Jul 1990

Ip X- 21' •f I*' 'Ilk' ’^^¦ .«i Is! g,S^ ¦i^l. Ife :< *z’.'T=Z*; f ’S*; R^-k m f ^•' ‘¦^ S I com o> ? X ;d TIC*’M«3S3?^T^ »a^» W ly^HTUJWilW miJuly 1990 Volume 13 Number l f EDITOR Jehangir R. Patel MANAGING EDITOR Arnavaz S. Mama EXECUTIVE EDITOR Parinaz M. Gandhi ASSISTANT EDITOR Roxana H. Kaka DESIGN Kranti Shilotri, Varghese Fernandez, Deborah Fernandes 3 Readers ’ Forum 10 Events and Personalities 15 Zoroastrians Abroad MARKETING DIRECTOR Veera Patel ADVERTISING MANAGER Zarin Mistry ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE Cheryl D'Penha CHIEF EXECUTIVE Rustom Thanavala FINANCE B. L. Arora EDP Rohinton E. Daroga CIRCULATION Behratn Urnrigar MANAGEMENT Minoo Patel, Jasmine Driver OFFICE Rajendra P. Nayak, Khurshid Panthaki, Patricia Lewis, Rajaiakshmi Krishnan, Bakhtavar Batliwalla, Nowzer Batliwala 18 Does the Federation serve a purpose? by Parinaz Gandhi 23 Through the eyes of a social worker ... by Arnavaz Mama 28 Behram Contractor: To bee or not to bee by Gustasp Irani 32 The Place where it sizzles 35 Milestones Cover: Translation by I. J. Taraporewaia of Yasna 48.12 of Spentomard Gatha, Chapter IV Background transparency by Ashvin Mehta 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 Pvt Ltd, C/o Kaiser-E-Hind Pvt Ltd, 300 Perin Nariman Street, Bombay 400001. Color processing. Comart Lithographers; and black and white processing, Samir Process. All rights reserved. Phone: 2048730 Fax: 2042922 For editorial enquiries: 2048183 Telex 11-85710 RABO IN Annual inland subscription Rs 60 for one year (12 issues); Rs 100 Tor two years (24 issues). Foreign subscription rates: Seamail Rs 130 for one year, Rs 245 for two years; Air mail Rs 275 for one year, Rs 525 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 are 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! ? READERS’ FORUM world on the SPP. During the last quarter The Bombay Parsi Punchayet (BPP) pro ­ of a century, the SPP was in the forefront poses to donate a six-figure sum. A sym- of all the punchayets and anjumans in In- pathetic BPP trustee has agreed to donate dia in the field of social service. The a similar large sum and the members of credit for this unique achievement goes to the Smarak Samiti are very thankful to Seth Maneck Gheyara alone. Bearing in mind his tremendous con ­ tribution to the Parsi community, the SPP the construction work as soon as possible board of trustees has appointed a memo ­ rial committee to create a memorial suit ­ able to the departed worthy. The Seth nors — individuals and institutions — to Maneck Gheyara Smarak Samiti made a send their donations at an early date, so public appeal for donations in April that with sufficient funds on hand the 1990. construction work may be commis- As Surat needs a dharamshala — the sioned. three existing dharamshalas are outdated and in a dilapidated condition — one Paeterasp Patel, Mr Jiju Nusserwanji and named after the late Gheyara would be a Mr Homi Divwala, members of the man ­ fitting monument. It would be of service aging committee, as their authorised re- to Zoroastrians who come to Surat to pay presentatives in Bombay. Cross and or- homage to the two atash bahrams as also der account payee cheques may be drawn to the touring salesmen and others who in favor of Seth Maneck Gheyara Smarak find it very hard to get a decent place to stay for a day or two. The proposed structure of ground plus bay 400007. two floors, with 12 to 15 rooms inclusive dtsambhacca of four to five administrative rooms, is soRABKAmm Readers* views are welcome on any subject estimated to cost nearly 18 to 20 JtSccx««y of Interest to the community and should be lakhs. The ^PP has offered a piece of sent to the Editor, Readers' Forum, Parsiana, G.P.O. Box 892, Bombay 400001. Letters are subject to editing for reasons of space and clarity. Unsigned letters or those without an address will not be published. I ti’ I ***»*••»«¦ ¦ Ip. Sfi B** p them. The Smarak Samiti would like to start so that cost escalation may be kept to a minimum. Therefore we request all do- »*** 1 The Smarak Samiti has appointed Mr Samiti and forwarded to Mr P. D. Patel at 111, Aderbad, N. S, Patkar Marg, Bom- PAEEERASP PATEL JUUNUSSERWANn HOMIDIVWALA Committe Memben “Mazda Leasing: A new... land worth Rs 10 to 12 lakhs, admeasur- “Mazda Leasing: A new...” ing approximately 600 square yards, I was indeed surprised to read the reprint where the building may be built. They of the article “A new lease on life ” by Mr will also contribute a substantial sum Raju Bist (Parsiana, March 1990) which pwards the construction costs. was prepared by him in December 1989, ' " The SPP expects that other punchay- publish^ in Business India in January The Gheyara dharamshala ets and anjumans with whom Maneck 1990 and reprinted in your magazine By the death of Seth Maneck Jamshedji was in close contact and had helped in- which was published in June 1990! The Ratanshah Gheyara on March 3, 1989 at various ways, will help the project along, reason why I am making this point is that the age of 75, die Parsi community lost a ‘ dedicated social worker who had done Gheyara: viewing community problems untiring work for his community. Bom in totality Photo: Homyar Mistry and brought up in a rich family, Seth Maneck Gheyara dedicated half a century of his life to the service of society. He sustained and strengthened several insti ­ tutions and in the process brought happi ­ ness, comfort and progress in the lives of • persons of different strata of society. In order to achieve these results, he secured generous donations. He himself gave handsomely and induced his family mem ­ bers to follow suit. He was the president of the Surat Parsi Punchayet (SPP), but he was a man who did not look at the problems of his community as limited to one city or dis ­ trict, but in totality. At the same time, he focused the attention of the Zoroastrian i ets and anjumans with whom Maneck By the death of Seth Maneck Jamshedji was in close contact and had helped in- gl such outdated business news does not give the correct state of affairs to your readership. In fact, news of the changing scenario at the Mazdalease Group of Companies was circulating in business circles as early as April 1989 after the Company ’s annual general meeting when the Rathis were to be associated with the Company. One of their nominees was first induct^ onto the board of Mazda Industries and Leasing Ltd in June 1989, and a final take-over was effected in October-No ­ vember 1989. What was first projected as friends giving a helping hand to the Company — which was under a financial crunch — turned out to be a total surrender and sell-out by an individual, behind the back of bis own colleagues and in a manner 3 Parsiana July 1990which makes a fit case of corporate con- out and surrender to non-Zoroastrian trad- tivities for two months only to find that, spiiacy. The report of Mr Raju Bist, pre- ers, a dispassionate report from your staff with the exception of having some ambi- [ pared for Business India, was made at a would have been appreciated by the pub- tious and grandiose plans, the Rathi group time when the entire situation was fluid lie in general and the Parsi community in had neither the infrastructure nor the abil- and the game-plan unknown. The jour- particular which had reposed considerable ity to translate them into reality. Hence nalistic pen of Mr Bist did create some - - - - - ¦ ~ ~’ sensation in the business world, but now with the dust and din settling, the true and flavor, designs of all concerned have come to light. I always expected that a very fair and takeover was effected in October/Novem- progressive magazine like yours, com- ber 1989, its patriarch Mr G. K. Rathi, mitted to the growth arid well-being of proposed to me that he wanted to appoint tor, in particular, the Parsi community, would have inde- his brother as vice chairman and manag- ~ i pendently made an investigative study ing director of the Mazda Group. I ex- faith in the erstwhile management of the from February 1990 I disassociated my- company which had a Zoroastrian touch self from the Rathi ^oup. In fact, it was only during my brief association that I could get a view of the effective back- As for me, I am in no way now asso ­ ciated with the Rathi group. When the ground of the Rathi group in general and of Mr V. K. Rathi, who was installed as groiq) vice chairman and managing direc- For the sake of posterity, someone should take a closer look at the “Mazda and report about the Mazda story. You pressed to him that if this decision would story, ” have a very competent editorial and re- help in the larger interest of the Group, I porting staff and an in-depth analysis would step down provided all my dues into the whole affeir would have enlight- were properly settled. He agreed to do so. [ ened the community on the larger issue f of Zoroastrian entrepreneurship. I make this special point because in calling for an investment of over Rs 60-70 the earlier years you had published a fea- crores in India for manufacture of X-ray ture on the Mazda Group titled “A com- films, artificial heart valves and pharma- The Editor replies pany with the Zoroastrian touch ” {Par- ceuticals, and offered to associate me ~ siana, June 1985). Thereafter you had with his group activities as a full-time always been supportive of the Com- group executive to ultimately take com- ¦’ with all its “off-shoots ” and ¦’splinters. ” When properly and truth ­ fully revealed, it will be a good case study on corporate decision making and He further mentioned to me that he had management and a lesson for future en- some very large projects in the pipeline trepreneurs and managers. HOMID. MEHTA Due to Parsiana's limited resources we regret that we ’re not in a position to de- ____ _ __ ___ o__r_ _________ vote the time and effort required to do an pany ’s activities and keenly followed its plete charge of one of his large projects. I independent and investigative study on progress. Hence, when the company ran agreed to give it a try. the subject. We are also not that conver- into difficulties and there was a total sell- I associated myself with the group ac- sant with all the business and financial agreed to give it a try. I associated myself with the group ac- MANY MOFIE MONTHS MANY MORE MILES... With the background of 125 years of tanning experience, expert technical know-how, and latest machines at our disposal we are one of the largest manufacturers of different types of quality footwear. With an installed capacity of over 10,000 pairs of shoes and boots per day, this makes Rex one of the Largest Footwear Manufacturing units in the Country. Manufactured by Tannery and Footwear Corporation of India Ltd (A Govt, of India Undertaking) Distributed by J. M. B. INDUSTRIES World Trade Centre, Tower 2,2nd Floor, Cuffe Parade, Bombay 400005 Tel: 219191,219192,216034,216069, Ext. 290 Tlx: 011-6846 WTCB Tele Fax: (91-22) 2043493 5 Parsiana July 1990awe-inspiring articles of our dasturs and scholars? Having the Baba ’s photo on the mittee on the Parsis of Gujarat says, “La ­ dies who are capable may be trained in ---------- „ - tvning Stenography secretarial work, cover is not only trymg to extol the Baba sewing, stitching, etc. ” cult but is also going against the prm- From the available data on education, ciples of our religion which economic activity s achievements, I had concluded that Parsi ladies have had greater opportunities for tt u i self-realization as compared to ladies of spire its followers. He has alro added thai and professional worship of God and not worship of man. “ ¦ In replying to the same letter the editor says that Zoroastrianism has failed to in- — — ¦ « 1 _ J .1__I ¦Hie suggestion of every Parsi home is now looking to other religious orders and beliefs in addition to Zoroastrianism. It is no doubt ctxrect that Parsis have really been taken in by Babas but then is it not the duty of a Parsi maga ­ zine like Parsiana to enlighten the people technicalities/complications such a story would require. We try to devote our energies to covering community events as best we can and to publish our issues as fast as we can. For this reason we carry reprints from other specialized and gen ­ eral publications. “Making good, clear...” You have published a thought provoking other communities. article by Mr Aspi Moddie (“Making the committee, therefore, came as good, clear choices, ” Parsiana, March 1990). He writes, “Trustees everywhere S This is with reference to the Editor ’s ex- zine like Parsiana to enlighten me people HRD (Human Resource Development) planation given to Brig N. B. Grant when on the tenets of our religion and preyen Policy backed with enough resources, confronted with the publication of the ar- them from falling outeij the community . eXw of hiTqSy people. A tide “Shirdi ki Homi Baba ” (Readers ’ This magazme should be a tomh-l^er of h^r investment tlwee-tiack course for Forum^P^^ana, Feto^ 1990). the community, preventing it from mter- different human potentials would include 1“ high tech for the high fliers of the future, question as to why the cover of Parsiana ™ keep nc„-^s ou^f^e vocational education tor fliose onfi. for, available. In my opinion, I donY rehpon or not desiring to go for higher educa ­ tion, but needing gainful employment ” In page 3 of the same issue Readers ’ ----------- Forum: “The Parsis of Gujarat ”) one of siana never obtain a ^^¦arathush- the suggestions arrived at by the Com- 1----- . _ a shock to me. Ms malini karkal “Shirdi ke Homi Baba” In the rather unimpressive reply to the nal harm, question as to why the cover of Parsiana At one stage in his reply, the editor says that it is an obsession with the Parsi necessary to give a visual of a topic dealt there is nobody who wants to enter the with in the magazine. Even a plain design fold of Zoroastrianism. If nobody wants would have sufficed. I ask, could Par- to come, how does the question of con- - - • • . version arise? Why then do our Parsi girls tra for the cover page? Do they never get (who have mamed outside the commu- IVirfi the compliments of P. S. KUKA Chairman GOODWILL THEATRES PVT LTD OWNERS NOVELTY CINEMA (THEATRE MAGNIFICENT) Rendezvous of the Elite 6 Parsiana July 1990Lola tours OUR WORLD OF VACATIONS -1990. Lala ’s offer special Diwali holiday package tours for indiviauals and groups, both Deluxe and Economy. • SHIMLA-MANALI • NAINITAL-MUSSOURIE • DARJEELING-SIKKIM • KASHMIR • NEPAL • RAJASTHAN • SOUTH INDIA • GOA Note: Rail Tour booking closes 70 days prior to departure. • MAURITIUS • MALDIVES • SRI LANKA • BANGKOK •JAPAN • HONG KONG • SINGAPORE • EGYPT & NILE CRUISE • AUSTRALIA • EUROPE • AMERICA Note: Subject to GOI/RBI approval FTS/NTS passengers only. Chalk out your own package, stay where, when and as long as you like. according to your personal interest, time and budget — we will be happy to quote. For details contact us or your Travel Agent: Lob tours Capitol Cinema Bldg., Murzban Road, Bombay 400 001. Tel: 2045094/5744/3006. nity) cry hoarse over the issue that their nates against the children of Parsi women children be entered into the Zoroastrian married to non-Parsis. It is even more un ­ fold? Since our religion has failed to in- fortunate that no Parsi woman married spire Parsis, why do these mothers want outside the fold, or her children, have their children to be treated as Parsis? contested this legal anomaly. It is in fact quite ironical that some of the non-Parsis know much more about Irips to Iranshah our religion than most Parsis and who. Of the eight holy atash bahrams conse- inspired by the teachings of Ahura crated in India, the Iranshah of Udwada Mazda, want to be ctxiverted to our fold, occupies the place of highest esteem as a But where is the need of converting them bestower of blessings and faith to the on ­ to Zoroastrianism? When our own Parsis tire community. Every devout Parsi do not follow the path shown by our cherishes a wish to bow his head at the Lord, one cannot expect the non-Zoroas- trians to keep the light of our fire burn ­ ing. What is the use of a large Parsi of travel, lodging and boarding, it be- community when even a single member comes difficult for even the most devout does not know even the “basics ” of our Zoroastrian to fulfill his wish. We know religion? So, the so-called “enlightened ” Par ­ sis should forget the idea of conversion but instead try and make the existing provide an opportunity to the weaker Parsi community and the Parsis as a section of the community, we have em- whole into true and devout followers of barked on a project of arranging free trips our great religion. The need of the hour is to Udwada. This project is mainly organ- not the quantity but the quality of true ized by the two undersigned social work- Parsis. Misanaeaanha ers of the Muncherji Joshi Parsi Colony, Pitiiii Dadar, who also happen to be office bear ­ ers of noted institutions in that area. The Editor replies The expenditure incurred per trip Ms Antia is correct when she says that it comes to about Rs 6,000 and nearly 50 is not “necessary to give a visual of a poor and middle-class Parsis are able to topic dealt with in the magazine. ” How- derive benefit. Nutritious breakfast and ever, since Parsiana has been following lunch, tea and snacks, are provided in or- this policy and intends to continue doing der to make the trip comfortable and en- so, the cover will continue to relate to a durable. The social workers who accom- subject dealt with in that particular issue, pany the poor pay for themselves and thus Parsiana did carry a graphic illustration the donations received are utilized ofZarathushtrain 1974 and would carry it tirely for the weaker section of the com ­ again were there one suitable and if we munity. had an appropriate article to go with it. As regards Parsiana being a “torch ­ bearer of the community ” and “enligh- ten(ing) the people on the tenets of our religion and prevent(ing) them from fall- quency of such trips we appeal to our more fortunate brethren in India and our work. Donations may be addressed to Ms Shera Billimoria at Imperial Mahal (above A to Z Shop), Dadar T.T., Bom­ bay 400014 (Tel: 4126200) or Mr Sapal feet of Iranshah at least once a year. However, with the ever increasing cost instances of several poor Parsis who have never been to Udwada. To promote religious awareness and I DaHdram-LT 67/90 8 Parsiana July 1990 Ml SANAEA ANTIA Patiala en- We have been quietly going about with our work for the past two years and have met with tremendous success. How­ ever, with a view to augmenting the fre- ing outside the community, ” these are not the functions of a publication (they atffoad to contribute their mite' to appear to be the functions of a prophet). The puipose of Parsiana is to keep read ­ ers informed of happenings in the com ­ munity. In regard to conversion, no Parsi Dalal at 739, Road No. 5, Parsi Colony, mother who has married a non-Parsi Dadar, Bombay 4(XX)14 (Tel: 4128503; needs to “cry hoarse over the issue that 4126942). (her) children be entered into the Zoroas- The tour is usually arranged on Sun- trian fold. ” Anybody can convert: they days and we would like our donors/spon- don ’t need anyone ’s permission. The sors to accompany us and experience the question is, having converted, can they joy that lights up the faces of the devout. avail of trust benefits? This issue would Misherabuximoria be decided by the trust deeds and the trus- sapal dalal tees of the concerned trusts. It is unfortu ­ nate that in this regard the law discrimi- The tour is usually arranged on Sun- Edited by Amavaz S. Mama4 Events and Personalities AET’s graduates while teaching them to cope as future “Remember, you are the chosen few and counsellors to the community. if you carry out your responsibilities cor- Nine of the 11 students have been per- rectly, the trustees and donors will be forming the ijashni and vendidad cere ­ monies, five perform the nirangdin, Mis- Four of the 11 AET graduates took the mike in turn to present a brief resume of their experiences. Vazifdar recorded how Kotwal had taught them the “mean- emboldened, ” vice chancellor of Bom- monies, five perform the nirangdin. Mis- ing of almost every word ” in their bay University and Bombay Parsi tree informed. Some of them knew how prayers. Karanjia and Bhandara (the only Punchayet (BPP) trustee Dr (Ms) Mehroo to perform these higher liturgical cere- one to speak in English) expressed their Bengalee exhorted the first batch of 11 monies before they joined the AET gratitude to Ms Huzan Kharas (now mobeds who had graduated through a course. Others learnt here, noted Mistree, Frazer). “We are here today because of four-year course of post-madressa study adding that the ability to perform higher her, ” noted Karanjia. “Huzan Kharas is coordinated by Dr (Ms) Jeanie Bharucha rituals would lead them to higher income not present with us physically today but under the aegis of the Athravan Educa- and status. will remain in our hearts and minds, ” tional Trust (AET). The occasion was celebrated at the Albless Bang on June community? Does this training program 24,1990 with a thanksgiving jashan con ­ ducted by Dastur (Dr) Firoze Kotwal, galee enquired. With the absence of eld- chairman of the AET, along with 19 ers “in the unitary family system., other athravans, followed by speeches there ’s nothing in the home to help chil- and distribution of prizes, a short enter ­ tainment program and dinner. Apart from training in the practice attending Parsi schools, no religious edu- Nine of the 11 students have been per- and status. will remain in our hearts and minds, ” “What are the present needs of the said Bhandara. (Kharas* research for her I master ’s thesis had concentrated on the fulfill those needs? ” chief guest Ben- plight of Zoroastrian mobeds. The AET was an outcome of that research and Kharas was the Trust ’s founding chair ­ person. Her abrupt resignation from the dren understand the basics of religion. ” AET board has never been explained.) With barely five percent of Parsi children “Our behavior, attitudes have improved " _ " * . " „ because of Farokh Buchia, ” Karanjia re- and significance of Zoroastrian rituals, cation can be organized there either, she corded his appreciation. “Most mobeds highlights of priestly history and ancient said. The community needed men like have lost their enthusiasm, devotion, literature, a basic understanding of com- the late scholar-priest Dastur Khurshed dedication...because of having to wander parative religious thought, the rudiments Dabu, men who are able to disseminate from agiary to agiary. (There is) no of psychology, sociology with reference religious knowledge in the homes and mental peace. Many mobeds are without to social work and elementary English the fire-temples, she said. Referring to a home. If these problems are ironed week at Godrej Bhavan. AET founder torchbearers of the Zoroastrian commu- trustee and trustee of the BPP Homi nity, ” Bengalee concluded, “Prosperity Ranina informed that the mobeds had of the community depends on the mental needy mobeds according to their prog- had to face “regular tests as in any col- and spiritual strength of our mobeds. If ress report. Mistree informed that 200 lege. ” we can ensure this, the future of ,our doctors — dentists, gynecologists, plastic Teaching English was most difficult, community — never ever think we ’ll ever surgeons, radiologists — were participat ­ according to Zoroastrian Studies (ZS) die — will be much brighter than it looks ing in the AET’s medicare scheme for founder and AET trustee Khojeste Mis- at present. ” Then, summoning Bhar- mobeds and their families. Among them • tree. The AET considered a grasp of ucha to the podium, Bengalee told the are non-Zoroastrian doctors who were English the most important as their aim audience that she was presenting the thus repaying their debt to Parsi chari- is to produce mobeds who can function bouquet she had just received to Bhar- table funds which had helped to educate as parish priests — helping the families ucha as a mark of appreciation, “on your them. The doctors gave free consulta- around them with sundry problems, apart behalf and mine. ” tions to the families of mobeds who car- from ritual functioning. “English is the lingua franca of the community (which) were cited for best all-round perfor- even provided free medicine, wants responses in English. English we ’re hitting problems with the won the prize for regularity and cism that the AET was claiming credit younger generation, ” Mistree explained. punctuality; Farrokh Dhabhar, Minocher for a service which Zoroastrian doctors “The boys themselves had umpteen Nalladaru and Aspi Surti were respec- had been providing all along. Mistree problems. We don ’t realize that priests lively awarded prizes for performing the said, “Some Parsi doctors did give free themselves have problems they are not highest number of nirangdins, perseve- service, but the priests were never sure able to unburden, ” Mistree continued, complimenting Prof Farokh Buchia for social work. Vazifdar received an addi- his patience and competence in helping tional prize for general appearance and rupees, “much below the targetted figure the priests overcome personal difficulties conduct. of one crore, ” informed Ranina. Its 80-G were imparted to Jhe students_^e days a the 11 AET graduates as “enlightened out, more athravans will be forthcom ­ ing, ” Karanjia noted in Gujarati. The AET has dispersed Rs 90,000 to Zarir Bhandara and Dinyar Vazifdar ried AET identity cards and some of them Ex- Without mance; Homiar Karanjia and Cali Jijina plaining the situation in the light of criti- rance, and perseverance in studies and whether they ’d have to pay or not ” The AET’s corpus is currrady 16 lakh 10 Parsiana Julycertificate (entitling donors to a 50 per- i _ ............. ‘ _______ cent reduction of the donated amount in information and gearing them for subse ­ their income tax returns) has been re ­ newed up to 1992. The trustees are hop ­ ing to build the corpus to 35 lakh rupees ..... ___ _ ___ _ v«mo.uuii, vum- in the next three or four years, said munity counselling project, Ms Koomi Ranina. The thorny problem of commu- Daroowala, vice president of the Rustom nity money being used by a cosmopoli- Baug Association, and Ms Banoo Ismail, tan trust (a point on which the AET had school counsellor, notes a press release, been severely flailed by its critics) has ~ been solved by the institution of two cor ­ puses - one, for the priests, from Zoroas ­ trian donations and another from dona ­ tions by cosmopolitan charities like the to Esselworld and the Nehru Science Cen- Godrej Foundation. The latter had ter and Planetarium, funded the publication of two scholarly books and scholarships for postgraduate aged a more intensive program for the .............. with the cooperation of Prof S. S. Dange, Jehangir Mistry, vice principal of St after the floors caved in head of Bombay University ’s Sanskrit Xavier ’s College, Bombay, who stressed Photo: Rashid Bamanbehram department, notes the report. managerial skills, imparting vocational Except for the occupants on the ground floor, the remaining tenants in quent. adjustments in life. the 80-year-old, four-storeyed structure. Both the programs were organized by also known as Vasaymal Building are Ms Homai Billimoria, consultant, com- believed to be middle-class Parsis. According to the tenants, the building was repaired five years ago by the Hous ­ ing Board. Thereafter the new tenants on the fourth floor tried to get the topmost The highlights of the HPY were a floor repaired and renovated for which craft session, a cookery class, a dramat- reason they had reportedly stored con­ ics camp, a quiz contest, a religious struction material in their kitchen. Ina- class, a games session and outdoor trips bility to bear the load of the construction materials on the top floor has been cited as a reason for the house collapse. Offi- TTe Holiday Youth Camp had envis- cials from the Housing Repair Board ¦ ' ’ , „_ work m the field of Indo-Ir^i^ jituals teenagers. It was inaugurated by Prof Mota Mansion: the bare walls remain head of Bombay University ’s Sanskrit Xavier ’s College, Bombay, who stressed department, notes the report. a creative approach. Subsequent sessions “Our critics said, 'Ek varas rehine focussed on story, poetry, dramatics and baddhu sooi jase.’ Kai sooi nuthi gayu ------- ¦' (‘The project will die out in a year ’s time. ’ We are very much alive), ” but, cautioned Mistree, miracles...Give us neutrality if not sup ­ port. ” Ms Pheroza Godrej represented the ganized for the participants as also other educative-cum-entertaining outings to the Garware Institute, the Nehru Science “Don ’t art appreciation, effective communica ­ tion skills, sex education, religion, struc ­ tural engineering and identifying leader- expect ship potential among youths at the camp . • conducted at the Leslie Sawhney Centre at Deolali, Additionally sports were or- claim their permission had not been I re- Godrej family and received a floral me ­ mento on behalf of her father-in-law and AET trustee, industrialist Naoroji Godrej Centre and Planetarium and Esselworld, who could not attend for reasons of further adds the release, health. Ms ; the ditties of a sort of Qawali competi ­ tion between the two groups of behdins and athravans, singing out their grie ­ vances against each other to popular re ­ frains. from Aagal^Dhusya, Pachal Khasya — Ms Jerbanu Kaikhushru Daruwalla, aged scripted for the ZS m 1984. The function Jamshed of May 20, the Daruwallas, who sought before conducting structural J f . - ------------ ’ ----- pairs, according to a report in The Inde- and not from the AET s own funds, in- ---- -l ............................... ¦ — AmavazS. Mama BPP makes holidays fun Two holiday programs for youngsters were conducted at Rustom Baug, A German shepherd: well-tried friend Byculla, under the joint auspices of the ' Bombay Parsi Punchayet (BPP) and the _ , Rustom Baug Association. The Holiday ' Program for Youth (HPY) for the nine to 14-year age-group was conducted firom May 1 through 12, 1990 with the objec- . • tive of providing “supervised recreation and opportunities for creative activity. ” , The subsequent Holiday Youth Camp for college students from May 14 to 25 was aimed at developing the participants ’ personality through knowledge of self, inculcating leadership qualities and Shehnaz Munshi had composed Victims of hoUSC COllapSC c .¦ . "When thg j-gm- portion of Mota Mansion at Grant Road collapsed on the afternoon of May 17, 1990, there were four casual- . . ties among whom were Jal Maneckji The second item was a scene Daruwalla, aged 63, and his sister-in-law the play the late Adi Marzban had 70. According to a report in the Jam-e- had been financed by specific donations were residing on the first floor, were and not from the AET’s own funds, in- midway through their lunch when the pendent oi May 18. formed the trustees. AmavazSMama kitchen floor of the top storeys caved in. The list of injured included seven-year- old Ms Nasreen Daruwalla. 12 Parsiana July 1990 ¦ 8 ¦ The dog connection “The generally pervading love of dogs among Parsis appears to be founded on a firmer footing than some of our other idiosyncrasies, ” writes Phiroze Javeri. To substantiate his point, he sent Par­ siana an extract from a 1918 book on the German Shepherd by Colonel von Stephanitz, an authmity on the subject, who has tried to explore the roots of the man-dog relationship. The saying in the Vendidad that “By the intelligence of the dog was the world created, ” assumes Stephanitz, could only have arisen among a people who be ­ lieved that “the dog was not only a well- tried companion and comrade, but forwhom...the dog had become the dispeller of evil...the vanquisher of their enemy. ” Further, the Vendidad is also supposed to include a detailed commentary on the different varieties of dogs, and the treat ­ ment that should be meted out to them, according to the author. Nagpur’s new board Sixty-five percent of the 594-strong elec ­ torate of the Shree Nagpur and Kamthi Parsi Zarthosti Anjuman exercised their vote at the last Anjuman elections in January this year. Since there were no contenders, the ruling office bearers con ­ tinue for the third term in succession, notes an intimation from the honorary secretary of the Anjuman. Thus Din- shaw F. Bapuna as president. Justice Hoshang D. Patel as vice president, Keki Center: A mirtor painting of Zarathushtra by artist Rutnagar (right) (Bottom left) Billimoria: seventh time national judo champion 11 •^i work was a Chinese woman. However, it was his motif of entwined swastika, signs “ wala, notes the intimation. The real tussle however was for the post of lady member where Ms Thrity D. that took him the longest to complete. Patel won by a margin of 66 votes over “My paintings are mostly bought by ho- her rival Ms Havovi Govadia; an election tels, ” explains Rutnagar who has under- that is believed to have created “great taken projects for international concerns excitement and some unpleasantness in the community, ” further notes Bala. Billimoria retains title For the seventh consecutive year Bom­ bay ’s Cawas Billimoria won the judo na ­ tional Championship title, notes a press release from the family. The judo cham- days to complete each painting, he starts pion won the gold in the open weight out by making a sketch on the reverse of category by full points or ‘ippons, ’ win- the minor; never an Indian one, he speci- ning bouts before the completion of the fies. He then etches the sketch line mak- scheduled five minutes, the release notes, ing sure that no scratches show on the i Four hundred judokas from 30 teams mirror in front. When in the process of I participated at this Thirteenth Senior etching the sketch line gets erased, he Men ’s Judo National Championships held has to rely on his mental image to recre ­ in Ghaziabad from April 13-15,1990, ac ­ cording to a family source. Billimoria, an Asian Games medalist, is an employee of Tata Steel. like The Oberoi and Leela Kempinski in Bombay and Rama International in Au ­ rangabad. Prior to taking up an assignment, Rutnagar, who is in his late ’30s, sits be ­ fore the mirror for hours trying to visual ­ ize the end product. Taking about 20 ate that impression. The etched part is then filled in with the oil paint. This is Rutnagar ’s second exhibition, the first being held in 1986. Though he has not attended art school, he has al ­ ways had an inclination for art, says the artist. In fact, he gave up the'security of Mirrored paintings Many artists choose sensuous nudes, Marilyn Monroe, Charlie Chaplin, proph- an interior designing job to take up art as Bala as hoiwrary secretary and Aspi ets, saints and geometric designs as the a profession. His other hobbies are pho- Bapuna as honorary treasurer will be in < charge of the Anjuman ’s affairs for the distinguishes artist Rusi Rutnagar is the ? next three-year term. mirror medium with which he works. ~ ................ ¦ ¦ “Unlike other artists who paint with Kersi B. Hathiram was promoted to the oils on canvas and can cover up a mis- rank of deputy zonal secretary of the East ­ subject of their exhibits. However what tography and music. SPOTLIGHT There were 11 candidates who stood for the seven seats on the committee. Those elected were: Edul F. Bhagwagar, take; if I make a false move. I’ve blown it em India Martial Arts Association, Cal- Shiraz K. Doongaji, Yezdi D. up, ” notes Rutnagar, whose mirror paint- cutta, notes a write-up in the Jam-e- Bhagwagar, Aspi K. Dadina, Jamshed P. Cassad, Farokh H. Dastur and Homi M. Kavarana. The six members nominated and 29,1990. were Rusi F. Dastur, Adi E. Billimoria, Phiroze F. Bhagwagar, Ms Rhoda M. Patel, Shiraz J. Gimi and Minoo P. Daru- up, ” notes Rutnagar, whose mirror paint ­ ings were on display at the Frangipani Jamshed of May 27, 1990. He has also Room of The Oberoi Towers on March 28 been conferred the second dan black belt in the Ketsugo system of self defence, it Of the 52 paintings he displayed at the was reported. exhibition, titled “Reflections, ” 28 were ________________________________ _ sold out, he informs. His most popular Compiled by Roxana H. Kaka 13 P^siani ^ly 1990ZOROASTRIANS ABROAD Kudos to Cuptuin tain ’s achievements in the course of 30 “Mr Shahpur Captain ’s sincerity, hard years of community service as enumer- and dedicated work for the World ated by WZO joint honorary secretary with Brookwood Cemetery was valid and Zoroastrian Organisation (WZO) is be- Rumi Sethna. Twenty years prior to the binding that that the Association must yond our capacity to realize, ” noted Ira- establishment of the WZO, Captain took protect its asset. ” Having persuaded the nian philanthropist Meheraban Zartoshty in hand the funds of the London associa- committee into a unanimous decision to in a message from Vancouver. Zar- tion and nursed them from £ 28,000 in initiate legal proceedings against the toshty ’s fulsome praise was but a part of 1960 to £ 3,62,OCX) by 1986 when he re- BCA, Captain attended the hearings at the chorus of appreciation that greeted signed as president of the Zoroastrian the High Court and succeeded in obtain- Captain when the WZO chose to cele- Trust Funds of Europe (ZTFE) in the ing such favorable terms from the court brate its tenth anniversary by conferring wake of the controversy that engulfed the as the payment of only £ 1 for an addi- its honorary membership upon Captain UK association when orthodox segments tional large plot of land; the transference on May 27,1990. bulldozed a resolution through the man- of freehold of the existing burial ground Captain was primarily responsible for aging committee preventing non-Zoroas- to the Association; the refund of all ex- the establishment of the WZO in London trian spouses from attending the muktad cess burial charges that the Association at the behest of Dr Farhang Mehr (Iran ’s ceremonies and the Farvardian jashan as paid for three years under protest. More- assistant vice prime minister and acting they had traditionally done since their land. Captain convinced a worried man­ aging committee “that the 1946 contract over, even the legal costs of the litigation finance minister under the late Shah inception in London. had to be borne by the BCA. Rezashah Pahlavi) in 1980 when the po- Enrolling the ZTFE as a registered Captain had also been instrumental in litical upheaval in Iran necessitated or- charity — it was Captain ’s suggestion the purchase of the present Zoroastrian ganized assistance for Zoroastrian refu- that the board of management had eventu- House property at 88, Compayne Gardens gees. Shahpur ’s full-time occupation. He watershed in the management of its funds wrote letters to the State Department of through substantial tax refunds and avoid- Enrolling the ZTFE as a registered as university champion in swimming, tennis and badminton. The scroll that “In those early days, that was ally accepted - had marked a substantial and the building of an extension to it in He watershed in the management of its funds 1982. Enumerating facets of the Karachi- the USA, the Canadian government, the ance of assessment of capital gains, as bom Captain ’s personality, Kutar spoke UK government, the ambassadors of Sethna noted. The establishment of the of his love of painting and gardening, of these countries in the UK and elsewhere, anonymously funded World Zara- singing, dancing and public speaking, of met the United Nations Commissioner thushtrian Trust Fund for the benefit of his teenage years as a sea scout and later for Refugees in the UK, attended appeal Zoroastrians worldwide with Captain as hearings and helped many, many Irani a trustee, bespoke confidence in his in- Zoroastrians to settle in the west. In this tegrity and financial management. But Kutar presented on behalf of the Organ- arduous task. Shahpur was assisted by above all, Sethna recalled the grit and isation noted, in part, “Shahpur continu- Mr Shahrokh Shahrokh and by Mr tenacity with which Captain pursued the ously strived to maintain peace, harmony Shahriar Behradnia, ” WZO chairperson Association ’s case against the Brook- and prosperity in the community. The Dr (Ms) Shirinbanoo Kutar informed the wood Cemetery Authorities (BCA) when committee of the World Zoroastrian Or- 400 guests participating in the function at the latter imposed large increases on bu- ganisation, London, hereby place on re ­ Bromyard Leisure Centre in London. rial services and demanded £ 40,000 for cord their heartfelt gratitude and sincere It was, however, only one of Cap- the purchase of an additional plot of appreciation of the services of Mr Members and office bearers of the WZO managing committee (L to R): Sethna, Medora, Falahati, Ervad Magol, Ms Contractor , S. Captain, Ms J. Captain, Vafadari, Ms Kutar, Ms Bhumgara, Bhimadiwalla and Modi '¦ 'I '‘‘‘gwriiiL.' ’ u .-ti ' i-f < -.4 ¦¦ I J X Lvery appreciative, they did not respond by calling us back as often as desired. ” Reviewing initial expectations in the tion as “evidenced by the existence of light of experience, one newly arrived ¦ immigrant noted, “We were given to ani extant in Sydney. ” Investigations .understand that housework was auto ­ revealed them as grandchildren of mated and hence was easy. But we have ¦ - -............... •. The taxes are very high and though the sala ­ ries are good, the money disappears. ” However, only one respondent replied them had relatives and friends to help in the negative when asked if they would Shahpur Framroze Captain and also for Australia ’ policy. Much earlier, how- his devotion, dedication and love for the ever, around the turn of the century, Zoroastrian community in the United there must have been 2Loroastrian migra- Kingdom and throughout the world. ” i , “Listening to all that has been said this Parsi surnames like Gundevia and Mas- evening, my wife Jilloo, daughter Armaiti . i- O..J « T and son Xerxes must have been wonder ­ ing as to who the speakers were talking Zoroastrians who had since relinquished our hands full with housework, about! ” Captain responded to the enco- the faith, notes the report, miums. Then, in more serious vein, he ~ . acknowledged his gratitude to all who had lia in their 20s and early 30s. Some of helped to nurture his ideals and abilities, L \ including his maternal grandfather Framji them along. The motivation behind the choose Australia if given a second Limbuwalla who labored for over 25 i " ' ’ _ . * * ’ years'as honorary secretary of the Karachi of life from the viewpoint of living con- Parsi Anjuman and his own father Fram- ditions, children ’s education and quality roze who worked nearly as long as honor- < . . ary treasurer and secretary of the Karachi was largely favorable tempered, in a few gious and cultural identity... What was 1__ ¦ ¦¦ . .; . " ¦ ‘7' the religious training imparted by Dastur subtle racism and the Aussies ’ “limited birth... takes on a new dimension (Dr) Manekji Dhalla at the Bai Virbaiji view of the outside world. ” Most found (here), ” notes the report. Most respon- Sopariwalla Parsi High School and its a job in a time interval spanning three dents missed the fire-temples and nearly principal Dr Maneck Pithawalla who “in- days to four weeks while others had to spired pupils to excel in every walk of wait up to three months. Those who mi- life. ” ¦ ¦ ¦ * ¦ ' ’ ’ At the end of the official function which included the presentation of a The respondents had arrived in Austra- migration was to better the existing way chance. And nobody wanted to resettle in the land of their birth. ________ .. . . , “One of the main changes in attitude of life. The initial response on arrival after migration is a stronger sense of reli- roze who worked nearly as long as honor- i-j------------------------- ----------------- „ - . _ . . Parsi Institute. Captain remembered too cases, by homesickness, a perception of taken for granted in their country of the religious training imparted by Dastur subtle racism and the Aussies ’ “limited birth... takes on a new dimension (Dr) Manekji Dhalla at the Bai Virbaiji view of the outside world. ” Most found (here), ” notes thejeport. Most jespon- 50 percent wanted to hold their chil ­ dren ’s navjote in the home country. The grated between the late 1960s and early chowk (colored floor decorations), toran 1970s were happier in this respect. (floral door hangings) and divo (ritual oil ____________ ___ ___________ __ _ A major obstacle was in getting In- lamp) routine continues in some homes, scroll-scripted poem by Soli Master de- dian professional qualifications accepted The enjoyment of native language and picting highlights of Captain ’s life, the in Australia. “In the field of medicine, food, family togetherness and commu- reading of congratulatory messages by law, dentistry, accounting, it is virtually nity friendships has intensified. WZO treasurer Dinyar Modi and the a closed shop, and migrants often have to Though some were worried about old presentation of floral tributes by joint pass certain exams before getting their age and failing health and of their chil- honorary secretary Ms Mani Bhumgara, qualifications accepted at a professional dren losing their cultural and religious the guests partook of a dhan-dar-patio level... Hence it is imperative that a po- identity, only one respondent forec^t the and kulfi dinner, informs the report. tential migrant obtains in writing from community future in Australia as the (concerned) professional body “bleak. ” A more stouthearted core- whether (his/her) qualifications are (ac- ligionist noted, “If we learn to love this ceptable) before coming to Australia. < . . This would avoid a lot of heartache later we can stop feeling guilty about ‘desert- on, ” warns the report. Being used to the services of maids. Immigrant history “Parsis and Aussies get along as well as —----------------------- . _ _ , meat pie and sauce or dhansak and ka- on, ” warns the report. ing ’ our motherland; if we can accept wab. No problems in getting together. Being used to the services of maids, this country that we have chosCn — no- (When we say) 'saalaa' the Aussies say washermen, sweepers and cooks, the pri- body forced us — nothing and nobody ‘mate. ’” This happy summing-up by a mary fact of life which accosts the immi- can stand in the way of the community, respondent to the survey on Zoroastrians grant from the Indian subcontinent is the culture and religion from flourishing and in Australia should generate substantial necessity to take on all these chores and living amicably with other communities confidence in prospective migrants. more: gardening and lawn mowing, of this multicultural country. ’ , Added The survey, undertaken by erstwhile being a handyman and motor mechanic, another, “Even after 1,300 years or so, president of the Australian Zoroastrian Understanding the Aussie accent and our religion is not dead in India. So why Association of New South Wales Purviz having one ’s own accent understood is ** kolsawalla, was purported to establish an initial hurdle, especially for migrating country and be proud to call it home; if > should it die here? ” __ ___ The informative, heartening report the history of Zoroaslrian migrants from school-goers who dso have to contend suffers from the extremely small size of ¦ " “ " jjjg sample: only 16 respondents. They Though “Australia is one of the few all originally belonged to the Indian sub ­ countries in the world which is truly mul ­ ticultural and multiracial, ” discrimina ­ tion was initially faced at work. Most sponded to the survey. The participants Zoroastrians found however that it did had demanded — and received — a guar- not take long to adjust socially. Noted antee of absolute anonymity and hence The respondents migrated to Australia one respondent who “made social con- t" ........ • calling them over for dinner. Although they were very warm and friendly and CompUedbyAmivazS. Mam» the late 1960s onwards for the benefit of with different schooling standards. future generations of Zoroastrians in Australia. A secondary purpose was to document the initial and later experi ­ ences in order to help future migrants, notes Kolsawalla in the introduction to the 20-page, xeroxed report. „ , . ..... The respondents migrated to Australia one respondent who “made social con- all references to individual identity has between 1969 and 1988. Before the mid tact with colleagues and neighbors by been suppressed. 1960s, there were no Zoroastrian mi ­ grants because of the country ’s ‘white continent. According to Kolsawalla, none of the Iranian Zoroastrians re ­ 16 Parsiana July 1990POLITICS AND POLICY Does the Federation serve a purpose Parinaz Gandhi A candid evaluation of the Federation meetings was obtained from the delegates in the questionnaire distributed at the meet Is the Federation too much talk and too ceiving the Fed Newsletter, the Federa- Punchayet (SPP) is collecting funds to little action? “Yes, ” replied 43 percent tion ’s four-page monthly publication, better the lot of the rural Parsis in south of the delegates who responded to a All those receiving it said that they read Gujarat; the housing research undertaken questionnaire at the executive council meeting of the Federation of Parsi the Federation has undertaken an opinion Zoroastrian Anjumans of India held in poll to evaluate its functioning... Bombay on March 17 and 18, 1990 in response to the question, “Do you think there was too muck talk and not enough Federation held in recent times, was no ­ concrete proposals? ” Of the 22 delegates (there were 40 vice presidents were absent, many of the Council (IRZCC) which is the outcome present at the meeting) responding to the Gujarat anjumans were not represented of the Fifth World Congress; and plans questionnaire, 90 percent felt that every- and there were barely any youths to be for the next Federation meeting in Delhi, one had a chance to talk although 48 per- seen at the Muncherji Khareghat Hall, Lt Gen Adi Sethna, president of the cent opined that the proceedings were the venue of the meeting in Bombay. Delhi Parsi Anjuman (DPA) and vice ­ dominated by a handful (a complaint of­ ten voiced about the meetings). Eighty-eight percent, however, felt Golwalla, president of the Federation and India as also other senior officers in the the meeting serv^ a purpose, 64 percent chairman of the Bombay Parsi Punchayet defence services to the felicitation func- of whom were of the view that the most (BPP) clarified at the outset that discus- tion planned by them on September 22, important decision taken at the meeting sions concerning Bombay should be kept to honor Parsis in the armed services, was to initiate action on the recommen- to a minimum so that other anjumans This year marks the twenty-fifth death dations of the Fifth World Zoroastrian could have a greater say. To concentrate anniversary of Lt Col Adi Tarapore who Congress held in Bombay bst January, on “the very important agenda ” on hand, was posthumously decorated with the That the agenda of the Bombay meeting he specified that topics like youth coun- Param Veer Chakra, India ’s highest dealt with the major issues before the selling and matrimonial counselling, proj- award for bravery in battle. To induce community, was concurred to by 95 per- ects undertaken largely by the BPP, other Parsi youngsters to join the serv- * cent of the respondents. should be given the miss as also the cus- ices, the DPA has offered to host, free of Among the different projects initiated ternary self-introductions that usually set cost, 10-15 prospective entrants to the de- .. by the Federation, work on the defunct the pace for the meeting. fence services during the next Federation anjumans front was perceived to be mak ­ ing the maximum progress, followed by light and heat at this meeting were: the 1990 which is being organized to coincide , other projects like paramobeds, youth recent judgement by the small causes with the felicitation function. welfare, careers in government service, court authorizing a non-Parsi domestic, The fear of the possibility of an adop- research and the schemes for growing who claims to have been adopted by a tion law for Parsis being misused by non- kathi. Parsi, to inherit trust property; the rural Parsi menials with vested interest in their With the exception of 14 percent, the rehabilitation program where the BPP in employers ’ premises has perturbed those remaining 86 percent said they were re- partnership with the Surat Parsi in charge of trust properties. If an adop- the periodical. This is the first time that by the BPP to ascertain whether lack of housing is the chief reason for a decline in population; the paramobed training scheme; the program for coaching en- Waning attendance, a feature com ­ mon to executive council meetings of the trants to the defence services; the forma ­ tion and location of the secretariat of the ticeable in Bombay too. Two of the five Inter-Regional Zoroastrian Congress seen at the Muncherji Khareghat Hall, the venue of the meeting in Bombay. Ten of the 40 delegates present were, president of die Federation, informed in fact, from Bombay. But Dr Aspi that they have invited the President of Subjects that generated substantial meeting in Delhi on September 22 and 23, court authorizing a non-Parsi domestic, L 18 Parsiana July 1990tion law were to be recognized by the Don ’t give the impression,that we are on community, it would support the case of the doors of indecision. This remar., those trying to encroach on Parsi prop ­ erty on ) , _ Federation joint honorary secretary and BPP trustee Erach Desai. “It will create more problems than solutions, ” he in- sistcd. The chief cause for concern is the ver- the^enancy problems, diet of the small causes court which held that tenancy rights in a trust property can be bequeathed to a non-Parsi. The mat- tCT which is reportedly now pending with the appellate court could have dire reper ­ cussions on trust properties. Maintained Desai “Nearly a dozen cases have to the parties contracting mamage to en- cropped up in the last six monms of lone occupants adopting servants. ” 1^”* mi ­ norities commission i-------- ------- Taleyarkhan was of the view, “We ’ve got to come to some decision. Arrive at some kind of unanimity instead of defer ­ ring this issue meeting after meeting. ____ 1 delegates, Gandhi noted, “Everyone This remark comes without doing their homework. The same issues are being repeated. ” The amendments to the Indian Succes ­ sion Act, with regard to granting of equal status to women and permitting bequests Relief to Gujarat fanners will be pro ­ vided from the Rs 4,20,000 collected but this sum falls far below the targetted Rs 10-11 lakhs a year for the five-year plan, noted BPP’s chief executive Rustom Anklesaria. —____r —r • Gandhi, joint honorary secre- the pretext of being adopted, felt tary of the Federation, repeat the back ­ ground story to the enactment of an Adoption Act for Parsis with an offer to . send Desai a note highUghting the salient to charity even if the donor dies before the points in an Adoption Bill that can solve stipulated time lag, are expected to be brought up in Parliament, assured The Parsi Marriage and Divorce Act Taleyarkhan. was amended two years back but several outstation Parsis may lie outside its pur ­ view if marriages are mistakenly regis ­ tered under the civil marriage act instead of the Parsi Act, it was reiterated. It is up " Though Ms Kashmira sure that they ask for, and fill in,the rele- Bhaya ’s research report based on which vant form — there is one applicable the work was organized by the BPP and rams " But mi- vant form — there is one appiicaoie me wuu was member Homi throughout India — which will entitle the SPP showed a need for over Rs 80 them to be governed by the Parsi Act. lakhs, a more approachable target is When the same questions regarding pro- being pursued. The printed appeals had cedure for registration, broached time not generated much response, but when and again, were once again voiced by the anjumans and individuals present at the not generated much response, but when 19 Parsiana July 1990 Top row (from left): Golwalla, Gandhi, Guzder, Desai and Nargolwala Middle row (from left): Sethna, Taleyarkhan and Bhacca Bottom row (from left): Kanga, Shroff and Ranina Federation meeting were asked to do ­ nate, Rs 30,000 plus were promised round the table: Rs 10,000 from Calicut, Rs 5,000 each from Dinshaw Dabu Charity Trust and Jamshed Guzder, Rs 2,000 from Minoo Shroff, Rs 1,000 each from Eruch Desai, Meher Anklesaria, Dinshaw An ­ klesaria, Aspi Irani and Dara Deboo, and Rs 500 each from Bardoli and Dumas. Other anjumans undertook to send amounts subsequently. The amounts collected are expected to meet only the immediate needs of the farmers, most of whom own 10-15 acres of land and some of whom are so poor that they cannot afford to even pay the' conveyance costs of their school-goingOS ¦ **- Mg Bi a children. Davar Kavasji Modi of Surat who is believed to have spent Rs 25,000- 30,000 to better the lot of the farmers opined that “Aid, to be effective, should be immediate. ” When Capt Homi Dan- diwalla, of Allahabad enquired, “How much of the amount has been spent? I thought it was very urgent, ” Bhacca countered, “Those who are talking of urgency...how much contributions have they made? ” Dandiwalla had earlier specified that a clause in the constitution of the Allahabad Anjuman prevented them from donating for any cause other than that concerning the Allahabad Par- sis. ” Similar were the rules governing the Poona Panchayat. Hence it was individu ­ als from both these places who pledged donations. Gandhi advised that the rural subcom ­ mittee should first study whether the holdings are economical, and then with Above (from left): the aim of making the farmers self-suffi- Dandiwalla, Dumasia, cient, offer them advice. Only those co- Pervez Mehta, Marshall operating should be given financial aid, Bhesania and Cursetji he felt There were further suggestions of Below: Rustom getting the city youth to help out the vil- Anklesaria (left) and lagers in their holidays. “Could we use Katpitia the wealth of Gujarat for Gujarat it ­ self? ” wondered BPP trustee Jamsheed ----- - --------------------— Kanga. He elaborated that an inventory < ” " should be made of properties lying idle or cial builder but" 25 percent of the allot- going to waste, and before the land is lost i ” "' _____ ; 7_ __ _ to the community, intermediaries should the High Court ratifies this judgement, the Federation, negotiate between buyers and sellers and stay on construction continues. Cursetji To ascertain whether housing is really use the money for a deserving purpose, voiced the need for a surveillance body, the important factor responsible for the In Bhimpore, 45,000 sq yds of land are “a censor body — for trustees who are low birth rate, or one of several fac- reportedly on sale that could attract three abdicating responsibility —” and re- tors, the BPP will be conducting a survey star hoteliers. There were also plans to quested Taleyarkhan to intervene so that of 300 to 500 couples who have been re ­ sell the Bordi sanatorium but a clause in he could urge the charity commissioner to cently allotted a flat by the Punchayet in the trust deed preventing such sale had led amplify on issues he has not touched upon keeping with its policy of earmarking 45 to a change of plans - renovation and in his judgement. percent of allotments for those engaged to beautification with the help of Aspi Irani In their efforts to retrieve community be married or recently married. Addititm- and the Iranian Zoroastrian Anjuman. properties in defunct anjumans like Ju- ally, those staying in flats not provided by When disposing of unmanageable trust nagadh, Surendranagar, Nadiad, Cambay the Punchayet wiU also be surveyed to properties the tmtees should nego- and Khandwa, SPP’s chief executive determine the number of children per tiate, keeping the mterests of the commu- Sorab Katpitia and others working at the couple. The questionnaire, to determine nity in mind, was the view of Thana behest of the Federation found that there the correlation of housing with increasing Anjuman president Rustom Cursetji. He v — •"¦'*"-“2 cf ; "In™ ” ¦ - - -— - cited the case of the Divecha Trust in Muslim claiming a share in the Zoroas- sale should be permitted to the commer- man. ” Actually, at the last Federation meeting in Madras they had offered to ments should be reserved for Parsis. Until host an executive council meeting of the negotiate between buyers and sellers and stay on construction continues. Cursetji use the money for a deserving purpose, voiced the need for a surveillance body, nu: --- .. . . .__ _ reportedly on sale that could attract three abdicating responsibility —” and re ­ sell the Bordi sanatorium but a clause in he could urge the charity commissioner to cently allotted a flat by the Punchavet in tnA tnict HaaH nrmrantinn 2____v _ 1_____ « « « 7 ... _ V to a change of plans -- renovation and in his judgement. _ In their efforts to retrieve community be married or recently married. Ad5ti Those present at the Federation meet- AUahabad; Pervez Mehta from Bardoli; Minochaher Bharucha from Bhavnagar; sheed Kanga, Jamshed Guzder, Homi Ranina, Minoo Shroff, Rustom Ankle- saria, Ms Gool Tata, Ms Sheroo Master and Peshotan Nargolwala from Bombay; Darius Marshall from Calicut? Lt Gen Adi Sethna, Keki Gandhi, Dadi Mistry, Farrokh Rustomji, Hormazd Cama and Homi Taleyarkhan from Delhi; Edulji Dumasia from Dumas; Aspi Irani ^d Anjuman; Homi Bodhanwalla from Jam ­ shedpur; Dara Deboo from Navsari; Marzban Kaikobad, Meher Anklesaria, Dinshaw Anklesaria and Brig Noshir Grant from Poona; Dr Sam Bhacca, Sorab Katpitia and Davar Kavasji Modi will be going 10 Allahabad and the second Those pr^ntM the hedyanon narainobed Orhans may go to Mount Abu ing were: Capt Homi Dandiwalb tom which is rewnedly in need of a priest. Allahabad; Pervez Mehta tom Bardoll, When referring to the scarcity of mobeds. MimKhi^CT Bharacha tom B^yna^, Minochaher Bharucha of Bhavnagar sug- K Aspi uLi gested that non-athomans should be al ­ lowed to train at Bombay ’s Dad^ and Andheri Athoman Madressas. This pro ­ posal dealing with a “controversial relig ­ ious issue ” that is usually barred at Fed ­ eration meetings did not generate much enthusiasm. Neither did the plea from Paurusasp Magol of Karachi for funds for .-j-- -5, “e with three others. In fact there were many people tendering him reasons why his one crore target project was not practical. As reasoned by Delhi ’s Dadi Mistry, If every trust of a similar nature is going to h'ow'muchtl/^n yoTez^W tom ’Surai; Ruslom Cursetji andPjvez one sFngle clllecuye ef- Bhesania tom Th^a M^u from Zai Bordi. Ine Press was repre “Should we encourage people to burn sented by Parsiana. fort? ” 22 Pars/ana July 1990WELFARE COVER STORY I i { Through the eyes of a social worker ¦ ¦¦ Arnavaz S. Mama TOTO PAYER ’ Perceptions must change if the community's downward spiral is to be reversed,says Dr Vera Mehta trained social workers, specifically in the Punchayet ’s plans involving TISS: ses, etc; and the training of para-profes- for a survey to establish the nature and sionals. extent of poverty in the community, said “We need people who can inspire the Mehta. TISS would also provide guide ­ community; we also need a mini training lines for feasibility studies for projects program in social action which would concerned with the aged and the poor, dents of different communities to discuss tional services to meet the situation and their own concept of social welfare, ” try to get all Parsi social workers together ' -* -- --- _ - ;—( as an important part of the resource mobi- trust for overall planning and coordina- projects. Stressing the urgency for man- .. . . .. . power planning, she reiterated a piece of information that had scandalized her when it emerged at the workshop on the Complimenting the Bombay Parsi aged during the Congress: The Liaison I “There ’s no justification for the extent comprehension and hence, commitment stultifying ‘charity ’that uridermines self- of Zoroastrian poverty, ” says Dr (Ms) tO their work; continuing education for help and self-respect Mehta spoke of Vera Mehta, secretary-general of the In- trained social workers, specifically in the Punchayet ’s plans involving TISS: temational Association of Schools of management training, cost benefit analy- The Institute would provide counselling Social Work (lASSW) in Vienna, Aus- — ----- *¦ - - ........... tria. In Bombay to participate in the Fifth World Zoroastrian Congress (5WZC), Mehta questioned the assembled dele ­ gates, “Where is the concern for the ____ ____ ____ ____ ___ ____ quality of human life? ” adding by way bring together youth leaders and presi- help design new community and institu- of amplification, “There is a void, an ------ " ‘ ’ " _ _ _ ____________ emptiness in every life! ” . ......... Personality growth enhancement is said Mehta at an interview with Parsiana as an important part of the resource mobi- necessary for the qualitative well-being on January 20, 1990. She advocates a lization and the designing of self-help bf the mainstream of the community, f—* -----------” ' ~ says Mehta but adds that it would require ting medical care, cultiro, leisure and “a whole army of social workers. ” Lots youth work, together with a specialists ’ of catalysts are needed to galvanize the cell for social development, community: Mehta-would like to see C " ’ ' “ L__ _________ ______ __ _____ emerging young leaders oriented in so- Punchayet for its approach to community Committee °pays a b^e Rs 1,5(X) to its cial work through jwograms evolved by problems which Mehta described as posi- lone trained social worker of 40 years the Tata Institute of Social Sciences tive, open and supporting, she noted that standing when fresh graduates today be- (TISS); she would extend elementary the need of the present was to link re- gin their careers at Rs 2,500! education in social work to untrained in- sources to people, not the giving from The report that Mehta presented the cial work through programs evolved by problems which Mehta described as posi- CnSS); she would extend elementary the need of the present was to link re ­ sources to people, not the giving from ______ ___ ___ _ _ stitutional staff in the interests of greater the rich to the poor which results in the Congress in her capacity as chairperson 23 Parsiana July 1990about the freedom generated by inner discipline which “brings dividends of originality, physical, emotional and men- of the workshop on the aged and the poor munication with others... The quality and sought an integrated approach to the de- vk^, organized^on a nei^iboiho^ basis of life, ” says Mehta. She suggests medi- tai weU-being — ease, harmony, health. ’ — ¦ J "*--t Mehta is acutely conscious of the di- of our surroundings chotomy between Zoroastrian ideal and practice. As a trained social worker she sees beyond the polished veneer. “Par ­ sis brag about being straightforward, honest, but it is only the need to release aggression. Truth should lead to nur- turance, growth production, conversion of the heart... “Looking at Zoroastrian doctrines and traditions through the eyes of a so ­ cial worker, ” Mehta traces the commu ­ nity malaise to the gulf between religious tone of voice changes when we treat others as sacred. It should become a way »9 the Congress. Let us reestablish “Asha in ourselves, ” she urged. Mehta fervently believes in the need and the ability of Zoroastrians, as indi- above the daily trivia, the petty little in ­ conveniences and quarrels that we imbue impaired. ” The report stressed, “Benefi- Progressively widening our perspective by the trust officers. ” occurrences, of shared frustrations, Activities and functions help to gener- would eliminate much of the sting under ate the Parsi/Zoroastrian feeling, agrees which we smart so often and so long, she Mehta, but people must come forward to implied. A gradual withdrawal from help. They will only do so when there is such thoughts would free the mind for “compassitMi within, ” compassion being more constructive activities. In Mehta ’s defined by Mehta as a combination of words, “Consciousness raising, aware- love and understanding. “When you ness, enables people to live at a different have that, the entire approach changes, ” level (and) not be victims of circum- she adds. According to Mehta, “welfare stances or situation or environment, ” as they often are. ____ “Consciousness-raising requires inner pressed in) the urge to serve. Experience discipline, control, ” Mehta elaborates. rected, you are not a free, liberated indi ­ vidual, she says. No, she is not speaking about rebels or radicals, she clarifies, but Activities and functions help to gener- velopment of community welfare ser ­ in the colonies and bangs. The activities tation as a means of reaching that to be organized included “a play-center “mindfulness ” cnrmnnHinoe for children of working mothers, day- which could and should become a way of c^e center for the aged and the elderly, life. “Anger stems within, ” Mehta told work centers for the able-bodied, self- employment opportunities for the entre ­ preneur boys and girls, supportive or re ­ medial education, school social work, health insurance, vocational guidance and viduals, to raise their level of cognition employment assistance. Financial assis- ' ' '* “ ’ tance should be given only to the dis ­ abled, socially neglected and mentally with such heavy emotional overtones. claries also need to be treated with dignity to accept the commonality of such daily precept and practice, leading to a poverty • ’ of the spirit The teaching of religion in classes is not combined with an attempt to engender inner development, she notes sadly. “Take the scriptures into applica ­ tion in daily life, not just at the intellec­ tual level. Games, puzzles, oratory are okay, but side by side there must be a connection with one ’s soul, a conscious ­ ness of one ’s being, ” she advises and asks, “What techniques and traditions do the scriptures provide to tackle the up ­ heavals, traumas, tensions of daily life? ” In the context of the persistent pleas from the youth for religious education at the 5WZC, Mehta noted at the plenary ses ­ sion on ’The survival of tradition in the twenty-first century, ’ “Poisonous emo ­ tions poison our dily living... disease is the final manifestation of conflict be ­ tween personality and soul, ” and made an impassioned plea to provide “spiri- needs commitment combined with reli ­ gious, spiritual and moral education (ex­ in serving can bring out a deep sense of To the extent that you are not self-di ­ humanity... “We say everyone has the God ­ essence, but we don ’t live it in our com- Gifts& I % The Friend^ Gift Shop , for handicrafts, festive gifts, rpliginus artefacts, executive desk sets, exclusive shell items, designer jewelry & specializing in wood & copper-enamel gifts. BOMBAY SWADESHI STORES LTD. (Mezzanine Floor) Sir P.M. Road, Bombay-400 001 mi lliipaaaiuiivu piva iw pivnwv tual tools to youngsters to look at (their) ] inner self, make the mind free of debili­ tating forces. ” Mehta believes that the access to Vohu Mana — pure, clear thought — is blocked by the chattering of the petty mind, resulting in a large number of con­ troversies. “Discern between freedom of the press and destructive criticism. When there is spirituality, we would not destroy as often as we do. There are many thankless jobs. Do we wait to as ­ sess how much effort is being made? ” , Mehta asked the assembled delegates. “When you have experienced Vohu Mana you don ’t go about hitting out at people; you acquire an enlightened ap- roach... The moment you are on a higher level, everything else — charity, under ­ standing, thoughtfulness — follows, ” she reiterated at the interview. Mehta is the first Asian secretary-gen ­ eral of the 60-year-old lASSW whose STUDIO AKAR 6T/2660 II r 1,600 members belong to 80 countries — to correspond: though she cannot write coming into focus, says Mehta. “In indeed, the first from the third world. A them, she can sense the meaning. South Africa our black and white col- product of the Alexandra Girls ’ English “There ’s empathy when you ’re in touch leagues need our international support, ’ Institution, St Xavier ’s College and with people, ” she notes. she asserts. “My role is to get as many USS, Btxnbay, Mehta acquired her mas- “Even before ter ’s in social work from Boston Univer ­ sity and her doctorate from the Technical University of (West) Berlin. Thereafter, for 17 years Mehta taught at Bombay ’s Nirmala Niketan College of Social Work, When a vacancy arose in Vienna, about 70 names were proposed from all ova* the world for the prestigious post. Interestingly, Mdita says she was spon ­ sored by Germany, not India! The selec ­ tion procedure spanned nearly two years and she won from a final shortlist of opened, we ’d already reached East Euro- about five candidates. Among the criteria pean countries, China... Russia has in- the lASSW sought in its incoming secre- < ' _ tary-general were high professional com- ing social workers,' ¦ that dissipate energy. She claims the tion in April this year. Programs of the regimen has enormously increased her World Bank, once purely the voice of capacity for sustained work. She also be- • lieves staunchly in the moral imperatives assist her at the Vienna headquarters cial welfare element, notes Mehta who of non-violence in thought, word and live in tune with the adage, “You cannot make peace; you do not do good; you comprehends French and Spanish enough ing all the time with new global issues must be good... ” M political barriers world bodies to have social work consul ­ tation ” she adds, citing the World Health Organization ’s multi-million dollar pro ­ gram on AIDS and UNICEF’s work for street children who account for more than one half of all third world children, according to Mehta. “Social work ex ­ tends not only to helping clients but the normal population (if it) needs help, ” she adds. Mehta subscribes to the special die ­ tary routine known as Food Combining under which certain foods combine har ­ moniously in our innards while others — vited our organization to assist in train- largely due to different digestion timings informed Mehta — create the all too familiar rumblings petence, a capacity for fund raising, the who was due to visit Moscow on invita- ability to represent the profession at inter ­ national fora, to administer and to teach. Mehta speaks of the staff of seven who economists, now have an increasing so- “Even "The quality and tone of voice changes when we treat others as sacred" »» wh^ the AssociatitMi communicates in recently addressed the United Nations deed —a Buddhist concept — and tries to three official lan gua ges — English, Commission on the Status of Women. ........................... French and Spani^. Mehta says she The curriculum of social work is widen- With Best Compliments From STEELAGE INDUSTRIES LTD Manufacturers Of Steel Furniture, Bank Security Equipment, Fire Resistant Cabinets, Fire Alarm/Hydrant Systems Address: Post Box No 16213 Opp Post Office Mazagaon Bombay 400010 Phone: 8512960-61 Cable: “STEELAGE” Telex: 011 75728 STMX IN Fax: 8512954 n Patsian» July 1990MEDIA TO BEE OR NOT TO BEE Padma Shri Behram Contractor, alias Busybee, reviews his career as a journalist Gustasp Irani ¦ ¦ ¦ ¦ “There are no highlights in my ca- morous character projected by the col- reer, ” interjects Busybee before Con ­ tractor can reply to our query: “It ’s ¦‘I don ’t really know. Behram Contractor. ” One must see Behram Contractor in He looks up from his typewriter to greet do so, for behind the good-natured, hu- you, then pleads for a moment to com- i ... plete the sentence he is structuring. He umn is a hard-nosed newspaper man. crouches over the machine again, his Ask him, “Who won the award. Busybee probably The ADC; to have a paper of face frightfully close to the words he or Behram Contractor? ” and he replies, your own (to edit), to have the right of scans, then strikes a single key. His “I don ’t really know. I wish it was choice. Of course, you consult others, thatch of grey hair rises from the type- Behram Contractor. ” but finally it ’s you who shapes and fash ­ writer once again. “That ’s it? ” you ask. One must see Behram Contractor in ions the paper. ” Such freedom is para- a little taken aback by the brevity of the proper perspective, leaving behind, at the mount to Contractor. He had it for the maneuver. Yes, he nods. Behram Con- age of 49, the security of his reporting first two years with Mid-Day, then less tractor, noted Bombay journalist, desk in The Times of India (The TOT) till, after five years there was none left, founder editor of The Afternoon Des- which he held for 17 years, to join he said. “It was then that I left.. You patch and Courier (The ADC) and a re- Khalid Ansari of Inquilab Publications to leave either because you failed or you cent Padma Shri awardee, is as intriguing launch the Mid-Day where he continued succeeded. My parting of ways with as the “Busybee ” column — a daily as executive editor for six years. Then at Mid-Day was because of my success. ” tongue-in-cheek comment piece on hap- the age of 55, when most people contem- penings in the world at large' —he writes. Though it is tempting to typecast him in the mold of Busybee, it would be folly to founder editor of The ADC. ¦ ¦ Success, however, did not come easy plate and fret about their retirement for The ADC. “The first year was diffi- years, he broke away to become the cult. We used to do our printing at a press at Sewri, ” Contractor recalls. 28 Parsiana July 1990 IAt the fifth anniversary celebrations ofTho Afternoon Despatch and Courier (from left): Farzana Contractor, Justice Bakhtavar Lentin, Dhun Lentin, Saeed Jaffrey and Behram Contractor Finding financiers was a problem too but would write it on my own time. I still here Contractor found an ally in Kamal do. It did not pay me enough to take it M. Morarka, managing director of Gan- seriously, non Dinkerley and Co Ltd, a construction ' , firm. “He gave us money, and later he wald ’s writings. With time, the style maintains his position. “When I write 3______ „ ~ ' ’ • about a situation I write as Busybee, I bland realities. He, however, assures you tinct personality of his own. “Even Art don ’t write as Behram Contractor. The that the financial help was delinked from _________________________________ _ two are different; their approach is dif ­ ferent. The two get mixed up at times I suppose, but there is a difference. ” Contractor ’s life is rich with experi ­ ences and Busybee is dipping in con- j to borrow situations: The Billi ­ moria Boarding School in Panchgani where the air is sweet with the kiss of monsoon flowers on tableland; the early years of journalism with the Free Press I don ’t read him much Journal', the drinking years and drinking companions; travels and more. Particu ­ larly intriguing are the two years Con ­ ception of Busybee too. The column is tractor spent hitchhiking around the no longer a mere financial perk. “Now I globe (1959-60). “It ’s a story all by it- ¦ ¦ ' self, ” says Contractor as he gives us a in Hindi — his' surname misspelt. We job, it sells papers, ” says Contractor, peep into chapter I. It started with Rs 75. “I did not have ______________ __________ money for the return fare so I had to keep futile. “I’m not going to put it up, ” he Contractor refuses to play favorites with going forward. ” The first leg was on a . states; “In fact, 1 don ’t even know where the many characters who frequent his ship to Basra, Iraq. The country was it is. lyiy wife has probably spirited it column: a wife, two sons, a friend who raked by a bloody revolution at the time, away. ” He has been told that two med- lives on the 21st floor, Bolshoi, the The ship Contractor was on, was the first ¦ ¦ - — .... . , to dock in the port town after the assassi ­ nation of the King and his Prime Minis ­ ter whose bodies had been dug up from lar. He appeals to children. ” (Ouch), their graves and dragged through the we challenge him. “I may write about a situation, I don ’t write about myself. The early pieces he wrote Some of my experiences are bound to were “definitely ” modelled on Art Buch- come into my writings, ” Contractor wald ’s writings. With time, the style maintains his position. ¦ gave us more money, ”’Contractor states changed and Busybee emerged as a dis- i_'_------ editorial interference. 4. Il Contractor would not have settled for It someone tens less. Awards, like the Padma Shri he Qnmpthinn I shrugs off. In fact, he leaves it to Busy- ' ’ bee to deal with. In his famous last page know how to word it column he agonized good-humoredly over the honor bestowed on him — in one instalment he fretted over what to wear at the award distribution function — and finally did not go to receive it from the eral topics. President of the country because the date now, ” notes Contractor, of the function coincided with the fifth - anniversary celebrations of The ADC. “I would have loved to go,” he assures us. Recently, they sent him a certificate write Busybee columns because it is my Buchwald has changed. He now writes more about US politics rather than gen ­ Time has changed Contractor ’s per- look around his small cabin for the What has not changed is the Busybee framed document, but the search proves style; good-humored and non-committal. away. ” He has been told that two med- lives on the 21st floor, Bolshoi, the The ship Contractor was on, was the first J ? als are to follow. One large, to display in boxer. We goad, singling out the dog as his showcase; the other small, to. wear at our personal favorite. “Yes, ” says Con- official functions. “I’ll keep those, ” says tractor, “he is probably the most popu- Contractor. “They are made of gold. ” I Busybee is practical, but he does not Contractor dismisses the suggestion that streets. Contractor found himself in the take life seriously. He does not take his probably Busybee ’s wife has changed whirlpool and, before he knew it, he was column seriously either. Never did. It since Contractor got married. “I don ’t arrested... started with the now defunct Evening think so. When I write, I don ’t write News of India. “I never agonized over it as it was not my main job, which was journalism, (as) a newspaper man. I column seriously either. Never did. It since Contractor got married. ¦ ¦ • - • • • , There were other journeys too. “I do about myself so I can ’t be writing about travel a lot but not as much as (veteran my wife. ” “You don ’t write about yourself? ” journalist) Khushwant Singh. I use my travels in my columns, so it appears that I. i 29 Parsiana July 1990 iiI have travelled a lot more than I have. ” as it was before. ” And yet, it is the pa- news. I can ’t follow their language. ” Then there are people in Contractor ’s per Contractor reads. One reason is that While talking of Parsi journalists in life, ordinary and famous, whom Busy- he believes that the majority of The ADC the English Press, Contractor steps back bee portrays. The writing is often readers buy The TOI too, and his column .and a non-commital Busybee takes over, sprinkled with good-humored ribbing but is based on news items appearing in the Yes, there is Russy Karanjia of Blitz", an item appearing in Indian Express or Nanporia, former editor of The TOI, The Statesman and The Straits Times of Sin ­ gapore, still writes a column for The The other factor is that if a certain news ADC; Dina Vakil, Bachi Karkaria, Man ­ item does not appear in The TOI, it can be used in The ADC. This is vital for an evening paper for. as it was before. ” And yet, it is the pa ­ per Contractor reads. One reason is that never with malice. Occasionally, in these morning paper. “If I wish to write about there was Dossu Karaka of CMzre/i/; N. J. images one detects a sensitivity that is s „ ’ ~ ' ”” touching. “I am good at writing such Free Press Journal I would have to ex ­ things. I can play with words. I write a *----- - food column too. I am not a great eater or an expert on food but if someone tells me something, I know how to word it," says Contractor. The difference between Busybee and according to Contractor, there is a dis- Contractor aside, they share the same art ­ istry of language. In fact, according to Contractor the proper and correct use of the language is the greatest asset of a joumalisL His hiring policy is based on the applicant ’s command of English. “If a person writes well, he or she gets the job. In India this is important. Jour ­ nalism can be taught, one can learn the ropes, but one must be able to write good English first. I don ’t think that a journa ­ list requires special qualifications. It ’s not like surgery or other specialized pro ­ fessions. ” Women, he finds, are gene ­ rally better writers than men and, in to- plain to my readers what it is about. >9 eck Davar and Porus Cooper, now mi ­ grated to the US, are names that spring to his mind as he thinks of the younger gen ­ eration. Parsis, Contractor believes, do have an edge over other Indian communities in English journalism. They are gene- *’Rl IQVhPP Pnd rally well educated and have a command over the English language which Con- Behram Contractor tractor values as the most important skill get mixed up at times, but there is a difference” tinct difference between a morning and in the profession. “We do get Parsis off and on. ” He stops and mentally scans his staff, “In fact we don ’t have any on our staff at the moment. The general manager, however, is a Parsi, Phiroze Dastur, son of an Udvada high priest, and Contractor is happy with the arrange ­ ment. “You can trust a Parsi; he is gen- Is Contractor ’s an evening paper. Morning papers are __ ______ fed stories by the agencies; there is a glut erally more honest ” dayS world, they are equally competent, of news. By contrast the evening papers sudreh-kusti showing? “You probably can ’t send them to Kas- have a problem trying to fill pages with- Sorry, he does not wear a sudreh- hmir, ” he concedes, but adds, “You out repeating items that have been cov- kusti. “I stopped wearing them when I probably can ’t send men there Cither. I’ve got nothing against men, ” he clari ­ fies before he can be charged with re ­ versediscrimination. . ... According to Contractor, journalism need not necessarily be a local paper. In year when he visits the agiary on Pateti. in India has changed. Now there is more fact, he believes, it must be national, a “My wife encouraged me to start going investigative journalism. “Earlier Blitz complete paper. The Evening News of to the fire-temple, ” he clarifies. She did it but then it was called yellow jour- India and the Bulletin of earlier days drives me to the Cusrow Baug agiary, nalism... Today if (Om Prakash) were local papers. Being linked to mor- waits in the car while I go in with an of- ning papers they suffered: the best stories fering of sandalwood for the fire. ” Yes, and the best staff were reserved for the his wife, Farzana, is a Muslim. Their union did create waves as most intercom ­ munity marriages do. “There were no have a problem trying to fill pages with ­ out repeating items that have been cov ­ ered by the morning papers. “We have to had to buy them myself... I suppose if use more news features. It ’s like a Sun- someone gave them to me, I might start day paper, only we come out daily. ” No, wearing them again. I do have a topi Contractor clarifies, an evening paper (cap). ” And he wears the topi, once a use more news features. It ’s like a Sun ­ day paper, only we come out daily. ” No, Chautala has gone (he was forced to re ­ sign as Chief Minister of Haryana), it was because of the Press, m^e sure big brother — the morning paper. Later, about that. ” Rajiv Gandhi too, in Con- they tried to change but it was too late; _ tractor ’s equation, lost the last general the two papers started by Contractor objections from my community. I don ’t - - - - have a family. The opposition came front According to Contractor, Mid-Day her family, ” clarifies Contractor. He states that he also has a dagli — his wife ’s idea. It was his wife ’s idea too to they tried to change but it was too late; elections because of the Press. Earlier were too firmly entrenched by then, the role of the media in national events was less vital: “India ’s independence and The ADC share the evening paper was not won by the Press, ” he observes, market evenly. “We are more up-mar- He concedes that the general public in ket, ” he observes — no mates, less filmy celebrate the fifth anniversary of The India may be illiterate but those who gossip and no color front page (“You ADC with a jashan, live band and pqtra- read the naners talk and that is how the could lose a big front page news story nu-bhonu (traditional Parsi feast) at the . __ .... . r________._________ ____________________ T________"VU... A “1 oon trt was not won by the Press, ” he observes. India may be illiterate but those who gossip and no color front page (“You ADC with a jashan, live b^d and pqtra- news gets around. “I think democracy in India has survived because of the Press. ” Contractor points out that almost every town has its own small paper. “Politi ­ cians and police officers can ’t do too Jam-e-Jamshed daily; the weekly is not much without it being reported. ” (. ' ' ’’ "" Samachar has now become the Parsi pa- However, The TOI seems to have re ­ mained untouched by time. “The edito ­ rial is where it was before, everything is 30 Parsiana July 1990 _. "1,200 to 1,500 people attended. For many, it was the first time they saw how Parsis cele- trying to sell a few extra copies ”). Being Jeejibhoy Dadabhoy Apary. up-market means more coverage of Parsi ' ” news — “It helps our up-market image. ” Contractor rues the closure of the brate and feast. ” And while the Ctxitrac- 7_____-___ ' \ t tors were playing host, they were con- quite the same. By default The Bombay spicuous by their absence at the nati- j ~ . onal award ceremony at Rashtrapati per and yet “It ’s not really a Parsi paper; Bhavan, New Delhi. For once. Contractor it is. a Gujarati paper that carries Parsi was making news instead of reporting it!FOOD THE PLACE where it sizzles The sizzling steak is a family innovation, says restaurateur Shahrookh Erani of Poona Gustasp Irani The building was soon to be “They call me the son of sizzler, ” a house. The building was soon to be secret. The recipe has been handed down bearded Shahrookh Erani leans back in pulled down and Erani Sr took his sizzler from my father to me, ” says Erani. But his chair and laughs. A meal splutters, to the Isle of Man where he gave the Brit- there is more to sizzlers than the sauce, splatters and hisses on the table behind ish Isles their first restaurant of its At The Place, only tenderloin steak is us at The Place in Poona. “The sizzler kind. It remained unique, for the idea did served. A tenderloin cut, Erani points was my father ’s creation... It was his original idea. ” More than a steak the sizzler is a part His son brought the sizzler to Warden starting from the groin - yes, even hu- of the kitchen brought to your table. Road, Bombay, where the restaurant mans have it. On an average, one can get Erani explains. “Your food is cooking Touchd opened in 1967 and carried only four kilograms of tenderloin meat while you eat it Food is no fun when it ‘ _ gets cold. With a sizzler you can gup- sup (chat) while you eat — the sizzler looks after your meal and keeps it hot. ” To enjoy the sizzler fully, the meat the sauce as it sizzles... it ’s the sauce that should be turned over so that it does not sizzles. ” The sauce? “Now that is a trade not spark there and the establishment out, is the meat that runs down both the closed after his death in the mid 1980s. sides of the back bone of all animals. it from there to The Place in Poona from a beef producing animal. Since the in 1971. How does one sizzle food? “The siz ­ zler is basically grilled food that absorbs is nothing more tender than tenderloin, ” says Erani. Then there is the sizzler plate. Erani Sr muscles of this region are seldom if ever exercised, the meat is very tender. “There overcook on one side and remain rare on the other. “Every sizzler is a complete meal in itself, as it comes with French fries or jacket potatoes and vegetables, ” Erani adds. According to Erani, it all started in Kobe, Japan, the place where the world famous Kobe cattle are bred for their meat — especially steak. Looking at these prized animals Erani ’s father Firoz ¦ Erani mulled over the problem of keep ­ ing a meal piping hot right up to the last bite. The answer was a thick metal plate imbedded in wood. In the early 1960s, The Sizzler — the Erst restaurant of its kind in Bombay, India or the world — opened on the ground floor of the old Excelsior cinema In charge of The Place (from left): Todivala, Vachha and Erani 32 Parsiana July 1990 Ls r vegetarian section. On Sundays there is dhan^, prepared according to a recipe by Erani ’s mother Nina. Recently, Erani has started daily fixed lunch menu priced at Rs 35 (including taxes) where the cus ­ tomer is offered a choice between a soup or a starter, a main dish of fish, beef, mut ­ ton or vegetables and a dessert. Parsi dishes like sali boti, saas ni machhi, every restaurant offers sizzlers. You have Now, “the clientele is mixed... anyone chicken farcha and more will soon be vegetarian sizzlers and even Chinese siz ­ zlers, ” notes Erani. prices, ” says Erani. As he sees it, the Babinca, balchao and a number of Yet, pioneering the new concept was foreigners get to satisfy a palate that other Goan dishes have made the grade not all smooth sailing. Though the siz- craves for food that it is used to and the at The Place. It is no idle boast when zler caught on fast enough in Bombay, Indians get to feast on genuine Western Erani claims that his is probably the best the Poona chapter of the story was a long food that matches up. “There are very Goan food in Poona, for it is the brain ­ struggle before a solid, broadbased clien- few steak houses with reasonably priced child of none other than Cyrus Todivala tele was established. The original Siz- menus in India. The only other restau- who was the chef in charge of the three zler restaurant at the old Excelsior had rants that serve good Western food are properties of the Taj Group of Hotels at been ideally located in the business center of the city. For lunch it used to fill up plus taxes are prohibitive, ” says Erani. with office executives and members of _ the trading community; for dinner, there sizzler, though the latter accounts for Taj chain of hotels — to join Erani. Now were couples, family and social groups around 80 percent of its turnover. There he has shed his chef s toque to help run who used to round off the evening at any “ " — — one of the three cinema halls in the area (those were the days prior to TVs and videos). Touchd, at Warden Road, in the affluent shopping and residential area soon became popular with the youth; in Erani ’s words, it became, “a hang-out joint, a place (at which) to be seen. ” Poona, by contrast, was not ready for the restaurant in the early 1970s. “It was difficult in the early stages. People in Poona would eat at home rather than risk eating out More often, clientele com ­ prised of visitors from Bombay on race days and weekends, or foreigners. ” They still come, but now more resi ­ dents of Poona frequent the restaurant. had to develop it himself — a special al ­ loy that retained the heat. Probably his brother Keki Erani of Steelage, Bombay, helped him with the technical inputs. At The Pla;e the same custom-made plates are still used. Now, of course, one can purchase standard sizzler plates from the market. It reflects the growing popular ­ ity of sizzlers in India: “Today almost » People in Poona would eat at home rather than risk eating out” who wants a good meal at affordable added to the menu, prices, ” says Erani. As he sees it, the found in five star hotels where the price Aguada, Goa. Todivala refused a pro- “ ’. motion — that would have placed him The Place has more to offer than the among the three top chefs in the entire is a tandoor section, an Indian section. The Place, starters, snacks, soups, desserts, even a O: r-’6 For regular customers, Todivala is always ready to whip up something spe ­ cial, was specially nated, smoked tender ­ loin steak. “Today, I smoked it with sawdust rather than straw, ” he explains. The waiter brings a few slices of meat for us to sample. Just looking at the plate, the dressing, we understand what Todi ­ vala was talking about I only moments ago: the difference be- I tween, “presenting food and plonking it I on a plate. ” After sampling the offerings, I we are awed by the touch of a master. I Draw him out and he will take you on a I fascinating journey through the world of ’ food; of how they smoke meat in tf prov- ’ ince in Switzerland, of how...of those little touches that make a world of differ­ ence in a restaurant. A restaurant is more than food, it is atmosphere, says Todivala. “Put on a table cloth, a vase with a single rose, plates, cutlery — a full service dis- I play — and the entire complexion of the I restaurant changes. ” Your clientele I changes too; the restaurant would now be I targetted at the upper end of the market. I Of course, at The Place, the spluttering I sizzler rules out the table cloth and the I 93 Parsiaia July 1990 This time it mari- The exterior and interior of Poona’s popular sizzler joint t'The butcher and fishmonger, she informs, are more than work acquaintances. Though happy to be a Parsi, Vachha ture in Dahanu, Gholvad and Palghar and “Parsis can be bigots at bay. In fact, the sizzler story traces its ori- fers to the rituals surrounding the food gin to an Irani restaurant perched on top and fruits from the prayer table (bhanaila of a small hillock at the end of Worli Here Erani ’s father used to range of the clientele is wide. Poona, the marketing personally. The restaurant certain lifestyle that I understand and can Todivala believes, is not yet ready for a opens and shuts with her, ” says Erani. high grade French restaurant Bombay is. — But it remains a ‘five star ’ preserve. A good Parsi restaurant also has the “They are very human... I’ve been in ­ potential for doing well in Bombay but vited to attend weddings in their families no one has really given such an establish ­ ment a fair shot, observes Todivala. There are forever curious about The Place; they Irani is more adaptable to a tougher lifes- are Parsi catering institutes like the Sir want to know what happens to the goods tyle. He cites the example of Irani fami- Ratan Tata Institute (RTI) but they do not they supply. lies who have made a success of agricul- fall into the grade he is referring to, which ~ is more on the lines of the privatelv run finds certain aspects of the community the Irani bakeries and restaurants in Bom- Chinese restaurants that dot die city distressing. Anyone wanting to take up the chai- times, ” she states. In particular she re- lenge should be forewarned: the restau ­ rant business is hard work. Handling dif ­ ficult guests is part of the bother. “You fruits). “It can be given to a cat or a dog Seaface, meet all types of people, ” says Erani. or a cow but not to a parjat (non-Parsi)! ” serve mava cakes and soft drinks to Brit- “Recendy, we had an elderly lady who She also knows of a Parsi priest who ish soldiers who used to parade along the ord^ed a steak when it was obvious that strongly believes that all prayer is re- waterfront. But Erani Sr was one Irani she would not be able to chew it ” Erani duced to zero if a parjat walks past a who broke free of the stereotype of the prefers guests who complain in the res- Parsi at prayer. “He maintains that you Irani restaurant owner. When he moved taurant so that something can be done must start all over again, even if you shop to the old Excelsior cinema, he was about it Managing the staff is the other have been praying for 45 minutes, or it is the first person to sell chicken rolls, hot bother. Sample: “You train your chefs as good as not having prayed at all. ” But dogs and hamburgers. “He was the pio- and they run away. ” Presendy, six chefs then again, all things considered, Vachha neer of the American fast-food concept man the kitchen of The Place. confesses that she is most comfortable in India, ” claims Erani. It was at a time One Parsi who is not afraid of hard with Parsis. Erani agrees: “I’m not par- when his other creation, the meal that work is The Place ’s charming manager, dcularly religious but I am most at ease does not get cold, was sizzling in his Ms Farida Vachha. “She goes and does with my own community. They have a mind. relate to. ” Yes, even their idiosyncrasies. The Parsi-Irani divide, Erani believes, is superficial. “We are one people sepa ­ rated by a name. We both sp^ Gujarati, we both follow the same religion. ” If and oh yes, ”ve gone too! ” And they there is a difference, it is probably that the 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. Also sole Government Landing contractors at Jamnagar, (Bedi) Bhavnagar. J f ! 34 Parsiana July 19907 MILESTONES The age of Zoroastrian brides (as would be required. We are sure Kashnura Hoshang Nava and listed in this issue) in Bombay oih readers would aj^eciate Mehernosh Meherwan Maval- ranged from 20 to 45 years, the this requirement and cooperate wala of Nagpur; May 25 aiidunetic mean being 27 years (the total of individual ages di­ vided 1^ the total number of brides). The corresponding fig- BOMBAY ures for the grooms were 21 and ~ 50 years, averaging at 32 years. As compared to 83 deaths in Bombay there were 12 birdis. May 31,1990 The major killers were heart dis- A girl to Zenobia and Farokh ease (18), old age and general Iraru', June 2 debility (16), pneumonia and Twins (girls) to Parizad and lung disease (eight). Six patients Bond Karkaria; June 4 succumbed to sq)ticania, three each to diabetes, brain disease and kidney failure, while tuber­ culosis, malnutrition and hyper­ tension claimed two victims each. Isolated cases of tumor, dementia, paralysis, blood dis­ ease, ddiydratiott, stroke, acci­ dent and bums were also regis­ tered. The medical report in the Bhathena-, June 13 case of one death was still pend­ ing. A 17-year-old youth was lost to the commiuiity. The old­ est to die was a 97-year-old lady Panthaki-, June 17 as compared to the youngest age at death which was six years. This month’s list of Bombay deaths includes one Mr Chawda Married whose demise was brought to Shernaz Jal Varulrewalla and the notice of the Bombay Parsi Meheryar Faridoon Unwalla-, Punchayet (BPP) by the police. March 8 Having died in a suburban hos- Dinaz Nairosangh Kapadia pital on June 23, 1990 the old and Homyar Nadarsha Aibara-, man was reportedly a pavement March 29 dweller whose first name was unknown. The Punchayet in­ terred the sudreh-kusti clad Dhun Shapur Jabbar and bo1), Ib/d, West View, Sion (W), 400022;June 2 Maneckshaw Dossabhoy Kt^tadia {^9), Ebrahim Mans, 35 Parslma July 1990 Born A boy, Marzban, to Rashna and Hoshang Udwadia on A boy to Bena^er and Purvez Kutar', June 6 A girl to Benaz and Minocher Khavarian-, June 1 A girl to Meenaxi and Mehernosh Bharucha', June 9 A boy to Shiraz and Firoze Katrak, June 10 A boy to Firozea and Percy A girl to Aban and Khushroo Kotwal', June 15 A boy to Persis and Cyrus A girl to Hootokashee and Firdaus Mehta', June 24 Huzan Rusi Kharas and Aresh Firoze Fraser-, May 6 Aban Bahadur Udwadia and Firoze Behramshah and Cyrus Dara Turel', May 7 Dinoo Jal Gandhi and Noshir Maruthershaw Shethna-, May 10 Farida Rustem Wankadia and Jesse Sam Readymoney, May 26 Mehroo Boman Irani and Daney Balaram St, 400007; June 2 Phiroz Gundevia', May 27 Maki Eruchshaw Chinoy and Aspi Horru Driver, May 28 Zarin Jalejar Sidhwa of Udwada (90), Room 38, Jame Jamshed and Parvez Faramroze Billimo- " ' ~ ~ ' ria of Mumbra; May 31 Nancy Honu Deboo and Kobad Aspi Bugwadia; June 1 Dinea Aspi Patel of Jamshedpur and Parvez Ratanshaw Havaldar-, June 1 Fauziya Dara Devlaliwalla and Khushnood Asptuidiar Shokrekhuda', June 1 Mahrukh Adi Daruwala and Kaiyomerz Jehangir Sattha; June 2 Kolly Ardeshir Laher and Darayus Adi Cor/ectioner, June 3 Bakhtavar Cavas Fatakia and Cyrus Dara Press', June 3 Khushnuma Honu Chothia and Sharukh Cowas Bhathena-, June 4 Daulat Behram Irani and Adil Jehangir Irani', June 7 Jasmine Rusi Dordi of Ahmedabad and A^i Minoo Sanjana-, June 8 Jolly Jehangir Marolia and Sarosh Pesi Doctor, June 10 Pheruza Pheroze Tareytpre and Jimmy Erach Antia-, June 11 Ferozy Minoo Narielvala and Sam Noshir Cheytgar of Poona; June 15 Hilla Honu Lelinwalla {IQ), The Reward, Tardeo, 400007; June 2 Nad^shah Hormusji Daruwalla Died Sheriar Minocher Irani (75), residing at A-1, S. Proctor Rd, Grant Rd, 400007; May 31 Hormusji Navroji Jamula (90), New Mistiy Bldg, Balaram St, 400007; May 31 Perin Jehangirji Sopariwalla (73), A73, Rustom Baug, Victoria Rd, Byculla, 400027; May 31 Dhunmai Pestotyi Madon (90), Kalpataru Bldg, S. V. P. Rd, Borivli (W), 400103; Jime 1 Meheramai Hormusji Patel (80), E-6, Shapur Baug, V. P. Rd, 400004; June 1 Bldg, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 400014; June 4 Rohinton Phiroze Dover (50), Meher Mans, Below Tardeo Bridge, Lamington Rd, 400008; Jime4 Maneckbai Asparuiiar Irani (89), 9/1, Patel Bldg, Gamadia Clny, Tardeo, 400007; June 4 Dara Phirozshaw Master (79), Hormuz Mans, Opp Bhatia Hosp, Tardeo, 400007; June 4 Sorabjee Dinshaw Parakh (68), Chinoy Mans, Warden Rd, 400026;June 4 Pirojshaw Ardeshir Vatcha (74), 3, Daruwalla Hse, 3rd Marine St, 400002; June 4 Rusi Dosabhai Banaji (82), Cricket Club of India, Dinshaw Wachha Rd, 400020; June 5 Jinvny Soli Desai (6), 10, Dadi Suntok Lane, Dhobitalao, 400002; June 5 Faredoon Fcddrji Sigarytoria (54), 5/B, Vishwas Soc, Vile Parle (E), 400057; June 5 Jer Savedahaw Adenwalla (82), Room 203, Ritz Hotel, Jatn- shedji Tata Rd, 400020; June 6 Perin Munchershaw Garulhi (85), 799, Jame Jamshed Rd, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 400014; June 6 Ardeshir Buman Irani (67), Sarkat Bldg, 4th Rd, Khar (W), 40(X)52; June 6 Homai Merwanji Cursedji (83) 23, Pereira Hse, Mazagaon^ 400010; June 7 Rustom Soridz Daruwalla •(82), 305, Daruwalla Hse, Dhobitalao, 400002; June 7 Shirin Farokh Elavia (57), B/33, Jeevan Sindhu, Andheri (W), 400058; June 7 Gawhar Khodabax Irani (JI), 81, M. A. Patel Bglw, J. P. Rd, Andheri (W), 400058; June 7 Sorab Dadabhoy Kurlawalla(80), V, Dalal Est, Bombay Central, 4(XXX)8; June 7 Jal Hormusjee Siganporia (77), 15, Contractor Bldg, Viju Kotak Marg, Fort, 400001; June 7 Goola Pestonji Chinoy (60), 14/F, China Hse, 1st Carpenter St, Mazagaon, 40(K)10; June 8 Jer Cursetji Banatvala (85), 6, C. C. I. Chmbs, Sir Dinshaw Wachha Rd, 400020; June 9 Khorshed Rustomji Dhabher (90), Uranwalla Mans, Dr Ambedkar Rd, Parel, 4{XX)12; June 9 Jerbtu Hormusji Khajotia (88), T-3, Cusrow Baug, S. B. Rd, 400039;June 9 Hoshang Kersasp Vimadalal (40), A, Godrej Baug, Nepean Sea Rd, 40(XX)6: June 9 Faramroze Sorabji Achadwala (94), Sethna Bldg, Wadia St, Tardeo, 4(XM)34; June 10 Jerabai Sorabji Bhesania (78), Petit Widows’ Chawl, Mody St, Fort, 4(XX)01; June 10 Firoz Pestonji Nariman (50), E-27, Jer Baug, Dr Amb^ar Rd, Byculla, 400027; June 10 Cawasha Behramji Tukina (78), 6, Cama Bldg, M. F. Cama Rd, Andheri (W), 400058; June 10 Khorshed Dorabji Billimoria (83), E, Wassiamal Bldg, Grant Rd, 400007; June 11 Mani Sorab Chothia (80), F. S. Parukh Dharamshalla, 34, Hughes Rd, 400(K)7; June 11 Meherbai Savdksha Khambatta (95), 4, Shroff Bldg, Gamadia Clny, Tardeo, 4(X)007; June 11 Rustom Cawasha Mehta (82), Sea Side, 147, Colaba, 400005; June 11 Jehangir Manchershaw Chothia (68), 635, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 400014; June 12 Dina Sorab Dubash (78), J, Dalal Est, Bombay Central, 400008; June 12 Cover Rustom Irani (68), 397, Sapar Bazar, Main St, Deolali Camp, Dist Nasik, 422401; June 13 Dinshawji Temulji Panthaki (85), 11, Hill Rd, Bandra, 400050; June 13 Roshan Sam Talati (64), Alpaiwala Bldg, Station Rd, Mahim, 4(XX)16; June 13 Tehmurasp Bejonji Cassad (62), K Bldg, Fort St, 400001; June 14 Rustomjee Dossabhai Ichha- poria (85), Gai Bldg, 646, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 40(X)14; June 14 Gulla Maneckshaw Patel (n),9. Doctor Bldg, S. Bharucha Baug, Andheri (N), 4(XX)58; June 14 Dina Bapuji Dhondy (Id), Dhondy Hse, Land’s End, Bandra, 4(XX)50; June 15 Tehmina Dossabhoy Doon- gariwalla (81), Dossabhoy Mans, 796, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 40(X)14; June 15 Jehangir Dorabji Thetha (75), 24, Roop Darshana, Juhu Lane, Andheri (W), 40(X)58; Jime 15 Jimmy Shapurji Billimoria {i3}, 21, Cuffe Parade, 40(XX)5; June 16 Farida Framroze Dhabher (52), D/21, Nowroz Baug, Lalbaug, 400012; June 16 Alamai Jehangir Karai (85), lOfl, Rustom Baug, Victoria Rd, Byculla, 400027; June 16 Sehroo Pirojshaw Wankadia (li), Rusi Hse, Wankadia St, Nargol, Dist Valsad, 396135; June 16 Zubin Pervez Mistry (17), Room 63, Jame Jamshed Bldg, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 400014; June 17 Sam Phiroze Siganporia (86), Kaka Bldg, 648, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 400014; June 18 Jehangir Bekaji Tavadia (85), 115!?, Old Khan Bldg, Chikalwadi, 4(XXX)7; June 18 Sorab Darabsha Gardin (65), 600, Bacha Manor, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 400014; June 19 Coomi Pestonji Mistry (84), 47, Karel wadi, Thakurdwar, 400002;June 19 Homai Nadar show Mistry (78), Arsiwala Bldg, Grant Rd, 400007;June 19 Goolbai Jehangir Unwalla (i9), Jehangir Mans, N. S. Patkar Marg, 400007; June 19 Behramshah Hormusji Bharda (75), 5/11, A. H. Wadia Baug, Parel Tank Rd, 4(XX)33; June 20 Khorshedbanoo Rustomji Driver (90), Baria Bldg No 3, Gamadia Clny, Tardeo, 400007; June 20 Jehangir Shapoorji Khambatta (83), Boyce Bldg, 671, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 400014; June 21 Faredoon Jamshedji Behramkamdin (65), C/o Banaji Fire Temple, Chami Rd, 4(XX)02; June 22 Parvez Dosabhoy Chinoy (79), M/4, Nowroz Baug, Lalbaug, 40(X)12; June 22 Freny Minoo Gowadia (50), C-61, Meghdoot Layout, Andheri (E), 4(XX)69; June 22 Perin Dara Reporter (75), Khorshed Baug, Opp Thane Rly Stn, Thane, 4(X)60i; June 22 Sehra Nusserwanji Bhogiji (JJ), Damania Bldg, Chikalwaidi, Tardeo, 4(XXX)7; June 23 Mr Chawda (about 80, first name and address unknown); June 23 Dhun Pirojshaw Daruwala (64), 23, Station Ter, Sleater Rd, 400007;June 23 Homi Shapurji Mehta (72), Talukdar Bldg, Marazban Clny, Dr Naik Rd, 400011; June 23 Villoo Adi Mohta (53), Tata Bldg, C. J. Clny, Tardeo, 4{XX)34; June 23 Keki Rustom Patel (76), C/o F. S. Parukh Dharamshalla, 34, Hughes Rd, 4(XXM)7; June 23 Bomi Rustomji Wadia (77), Park Lodge, 10, Demonte Park Rd, Bandra, 400050; June 23 Piroja Kaikhushroo Bamboat ()1), 5, Rustom Baug, Victoria Rd, Byculla, 4(XX)27; June 24 Bachi Kaikhushroo Bharucha (67), The Homestead, 6, Alexandra Rd, Gamdevi, 4(XXX)7; June 24 Rustom Dosabhai Gai (65), Dubash Bldg, 611, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 4(X)014; June 24 Banoo Perviz Bharucha (83), Assisi Bhavan, Goregaon (E), 400063;June 25 Manijeh Ratanshaw Katruck (86), Sethna Mans, 10th Lane, Khetwadi, 4(XXX)4; June 26 Jeannie Dinshaw Kharas (62), Id/A, Nishar Bhavan, Sleater Rd, Tardeo, 40(XX)7; June 26 Maneckbai Dinshawji Wadia (92), Kachna Bglw, Chikalwadi, Grant Rd, 4{XXX)7; June 26 Dhanjishaw Maneckshaw Siganporia (75), Shroff Bldg No 4, Gamadia Clny, Tardeo, 4(MXX)7; June 28 POONA Died Piroja Nariman Billimoria (80), 596, Sachapir St, 411001; June 5 Farhad Manecigi Mehta (75), Jehangir Nursing Home, 411001; June 10 Jerbanoo Nariman Irani (86), Khodadad Mans, Namrin Rd, Nana Peth, 411()02; June 22 Nariman Nusserwanji Tadiwala (15}, Koregaon Bhirna, Taluka Shirur, Dist Pune; June 22 Banoo Jal Bhamgara (83), 5/A, Apsara Apts, 259, Bund Garden Rd, 411001; June 25 A/ori Aspandiar Irani (60), 486/25, Rasta Peth, 411011; June 27 SURAT Died Pestonji Jamshedji Elavia (68); June 19 Minoo Kaikhushru Mody (13)\ June 22 Kaikhushru Manekshaw Patel (72); June 23 Alamai Nusserwanji Mohta (92); June 29 Sher a Hoshangji Patel (J5y, June 30 KARACHI Died Rati Belvcun Khursigara (82); April 2 Tehmina Maneckji Khambatta (80); April 8 MISSISSAUGA, Ontario Died Jerbanoo Guzder, wife of Faredoon and mother of Khurshed and Sam; February 23 NEW SOUTH WALES, Australia Married Roshan Taraporewalla and Behram Katrak of England; April 21 OTTAWA, Canada Died Jalamai Bulsara, mother of Keki and Jal; April 24 PHOENIX, Arizona Died Zarine Daruwalla, wife of Noshir and mother of Nazneen, Zenobia and Shemaz; February 22 TORONTO Born A girl, Diana, to Phee and Phil Vania-, April 12 TOTALS (for this issue) Born: Boys 5 Girls 8 Married 29 Died 99________ _ Comf^ed by Roxana H.Kaka 36 Parsiana July 1990