssocFation and ^have their reactions and to find out whether ZAC’s October newsletter. The tape, not participated in the survey, ” states they would be willing to give financial to be broadcast on r r ___ ________ _ tko eominorv Tn cifin uzas tn he shown to the Chicago the newsletter. The ZAC board wishes to categor ­ ically state that they are i.„..----------- .--r.u in either moving or relocating the for financing the establishment of the conference Darbe Mehr property. Meanwhile, the seminary, adds the write-up. r board is in the process of obtaining an In the meanwhile, until the semi- A one-day conference^on Western Re- uXdate appraisal of the property ’s nary is built, the ZAC board has de- ligious Traditions -- Judaism, Christ- value through^an independent source, cided to donate $ 400 per year to spon- lanity. Is am - and their relationship to Zdds the report sor a priest at the Dadar Athornan Zoroastrianism was slated for October adds the report. Madressa, Bombay, states the report. 18, 1987 at the Arbab Rustom Guiv ' . . Darbe Mehr, New York, notes an ann- Ppewter^^plaque of Gopat Sh^ a Nominations are being invited for the exure to the September/Ortober issue posts of president, vice-president, Godrej Billimoria and family, notes treasurer, assistant secret- Association of Greater New the ZAC newsletter. Donated in mem- ary ory of the late Navroji Dadabhoy Billi­ moria, the plaque has been installed in the Learning Center of the Darbe association is expecte£ to nominate establishment of a Religion Perpetua- Illinois 60541, USA. tion Fund (which has already been started) with a target of $ 15,000 and A videotape on Zoroastrianism, part an initial contribution of $ 1,500 by the of a series on religion, has been pre- ZAC. Phase two involves the ques- pared by Dr Henry Allen Jr, profes ­ sor of humanities and philosophy at __________ _____ the Moraine Valley Community Coi­ tions in North America to ascertain lege, Palos Heights, Illinois, notes assistance towards the seminary. In sion, was to be shown to the Chicago iw votve-B- phase three, the Religion Perpetuation Zoroastrians at their monthly meeting not interested Fund would be used as a starting point on October 11, states the write-up. In the meanwhile, until the semi ­ nary is built, the ZAC board has de ­ cided to donate $ 400 per year to spon­ sor a priest at the Dadar Athornan Madressa, Bombay, states the report. Nominations are being invited for the posts of president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer, assistant secret- f and assistant treasurer of the Fed- (ZAGNY). eration of Zoroastrian Associations of The morning session was to include North America (FEZANA). Each talks by Professors Erich Isaac (Juda- and A. Peter Martinez (Islam). Dr The morning session was to include ism), Kaikhosrov Irani (Christianity) Mehr “A renresentatiou of the Beh- one person for each office, for which ,, ' t u mai? Am^aspand-.the ringed human- ZAC has invited applications from the Jeh^n Ba^i ^and pollan headed bull guides the wicked energy Chicago area, notes the report, or force towards humility and good- ness It thus protects its surroundings, ” Chicago donors can now support reh ­ explains the newsletter. gious and charitable organizations out- Ameshaspand...the winged human ­ force towards humility and good- It thus protects its surroundings, ” were expected to comment on the in­ teractions of the three religions with Zoroastrianism, in the afternoon. A panel discussion on various aspects in 14 Parsiana November 1987? the comparative study of the four November 8, 1987, notes the October scholar who toils in near anonymity,y Western religions - Judaism, Christ- " ’ • — ...... j ..................!->_ ianity, Islam and Zoroastrianism - was programmed to follow. At the Gala Divali Festival organized la bheenda ma gosh (meat in fried ty death. ” by The Association of Indians in okra)jkopra paak and doodh paak (des- Presswalla, the prosecution witness, expected to participate with a food pectively) and puri. The men in the due to blows on the head while Wecht, stall selling all kinds of Parsi dishes s___;. ’ ’ • • .v. and specialities, notes the ZAGNY specialization in just one item- khatto- caused by a fall inside theJDiehl fami- newsletter. The proceeds from the mitho-kheemo (sweet and sour mince), ly ’s school-bus home, stall would help maintain the projects and programs run by ZAGNY. 1 ... The Festival was to be celebrated food where persons of all ages could Giametta; “Interviewswith peoplem- with “a variety of events like arts and participate, adds the write-up. ’ ' ' crafts, Indian music and dance, a fashion show and food stalls, ” adds the A notice in the ZSO newsletter reads: report. “A 1974 Cadillac for sale to any Zoroastrian youth. Body and engine businesslike. ” A collection of audio cassettes on va- work required. Not certified. Sale rious topics pertaining to Zoroastrian- price: one dollar! ” ism are available with Silloo and Phir- oze Mehta of California, notes the in English and Gujarati and cost two la was one of the witnesses at the trial Coney Island Hospital, ” he admitted dollars including packaging and post- of Karen Diehl who was convicted for that “Presswalla was convincing in a age. Those wishing to obtain these cas- involuntary manslaughter of Dominick way Wecht was not. settes may write to the Mehtas at “Andrew ” Diehl, who died of fatal “Wecht was more a professional 26330 Friendly Valley Parkway, New- brain damage, notes a write-up on the witness type, ’ Shuttleworth said. T hall, California 91321, USA. trial in The Virginian-Pilot and the wouldn ’t attack Presswalla head on - Ledger-Star of September 6,1987. The so I talked about the Coney Island Observe rules report describes Presswalla as a thing, ’ ” adds the report. The Atash Dadgah Room at the “Bombay-born state medical examiner --------------------------------------------------- Mehraban Guiv Darbe Mehr of the for Hampton Roads, a soft-spoken Compiled by Niloofer J. Madon Zoroastrian Society of Ontario (ZSO) “is the only room in the Darbe Mehr set aside for silent prayer and worship, and to many, keeping the sanctity of the room means a great deal, ” writes Dinshaw Printer, chairman of the reli ­ gious subcommittee of the ZSO in a stern letter carried in the ZSO’s Octo ­ ber newsletter. Noting that persons have not been following the rules stipulated. Printer reiterates them in his letter: “The prayer room is to be used only for prayer and religious ceremony; eating, smoking and drinking (is) not permit ­ ted; it is customary to cover your head ’ and remove your shoes before enter ­ ing (caps are available); the gas lamp behind the afargan is kept burning per ­ manently - please do not tamper with it; (and) persons of any race or religion may enter the room, provided they re ­ spect the above rules. ” issue of the ZSO newsletter. The while the second witness was Dr Cyril seniors were to be judged for their ex- Wecht, a pathologist from Pittsburgh pertise in cooking masala-ni-kitchri “whose history of forensic consulta- (spicy yellow rice) with fish patio, tare- tions reads like a who ’s who of celebri- ¦ ' ¦ ¦ Presswalla, the prosecution witness, America on November 1, ZAGNY serts made of coconut and milk res- testified that brain damage was caused was expected to participate with a food pectively) and puri. The men in the due to blows on the head while Wecht, ; seniors group were to be rated on their supporting the defense, said that it was and specialities, notes the ZAGNY specialization in just one item- khatto- caused by a fall inside the Diehl fami- . . ..... z . > ’ '—' '------- The article The competition was to be followed however, compares the style of the by a gourmet evening of home-made two doctors. Notes writer Charles volved in the case, including jurors, showed that Wecht was generally per ­ ceived as verbose and slick, while Presswalla came across.as modest and Even though defense attorney Tho ­ mas Shuttleworth “pounded away at . Presswalla ’s foreign medical degrees ______ ___ The modest witness and the fact that he had trained briefly ZAGNY newsletter. The lectures are Medical examiner Dr Faruk Presswal- at an unlikely sounding place called Andrew ” Diehl, who died of fatal a thing, A Hie Friendly Gift Shop for handicrafts, festive reli^ous artefai^ executive desk ler sets, exclusive shell ite^ des^ jewelry & specializing in wooa The annual Cooking Competition and Gourmet Evening, organized by the seniors of the ZSO was slated for & copper-enamel gifts. BOMBAY SWADESHI STORES LTD. (Mezzanine Floor) Sir RM. Road, Bombay-400 001 STUDIO AKAR 6T/2660 J 15 Parsiana November 1987i^; INSTITUTIONS ?' Intensive care at 75 i In its platinum jubilee year the B.D. Petit Parsee General Hospital is thinking anew of ways to meet the community ’s growing medic^ needs Krn avQz S. Mama The Bomanji Dinshaw Petit Parsee Immensely proud of the Petit herit- 1906. The father and son team - Din- General Hospital is contemplating age, Dinshaw Petit, the Hospital ’s shaw and Homa - is aware that only sweeping new changes that will not president who has virtually grown up radical rethinking can help the Hospit- only catapult the 75-year-old institu- with the institution, was a toddler al serve the community as it was in- tion into the medical technology of the when its prospectus was published in tended to do and that the aging Parsi 1990s and beyond but, hopefully, end community needs it now more than its decades-long dependence on sertti- Bomanji Petit: the benefactor ever. ment and charity. t . The plan envisaged by the managing On the anvil is a plan to rehouse and I committee of the Hospital involves us- update the operation theaters and all r Hospital s trump card - its the other medical infrastructure like land. “The power of sale is incorpo- the Intensive Cardiac Care Unit rated in the trust deed, ’’ says Homa (ICCU), X ray, pathology, ENT, blood Petit, but “the land is earmarked for bank, physiotherapy departments, etc, hospital use (in the Bombay Municipal as also to increase the number of beds. I Corporation s plans). The committee Reconstruction may begin once the per- wants to use that to community advan- mission is received and may take a cou- tage in two ways: Maximum FSI pie of years to complete. (floor space index) for a hospital could “This fairly phenomenal project will BlH go as high as 4.5 to 5.0, elucidates involve crores of rupees ’’ anticipates managing committee member and soft-spoken Homa Petit, greait-grand- Bombay Parsi Punchayet (BPP) trus- nephew of the visionary Bomanji D. toe Homi Ranina, in contrast to the Petit and currently the Hospital ’s vice- 1-33 normally allotted for residential president. “Some of these resources construction. Simultaneously, Homa will come from donations - nearly 25 Petit envisages that if the FSI is leased to 30 lakh rupees have already come to another hospital, the agreement will in ’’ says Petit, “but we may have to also incorporate a tie-up on the useof give up part of the land. ’’ ¦¦¦¦¦¦¦¦¦¦¦¦ their costly equipment “on a^reTday 16 Parsiana November 1987TW f® ? r lilj. 1 4 or per hour basis so that our free pa- payments from the patients in terms of ing expectations all around, including tients could get free treatment. We can the rates fixed and including dona- the non-Parsis who work for the Hos- thus give the community modern di- tions, informs Phiroze Jhabvala, the pital. Roughly 1,000 non-Parsis agnostic facilities via this medium. ” actuary-printer-lawyer who has been occupy the lower staff quarters - large- The FSI that will be offered to the Hospital ’s joint honorary secretary ly the wardboys ’ children, many of another institution by inviting tenders, will be restricted to the area on either side of the Hospital ’s Cumballa Hill entrance, currently occupied by the Out Patients Department (OPD) and the doctors ’ quarters. The Parsee General Hospital (PGH) needs a mini ­ mum corpus of 15 crore rupees to be viable, estimates Ranina. It is possible that the envisaged plan may generate more than that and Ranina anticipates that in “three to four years from now . the picture may change. ” However, ables^ of the social and political match inflation and the community is daada paisa mooki gayachni (our fore- whom are graduates and masters from the University of Bombay, he says. “A Parsi earning a dearness allo ­ wance of more than Rs 1,000 will try to place his parent in a free bed and won’t take him away even when the doctors discharge him because (the pa ­ tient) gets meat and fish every- day. Then there are fights: 'Aaj nu bhonu tau hopeless (the food today was terri ­ ble) ’even though it is accepted that we feed quality which at home he can hardly afford. And its all under the giving due weight to “the imponder- since 1969. “The trust ’s income cannot oft-stated, entrenched belief, ''baap- ables of the social and political match inflation and the community is daada paisamookigayachni(purioTe- milieu, ’’Ranina says cautiously, “I am not prepared to listen to economies fathers have left the money for us to not sure we will be able to develop the that are possible, (rejecting them) on use)! ”’ recounts Jhabvala. land, even though we have it. We grounds of status. To the community ‘ If we had to go to government or municipal hospitals, we wouldn ’t be half as happy as we are over here (( >5 land, even though we have it. We grounds of status. To the community “People don ’t like their children to don ’t have the flexibility of private the Parsee General Hospital seems to spend, but don ’t mind the Hospital builders. ” be a dharamshala, ” he avers. spending! ” exclaims Ranina, adding, A constant deficit of 10 to 14 lakh According to Jhabvala, the manage- “Though the Hospital has a social rupees a year has been dogging the ment is in a pincer grip between the worker to find out the income of pa- Hospital after taking into account all demands of the community and the ris- tients... we trust the community to be a dharamshala, ” he avers. According to Jhabvala, rhe manage- I 17 Parsiana November 19871 I j I ! N t ¦ |i i i- I orthodox but I’m not a freethinker either, ” declares Dinshaw Petit. “If the Hospital is opened to non-Parsis, it ¦ will go the way of the J.J. Hospital, ” he notes with conviction and distaste. give the right figures of their income level on the basis of which we decide which ward or bed to allot... “We are also an aging community. The patients are retired and their in­ come is very low. Most don ’t like to be maintained by a son-in-law...The population at the Hospital is increas ­ ing, and 285 beds are not adequate. On certain days the Hospital goes light; but on other days it overflows. ” The only beds that make a positive contribution to the Hospital accounts are those in Extension A (popularly, though incorrectly, referred to as the Nursing Home) and the patients there “run away in a week or two, ” while those in the concessional wards con­ tinue for months at a time, explains Jhabvala. Donations are not that worthwhile any more because a dona ­ tion of Rs 5,000 for example, barely takes care of one patient for a month! Therefore, while a “number of people have approached the Hospital with the tiyeness. At a press conference in July, proposition that their wealth would re- K-----1—2 —1-2 2_;1 vert to the Hospital if they ’re looked tional cost on labor according to the after to the end, the Hospital has re- latest settlement added 14 lakh rupees the reason why, Jhabvala says, for labor as the biggest financial problem Udwadia, president designate of the fitable use of the land to augment the hqs ruled that a hospital is an industry institution ’s finances - a suggestion and its “labor is entitled to all the that the committe has recently wages and benefits applicable to an in­ accepted. dustrial establishment, ” says Ranina, The PGH recently inducted some contributing Rs 82 to the per bed cost young professionals into its adminis ­ tration, but young Parsi doctors. In-house medical facilities nurses or laboratory assistants are «------------ ---------------„ • • u u- j ¦ hard to come by and the Hospital of our affiliation with the medical has spirit behind jT must, of necessity, depend upon non- council, we are bound to give indoor Parsis who have no emotional attach- treatment to the nursing staff, ” says ment to the institution. Homa Petit. The OPD is open to the “Everybody is commercial in their rest of the staff as certified by the resi- attitudes. Missionary zeal is no longer dent medical officer (RMO), but hos- there, but that is the case all over the pitalization facilities are provided else- world. You pay five times the amount where, though the PGH bears the in the Jaslok (Hospital) and get the cost, same type of treatment, ” notes Rani- na. Better nurses also like to go to other Maharashtra Governor s wife had re ­ hospitals “because of the variety of pa- quested to see the Hospital. As the tients and cases elsewhere ” whereas joint secretary he was happy to escort i 4 ' The diagnoses Ten well-known doctors whom Par­ siana polled were unanimous in their opinion that the Hospital is a boon to I the community today when medical I treatment is so expensive that falling ill I can be a financial calamity for middle ­ class people. I The quality of service at the PGH does not match the Breach Candy Hospital ’s (BCH) because the PGH does not have the Breach Candy ’s level of resources, say most doctors. Surgeon Kersi Dastur phrases it dif- ; - - ¦ " • ’ ’1 the weight of only 25 free beds in the j Godrej wing, as against the PGH’s more beds. that falling ill f. •' ferently : The Breach Candy has to pull than 200 free and subsidized iivciicss. though the quautum of re ­ Homa Petit had noted that the addi- sources may be similar, he explains. “No other hospital in Bombay gives _________________ ______ r as much value for money as the Parsee iected the offer? ’ hrad7s ’.*That is ako to7he"annual"bill. Ranina labelled General, ” opined surgeon Tehemton the reason why, Jhabvala says, for labor as the biggest financial problem Udwadia, president designate of the vears he has been advocating the pro- for the Hospital. The Supreme Court International College of Surgeons. .... , . •---- “Today, in Bombay, in an emergen ­ cy, you can ’t get a hospital bed or the bed may be beyond your means. Here, at the Parsee General, you will be admitted. Nor will you be forced into of Rs 161 the Nursing Home if you can ’t afford In-house medical facilities are it, ” comments surgeon Fardoon offered to the nursing staff. “Because Soonawalla, adding, This hospital “Parsiau ne kbit kbit karvani aadat cbe (Parsis are chronic complainers). We don ’t know what is lying on the other side of the fence. If we had to go to government or municipal hospitals, we wouldn ’t be half as happy as we are over here, ” says surgeon Adi Nazir. The doctors were agreed that the Dinshaw Petit recalls a personal PGH was adeqjjately equipped for the ordeal in the 1960s when the then has are it, ” normal run of Parsi patients and that it was uneconomic for the Hospital, con­ sidering its level of resources, to pro­ vide the special facilities required in the Parsis seem to suffer from certain her through the Hospital until the lady rare cases. It is more efficienUo move typical diseases, says Homa Petit, expressed a strong desire to be hospi- “ There is also the hope of nursing some talized on the precincts. As Dinshaw of landing a much better paid job Petit sense of humor and savior faire abroad, he.adds. 1 , ~ The unionization of the staff has cut without sacrificing any of the terms of deeper ridges into the Hospital ’s effec- Bomanji Petit ’s trust deed! “I am not tvoical diseases, says Homa Petit, expressed a strong desire to be hospi- • ___ ._!•_____ 1 ___ ________;____ 4.^ Az, a patient requiring special heart surgery, for example, to another hos- 1 IlvlV la aloV lllV IIVUV Vl w.. --------------- —------- . , , XT !• 1 J 4. rich Arab and the ensuing possibility recounts it, it required every bit of the pital, they s^. New medical gadgetry - - "• • ' • --i like the C.T. Scan (Computer to preserve the Governor ’s goodwill Tomography - “tomos ” in Greek " ¦ “ meaning to cut, “graphy ” to see - which gives detailed sectional X rays 18 Parsiana November 19871 Facing page: Jehangir Petit Alongside (from left): Nalladaroo, Noshir Dubash and Mehta Part of the Hospital’s infrastructure: Pathology Department (below) and Physiotherapy Department (bottom) Photos: Homyar Mistry j ¦ n is ¦ i as radiologist Dr Jimmy Sidhva ex ­ plains) costs one crore 20 lakh rupees and wouldn ’t be used more than once or twice a day for Parsi patients, he reckons, while gynecologist Rusi Soonawalla estimates that about 10 C.T. scans a day would be required even to defray the interest on an in­ vestment of this magnitude. “The maintenance and upkeep (of such machines) would sponge up the money of the community, ” believes Sidhva. The doctors were all in favor of a tie- up arrangement with another institu ­ tion where Parsi patients could avail of such facilities when necessary. The medicos say that the high pro­ fessional and moral caliber of the con­ sultants is the Hospital ’s greatest strength, together with a few key members of the management like the medical superintendent and joint hon ­ orary secretary Dr Homi Mehta and the Petit family. “Dr Mehta has made the Hospital what it is,” acknowledges itself adequately. “The management has an entirely separate, higher paid F. Soonawalla even as as he recalls the late Maneckji Petit ’s (president of the • Hospital for over 25 years) devotion and nocturnal rounds of the hospital. The quality of patient care which in­ cludes the provision of medicine, nurs­ ing care, food and other infrastruc ­ ture, was rated high. “We may not have the flashiest theater in Bombay, ” says Udwadia, “but we have one of the lowest - if not the lowest - sepsis rates in the city. Our nurses are as efficient as, if not more efficient than, any- ¦ JXL I Comparing the PGH’s ICCU with its system of curtains, as against the cubi ­ cles of the Breach Candy Hospital which ensure greater privacy, another eminent physician emphasized that the ICCU at the PGH often takes in more than its load, as against the standard I number of patients at the Breach Can ­ dy ICCU. “When overloaded, the atmosphere gets disturbed. The prob ­ lem could be modified if the ICCU is where else in Bombay. ” expanded and/or the privacy of the pa- But the doctors also note that the tients is better respected, ” he added, institution has not been modernizing He also informed that while the BCH ¦¦ tends to be a bit conservative, largely nursing staff for its ICCU, at the because of paucity of funds; ” thinks F. Parsee General only the sisters-in- Soonawalla. charge belonged permanently to the High on their list of priorities is a ICCU, the rest of the staff being com- more efficient ICCU. Last October, a mon to all sections of the Hospital, patient with a heart attack who had Apart from ophthalmologist Dr been admitted to the Parsee General ’s Rustom Patel, who represents the ICCU was allegedly advised by the honoraries on the Hospital ’s managing consultant the following day to shift to committee, there is no subcommittee another hospital. “The ICCU is not of doctors to advise the administration ideally devised. There is too much on medical investment priorities, even noise, ” comments cardiologist Dr though some of the honoraries enjoy Aspi Golwalla, chairman of the BPP. an international professional status. Apart from ophthalmologist Dr i 19 Parsiana November 19878 1 1 •i five-star hotels. ” ‘‘A hospital is much more than opening the service areas to increase the. Hospital ’s efficiency and income were chary of legal repercussions that stone, concrete or instruments, ” says ___ _____" __^.1 . Udwadia. “The people in the Parsee The PGH’s most dismal record General make it what it is.” Sidhva seems to belong to the obstetrics adds a sterling compliment to* Dr (maternity) and pediatrics (children ’s) Marzban Nalladaroo, resident medical Even those who can officei at the PGH for nearly two de ­ cades. Describing Nalladaroo as a __________-------------- father confessor to the patients, and a human buffer between the patient and the administration, the doctors and the Hospital staff, Sidhva refers to the RMO’s position as a thankless job beautifully done, by the present in­ cumbent and his predecessor. Dr Bur- jor Pardiwalla. Only two of the doctors were coherently aware of the Hospital ’s modernization plans, though all of , _ them welcomed the idea with varying could eventually nullify the gains, degrees-of enthusiasm. “It ’s a good scheme, ” says Dastur, “but I don ’t think we should lease our land to out ­ siders. It will spoil the image of the departments. Hospital. If Hindujas build, they will swallow the PGH.” “How it would work out, I don ’t know...It is easy to say (that hospitals) are profit making...In the Jaslok, beds are going empty, ” says a prominent physician. Golwalla however calls it “the best, the only way. You can ’t de ­ pend on the community (for funds). It ’s a very wise move, (though) perhaps late in the day. Hope it goes through. ” Most doctors suggest a bigger, bet ­ ter chronic ward-cum-convalescent home, independently located, for the community ’s growing --------------------- - geriatric patients. “They need love Candy or Jaslok, ” says R. Soonawalla Dinshaw Petit. ® C/Jk _ ____ nAt- lon^ and care, not medicine, 'says Sidhva. Such a shift would free the Hospital ’s resources L medical help, says R. Soonawalla. Golwalla notes that the BPP has a lakh that the usual complaints relate to i of rupees for a chronic ward at the nursing and cleanliness, the patients scheme with three categories of beds Hospital that hasn ’t come about so far, being particularly averse to birds and fully paying, subsidized and tree, because the modernization plans were ( not finalized until recently. 1 Udwadia ’s dream is to have a sepa ­ rate block - a much smaller structure - only for Parsis and “have a separate (cosmopolitan) nursing home which in ... could put the Breach Candy, Jaslok observed, “Today commuting has be- and Hindujas to shame...If Parsis set —.4 their mind to anything, they can do it. pie prefer nearby hospitals. ” I’m sure the community has the pro­ fessional and the financial ability to deliver the goods. I have full confi­ dence we can do it. ” In a separate in­ terview, R. Soonawalla had expressed a similar view: “Lots of non-Parsis have tremendous faith in Parsi doctors and Parsi institutions. If one could keep a certain part of the Hospital open to non-Parsis, only the very ex ­ pensive rooms...” the Hospital would be able to generate sizable income, he felt. To make the Hospital a cosmopoli ­ tan institution would be one way out of its awkward financial situation, agree the doctors, but none of them is in favor of taking a step which they feel would deprive the community of a facility that it badly needs. Even those who expressed themselves in favor of “We may not have the flashiest theater in Bombay, but we have one of the lowest — if not the lowest - sepsis rates in the city ” History The need for a general hospital for Parsis was acutely felt during the pla ­ gue epidemic of 1900 when people perished in hundreds with hospitals number of afford a little bit, tend to go to Breach overcrowded and inefficient, recalls “• • . “Between 1900 and 1905 there were three attempts to have a hospital for Parsis, but they all who estimates that well over 50 per- 111 wuuiu iicv mv xxoopivc** a cent of maternities avoid the PGH. , for those actively in need of Though Soonawalla admits that the failed, ” until Bomanji s son Jehangir BCH could be a status symbol, he says '' —— Petit launched a prospectus in 1905 seeking donations for a hospital cats invading their rooms. Soonawalla According to the prospectus, the hos- feels that the rooms need to be mod- pital would bear the name of the first ernized and the general outlook of the person to make a donation of five lakh Hospital livened up. Referring to the rupees or more. “In the first year after growth of many small maternity homes the prospectus was published, funds the suburbs, Golwalla however were very low - hardly one lakh 20 ... ...... -2-0 _____ ¦ thousand rupees, ” says Dinshaw Petit, come so expensive, and difficult, peo- In early 1906 Bomanji gifted to the ____ _______________¦’_____ scheme his Cumballa Hote ’l property AU the doctors feft that the food on Cumballa Hill whose 50,000 square that the Hospital serves is very good, yards were then valued at five lakh though R. Soonawalla commented on rupees, plus an additional Rs 50,000 in how difficult it is to please everyone - government promissory notes. The “People are dissatisfied even with foundation stone was laid in 1907 and pital would bear the name of the first A measure of philanthropy _____ '.J 21 The daily food rations at the hos- Ejdension A, popularly pital include, on an average, 800 eggs, 40 to 50 kilograms of mutton or fish, 175 liters of milk, nearly Of the Hospital ’s 285 beds, only 21 are in 1____ ... though incorrectly known as the nursing home. According to the ... onn 1986 report, of the 88,450 total three kilograms of butter, 200 number of patients treated each rice, 32 to 35 kilograms of sugar, day), as many as 57,623 treatment *' " days - 65.15 percent - were free or concessional. In other words, of the These take care of all patients average 242 patients treated per day, 158 are free or concessional. iyoD repuii, vi uiv wv.** »^i*^** o , i x treatment days (the sum total of the loaves of bread, 32 kilograms ot five to six kilograms of tea, informs the dietitian Ms Ameeta Nanavati. and the staff ineluding 165 nurses, 60 of them being student nurses. 20 Parsiana November 1987•r days, Wadia staged the first of his The community contributed towards frothy comedies with amateur actors the building inaugurated in 1912 (then the cheque as a donation! ” nine-year old Dinshaw remembers seeing “lok, lok, lok'" - a sea of peo- the nutrition department named in from among the Parsi doctors, a sum pie) by the Governor of Bombay, memory of the late Dhunmai Mehta of Rs 50,000 was collected and the ‘ Lord Sydenham. Sydenham had pre- who for years had supervised the pa- Hospital ’s closed wing reopened be- dicted difficulties when he realized tients ’ diet on an entirely honorary' fore it could be acquired by the gov­ that the Hospital, which cost 12 lakh basis; the doctors ’ quarters were rupees, had an endowment fund of however constructed from the Hospit- plays staged by The Pa^ only Rs 22 lakhs, notes an article in the al ’s own funds, says Dinshaw Petit. Hospital ’s diamond jubilee souvenir. At the time of the opening it had been upon is the induction of Dr Homi rupees for the PGH, informs Sidhva.) believed that the fund would be au- Mehta, then police surgeon, as his co- ~ gmented at uthamna ceremonies the secretary in January 1950. The period 21 new departm^ts, testifying to way most Parsi charities had been was one of extreme gloom in the Hos- Mehta ’s infectious zeal that shamed launched. But the custom soon died pital ’s history. The endowment fund the communitv into a change of heart, out and Sydenham ’s prognosis became stood at less than 20 lakh rupees. The The latest Mehta-inspired addition to a way of life at the PGH. general fund was just 6.31 lakhs. “One the Hospital ’s services is the Fertility According to the terms of the pros- wing of the Hospital had been closed Clinic, a tribute to an ailing octogena- pectus,-the land and buildings of the and very few patients were attracted to rian ’s concern for the future of the Hospital are vested in the Bombay the Hospital, ” notes an article sur- community, at the end of 38 years of Parsi Punchayet and extra funds re- veying the institution ’s history in the totally honorary service. main in their custody, though the ex- souvenir. “It was the consensus that Today the institution is so firmly en- ecutive committee of the Hospital is the Hospital be wound up and the trenched in the community ’s con- entitled to their use as required, buildings be utilized for educational sciousness, that for most Parsis in Though the karobari mandli (the and residential use as stated in the Bombay - and outside - life would Hospital ’s general board) includes the trust deed of 1906. It was almost the be unthinkable without it, Bomanji seven trustees of the BPP, its working death knell and only a supreme effort and Jehangir Petit would be proud of is entirely “independent of the Pun- could have lifted such dismal gloom.” their brainchild; but, being the chayet which has no controlling voice Mehta ’s philosophy - “No institu- visionaries they were, be equally con- over it, ” notes the souvenir article. Becoming the treasurer of the Hos- community need fear starvation of pital on the eve of World War II, Din- funds if it can show useful and worth- shaw Petit recalls the installation of while results ” - impelled him into such the canon on the topmost point of the action that the Medical Superinten- Hospital ’s grounds near the RMO’s re- dent is today an institution within the sidence. The requisitioning of the Hos- institution. Mehta recalls how appal- pital by the governmen*^ at a monthly led he was by “the apathy and hostil- rate of Rs 20,000 for three years dur- ity ” with which the community faced ing World War I and Rs 23,750 for him. Reminded of poor service in the three and a half years during World past, many swore never to help the War II added somewhat to the Hospit- Hospital, he remembers, al ’s coffers; but a real windfall was the renting of the premises, immediately its joint secretary was “very poorly after it was derequisitioned by the gov- equipped, like a glorified dispensary, ernment in 1946, by the Aga Khan Le- The entire ground floor was closed due gion for a month, for one lakh twenty to lack of funds with a threat of gov- thousand rupees plus the cost of repair ernment acquisition hanging over it. and rectification that was required be- Extension A which had been started in fore the PGH could function from its 1948, had barely six patients at a time, own premises again. There were less than 80 patients in the The nurses ’ quarters were built by whole Hospital, most of them chronic Shapoorji Pallonji, recalls Dinshaw cases. ” The staff lacked inspiration Petit. “We asked for a reasonable esti- and discipline and by way of monetary mate and he quoted five and a half lakh resources, Mehta had a total income of rupees. ” When the Hospital received one lakh 10 thousand rupees including the bill after the completion of the struc- donations, wherewith to maintain and ture, a special function was organized run the Hospital, and Shapoorji Pallonji was presented the cheque and a shawl before the ban. Editor of the Jam-e-Jamshed to assembled audience. “Shapoorji Pallon- acquaint the community with the grim ji,” remembers Dinshaw Petit, “then picture, and of Dr Jehangir Wadia, asked fora contra function and returned humorist-playwright. Within a few ernment. Thus a new traditipn of Parsi Medical Amateurs was establish^. (To date, What Dinshaw Petit prides himself the group has collectec^early 40 lakh By 1971 the Ho^ital had acquired 1= 21 Parsiana November 1987 Mehta ’s philosophy - “No institu ­ tion depending on the charity of the scious of the need for growth... The institution Mehta inherited as Mehta sought the aid of Adi Marz- OUTLINES OF PARSI HISTORY Second Edition By Dastur Dr H.K. Mirza Price Rs 150 + other charges 4, Babulnath Road, Bombay 400007 Phone 8228013 Parsiana Publications require Editorial Assistant Graduates with a degree/diploma in journalism preferred. A good command of English essential. Write giving personal details, and particulars of work experience, if anv, to Parsiana Publications CPO Box 892 Bombay 400001h i fl: I I :?i J J . J i } POLITICS AND POLICY _____________ __ _ ____________________________ THE FEDERATION debates equal rights Parinaz Toddywalla All Parsi women, be they mothers, munity, the Bombay Parsi Punchayet be announced in 1988. Since the data ted only half the ’ share of thefr male exemption from the purview of the judication committee finalized, it was - - 2____ ---------------decided to extend the April 30, 1987 whether the increase of rents in old buildings. If deadline for receiving nominations. A tenth award for vocational or technical education hinges on the availability of a sponsor. ______ Mahuva ’s membership on the Fed- The fear of encroachment on the eration rolls will be confirmed once wives daughters, sisters, are permit- (BPP) will make a new application for had not been screened nor the ad- 1______, . . _ , . counterparts under the law of intestate Act which does not allow eviction or succession. To gauge ---------- " * community today favors granting governmental institutions can be ex ­ equal rights to women, and on the empted, so can trust properties, espe- same 1 a widowed son-in-law which had ted it, felt the delegates. hitherto been disregarded, members \—---- ------------------ . of the Federation of Parsi Zoroastrian Parsi property in Diu on which stands th^formalities are complied with. Anjumans of India were given one last a disused agiary, a sagri and two dokh- chance to discuss the issue at their mas has been removed with the Gov­ an juman level and submit their views < to the Federation secretariat by will be declared as public monuments hosted by the Jamshedpur Anjuman on November 15, 1987. The leeway was and protected by the Archaeological December 26 and 27, 1987, the Vyara- ’ - _ 2 Z ¦ • ’ ¦ ’’ * ---------- H council during its meeting at the Mun- the^ Simla aramgah property, the the first^week of AprilJSS. This^will be cherji Khareghat Hall, Bombay, on f , " ’ ' ’ _ ' September 5 and 6, 1987. dghts, no longer looms over the terri- While recommending that on moral tory as the title deeds are now secure grounds “a decent salary should be in the hands of Parsis. offered to all mobeds subject to availa- / , ’ . bility of resources, ” the Federation is concerns like Godrej, Airfreight, J.N. against the classification of an agiary T' ' ”, as an industry, as was declared by the Wolf, etc is being formed to try and judgment,permitting a priest to claim nical and professional manpower with- overtime, leave encashment and other in the community. perquisites enjoyed by a workman,has ------- .— -------------- I ¦ ¦ „................. J ^ <¦ Gujarat by the trustees of the Jamset- different fields in 1986 and 1987, will jee Jejeebhoy Agiary. To help mofussil anjumans which are unable to find priests to serve their agiary, the Federation ’s paramobed course, being conducted under the su- pervision of Dasturs Navrooz Wp Minochehr-Homji and Meherji Meherjirana, at their centers in Bom- HT bay and Navsari respectively, offers hope. Of the four behdins who have come forward for training, two will be working fox; remuneration, and two in an honorary capacity. On the ground that the Rent Con- trol Act is preventing the trustees from -J utilizing the trust property for the eco- ¦¦ nomically weaker stratum of the com- Hl principle recognizes the rights of daily since certain states have permit- Offers to host a Federation meeting are coming months and years in adv- ernment ’s assurance that the buildings ance. After the next meeting to be I eranted bv the Federation ’s executive Department of India. In the case of Songadh Anjuman will host another in threat, of encroachers claiming land followed by one in Bombay in August- tights, no longer looms over the terri- " ¦ ’ ’ September, and another in Calcutta in December. “Book December ’89 for us at Sanjan, ” said Homi Palsetia of A panel of Parsi entrepreneurs from Saronda who was eager that Sanjan, “ .... . _ * • Zai Bordi and Saronda jointly host a against the classification of an agiary Marshall, Thermax, Mazda, Buckau meeting. - - - - • r---------------J —I Extending a “warm welcome to all Surat Labour Court in end 1985. This match the demand and supply of tech- the delegates from the heart and weather point of view, ” Federation and BPP chairman Dr Aspi Golwalla ¦¦ ¦ -J The winners of the Federation announced that no guest speaker had been challenged in the High Court of awards, for excellence achieved in been invited so that “more opportuni ­ ties could be given to each one of you ” 1 Dasturs and k 24 Parsiana November 1987 ¦ill r '•K fiv ¦ I HThe anjumans ’ views were sought to ascertain whether women should be granted equal rights as men under the laws of intestate seccession to participate in the deliberations. The The fair heir recognized plained that the fear, that with many presence of the Federation ’s founder Respecting the sentiments of Parsi Parsi girls marrying non-Parsis, the member Maneck Gheyara, co-opted women who uptil now have been enti- wealth would be lost to the family and east zone member Ardeshir Batlivala, tied to only half the share as granted to the community, was unfounded. “If Delhi Parsi Anjuman ’s (DPA) president men under the laws of intestate succes- the non-Parsi spouse does not get it, Lt Gen Ardeshir Sethna and Homi sion. Federation ’s joint honorary the non-Parsi children will get it, ” he Ranina, the last BPP trustee to associate secretary Keki Gandhi impressed added. himself with the Federation, was ack- upon the assembly the need to make nowledged. amends in this matter on which no de- When the newcomers were asked to finite steps have yet been taken, de ­ express their views, Ranina said, spite being scheduled on the agenda at reached by the BPP trustees be circu­ lated to help the other anjumans form their opinion. Quipped Golwalla, “There are wise people in the Pun- When Batlivala pointed out, “It is not a layman ’s job to decide, ” it was suggested that the consensus decision p r I Clockwise from top left: Sethna, Ranina, Gheyara and BatUvala Left: Gandhi (at the mike) and Desai every meeting. But since most anjuman representa ­ tives had not discussed this subject at their own board meetings and hence chayet, and by that I was not including were not voicing the official viewpoint myself. ” of their respective anjumans, they were given a November 15 deadline to Priests with parallels submit their written views to the Fed ­ eration secretariat. The issues on which a consensus was sought were whether a Parsi woman should be tre ­ ated on par with the man, and extend- pletion of their year-long training. To ing the same principle, whether the be coached as paramobeds at either spouse of a deceased daughter (son-in- Bombay or Navsari, under the respec- law) could be ¦granted the same rights tive supervision of Dasturs that were permitted to the spouse of a Minochehr-Homji or Meherjirana, the deceased son (daughter-in-law). first batch of two paid and two volun- Against raising a hornet ’s nest, tary behdins will be taught the farajiat member of the Minorities Commission (obligatory) prayers and the perform- Homi Taleyarkhan said, “Af this rate ance of ceremonies like afring an, the Federation will never be able to farokhshi, satum, geh-sarna, bhoi arrive at decisions if we set the prece- bhanvanu, jashan, uthamna, etc. The dent of taking the referendum of the training costs will be shared by the community each time. ” But BPP trus- Federation, the BPP and the Iranian tee and joint honorary secretary of the Zoroastrian Anjuman (IZA) which. Federation Eruch Desai was con- during the period of training, will pro- vinced, “There must have been some vide,the paramobeds-to-be with free mature consideration by our fore- accommodation plus an allowance of To help cater to the religious needs of anjumans in mofussil areas where reg ­ ular priests cannot be found, para ­ mobeds will be deputed there on com- supervision .“There is lack of leadership in the community. The Federation would be fathers ” in not granting equal rights to Rs 600 per month. an ideal vehicle for forging new lead- a son-in-law. Depending on their financial posi- ership by which all the Parsis of India According to Gandhi ’s reasoning, tion, mofussil anjumans, which em- and abroad can come together ” On when the Indian Succession Act was ploy the trained paramobed in areas the proceedings of the two-day meet, formulated, “the dice was loaded in outside Bombay, Poona, Surat, Nav- Sethna commented, “This democratic, favor of men. In all respects a man got sari and Udwada, will be expected to articulate community conducts discus- more than the woman, hence it is not contribute towards his salary - be- sions in the best of spirits. We are liv­ ing with reality as it exists which is a son-in-law. According to Gandhi ’s reasoning. different from aspirations... ” surprising that while the spouse of a tween Rs 800 to 1,500 per month, son is rewarded, the spouse of a Additionally, paramobeds have been daughter in punished. ” He further ex- assured free accommodation, leave 25 Parsiana November 1987J travel, medical and other benefits, rendering people homeless., allow us to noted BPP trustee and Federation ’s increase rents. ” He recommended joint honorary treasurer Jamshed making a representation to the Minor- Guzder, chairman of the paramobeds ities Commission that trust properties subcommittee constituted by the Fed- be exempted from the Rent Control eration , Others on the subcommittee include Peshotan Nargolwala, west zone co-opted member, Meherjirana and Minochehr-Homji, Zal Irani of the IZA, Dr Homi Dhalla, scholar, Farrokh Sidhwa who is trustee-in-charge of the Dadar Athor- man Madressa and Prof Khurshed weaker section but where the affluent Sheriar, retired vice principal of Jai Hind College, Bombay. Since the cost of the training works them but we want to increase the ex- out to Rs 7,000 per paramobed, Gan- isting rents, but the government did dhi recommended that the prospective not accept that proposal either, ” re ­ paramobeds be made to sign an under- ported Kanga who pleaded helpless- taking that they will serve an outside ness at the government ’s logic that if anjuman, otherwise it is not worth the exemption is granted to Parsi trusts, cost. others would also start demanding it. Said Desai, “But now if there are spe ­ cial cases brought to the government ’s attention we might possibly see a ray Act in all states. If the government can exempt its f Dasturs' own undertakings by permitting rents as high as 10 percent of an employee ’s income, they can similarly allow the ? BPP to charge higher rents for flats j which are meant for the economically now reside, Gandhi reasoned. “We told them that we don ’t want to evict t Clockwise from left: Kanga, ; Kaikobad, Guzder, Ankles aria and Mistry Right: Taleyarkhan (at the mike) and Golwalla Sixty-three mobeds requiring monet ­ ary assistance were the recipients of Rs 75,600 expended by the BPP’s Mobed of hope. ’’ Amelioration Scheme this year. Said Rustom Anklesaria, chief executive of Monumental protection the BPP, “Any trust which can aug ­ ment our funds like the N.M. Wadia Trust, which donated Rs 25,000 last dokhmas will be preserved as a nation- year, would be of help. ” Sup- al monument by the Government of plemented BPP trustee Jamsheed tndia, assured Tateyarkhan. The Kanga, “The issue is not only helping monuments will be protected by the mobeds but generating the feeling that Archaeological Department, but in the community. As per Sethna ’s a mobed is essential to the community the meanwhile, for the surrounding advice, “Thoughts for anything other and all should contribute to his ame- ’dokhma land, the Federation is trying than an aramgah should be put lioration. ” Instead of wasting money to negotiate with the encroachers to aside...Swapping for another piece of on “dekha-dekhi (outdoing the obtain the highest price. land is just not feasible. ” Respecting Joneses) ” at weddings and navjotes, “ Kanga suggested that the money be usurp the aramgah property in Simla, Utilized for the priests ’ betterment. If the Governor of Himachal Pradesh, ceed with long-term plans. ” there is a noble purpose, “no one will Vice Admiral Rustom Gandhi, was feel ke naak kapai jase (humiliated). Let the Press give recognition to such parties. ” are now in our possession and a full- Anjuman to the safekeeping of the Lt Gen Sethna struck a different time watchman has been appointed to Federation ’s central storage system. note saying, “When you (the Federa- look after the cemetery, ” informed Keki Gandhi especially appreciated tion) are doing such a good job, I trust DPA trustee Rusi Engineer. Marker ’s initiative realizing the diffi- the emphasis wilt be given to Zoroas- ~ trian ethics. We need not only prayers but religious leadership. ” The Parsi property in Diu on which once stood an agiary, a sagri and two I I J the obtain the highest price. Fearing that some trespassers might the sentiments of the Pestorijees, Seth ­ na cautioned, “Let us gradually pro­ Setting a precedent, Gp Capt Dhun- asked to intervene in the matter. With jishaw Marker entrusted a set of dupli- his assistance, “the legal documents cates of the records of the Mhow are now in our possession and a full- time watchman has been appointed to DPA trustee Rusi Engineer. To assist the last Parsi family in Sri- cutties encountered by the Federation nagar, the Pestonjees, to look after in tracing records and getting new trus ­ their property, on the Federation ’s re- tees appointed for defunct anjumans commendation Lt Gen Sethna was like Cambay, Nanded and Junagarh. Rent reins appointed trustee of the Kashmir Kanga was more specific, “Keeping Make an application to the govern- Parsee Zoroastrian Aramgah Fund, records is not sufficient. They may ment with a fresh perspective, telling The aramgah, located in the canton- only dump old papers on us,” and sug- them that the Rent Control Act is pre- ment area, is “the best among the ones gested the records be screened before venting the trustees from fulfilling the I have seen, ” according to Sethna, but storage. objects of the trust (housing the needy in need of funds for its maintenance and the poor), Gandhi motivated the and upkeep. Since land in Kashmir can BPP trustees. The government should only be owned by a Kashmiri subject, be given an option: “If you cannot per- the Federation is trying to stave off the Parsi property have been lost due to mit large scale eviction due to fear of possibility of the property being lost to the absence of Zoroastrians from the He suggested making a representa ­ tion to the chief ministers of the con­ cerned state that where rights to the 26 Parsiana November 1987site, such lapses should be condoned membership on the World Zoroastrian WZO president Shahpur Captain in by the government. Organisation (WZO)] doesn ’t come Golwalla ’s name. up again. Before the next meeting (of Seats for students the Federation) at Jamshedpur, every- the managing committee members and Most Parsi-founded colleges, when thing should be settled, ” assured Dadi two-thirds of the office-bearers will be approached by BPP trustee and vice- Mistry, DPA trustee and vice- elected only by the associations, and chancellor of the Bombay University president of the WZO. His confidence the balance one-third by the individual Dr Mehroo Bengalee, reportedly suggested that there might be a break- members. Further, the Federation is claimed to have no knowledge of any through in the stalemate on the nego- to nominate the anjumans ’ representa- Parsi settlor laying down a stipulation tiations between the Federation which tives and office-bearers from India, for admission to Parsis. But Gandhi felt that Bengalee ’s letter must have to anjumans-associations in been construed as “whether donations WZO’s general body and managing were received with a view to seeking committee, and the WZO which was tee and general body meetings, cir­ culation of documents concerning the meetings, the rights of the members to vote by post were also detailed. The autonomy of every anjuman- association to conduct its internal affairs free from the intervention of the WZO was emphasized. That the WZO’s work in India be henceforth carried on through the Federation and not its India committee which should cease to function, was also demanded, as was also the need for the WZO to comply with the provisions of the laws in India. The WZO was also expected to be more forthcoming in its informa ­ tion on the strength of the membership in the (different categories in different countries, and to utilize the available funds solely for “the promotion and fulfillment of its objects ” and not to “The only bone of contention is the sponsor air passage and hotel costs of the members of the managing commit ­ tee. There was a plea that two-thirds of was demanding two-thirds weightage with the chairman of the BPP enjoying to anjumans-associations in the 50 percent of these allocation rights. The venue of the managing commit- reservation ” and suggested instead insisting on a fifty-fifty parity be ­ that members personally dig out such tween anjumans-associations and indi- information like in the case of one Par- viduals. r si who had sent him a photograph of a plaque at the Victoria Jubilee Technic- two-third - one-third representation, al Institute which bears a Parsi donor ’s On all other points we are.agreeable, ” name. Golwalla, a medical practitioner, was of the view: “I don ’t think any in­ stitution in retrospect is going to con­ sider reserving seats for Parsis. ” He and I have every reason to hope that thing to think about, ” the BPP con- recommended instead that the things will improve. ducted a holiday program for students coaching fees of some select intelligent Kanga: This one step forward and two who had appeared for their school leaving examinations. The convener, Dr Ketayun Madon noted, “We did not want them to be just second class noted Mistry. Kanga enquired of Mis­ try, “Are you authorized to make this Springboard for youths statement? ” “To keep children off the streets dur- Mistry. Yes I am the vice-president ing vacations and to give them some- students, who stood a greater chance steps backward is going on. of getting admission in professional Desai: So what? colleges on their own merit, be fi- Ranina: Dadi takes the responsibility. nanced, as is presently being done by Golwalla: Before I retire I’d like to see graduates. ” But Gandhi insisted that the BPP and the Godrej Foundation, this issue settled. mere performance at the graduation Optimism flowed in- from Taleyar- Mistry: I hope so, otherwise I will res- examination need not be the deciding khan who was confident that chief ign (from the WZO). factor to judge a student ’s ability: “I ministers of some states would allocate G • seats to one or two Zoroastrian stu- assurances be supplemented by writ ­ dents, who have secured high marks, ten commitments. Pursuant to a man- from the chief minister ’s discretionary aging committee decision, along with success rate ofthe program, Anklesar- quota. When it was pointed out that the minutes of the last meeting, he had ia replied: “In social transformation this verbal assurance could be only circulated a note detailing the areas in programs, results are very slow.” But temporary, he stated, “A change of which the WZO should be more expli- the organizers took pride in singling policy is not correlated to a change of cit if it wishes to become a “truly rep- out Khushroo Merchant, one of the re ­ chief minister... ” resentative world body of Zoroas- sponsible students of the batch who trians ” and have the Federation ’s was invited to the Federation delibera- World body weighted membership on it. He proposed that a tions on the second day to give his im- “I hope the topic [the Federation ’s letter based on these points be sent to pressions of the program and the Fed- Gandhi was keen that the verbal myself am third class graduation mate ­ rial but have done well as a CA...” When Kanga enquired about the 27 Parsiana November 1987iT'Si’- ft tude, should be studied and a solution sought, advised Prof Noshir Kaiko- eration ’s style of functioning from the eyes of a youth. In future, the BPP is planning to organize a program geared bad, convener of the BPP’s counsell- for grsiduate-level students. ing projects. Kanga pointed out, “With a university degree, at least the marriage prospects are brighter. ’’ To solve this problem, a panel of ing projects. Kanga pointed out, Since the youths “don ’t like to be lec ­ tured at, ” an across-the-table discus ­ sion was to be the mode of functioning Parsi entrepreneurs will detail the at the three-day First All-India ¦ — I areas where there would be openings Zoroastrian Youth Seminar hosted by for Parsi boys in their firms so that the DPA from October 22-24, 1987. training in those specific fields could “This will be a sounding board for be encouraged. Though Gandhi re ­ youths in the 19 to 35 age-group to give them a chance to be involved in community activities... such aspects as discussed today (at the view Tetter (sent to the candidate) , or Federation meeting), ” emphasized if there was one, there would be no Sethna. His invitation to different anjumans to sponsor youths was lated the earlier experiences of the subcommittee on job opportunities go through when either “there would be no inter- such aspects as discussed today (at the ' , pg IV interview turn-up, ” he was willing to make a renewed attempt to match the accepted almost instantaneously with demand and supply of manpower by 35 commitments coming in from Bom- f bay, Agra, Ajmer, Calcutta, Jhansi, ---------------- Hyderabad, Ahmednagar, Pune, Baroda, Mhow, Bharuch, Saronda, Surat, Navsari and IZA. Asked Ank- (Above) lesaria, in mock earnestness “What is Khareghat the matrimonial target? ” Building: venue of the Federation meet forming a new subcommittee. Noted The cost of circulation The registration for the Gujarati edi ­ tion of the Fed Newsletter was cancel- (Right) led because of irregularity of publica- Commissariat tion, informed Gandhi. But when and Dittia Anklesaria shouldered the responsibil- right) ity of translating and posting the Gu- Representati- jarati version, commitments to spon­ sor monthly issues came readily: BPP offered to finance six, Baroda two, Saronda and Zai Bordi jointly two. Thana one, Dastur and Co of Calcut ­ ta two. The response to the English edition and financiers like Guzder, Engineer, is “good and regular ” in the words of Sethna, Minoo Shroff, Homi Mehta, Gandhi who was happy with the feed- E..... T?_ . ¦ j back. The overseas circulation has re- Aspi Irani have confirmed that they growing industry but you have to com- portedly crossed the SOO-mark. Nearly will serve on the panel, while others pete to get into it. It won’t drop from nine-tenths of the total expenditure in- like Naoroji Godrej, Dhunjishaw heaven like manna. ” curred by the Federation in the last Netarwala, Darius Forbes, Dara Tuition fees of candidates-enrolling -¦ • " .« for coaching courses for entry into civil and defence services are being offered When Guzder announced opportu- by the BPP but unfortunately there are not many takers. If attendance at these courses is over 90 percent, full reim- ____ ________ __________________ ,_____ , bursement is promised. As explained the ” monthly deficit of Rs l,00a partner at°Mulla and Mulla and by Anklesaria, “When the coaching is Craigie, Blunt and Caroe, volun- free, (there is a tendency) not to take Parental decree on university degree____teered, “I have passed my law! ” Guz- it seriously, ” so they have made reim- Whether it is fear of venturing into der in a similar light vein responded, bursement contingent^ on the attend- technical fields which may not have “I , . . job security, or whether it is parental ment. ” Golwalla voiced his misgivings aspirations that prompt Parsi students about whether all these job opportuni- to opt for graduation courses even ties in Bombay would imply that out- though they may not have the apti- station applicants would approach the vesfrom Thana businessmen, industrialists, hoteliers BPP for accommodation. Seeing the general preference _____ among Parsis for travel and tourism Dara Deboo, Minoo Belgamvala and jobs, Sethna revealed, “It is a fast nine-tenths of the total expenditure in- like Naoroji Godrej, Dhunjishaw heaven like manna. - - - ....... . Darius Forbes, Dara five months was on publication and Damania and Rohinton Aga are yet to circulation of the Fed Newsletter, be approached. Sponsorship advertisements at Rs ’ 2,500 per issue do not cover even the nities for management trainees with postage costs, but Gandhi was hopeful preference to those having a post- that voluntary contributions would help graduate degree in law, Desai, a senior cover 1 Craigie, Blunt and Caroe, volun­ teered, “I have passed my law! ” Guz- I must come to you for employ- ance at the coaching class. 28 Parsiana November 1987 Confide, advite and guide Couples should be encouraged to make one final attempt at reconcilia-i tion, utilizing the services of a part- a disciplined life...The one a historian who could then update the time counsellor, before the divorce thing that is common throughout all material annually. The time span and ' case comes up in the Parsi Matrimo- the sessions is the fact that they are the slant of the work - whether from nial Court, it was suggested. The views structured to build up our mental and the viewpoint of community growth or 1 of the counsellor should also carry spiritual resources...Now I know what individuaV accomplishment - was not weight with the jury which decides the is and was wrong with my thoughts and finalized. case. feelings, and why and where all my The environmental study approach complexes sprang from... (I believe) Two flats in Dadar, intended for use as and the use of creative devices in that the Parsi Punchayet has set up a a day-care center where -couples could teaching the subject syllabus will be special fund to help Parsi addicts vide leave their children under the care of imparted to 16 teachers selected from Russell Pinto ’s organization and I competent personnel while they are at schools covered by the BPP’s school write to assure you that do not ever work, will be needed to provide transit counselling service. Fifty percent of doubt that there may be something shelter to families who vacate their top the training costs of this project, Rs lacking in the Rehab... ” floor flats while the BPP builds an 3,000, will be borne by the Federation. Extending the shade of the BPP additional storey on their building to Students facing problems of scholas- umbrella to Parsis scattered through- maximize on the floor space index tic backwardness, behavioral and out the world including “anjumans available. “The ideal choice for an adjustment difficulties, continue to re- like Bangalore and Ahmedabad which alternative site would be a ground ceive ihdividual and group therapy/ are not members but whom we are floor flat as it would be more con- counselling. While career guidance willing to help, ” Golwalla said in Gu- venient from the point of view of the “ * , children, ” said Anklesaria. 1 t 1 j h 1 I jt 1 ) ¦i t fi IS 4i I ! I was offered to some students, those jarati, ""Jyan jyan vase ek Zarthoshti, j tyan tyan BPP (No matter where Par- I sis reside, the Parsi Punchayet, Bom- Those attending the meeting were J bay, is ready to lend succor).” Mehernosh Mehta and Eruch Gai of Gandhi reiterated his plea to anju- Ahmednagar; Capt Homi Dandiwalla i mans to come forward and implement of Allahabad; Hoshang Baldawala of such projects to the benefit of their Bardoli; Baman Cama and Shavak own and neighboring anjumans. “Is it Patel of Baroda; Minochaher Bhar- constraint of finance or organizing ucha'of Bhavnagar; Dr Aspi Golwalla, I capacity? ” he asked. Dittia sought to Eruch Desai, Jamsheed Kanga, Jam- reassure him: “The effects may not be shed Guzder, Minoo Shroff, Homi palpable l?ut sooner or later, by the Ranina, Ms Gool Tata, Noshir Kaiko- process of osmosis, the thinking bad and Dr Ketayun Madon of Bom- touches others...The BPP trustees, bay; Erach Kapadia of Broach; Adi during the course of their duties, Rabadi of Calcutta; Lt Gen Adi Seth- should find time for other anjumans. ” na, Keki Gandhi, Dadi Mistry, Rusi Computers, compilations, child care To encourage interest in computers vala co-opted from east zone; Aspi among Zoroastrian students, the Fed- Irani of Iranian Zoroastrian Anjuman; with leadership potential were de- eration approved “in principle ” the Ronny Dick of Jhansi; Minoo Belgam- puted to attend a leadership camp at mode of working of the computer vala of Madras; Gp Capt Dhunjishaw Deolali organized by the Leslie Sa- course outlined by Ms Silloo Commis- Marker of Mhow; Dara Deboo of i ¦ - ^9 p I ¦J t' J ' ‘ - < I t *u % -J -fi H/to spin a book. During one of the inter- house competitions in school, my house did not have any item. So they put me in and my house won. Ever since then... ” he trails off. Dinyar and Farokh have performed many shows together, since their first invitation from the club of Peico Electro ­ nics and Electricals Ltd to participate in a show at the K. C. College hall on Jun; 7, 1986. Farokh liad also performed for the Press Club, Bombay, when the chief minister of Maharashtra, S. B. Chavan was the chief guest. The frequency of the shows varies. They may get an invitation once in two months or even twice a month. Indivi- luals or companies may request them for an item lasting 15 to 20 minutes. Rumi personally supervises the prepa ­ rations. Special training before a show in­ volves urine therapy “...the best tonic... A fortnight before a show, Farokh and the body, ” informs Rumi, myself, consume two to three glasses of urine daily. That gives a lot of vitality to 55 Above: Farokh using his eye to bend an iron rod held by Rumi Photo courtesy : Studio Suder Below: Dinyar spinning a thali Thus far, nobody has challenged either Rumi ’s or Farokh ’s strength. “The audien ­ ce is too stunned, ” says Rumi jokingly. Besides being a Bruce Lee fan, Rumi ’s second love, “after my wife, is carrom. My father, Sorabji Tatary was a very good carrom player. ” Rumi has represent ­ ed his company (Bombay Dyeing) and co­ I 32 Parsiana November 7 987 Having met with no accidents c«i stage so far, they don ’t take any safety precau ­ tions or keep any medical aid nearby. “Only during the knife act, there are small cuts, (if the knife does not fall straight on the stomach) but I just apply spirit, ” says Farokh matter-of-factly. ------------ r—x---—. . “ m j And does Farokh have any side effects lony (Avabai Kashinath Colony, Tardeo) at many carrom tournaments and won ma ­ ny trophies. He also writes poetry in his. spare time. On the other hand, Farokh, who is an overseer at R. Bharatkumar and Co, a dia ­ mond cutting and sorting factory, likes to watch Hindi movies and is very adept at I mo­ ther, “Farokh sings very well, specially qawaU and sad songs.” Besides this, Fa ­ rokh is a good wrestler and was the runner- up at the Maharashtra state level in the 56 - — - - ” ' " ’ 1 won many wrestling bouts in school. after a particular item? Only “after the act where I bend the iron rod with my eye, there is a second or two of blindness where I have to hold on to someone for support. Cuts and bruises are all part of the game but otherwise there are no serious side effects, ” he notes. ......----------------- Mehroo disclaims all sense of fear learning dialogues. Says the proud while her son is performing, adding that if it weren ’t for her constant encourage ­ ment, Rumi and Farokh wouldn ’t have been able to do these feats. “During one „ of Farokh ’s performances, an old lady and 62 kilogram category. He^had also Rumi, who stepped down from the limelight (“My last show was on March 22, 1985”) to make way for Farokh, is seriously thinking of making- a come ­ back. Expressing a desire to do a show where both father and son will perform the same feats of strength side-by-side, Rumi wants to prove to the audience that what a son can do at the age of 19, a father can do at 45. For future shows, Rumi wants to introduce two new acts amongst others for Farokh — stopping two Fiat cars with his hands (done in the open) and walked up to me and said, ‘Tame keva moi chhao, tamun^ kai thatu nathi? (What kind of a mother are you! Don’t you feel anything?) ’ ” chuckles Mehroo. Being present at all the shows “at any cost, ” Mehroo says, “In fact when my father died in 1974, we attended the ) in the evening, picked up lire props and went to the show later on.” To ward off disturbance from the audience, “before I start daddy announces that only those who can bear to watch such a performance may remain seated because if there is even a single sound I get distracted. Many pregnant ladies get — , . up and leave the auditwium, ” says Farokh allowing a stone slab weighing IW - • *¦ pounds, to be broken on the head. “I know it ’s dangerous, ” admits Farokh, “but I want to do it and if I’m confident, why not? ” K IctUlCI UICU 111 4 paidust (funeral) * tlip. nrnns and we seriously. Farokh practices at the gym for an hour every morning. He is, besides, a student of judo expert Sensei Pervez Mistry. 1 4Niloofer J. Madon ¦ -J A KICK After a lapse of three years, two all- joined in the laughter when a particu- weekends, each half of the game con- Parsi football tournaments were held larly strong kick sent the ball hurling sisted of only 25 minutes for the pre ­ in August and September this year, through the air and into the inviting liminary matches and 35 minutes for The first was Organized by the Sir Ness branches of a banyan tree in a corner the semi-finals and finals (as against Wadia Club of Rustbm Baug in which of the field. the usual 45). Thus, the organizers the Wadia Sports Club of Chira Bazar Football is usually played by two were able to accommodate 15 games pipped Rustom Baug in a tie-breaker, teams of 11 members each. Each team on each day of the first weekend. (The Cusrow Baug lost in the semifinals. It aims to score the maximum number of second weekend was reserved for the was this disappointment of defeat that goals while preventing their opponents semifinals and finals.) made footballer Hoshi Deboo of Cus- from doing so. (Owing to the small ~ row Baug organize another All- dimensions of the Cusrow Baug lawn, tournament, an entrance fee of Rs 100 Parsees Football Tournament over however, teams were restricted to nine per team was charged, which took care two consecutive weekends starting members with three reserves.) September 5. Deboo asked the Cus- _ row Baug United Sports and Welfare finals, it was the Wadia Sports Club League for permission to hold a foot- which again lifted the rotating trophy ball meet and went about organizing and was awarded a prize of Rs 501 the event along with friend, Homiyar donated by Cusrow Baug resident, Madon. Ushi Peshotan. The best player of the Teething troubles were, however. Tournament, Khushroo Vaid of not noticeable at least on the day of Wadia Baug, who is also the captain of the semifinals, played on the lush main the cricket team of the Parsee Gym ­ lawn of Cusrow Bang (as were all khana, received Rs 101 donated by the other games in the Tournament) in Cusrow Baug League. Moreover, all front of the Karani Agiary. Unfortu- 18 finalists received a silver plated nately, barely 30 spectators turned out medal at the hands of Dr Dinyar to watch the game. Most preferred to Gamadia, president of the Cusrow squat on the cool grass under the Baug League, and chief guest at the sweltering afternoon sun, while prize distribution. The Tournament others, mindful of ants, opted to stand was followed by a jam session on the throughout the game. The lucky ones, last evening, attended by around 100 residing in buildings surrounding the people, field, were able to get a panoramic “ view of the proceedings. The audience made up for its small smile. “We went to all the bangs and of three new balls, the cost of the chu- number by being overly vocal, enthu- met the presidents, ” to familiarize na (lime) which is used to mark the siastically applauding or passing loud them with the event. Twelve teams fil- boundaries of the playing field,and the remarks (mainly for the amusement of led the entry forms and “as soon as we cost of the silver-coated medals for the the viewers) as and when the occasion received the forms, we made the finalists. The nets were borrowed from arose. A huge, brown dog who, obli- draws, ” says Deboo. The 12 teams Rustom Baug as was the referee, vious to the intricacies of the game, were divided into two groups - A and Rumie Gazdar, who oversaw the semi ­ barked loudly as he thought fit proved B - comprising six teams each. Each finals and finals. Earlier matches were to be an added attraction on the day. team had to play every other team in refereed by the Cusrow Baug players The players themselves Were far too the group at least once. The vzinners in themselves. A disused trophy “lying busy trying to get possession of the ball the two groups would then play each with the League ” was polished and to worry about the advice, orders and other. constituted the prize for the winning remarks thrown out to them by the ~ spectators, though at one stage they the Tournament to drag over many Though Cusrow Baug entered the The organization of the meet “was a headache, ” notes Deboo with a wry 34 Parsiana November 1987 To defray the costs of holding such a I 'it I Because the organizers did not want team. “The competition is not all thatAthree-yearlull in the all-Parsi football tournaments ended with Rustom Baug and Cusrow Baug holding two such events this year in the right direction •i Most Parsi baugs hold some sports Wadia Cup (contended originally by A team winning all the three keen. The standard of sports (in the baugs) has gone down, ” says Rumie event every year, the main aim for only the Wadia colonies) and the Gazdar, former joint honorary secret- most being, as Deboo puts it, Robin Shroff Trophy (the most presti- ary of the Sir Ness Wadia Club of Rus- "'ramiye — majha kunye (let ’s play and gious of all). tom Baug. “Though the response is have some fun).” Earlier, the Parsi good, boys are not taking that much Cyclists Sports Club had been organiz- trophies would win the “triple crown.” interest. ” ing annually, three football tourna- Todaythesetournamentsarenotplay- Deboo, however, begs to differ: “It ments at their grounds at Azad ed, as the Parsi Cyclists ground is in a is not amateur playing. There is real Maidan “for donkey ’s years, ” says sorry state. Yet most baugs hold their fighting in the finals, ” but adds sadly, Gazdar. The tournaments were played own all-Parsi tournaments. Ever since “People don ’t play with the right spir- for three prestigious trophies - The Rohinton Iranpur, one of the regular it. ” ! ! >• Bapava Zaveri Football Shield, The and respected organizers of Cusrow Baug, emigrated, there had unfortu ­ nately been a lull in the football scene, broken only when Rustom Baug held its meet under the presidentship of -I ; ( Facing page (clockwise from top left) Deboo, Madon, . Shroff and Gazd ar The finalists vying with each other for the ball, with the Wadia Sports Club (above) emerging as victors T ournament photos : Homyar Mistry Homiar Shroff. Other tournaments are held regularly and may number three to four in a single year for the same event. Such tournaments in­ crease the camaraderie between the baugs and are relatively cheaper to hold, says Gazdar. The Cusrow Baug League now wishes to hold a floodlit football tournament which, according to De ­ boo, will attract a sizable crowd (since people in the Baug are always “walk ­ ing around from 6 to 9 pm ”) and would be “fun in the evening. ” 35 Parsiana November 1987 )F EDUCATION La One hundred years ago, a young Parsi girl passed the final year^ig Bachelor of Arts examinationJ|||| and became the first femalejBg graduate in Western India. She was Cornelia Sorabji,* says Kusoom Vadgamain her book, India in Britain, (published in London by Robert Royce in 1984) which traces the influence ' and activities of Indians in Britain during the Raj. When Sorabji entered the Deccan College at Poona in 18847^ she made history, being the first and only lady to do so. College life, how- ever,was not easy, for she had to con­ tend with the prejudices of the other students. In an age when even secondary education for females was not universal, her aspiring to a college education attracted much criticism. “She felt keenly her isolated position among up­ wards of 300 men, who, with the ex ­ ception of two Englishmen and a few Parsis, were all Hindus, and who naturally looked with no kindly eye upon this rara avis (rare person), ” re ­ ported The Graphic of March 10, 1888. Though subjected to annoyances, Sorabji persevered, “winning golden opinions from principals and profes ­ sors alike. ” She was an outstanding student, received no concessions on account of her sex - she studied Latin, a notoriously difficult language - and held a scholarship each year of her course. Taking honors each time, Sorabji was ‘Hughlings scholar ’ in 1885, hav ­ ing topped the University in English, . and ‘Havelock prizeman ’ at the end of the same year, having stood first in the Deccan College in English. Sorabji ’s brilliant academic achieve ­ ments roused the aspirations of other young women alone:- “Her Jjrave, young women. her example has already borne fruit, ” reported The Graphic, “two Parsi ------------j -- --------- ladies and one Jewess having sought of the Parsi and Hindu young men admission into the colleges at Bombay with whom she daily comes into con- and Poona. ” Her influence, claimed tact. ” The Graphic, was not restricted to T— ------ ------ -------------- i if / November 1887 saw Sorabji justify her professors ’ confidence in her by emerg ­ ing as the only student from her college who succeeded in winning first class honors. She was one of only four in the entire Bombay Presidency I who did so. I A Parsi Christian and I the daughter of Rev Sorabji FKhurshedji, honorary mission ­ ary of the Church Missionary Society of Poona, Sorabji had been en ­ couraged by her parents throughout her academic career. Her mother, in fact, felt so strongly about female education in India that she visited En­ gland in 1886 to plead its cause. Cornelia taught English for a year at a Gujarat University, and then in 1889, she entered Somerville College at Oxford to read law. With her entrance into this field, Sorabji ’s attention was drawn to the legal needs of women. In 1904 she proposed a scheme “for providing pur­ dah ladies with qualified legal assist ­ ance in the administration of their estates. ” The India Office considered her suggestion, and her appointment by the Bengal Government as “legal advisor to the purdahnashin, or women kept in zenanas (quarters re ­ served for the women of the house ­ hold) of the Court of Wards ” was re ­ ported by The Graphic of August 6, 1904. By virtue of her womanhood, Sorabji was able to visit the zenanas where no male lawyer would ever have b^en admitted. Thus, for the first time, women living in purdah had ac ­ cess to legal advice which their seclu ­ sion from male visitors had hitherto made impossible. Unfortunately, Vadgama ’s book traces Sorabji ’s career no further than 1904, and we can learn nothing about her subsequent activities. Her achieve- ___ ____________________ ments, however, were already con- cannot fail to raise the character siderable - besides her professional attempts to better the lot of women living in purdah, her academic career had forced the public to acknowledge that women were capable of brilliant The final B.A. examination of and sustained scholastic effort. The first lady bachelor Battling prejudice and criticism, Cornelia Sorabji became western India's first female graduate Joy Fernandes Sorabji ’s brilliant academic achieve- 'Among her own sex, high-souled, gentle behavior and influ­ ence c_____ _____ ____ — and ability of women in the estimation 37 Parsiana November 1987 ( f ( i ¦Jk 1 I MILESTONES L - A boy to Combin and Percy Khambatta-, October 24 A girl to Zenobia and Kersi Lakdawalla', October 25 A boy, Yohan, to Zarin and The data on births, marriages alphabetical order, and deaths has been compiled II—. 21---------- 1_1------ 1 SI -I from information provided by the 75 Parsis who died in Bom- various anjumans in India and bay in October ’87. The next abroad, courts and hospitals, most important killers were The list of Parsi marriages was old age and debility (claiming Viraf Godrej', October 26 made available to us by the 10), pneumonia (seven), can- AgirltoK/iMw/iidandA/Znoo Sarkari; October 27 A boy to Banoo and Cyrus Khambatta', October 28 A boy, Farzad, to Jeroo and Homi Medhora ', October 28 A girl, Shara, to Shirin and Meherwanji Batliboi; October 29 A girl to Niloffer and Farhid Palia', October 29 A boy to Yasmine and Daraius Sidhwa', O’ctober 31 Heart disease claimed 30 of made available to us by the 10), pneumonia (seven), can- Bombay High Court. This first cer (five), bronchitis (four), listing included the marriages diabetes (four) and kidney fai- registered with the High Court lure (three), between July 1 and October arthritis, t_L. registered with the High Court lure (three). Septicemia, between July 1 and October arthritis, tuberculosis and 31. Hereafter, the marriages hypertension claimed isolated will be listed on a regular victims. A three-month-old monthly basis. The information gathered is not always uniform. For exam ­ ple, the list of Bombay deaths pertains overwhelmingly to those who were consigned to the dokhmas, and there too, though the addresses were known, the names of the fami ­ ly members were not. From other anjumans we have baby, a 25-year-old, and a 39- year-old were also lost to the community. This breakdown of the causes of death is limited to Bombay as Parsiana has re ­ ceived no information on the subject from other anjumans. In order to ensure the au ­ thenticity of the data, Parsiana other anjumans we have only accepts information for gathered names of family publication if it is received members but no addresses, from an anjuman, renowned The information largely per- Parsi institution, court or gov- tains to the preceding month, yet in case of outstation anju ­ mans we have incorporated mated, news of happenings which may be considered dated. Marriages community couples as well as Married Kashmira Soli Mistry and Fersos Sohrab Daruwala of Madras; May 7 Meher Kersasp Wadia and Tehmul Sorab Patel', May 12" Gulshan Rustomji Chivelwalla and Homi Dinshaw Gac, May 14 Amy Manchershaw Chaina and Jimmy Jehangir Banker, bers could approach us direct- May 28 ly with the information. If readers have any informa ­ children born of such unions tion they would like published, are listed. some proof to ensure the The data is being presented veracity of the report would be city-wise, the events being required. We are sure our read- listed in the city where they ers will appreciate this require- Shapoor Rusi Nargolwallw, occurred, in chronological and ment and cooperate with us. July 6 _________________ ______________ __________ Nergish Faredun Irani (Shokrekhoda) and Kaiomarz Gustad Kermani', July 9 Havovi Dady Mistry and Burjis Nariman Shroff', July 10 Freny Dara Mevawalla and ernment authority. When a deceased is cre- would appreciate if the family mem- Parsiana of inter- ment and cooperate with us. BOMBAY Born A girl to Mani and Homiyar Gowadia on October 1,1987 A boy to Benaifer and Keki Amrolia', October 2 A boy to Parizad and Sharukh Calcuttawalla-, October 4 A boy to Kerbanoo and Rayomand Hira', October 5 A boy to Thrity and Yezdi Shroff', October 5 A boy to Arnavaz and Shy am lYfldja; October 5 A girl to Parvin and Jawaher Havewala', October 6 A girl to Hira and Zabir Todiwalla', October 10 A boy to Sanober and Kelly Surty, October 11 A girl to Meher and Vinod Mody, October 12 A girl to Havovi and Kersi Sethna ', October 13 A girl to Armaity and Homi Antia', October 14 A girl to Armaity and Zersis Irani', October 14 A boy to Purnoor and Burzis Taraporevalla', October 15 A girl to Pervin and Fershid Achhadwala', October 16 A girl to Roshan and Noshir Balsara', October 16 A boy to Roxana and Farookh Mehta', October 20 A girl to Frany and Eddie Paliw, October 20 A boy to Aarti and Baukam Vakil', October 20 A girl to Meher and Khushru Patel', October 21 A boy to Diana and Darayus Vazifdar', October 22 A boy, Yazad, to Tanaz and Dinyar Engineer; October 24 38 Parsiana November 1987 Darabshaw Mistry, August 16 Farida Faramroz Dhanidaduna and Percy Rohinton Daruwala of Jaipur; August 25 Mahrukh Rusi Kaikobad and Sarosh Godrej Rustom of Canada; September 14 Veera Maneck Bharda of Hubli and Sharukh Bahadur Engineer', September 21 Khurshid Parvez Fitter and Khodaram Faredoon Zandbaf ', September 22 Farida Homi Avari and Rohinton Limji Bhathenw, September 27 Katty Ratanshaw Bhathena and Homi Rustomji Wadiw, September 29 Hufrish Rohinton Munshi and Vispi Homi Balaporiw, October 3 Tinaz Firoz Shroff and Farrokh Homi Balaporia ; October 3 Kashmira Bomi Sholapurwalla and Sarosh Tehemtan Dubash', October 3 Kashmira Faredoon Chithiwalla and Cyrus Khurshedji Anklesaria; Amy Pestonji Mistry and Homi October 4 Ratansha Boga; May 29 Armiti Tahmuras Aryarifar and Shahzad Rustom Amuyan', June 30 Jasmine Soli Patel and Anahita Nariman Irani and Aspi Merwan Jarrah', October 6 Roxana Jal Bhatnena and Mehernosh Homi Khushrushai\ October 11 Parin Khodayar Farhadi and Shahzad Hooshan^ Bakht; October 26 Died Bachamai Jehangirji Contractor (86), residing at Shapur Darius Balsara; July 12 326 Karim Bldg, Grant Rd, Aban Homi Dubash and Rusi Pestonji Karanjia; July 18 Khurshid Kaikhushru Madan of Nagpur and Dhan Neriosang Tata ; July 26 Farida Soli Karbhari and Shyamak Ramyar Tata; August 6 Mani Vicaji Meherhomji and Pervez Nusserwanji Surkari; August 9 Mahnaz Sohrab Kadkhodayan and Keyomars Sahbehram Yazdani', August 12 Rashna Fakirji Gandhi and Adil Kershasp Ghadiali; August 13 Firozi Eruch Elavia and Fall 400007; on September 30 Aloo Nariman Davier 31 Tulips, 71 Napean Sea Rd, 400006; September 30 Shirinbai Nawroji Driver (99), Pradyu Sadan, Ambedkar Rd, 400019; September 30 Pochaji Nuserwanji Ganjia (82), Dubash Bldg, Kashinath Rd, Tardeo, 400034 ;October 1 Pervez Phirojshah Mehta (72), CVo Shanti Lobo, Vir Sambhaji Ngr, L.B.S; Marg, Mulund, 400080; October 1 Tehmina Kharsnedji Driver (80), Dr Daji Bldg, 25-A Station Rd, Mahim, 400016; October 2 i3' ’V Banoobai Faramroz Karbari (78), Cawasji Dhanjishah Bg, S.V. Rd, Goregaon, 400062; October 2 Cooverbai Dinshawji Tachakara (88), Albless Widows ’ Chawl, Room 8, Marzban Clny, 400008; October 2 Dinamai Hormusji Mistry (Rudina) (78), Burjor Bldg, Wadia St, 400034; October 3 Khorshed Phirozshah Kharas (90), Pitruchhaya, U.K.Narrange Marg, New Gamdevi, 400007; October 4 Piloo Shavak Vesuna (65), 781 Readymoney Bldg, Joshi Rd, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 400014; October 4 Nariman D. Bharucha (72), M-9 Bharucha Bg, S.V. Rd, Andheri, 400058; October 5 Ratanshaw Navroji Contractor (73), 125 Cumballa Hill, 400036; October 5 Navroji Burjorji Kadodwala (84), F.S. Parukh Dharamshalla, 34 Hughes Rd, 400007; October 5 Rustom Merwanji Kaieli (70), Palamkot Hall, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 400014; October 5 Tehmina Rattanshah Langrana (85), P-14 Nowroze Bg, Lalbaug, 400012; October 5 Piroja Framroze Pastakia (86), 102 Pushpanjali, S.V. Rd, Santacruz (W), 400054; October 5 Mervan Sohrabji Doctor (83), Batliwala Villa, 44-C Sleater Rd, 400007; October 6 Jamshed Rustomji Patel (75), 43 Trinity St, Machliwala Chwl, Dhobitalao, 400002; October 6 Pheroze Dinshaw Bamboat (65), Asha Sadan, A-301 Anand Ngr, Vasai (W); October 7 Dhunmai Jijibhoy Khan (63), C-8 Godrej Bg, Napean Sea Rd, 400026; October 7 PilamaiA. Mevawalla (80), 2- 4 Lady Ratan Tata Block, Turner Rd, Bandra (W), 400050; October 7 Ratansha Rustomji Mistry (63), P-26 Nowroze Bg, Lalbaug, 400012; October 7 Dadiba Sorabji Baria (64), C- 19 New Khareghat Clny, Hughes Rd, 400007; October 8 Mani Sorabji Khambatta (83), 33 Altamount Rd, 400026; October 8 Tehmi Tehmurasp Contractor, sister of late Mani Feroze Surveyor, Nergish Sarosh Rustomji and Noshir Romer; October 8 (cremated) Navaroji Bomanji Variava (75), 9-6 Tata Clny, Tardeo Rd, 400034; October 10 Darabsha Dosabhai Contractor (82), Alamai Mistry Bldg, Parel, 400012; October 11 Homi Dinshawji Debara (65), 4 Burjor Bldg, Wadia St, Tardeo, 400034; October 11 Mehernosh Minoo Pochkhanawalla (39), Saker Apts, Sir Pochkhanawalla Rd, Worli, 400018; October 11 Nariman Kaiktiushru Kotwal (65), 682-A KapadiaBldg, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 400014; October 12 Mani Dadabhai Satarawalla (59), 727-A Wadia Bldg, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 400014; October 12 Tehmina Merwanjee Bhumgara (82), 6 H.P. Apts, 45 Napean Sea Rd, 400026; October 13 Dinbai Phirozshaw Barsiwalla (91), Harganga Mhl, A Block, Khodadad Circle, Dadar, 400014; October 14 Rati Devitre (68), Bhaskar Mans, Sitladevi Te hple Rd, Mahim, 400016; October 14 Dhunmai Homi Doctor (92), 16 Dubash Bldg, Gamadia Clny, Tardeo, 400007; October 14 Aloo Soli Karanjia (60), Namdar Hse, Hill Rd, Bandra, 400050; October 14 Pestonji Dhanjibhai Kodia (80), 20 Chhatriwalla Bldg, Wadia St, Tardeo, 400034; October 14 Khorshed Ardeshir Pardiwala (64), Silver Gul, Opp Kirti College, Prabhadevi, 400028; October 14 Jerbai Nusserwanji Sethna (84), Petit Block No 3, Balaram St, Grant Rd, 400007; October 14 Mota Pestonji Bharucha (74), Hormazd Mans, Opp Bhatia Hosp, Tardeo, 400007; October 15 Phiroz Khodadad Irani (52), Vithal Niwas, Room 14, Jacob Circle, 400011; Octaber 15 Allamai Pirozshah Masani (80), 11 AliManzil, N. Petit St, Grant Rd, 400007; October 15 Sorabji Rustomji Mirza (92), 14 Lovedale, Colaba, 400005; October 15 Meherbai Faramroze Nava (88), Vera Hse, Dhobitalao, 400002; October 15 Nargesh Rustomji Birdy (82), 611 Pateti Blocks, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 400014; October 16 Shirin Armin Dubash (three months), 51 Forjett St, 400036; October 16 Minocher Jamshed Homawalla (67), Rothfield St, Parsiwad Fort, Broach; October 16 Rustom Shorab Kotwal (86), 40 Strand Hse, Colaba, 400005; October 16 Tehmul Dinshawji Mandroina (86) ,8 Rajmahal,Veer Nariman Rd, 400020; October 16 Minocher Jamshedji Palkhiwalla (73), 5 Cawas Turner Bldg, Gamadia Clny, Tardeo, 400007; October 16 Faramroze Edulji Kakalia (79), 2-6 Uranwala Mans, Parel, 400012; October 17 Adil Eruch Bokdawala (25), 668 Desai Bldg, Katrak Rd, Wadala, 400031; October 18 Pestonji Bujorji Bapuji Driver (72),43DhobilalaHse, Trinity St, 400002; October 18 For a liberal point of view subscribe to KAISEREBIHD Send me Fill out the application form and mail along with your paymenbto Kaiser-E-Hind, 300 Perin Nariman Street, Fort, Bombay-400 001. 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Money order sent NAME ADDRESS 1- CITY PIN CODE STATE AND COUNTRY 40 Parsiana November 1987, f V'' ?y -i. > «K. ft rik- I SI (!*'¦ i ’ - October 22 Dinshaw Pirojshaw Bole Rd, Dadar, 40002S; DadyBurjor (Sl^^orab Manor, October 18 Walton Rd, Electric Hse, Sirin Sorab Boyce (76), Boyce Hse, 15 VatchaGhandhy Rd, ’ . 400007; October 19 Nariman Fardunji Balsara (11), 3/9 Tata Clny, tardeo Rd, 400034; October 20 Aimai Hormasji Bamboat(96), Bolingkar ’s Hse, Turner Rd, Bandra, 400050; October 20 Sunabai Dosabhai Dhabhar (89), Patel Bldg, Room 12, Cama Rd, Andheri (W), 400058; October 20 Dosabhoy Jalbhoy Dubash (87), 25 Station Ter, Sleater Rd, Grant Rd, 400007; October 20 Daulat Homi Bodhanwalla (74), 10-10 Gamadia Clny, Tardeo, 400007; October 21 Tehmurasp Bapuji Todiwalla (12)', 9-1 Rustom Bg, Byculla, 400027; October 21 Homi Gayomard Bilimoria (58), 6 Cooper Bldg, Marzban Clny, Dr Nayar Rd, 400011; October 22 Maneckbai Pirojsha Shroff (75),ChothiaBldg, Chikalwadi, Tardeo, 400007; Rusiom Boman Sandalian (60), Khosavari Est, 44 S.K. ’'74 5 -i. Itl It- i Parade, Colaba, 400005; October 29 Ketayun Shapoor Fitter (39), X-31/10, Godrej Clny, Vikhroli (E), 4(XX)79; October 30 Behramji Kavasji Shekari (88), Rajni Mhl, Room 608,91-95 Tardeo, 400034; October 31 Manijeh and Homayoun Dowlatzadeh, son of Cyrus and Rouhangiz; August 22 Jamshed Dinshaw Irani (70), Ketty Ngr, Bldg 1, Dahanu Rd, Dist Thane; October 25 Khorshed Bahadur Umrigar (68), 64-A Meherzin, Colaba, 400005; October 25 Tehmton Rustomji Daruvala (80), do Aruy P. Ghista, Ashley Hse, Colaba, 400005; October 26 Khorshed Meherwanji Aga (83), 512 R.P. Masani Rd, Matunga, 400019; October 27 Jehangirji Fakirji Golwalla n • (83) Vasaigera Hse , 146 Modi (78), mother of Dolly , Mam, St, Fort, 400001; October 27 7 Jerbanoo Naswanji Wadia(80), Sneha Sadan, 10 N. Gamadia Rd, 400026; October 27 Freny Jimmy Malegamwala (58), Malegamwala Bldg, No 1/23, M.M. Chhotani Rd, Mahim, 400016; October 28 Darashah Kuverji Bejonji Sethna (82), Utopia, 56 St Andrews Rd, Bandra, 4(XX)50; October 28 Dossabhoy Dinshah Bamji -------- (16), M-4 Palm Springs, Cuffe daughter of Houshang and CALCUTTA Bom A boy, Zubin, to Daulat and Ivan Michael', September 23 A boy, Zubin, to Phiroza and Burjor Medhorw, September 30 Died Piroja Savaksha Postwala Bahadur and Jal; October 7 Sheran Pheroze Dalal (84), mother of Dr Hoshang, Eruch, Dr Zarin Dadina and late Dadi; October 12 Banubai Barjorji Deboo, mother of Dhunmai, Kersasp, Maheck and Viroo Medhora; October 16 JAMSHEDPUR Died Ardeshir Khodayar Irani (69), husband of Freni , father of Vistasp and Shahrukh; August 8 Dinshaw Cawasji Wadia (65), husband of late Ketty , father of Perin and Yasmin; August 22 LONDON Married Dhun Tata and Jonathan Ward', September 26 MADRAS Born A boy to Farzana and Dr Behram Irani', October 21 Married Shaheen Irani of Poona and Noshir Mehli Irani', October 3 1 INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA Married Mandana Mobedshahi, RUPERT, IDAHO Born A girl, Natasha, to Dr and Ms Homi Vania', September 3 Compiled by Arnavaz S. Mama With the Best Compliments of INGERSOLL*RAND [INDIA] LIMITED Manufacturers of Air & Gas Compressors * Rock Drill Equipment * Vacuum Pumps , 42 Parsiana November 1987 5 t 't£¦ )• iff READERS’ FORUM but what was made quite clear by the continued from page 9 lady who has dedicated her entire life the reformer, who may accept inter- the dilemma to choose between cul- to the study of the Zoroastrian people marriage, from the preserver who tures and religions. In the entire creation of nature, ex ­ cept among humans, there is hardly riage. any evidence of interbreeding however physically compatible the species may munity today is not just the phe- be. Even different flowers growing nomenon of intermarriage but the im- in close proximity rarely pollinate each position on the majority of the com ­ other naturally, if of a different kind, munity to change the rules and doc- Thus a rose remains a rose. The argument that all human beings order to accommodate the selfish are the same is not only false but an needs of some parents and champions the salient features of the navjote cere- insult to the creation of nature, and of intermarriage. If we disturb, alter or mony will also be published. Many worse, the Creator. Not even a single eradicate a part or any of our doc ­ fingerprint in the universe is the same. i The genius of creation lies in its multi- practices, we will destroy the entire in- be conducted. fold differences in shape, color, tex- frastructure of our very existence and All these plans need funds. We ture, thinking, views, religious beliefs, suffer total loss of heritage . If our fore- therefore appeal to Zoroastrian indi- culture, traditions, etc. fathers had pursued or indulged in in- viduals, trusts and organizations for At a seminar held in Holborn a few termarriages, perhaps we would not financial help by way of donations, years ago by the Zoroastrian commun- - - ity of UK where speakers and scholars from all over the world were invited, a dilemma many years ago were wise. Has the time come for us to separate is that the only single factor that can would not, so that both may survive in destroy and diminish them is intermar- peace and harmony? ERVAD DARIUS N. SETHNA Middlesex, UK The danger to the Zoroastrian com- Iran League appeal x je Iran League has decided to start Persian and Gujarati classes and will trines of our culture and religion in publish booklets such as Ten Easy Les­ sons on Zoroastrianism. A booklet on more elocution, Shah Namah, essay trines, traditions, religious beliefs or writing and musical competitions will practices, we will destroy the entire in­ frastructure of our very existence and suffer total loss of heritage . If our fore ­ fathers had pursued or indulged in in- have existed as Zoroastrians at all. The Jews who suffered a similar Cheques may be drawn in favor of Iran League ” and forwarded to Nav ­ sari Building, second floor, 240, Dr lady demographer from America, Dr They directed the reformists to form Dadabhoy Naoroji Road, Fort, Bom- Sir JAMSETJEE JEJEEBHOY President, Iran League r| Chatterji, stated that five percent of their own club with their own rules so bay 400001. Zoroastrian men and 11 percent of the that these adverse elements would not women marry outside the community, destroy the original base of the Jewish I do not know the current percentages, culture, tradition or religion. Edited by Niloofer J. Madon Li I' EVENTS AND PERSONALITIES the most outstanding members of the She was to offer free consultation to continued from page 13 Indian Civil Service... both men and women on hair care - on training in democracy, ” has honored “Gorwala ’s innings as editor and how to find and keep one ’s ideal hair- Astad D. Gorwala with the John Dalvi publicist began immediately after his dresser and on the role one can play in Award at the annual function held on retirement from the Civil Service. His preventing disasters - at Nalini and May 15,1987, at the Taj Mahal Hotel, devotion to public good and writing Yasmin, a hair saloon at Pali Hill, notes the 1987 issue of Pulse, the did not allow him to retire till recently, Bandra, notes the Mid-Day of Novem- newsletter of the LSP. when his age and physical disability ber 12, 1987. "Though he is too eminent a person took (their) toll. Through his highly Wadia has studied hairdressing at to be ^ven any award, (the) LSP regarded journal. Opinion, he upheld the Vidal Sassoon Academy and the would like to cite him as a patriot- values and norms in public life and Elysee Ecole D’Esthetique Institute citizen par excellence, worthy of criticized the high and mighty without De Beaute Ltd. At present, she is the emulation, deep respect and gratitude, fear or favor. This was evident in the manageress of Andre Norman, one of one who truly symbolizes, in flesh and way he fought censorship during the the top saloons in Hong Kong, adds — the Mid-Day report. SPOTLIGHT_________ ___ Lieutenant General Faridoon Noshir Bilimoria has taken over command of a corps in the western sector, notes the Indian Express of October 22, 1987, the most outstanding members of the Indian Civil Service... “Gorwala ’s innings as editor and J spirit, the basic tenets of his faith - dark days of the Emergency, good thoughts, good words, good “Yet everyone who knows him deeds, ” noted the scroll presented to would testify to his innate humility, him at the award giving ceremony on charm, chivalry, grace and sense of May 15, 1987 when LSP chairman, humor... ” Nani Palkhivala announced the win­ ners. Ihe other recipients of the award were Girdhar Vaswani and Prabhakar Leading Hong Kong hair stylist Ms Laie, notes the newsletter. Nergish Wadia was in Bombay from Minoo Fardoonji Devlaliwalla has been The citation to Gorwala further am- November 8-30, “to discuss profes- appointed director of special services, plified, “Named after the Zoroastrian sional hints to help hairdressers bring Home Guards, Maharashtra State, angel of righteousness...(Astad) has out the best in people (and to) help notes the Indian Express of October gone through life as a kind of happy interested customers to choose proper warrior - fighting for honesty, integri- style, color or perm, ” notes The Indi- ty and common sense...He was one of an Post of October 11, 1987. Yet everyone who knows him Consultation on crowns 13, 1987. Compiled by Roxana H. Kaka f 44 Parsiana November 1987 1 I ! I -