Jul 1996

P4?m JULY-AUGUST 1996 Rs 35 t * 1; 1« .-R* ' ¦k ' t2®2^» »jp J 1^ i Ir EDITOR Jahangir R. Patel MANAGING EDITOR Arnavaz S. Mama EXECUTIVE EDITOR Parinaz M. Gandhi SENIOR EDITOR Dina K. Mehta I ASSOCIATE EDITOR Roxana A. Driver DESIGN Kranti M. Shilotri, Jayshree R. Ghosh MARKETING DIRECTOR Veera Patel ADVERTISING MANAGER Zarin Mistty ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES Niloufer Panthaky, Susan Hadvaid FINANCE B. L. Arora EDP Rohinton E. Daroga MANAGEMENT Jasmine Driver DTP Bakhtavar R. Batliwalla, K. P. Ravi SUBSCRIPTION MANAGER Khurshid PanthakI ASSISTANT SUBSCRIPTION MANAGER Swarupa Kamat ASSISTANT PURCHASE MANAGER Bindu Pillai ACCOUNTANT Anagha Korde SENIOR ACCOUNTS ASSISTANT Chetan Halani ACCOUNTS ASSISTANT Indu Pillai OFFICE ASSISTANTS Umesh Poojary, Selvan Mark, Sunil Sakhare, Govind Salgaonkar, Mahipat Jadhav Parsiana is published by Jehangir R. Patel for Parsiana Publications FM Ltd at C/o H. L. Rochat, Navsari Chambers, ground floor, 39 A. K. Nayak Marg, Fort, Bombay 400001 and printed by him at Kaiser-E-Hind Pvt Ltd, 300 Perin Nariman Street, Bombay 400001. Color processing. Comart Lithographers; black and white processing, Samir Scantech. All rights reserved. ISSN: 0971-3786. Phone: 2078730, 2072624. Fax: 2074541. For editorial enquiries: 2078183. E-mail: parvo @ giasbmOI .vsni.net.in. For subscription enquiries and payments; C/o Kaiser-E-Hind Pvt Ltd, 300 Perin Nariman St (Behind Resenre Bank of India), Bombay 400001; Phone; 2658619, 2665661. Fax; 2654585. Annual inland subscription for one year (10 issues) Rs 200; for two years (20 issues) Rs 375. Foreign subscription rates: Seamail for one year Rs 375/US $ 14/UK £ 9; for two years Rs 700/US $ 23/UK £ 15 (please allow six months or more for deliveiy from the time of publication). Airmail for one year Rs 700/ US $ 23/ UK £ 15 (for Pakistan, Indian Rs 500); for two years, Rs 1,300/US $ 43/UK £ 27 (for Pakistan, Indian Rs 950). For Indian upcountry cheques add Rs 10 for bank charges; for US cheques add $ 5; for UK cheques add £ 3. Cheques and drafts are to be drawn in favor of Parsiana and posted to GPO Box 892, Bombay 400001. 2 Readers ’ Forum 16 Events and Personalities 28 Probing for Zoroastrian roots 32 Zoroastrians Abroad 45 The elevation of Nadirshah Unvaiia July-August 1996 Volume 19 Number 1 50 Dr Pallan Ichaporia: The tale the Yashts tell 58 The rivayat of 1996 by Arnavaz Mama 72 Parsi Gymkhana: The other woman by GustaspTrani 80 Dr Kety Dinshaw: Early prevention, early detection by Paric^az Gandhi 88 Yezdi Malegam: The corporate sleuth ----------------------------------------------------------- {— 94 The Federation: Turning the Tide? 106 Iran: Iron in the soul 4 f 4 1 122 The Parsi Punchayet Case - 2 136 The Iranshah: Motlibai ’s act of faith by Dinshaw Joshi 141 Once Jamshed, then Jimmy, now James by Dilnavaz Bhagwagar 148 Pastry dough: friend or foe? Recipes by Bhicoo Manekshaw 154 Books 158 Armin Wandrewala: Making crime pay by Homi Rogers 190 Milestones 206 In Memoriam Cover: Traditional Iranian welcome at the Sixth World Zoroastrian Congress Photograph: Arnavaz Mama IREADERS' FORUM . < .i Vo: Readers' views are welcome on any subject of interest to the community and should be sent to the Editor, Readers' Forum, Parsiana, G.P.O. Box 892, Bombay 400001. Letters are subject to editing for reasons of space and plarity. Unsigned letters or those without an address will not be published. struggle power between man and woman man, each woman, no matter what his/ her status in life, could make the world a happier, healthier and better place to live in. Making the requi ­ site changes in the practise of rituals, ancient texts, analyzed and put forth so Zoroastrian female through “Ashoi, ” well? one can change so- I can ’t but help sharing a couple of my own ideas after reading these articles. To ancient man, and here we are talking enjoined to “perceive, think, reflect, and about all humankind, the excrements from every orifice of the living organism were not only a disgusting, but also a frighten ­ ing experience, and therefore when at pu ­ berty a young girl came up with an addi ­ tional excrement by way of menstrual blood, the innocent human mind got terri ­ fied, considering it an evil visitation — how else could she explain it? As our Lord Zarathushtra based his whole religious concept on “Ashoi ” and hygienic prin- PriCSts’ RcbuttaP’ ciples, he had to lay down the tenet that Apropos the letter from Mr Farhad D. excrements being impurities from the body , the true Zarathushtrian had to make him- self/herself “Pav ” again, through prayers and purificatory rites, before returning to dasturji sahebs and said: Thank you? ” routine tasks of life. Hence, while she was bleeding, no intercourse, no domestic chores, healthful yet frugal diet and rest Zoroastrian community of Bangalore gath- were recommended for the menstruating ered at the Kothari Hall to felicitate our young lady, as also a lady after delivery. It panthaky saheb Ervad Nadirshah Unvalla was only some two millennia later that scientific discoveries led us to realize that Close, Bishop ’s Stortford, Herts CM23 2RY, UK. FARROKH VAJIFDAR London, UK “Status of Women...” As always, it was a pleasure to read the erudite article about the ancient culture of Iran, in the series “Status of Women: sa­ cred and secular ” by Dr (Ms) Ketayun Gould, {Parsiana, October 1995 to May 1996). May I humbly offer my congratula ­ tions for the admirable piece of work she Gould: studying- has so painstakingly researched from the the status of the each cioeconomic milieu and advance in scientific knowledge — for are we not then accept to practise? ” I think, with a very few exceptions, our community has been able to advance and change with the changing times. Maybe, we are making too much about the differ ­ ences between m^le and female — where our Lord Zarathushtra saw none. Dr (Ms) ROSHEN S. MASTER Pune Sethna {Parsiana, April 1996), which states “When was the last time any of us went up to our serving mobeds, dasturs or wada I wish Mr Sethna had been in Bangalore on June 7, 1996 when almost the entire 4* * cal cycle, necessary for the preservation of the race. It is the mother who plays the key role in nurturing, directing and disciplining the children to maturity. So apart from the routine domestic chores of catering to the Zoroastrian literature The World Zoroastrian Organisation (WZO) is hosting a two-day seminar on the “Literature of the Zoroastrian Tradition, ” jointly with the World Zarathushtrian Trust the bleeding was an essential physiologi- Fund at Zoroastrian House, 88, Compayne Gardens, West Hampstead, London N. W.6. To be held over the weekend of Novem ­ ber 16 and 17, 1996, the specialized con ­ ference promises to be yet another unique event in the Zoroastrian calendar(s). The internationally invited panel of physical welfare of her family members, speakers will consist of Professors Francois she was also the prime teacher of the de Blois, Carlo Cereti, Ilya Gershevitch, GherardoGnoli, HelmutHumbach, Stanley religion. And, so down the centuries, she Insler, Kaikhosrov Irani, Farhang Mehr, Antonio Panaino, Martin Schwartz, Ni­ cholas Sims-Williams and Fereydun Vah- man. An introductory paper will be by Farrokh Vajifdar. Details may be obtained from WZO generations of Zarathushtrians (starting on his retirement after serving our Zoroas ­ trian community and the Bangalore agiary for 60 long years With dedication and devotion unmatched in the annals of ser ­ ving panthakies. The grateful Parsi community not only said “Thank you ” to this devoted panthaki saheb but also presented him with a shawl and citation in a silver scroll and raised him to the status of a High Priest (Dastur). There were also innumerable messages of ethical and hygienic tenets of the good congratulation and good wishes from many anjumans, societies, individuals etc. Na­ dirshah Unvalla not only served as a had the important duty to teach her chil ­ dren that our beautiful religion is not just a panthaky but gave his services to the com- bundle of superstitions and barbaric ritu ­ als, but, when carefully analyzed, is a definite science of life, as understood by munity in many other matters well beyond the call of duty as an ecclesiastic. Mr Sethna is correct in his views that our wada dasturs should be given the re ­ president Shahpur Captain, 25 Willow with the very first disciples). Nor was it a sped due to them, but, it is also expected 2 Parsiana July-August 1996i by the community that they should guide walla. Bangalore and Mr Filly Maravala the community in religious customs and ' """ ritual matters in a way that should be fair, bold and show transparency in their views, that would be acceptable to the commu ­ nity irrespective of the power, social sta ­ tus, wealth, etc of any individual. The recent unfortunate controversies four (then five) priests of accepting the over the navjotes performed for Mr Neville Wadias into the Zoroastrian lold was an and Mr Nusli Wadia and justified by the four Wada Dasturs in their joint article “The Priests ’ Rebuttal ” in Parsiana (No ­ vember 1995) created a lot of confusion in the minds of Zoroastrians. Nobody has yet sage of Zarathushtra where he notes: come forward to enlighten the community as to why the name of the priest who performed these navjotes has not been announced and why the presence of a notary and his subsequent certification was I of Parsi children are done without such legal formalities. Disawalla queries that a number of citi ­ zens of Turkmenistan and Kazakhistan may lay claim to join the Zoroastrian reli ­ gion on the plea that their ancestors were Zoroastrian. By the same token Mr Mara- vala feels that our Iranian brothers who ally and legally speaking, the decision of converted to Islam against their will, may wish to be once again converted to their ancestral faith. The answer is ‘Yes, ’ regardless of the precedent of the Wadias. However, they would not be allowed to claim amenities of the Parsi community, funded under trust deeds with definite injunctions. But there is no bar to such non-Parsi Zoroastrians captioned, “The Priests ’ Rebuttal ” in con ­ text of the acceptance of Mr Neville and Mr Nusli Wadia into the Zoroastrian fold (Parsiana, February-March 1996). In my humble opinion, socially, mor- action in the right direction. In this context, may I draw your read ­ ers ’ attention to a book published by the late Dastur Khurshed Dabu entitled Mes- “There is nothing to prevent anyone not born a Parsi from professing his spiritual having their separate temples and other allegiance to Zarathushtra and adopting facilities at their own cost whilst observing his message as it is the privilege of each the tenets of Zoroastrianism, a . b . madon soul to accept truth from any source. Thus Karachi necessary when thousands of navjotes Zoroastrianism is still open to adoption by the world to which the religion was of ­ fered. But if an alien embraces Zoroastri- The position of a dastur is vindicated by anism, he or she cannot claim amenities of ............ ' ’ ¦¦ 1 the trust deeds with definite injunctions. ” Needles.s to say, the Wadias are un- an exemplary life-style, dedication and devotion to the religion, and service to the community which can be appreciated by likely to claim such amenities now or in an average, even a non-scholastic Zoroas ­ trian. Dr M. D. DISAWALLA Bangalore This has reference to several letters, more particularly, the letters of Dr M. D. Disa- the tenets of Zoroastrianism. “The Farohar” Every issue, it would seem, is either mis ­ understood and/or controversial. The lat ­ est emerges from Ervad Hormazd M. Pavri ’s letter on the Farohar {Parsiana, February-March 1996). It would help for a start to universally distinguish right ^om left. Out here in the right to mean the direction of finish of this line, and left to mean its commencement. When, therefore, we are confronted with the future. On the other hand, the Wadias ’ charity to the community is enormous and unconditional. It should not be forgotten woolly West we"*commonly understand that Sir Ness Wadia was a born Parsi and therefore both Neville and Nusli Wadia are full blooded Parsis. “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit. paint^L Specialists in Structural Repairs, Guniting, Waterproofing, Rehabilitation & Renovation of Buildings, Internal and External Painting, Industrial Painting. Adm. Office; 1 A Star Mansion, Ground Floor, 66 Wodehouse Road, Colaba, Bombay 400005 Tel: 2188375/76, 2188438/39. Fax: 2186386 ?the splendid outline of the Farohar on pg Rahmat behind the Persepolis platform represent Ohrmazd/Ahura Mazda in fully 28, the profile figure facing towards the both have their intended occupants facing human shape conferring the ring of di ­ left margin of that page, we describe it as right, while their wavy-winged Farohars vinely approved sovereignty upon various left-facing. Yet we are told it is facing its - ¦ - ¦ - - right. Strictly speaking, it is staring straight ahead in profile which here points left, but and his accompanying Farohar (wavy) fac- never mind! The point of this explanation is to indi ­ cate to the ervad saheb that he is both right tury BCE relief from Nimrud; there the ^^DoCtOrS Utiplugged^' and wrong. He mentions Persepolis and hovering spirit form faces in the same Naksh-i Rustam where all depictions are in direction as the King and, what ’s more, profile. At Persepolis the reliefs on the exactly imitates the bow-holding position Triple Portal door-jambs show on the one side Kang Darius with Crown Prince Xerxes facing right (as the viewer sees them); overhead is the Farohar figure facing right, anguished over the facing problem, may it group of talented and dedicated doctors. On the other side. King Darius is backed by be suggested that as we Zoroastrians are sadly miss the presence of the real heart and soul of the band... Dr Jimmy Sidhwa. Dr Sidhwa ’s absence from the recent per ­ formance of this group has greatly dimin ­ ished its ability to entertain our audiences which, in recent years, has become ex- We think it is far more important to tremely discerning in its evaluation of enquire into the identity of the bearded onstage entertainment. Dr Sidhwa has that figure arising out of the winged circle. The rare gift — the ability to establish an Bahistun political testament and the Naksh- immediate rapport with the audience. He i Rustam and Koh-i Rahmat rock tombs would suggest Ahura Mazda. Darius ’ in ­ face left. A famous cylinder-seal impres ­ sion shows both the charioted King Darius ing right. It is a hunt scene which had figured on a pre-Achaemenid ninth cen- kings, and the earlier Farohar question does not arise with these. What do your learned readers think? farrokh vajifdar London, UK These are a few observations that I would like to make with reference to the article '"Doctors Unplugged (Events and Person ­ alities, Parsiana, February-March 1996).” People like me, who have been regular of the hunter! How the ervad saheb will view these captions is his affair. But since his letter fans of the Parsi Medical Amateurs, the anguished over the facing problem, may it two attendants who all face left as does the taught from infancy of the appropriateness Farohar on that panel. On the Treasury/ of the right hand, then his navjote and Throne-room relief, the seated King and lagan invitations should show the Farohar, the Crown Prince Xerxes standing behind right-handed as he correctly observes, also him both face right, as does the Farohar. It right profiled. is of interest to note that the existing reliefs at Persepolis/Parsa all show the Farohar with precisely preened wings. We encounter oppositions of the fac ­ ings of King Darius and the Farohar on Mount Behistun and at Naksh-i Rustam. Here the king faces right and the Farohar scriptions seem to support this view, left; both Farohars are shown with wavy Persepolis and the cylinder seal could indi- wings. The unfinished rock tombs of Artaxerxes II (?) and III (?) on the Koh-i cate the King ’s own fravashi, but here we are guessing. The Sasanian rock reliefs also has a fine sense of the ridiculous, the ability to ad-li^ with finesse and, most of all, somehow manages to make his co ­ actors look good. Unfortunately, he did not participate in Doctors Unplugged, and was sorely missed. Estb. 1972 In Service of the Suffering MAZDA MEDICAL ELECTRONICS BURJIS N. KHURSHEDJI & CO 104 Amit Industrial Estate, 61 Dr S. S. Rao Road Parel, Bombay 400012 Tel: 4135468, Fax: 91-22-4130148 «L with the audience and therefore the items did not reach any height. The production f It must also be remembered that the ^"rabilh; KkS Values were pSo. by today, fools of themselves (deliberately), and we, dards. However, we appreciate he efforts in the audience are not there to hear and put in by this dedicated group, led by he see* vXr-uTwteh is, in the main, a eminent surgeon Dr Fardoon Soonawalla. rehash of old skits, plagiarisms of the inimitable Mr Bean and poor attempts at reappearance professional singing [it must be said how ­ ever that Dr (Ms) Villie Bamboat sang _ _ lism, and her tuneful excellence cannot be criticized]. However, we sorely missed the traditional Dr Jehangir Wadia plays, with all the koylagiri... The recent ama ­ teurish attempt cannot compare with the professionalism of the past. The other regular participants to be sorely missed were Dr Marzban Nalladaru, his wife Dr Thrity Nalladaru, Dr Pervin Modi, Dr Darius Anklesari^ Of thejiur- rent group, b.n - --------------------- were the only stalwarts of the old guard to be appreciated. In Unplugged, the honor ­ able mentions for a good effort would be Dr Dordi, Dr Bamboat and newcomers Dr Marzban Katrak and Dr Anaita Pundole (Dr Pundole has been on stage with the group in the past as well). Unfortunately, the compere Dr Pardi- walla did not establish adequate contact in the audience, are rehash of old skits, plagiarisms of the professional singing [it must be said how- with great sweetness and professiona- Kalfati onH hf>r hinefiil excellence cannot Late Dhunjisna We hope that in future there is a grand talented regulars, in a Dr Wadia-type play. B. M. MEVAWALLA the young and old Parsi men patrolling our B alaram Street day and night. My father used to say that the police commissioner had given hundreds of firearms to Parsis to save their families, and their agiaries and atash behrams. Had it not been for this bold action of 50 percent of the Parsi population would have been killed in that riot of 1924. I was too young and I never saw the late Dhunjisha Kalfati. If you refer to Jam-e- Jamshed or The Times of India of the year 1924 you may find all the details you want. HOMI S. KAPADIA Calcutta of Dr Swa and also of .he ,hepoliceeon.n,issionerofBon.bayI.hink Regarding the late Dhunjisha Kalfati (Rea ­ ders ’ Forum, Parsiana, September 1995) I have some personal reminiscences. I was born in Bombay in the year 1915. My father Shapurji Pallonji Kapadia was . thebrotherof the (late) Sorabji P. Kapadia, Teaching ZoroaStrianiSm editor S n. Bo^ihay Sa„.^l,ar. Beneath all the ¦ When the Prince of Wales arrived at ween orthodox and liberal Zoroastria , Bombay ’s Gateway of India “Apollo the issue of religious education does not y ; old and warrant being regarded as “water under ^he lived in Balaram Street. I remember going , ... ... 1„ ...Irk rrrrz nnrpnk ns Hid the transmission of the taitn trom one to see 1 hundreds of Parsis. When we returned home there was a riot between Parsis on one side and the Hindus and Muslims combined on the other. Many Parsi houses were set on fire. In a day or two I saw my father in his Parsi dagla and pheta carrying a revolver, and all Beneath all the recent controversy bet ­ ween Gateway of India “Apollo the issue of religious education does not lanub niiMvuoita. -— - - viatvnuj ______Of “iitQfftr iinHp.r the Drs Dordi and Rustom Patel Bunder ’’ in 1924,1 was eight years • -T'k 1 __ £? a-—.... z..* I H#: bridge. ” It is a concern to all who care for the parade with my parents as did the transmission ot the taitn irom one , r parvis generation to the next. If we do not get it very inviting — the future could be bleak. ri ght — and so far the outlook has not been very inviting — the future could be bleak. Even those wi^ no great faith of their own are ( > - -- —» a secure ------------- tion of young people, no adequate substi- coming to realize that in providing foundation for the moral educa- -«»¦ * For over 50 years, our master craftsmen have excelled in maintaining a rich tradition of excellence in fine quality furniture Exquisitely hand-crafted in contemporary as well as authentic period style designs using the finest quality wood.. We mee^ all your decorating needs. ®l|e Brauitng Mnnm 14 Oricon House, K. Dubash Marg, Bombay 400023 Tel: 28429865 tute for religion has yet been found. And they might well conclude that if Zoroastri ­ anism cannot do it, then nobody can. Many ordinary Zoroastrians who look with dismay at the rate at which their taught as caught — almost as one might for the majority of people. We live in a culture that is opaque to God. It cannot see (rather than vice versa) and a refusal to be Him even when He is there. overawed by their academic credentials It is said that religion is not so much and professional standing. In religious edu- ;________ :„:.t ' ¦ ¦ ¦ children abandon their faith and lapse from catch a cold. It is in the air and other Zoroastrianism — particularly, in the West people. It is urged to place more emphasis on the ethos of the whole establishment as a caring Zoroastrian community. It is dif ­ ficult to make good progress if the values the current theories of the educationalists cation schools, Zoroastrianism can and should be taught confidently “as true, ” and not as an option. The only option should be to opt out, not opt in. furhok k tangree La Roche-sur-Foron, France — put the blame at the door of Zoroastrian education. Religious education is not exempt from educational fashion, and it too has been being inculcated in a learning zone are not Parsi profiles influenced by the emphasis on non-judg- - > ¦ > mental child-centered teaching. If it is not fashionable for the alphabet to be taught by Zoroastrian religion has to say rests on the authority of the Avesta. That is because it is about what Lord Zarathushtra has re ­ vealed, and about the transmission of that revelation down the ages. This produces a clash between the criteria set by current educational ideology and the demands of religious faith. It is a false contradiction, as science, history and most other subjects on the curriculum are also taught a.s true on the authority of the teacher. A child can no more check the statement that the Battle of Shri, ” “Padma Bhushan ” and “Padma Vibhushan. ” I appeal to the families of all persons who may be in possession of the photo ­ graphs of these v^^rthy persons to kindly spare me a copy along with their bio data, coat of arms, etc to reproduce in the book. reflected at home. Religion without doc ­ trine does not work. A lot of what the rote and recitation, then neither is it fash ­ ionable for the Avesta and Zoroastrian prayers. There is a natural spirituality about children before adolescence. They may not be able to discover the existence of Ahura Mazda for themselves, but the in ­ formation does not surprise them when they hear it from parent, priest or teacher. They like the idea. It makes sense. The task of religious education at that age is to lay foundations that will endure, as children Hastings took place in 1066 than the state- increasingly come to realize that the adult world is largely godless, and that other systems of belief (self-interested individu ­ alism, scientism, even metaphysical cyni ­ cism) constitute life beyond the classroom. ments attributed to the teachings of Zoro ­ astrianism. So what religious education needs, in the Zoroastrian sector, as much as any other, is a willingness to sit in judgment on I have long felt that many Parsi Zoroas ­ trians are not aware of the rich heritage of the community and its earlier leaders and hence I have decided to compile a book, Profiles in Parsi Achievement. It will include all Parsi Zoroastrians who were conferred knighthood, baronet ­ cies, titles like Khan Saheb, Rao Saheb and/or awards like K.C.I.E., K.C.S.I.E., C.I.E., etc in the British Indian Empire. I would also like to include the names of Parsi Zoroastrians who have been con ­ ferred Indian national awards like “Padma MATCH YOUR AMBITION TO A CAREER To do so we offer you: ? Diploma Course in Business Management (Postal) (IMG) Executive Secretarial Course < Private Secretarial Course Personal Assistants ’ Programme (Working Stenographers) Shorthand/Typewriting/Electronic Typewriting Telephone Operating & Receptionist Techniques English Conversation & Writing Skills Personality Development and o Computer Packages Enquire at: Sir J. J. College of Commerce 14, Nanabhoy Lane, Hutatma Chowk Mumbai 400001 Tel; 2871058/2844329 Fax; 2871185I would be most willing to give due credit to the family members for their valuable | support in giving this information and also u undertake to return the material after print- | ing. I All material should be sent to me at Q- I 6, Cusrow Baug, Colaba Causeway, Bom- I bay 400001. Tel; (022) 2041176, Fax (022) I 2029604. MARAZBAN PATRAWALA I ¦ Parsis of Hongkong Hongkong is a flourishing colony under British rule. This place of plenty will face its toughest task when it will be taken over by Mainland China within a year. Billionaires and millionaires, it is re ­ ported, have already started moving their bases elsewhere, as they fear communist China will not be so benign as the Britishers were. What about Parsis living in Hongkong? Hong Kong's new Zoroastrian Building How many are living there? Whilst under Chinese law, all Hongkong Chinese will become citizens of China at the stroke of part of the world throw any authentic light midnight of June 30, 1997, there are evi- on the above questions and what will be dently no provisions in that law for persons their plight after the handover of the Depen- who are non-Chinese residents to become dency to China? Chinese. Will Parsis face statelessness? Have they planned to migrate to pastures new? Will any relatives of Parsis of Hongkong was reflected in the inaugural of their new or any other knowledgeable Parsi in any BHIKHAJI M. ADENWALLA The Editor replies The optimism of Hongkong Zoroastrians 18-storey Zoroastrian Building in 1993, completed at a cost of approximately 13 . crore rupees. On that occasion long-time Hl Hong-kong resident Jimmy Master had es- timated 186 Zoroastrian residents in the British colony, 40 of them being children. I Thanksgiving mission A lifetime ’s ambition was achieved on December 12, 1994, when I completed my “goodwill missions ” across the length and breadth of India on my moped, covering a distance of nearly 7,500 km from Kanya Kumari to Kashmir and the Gulf of Cutch in Gujarat to Arunachal in the East. It was made possible by the encourage ­ ment of Parsi philanthropists, industrial houses, anjumans and individuals who con ­ tributed to make my endeavors successful. The Parsi Press like The Bombay Sama­ char, Jam-e-Jamshed, 'Parsiana, FedNews- letter, have been responsible for a wide coverage among our community which also helped in netting contributions. It is for this reason that I would like to undertake another “goodwill ” mission: •To personally thank those who have so generously contribsted for the successful completion of this odyssey; •To meet as many Parsi families as pos ­ sible and enjoy Parsi hospitality; ZORO GARMENTS PVT LTD (An ague Export House Recognisod by the Govt, of Imlia) Manufacturers and Exporters of Readymade Garments, Made-Ups & Fabrics Address: C-3, Industrial Estate, Ambattur, Madras 600058 Phone: 652416/652497 Telex: 4122059 ZORO IN Fax: (91) 44-6257789/ 1 Our World of Vacations I "^K^^hirnla - Manali •Nainital-Mussourie •Delhi-Agra-Jaipur • Nepal • Darjeeling-Sikkim •Mysore-Bangalore-Ooty-Kodaikanal • Konark-Puri • Goa •Trivandrum-Kanyakumari • Bhubaneshwar •Andamans,! •Lakshadweep u Destinations No of itineraries Days No of Rs +US$ Far East Europe & UK U.S.A/Canada South America Africa Middle East Australia/New Zealand 9 20 15 6 2 4 Royal Caribbean Cruises 6-13 7-31 5-21 14 7-11 8-13 9-14 No.of Days (Payable in Indian Rs.) 3-14 15,950-33,950 +200-1950 39,950 44,950-64,950 63,950 15,950-39,950 27,950-33,950 42,950-52,950 +475-2000 +345-1625 +2000 +350-2000 +630-690 +800-2000 us $ 329 upwards -t-Applicable Air Fare •To make this a pilgrimage to visit our atash behrams and agiaries. On my Kanya Kumari-Kashmir trip when I was honored on November 16, 1990 by the Parsis of Nagpur, the ervad saheb impressed upon me to visit as many religious institutions of our Parsi community as I could. The same sentiments were also expressed by the late mobed of Ajmer who had performed the navjote ceremony of my grandson earlier; •I have entered my 74th year and am seeking a calm, quiet and peaceful place to spend the remaining years of my life away from the bustle of a big city. Any person reading this and having such a ‘Shangrila ’ in view, may please write to me. The manufacturers of the TVS Champ have bestowed a unique honor on me by presenting me a brand new latest model Champ absolutely free and I will use this machine on this thariksgiving trip. I propose to start around October 1, 1996 from the Gandhi Ashram in Porbander after paying my homage to the Father of the Nation, whom I have admired from my childhood and who has been a beacon of inspiration in my life, after spending a day or two in ineditatwn and prayer. I will travel down the west coast to Kanya Kumari and then up the east coast, through Jamshedpur, Patna, iAllahabad, Lucknow to Delhi, visiting as many atash behrams and agiaries as possible on my route and stay in Parsi dharamshalas, if I am unable to stay with any Parsi family. This trip, just as the past ones across India, is for the joy of living and not to break any records or hanker after awards. I hope to complete it by December end, being three months on the road. This time I do not wish to tax the Parsi community for financial assistance — though it is always welcome — and will try to utilize my savings over the past decades. D. C. PATELL Secunderabad * N.B. All tours/cruises subject to GOI/RBI approval. H.K.LALA & CO. Capitol Cinema Building, Opp. New Empire Cinema, Murzban Road, Fort, Mumbai 400001 Tel: 2075744/5094/3006. Telefax:+91 -22-2076925 Lalo tours Whither, Parsianal Please be fundamentalist rather than re ­ formist. Secondly, try to write something comparable to Persia, not to India, America. Try to be in tune with the title or change the title to any other word which might give you good luck astrologically and if you want any such help, I would be glad to help the company. The title can be a way to riches or can be a way to spiritual development. I am a fundamentalist, so the contents of your magazine are not appealing. __________________________ MARZBAN PARVEZ MANECJI . Edited by Amavaz S. Mama 14 Parsiana July-August 1996Events and Personalities { Promising priesthood “Mobedi as a profession has all along been embraced by most athornans as a last re ­ sort after having eliminated all other avail ­ able options... For any community to sus ­ tain itself, consolidate, remain resolute and thrive, an important requisite is an enlightened clergy, capable of providing effective spiritual leadership... it is im ­ perative that a beginning be made to de ­ velop such a breed of athornans, ” notes a statement jointly signed by Dinshaw Tamboly, chairman of The WZO Trust Funds and Nadir Modi, president of The Athornan Mandal. Backed by a corpus of 40 lakh rupees raised by The WZO Trust Funds, the two organizations have jointly formulated a scheme such that the mobedi profession is “made viable enough to attract the cream of the athornan youth. ” Depending on the candidates ’ inherent capabilities they will promote different kinds of clergy: •formally educated practising priests who can offer religious and spiritual guidance as also leadership to the community; •full-time practising priests who may not be formally educated yet be able to earn an income only from this vocation; •young priests who on completion of their navar-maratab are willing to undergo a priestly internship under the guidance of a senior priest in certain fire-temples. Such chosen candidates with differing academic qualifications for whom periodic progress reports will be maintained will draw a stipend varying between Rs 1,000 to Rs 4,000 per month and will be provided free boarding and lodging, as also college fees and other incidental college expenses. Further, as an incentive for athornans to enrol their children at the athornan mad- ressas, month will be extended to the families where the sons are boarders at the Dadar or Andheri madressas. Religion made simple “I am not a Zoroastrian, nor am I an auth ­ ority on Zoroastrianism, ” candidly admits author Ms Lorraine N. Moos in the foreword to her recently published work. My simple financial support of Rs 500 per book of Zoroastrianism. Her marriage to Neville, a Zoroastrian, and their decision to bring up their two children as Zoro ­ astrians was the reason Lorraine “felt com- ZOR MY SIMPLE BOOK OF STRIANISM . * b- LonmMeiLMOcis Moos and her book: simple faith > TRI The scheme also clarifies that all incen ­ tives under this scheme would be made available only until such time that the beneficiary remains a full-time mobed. While pursuing this venture the two organizations will also continue with their independent projects for the betterment of the clergy and the laity. To ameliorate the plight of poor, elderly mobeds, the WZO stands committed to its program initiated four years ago and which has subsequently expanded to give a monthly contribution of Rs 1,000 each to 100 beneficiaries. “What is important is that we should all involve ourselves in the evolution of a breed of athornans who would in them ­ selves be a dynamic and motivating force for the community in spiritual and reli ­ gious matters, ” specifies the new scheme. 5# * pelled to bring out a simple^^nd informa ­ tive book to educate children on the Zoro ­ astrian religion. ” The 63-page book, priced at Rs 150, starts with The story of Creation and ends with song lyrics from audio cassettes brought out by Zoroastrian Studies. The maximum number of pages, 10, are devo ­ ted to The Birth and Life of Zarathushtra while the Teachings of Zarathushtra are summed up in just one page. The visuals accompanying the text are reproduced fromZarathushtra, the Golden Star by Ms Pareen Lalkaka, Zarathushtra and His Teachings “by Dastur Khurshed Dabu and In search of my God published by The Zoroastrian Foundation. In addi ­ tion to these works Moos has also referred to the writings of Ms Piloo Nanavutty and Ms Ava Mehta who have considerable experience in making religious literature appealing to Zoroastrian children. How ­ ever, it was her friend and neighbor Ms Shernaz Cama whose “knowledge, guid ­ ance and support helped me complete this book, ” acknowledges the author. Born and raised in Bombay, Moos did her commerce graduation from Sydenham College after which she worked for five years in corporate finance at Voltas Lim ­ ited. Following her marriage and emigra ­ tion to the States, she worked as finance 16 Parsiana July-August 1996L I Cyrus Sidhwa, past student and presently teacher at the Madressa. is Bombay ’s Vispi S. Dastur who was installed as the chief at the biennial con ­ vention held in New Delhi on April 28, , . 1996, notes a press release. Reportedly the PurSUmg adult IrancniSC ___ ________________________ first Parsi to hold this post, Dastur, who has ‘ ’ family members, is introduced as “the result served on the Government of India s Phila- of her energy, love and devotion. ”_________ telic Advisory Committee, is also presi ­ dent of the Empire of India Philatelic Society and honorary editor of India’s consultant with Digital Equipment Corpo ­ ration for five years and before the birth of their second child elected to raise their children on a full-time basis. This book, with three dedications to her immediate The method of electing a trustee to the Bombay Parsi Punchayet (BPP) denies adult Parsi citizens the right to choose a “We hope this book conveys the es- dent of the Empire of India Philatelic trustee of their choice on the basis of sence of Zoroastrianism to our children Society and honorary editor of India’s universal adult franchise, bemoaned Poras and also instills in them a sense of pride on Stamp Journal. Eruch Kateli in h^ writ pehhon filed be- At several world exhibitions Dastur, fore the Bombay High Court. Considering the first Indian and Asian to win the UK’s that the election scheme as applicable to the BPP was sanctioned by the Bombay High Court, Justice Ajit Shah, while sum- marily rejecting Kateli ’ s plea, held that the remedy, if any, was to apply for modiflca- tion of the scheme, notes a report in the Indian Express of June 22, 1996. Among those who have been consis ­ tently campaigning for adult franchise is Pheroze Ardeshir Bana (Vatcha), author of the Parsi Public Trusts Directory. As per the statistics compiled by him, in the course of the last seven elections held between March 13,1993 and June 8,1996, the voter turnout has declin^ from 2,397 to 340. These voters represented 2.7 percent of the adult Parsi population (which in his esti ­ mate would be 25,000) durinj^ the 1993 elections and barely 1.2 percent of the total adult Parsi population during the last, Minoo Shroff election, notes Bana. “Let all Parsis think and unite and coop ­ erate in our campaign for adult franchise, ” urges Bana who is attempting to conduct a census survey of adult Parsis, obtaining their names, address, sex and age-group. Claims Bana, “The mandate given by more than 600 members of the elected constitu- _____ _________ ency, and about 100 donor members also, also chairman of the Sir J. J. is sufficient enough for this campaign to be being Zoroastrian, ” states the USA based Moos who has undertaken this mission i during a temporary posting in India. Un- -i fortunately, some of the Gujarati monajats included in this work and meant primarily to rouse loyalty to the religious tenets and the community are not explained. The meaning of the basic prayers though are invariably included alongside the English j transliterations. In the three-page chapter on some spiri- tual concepts, the subject of after-death ||P occupies two pages. There is almost a fairy-tale narration: “Zoroastrians believe that after death the soul separates from the body and begins its journey to God. How ­ ever, at first the soul is confused, and sits for three days at the head of its own bed. A divo is kept to comfort the soul. On the dawn of the fourth day, the soul leaves the earth for Paradise. This is confirmed by the priest who has been praying over the dead body, when he can see the tiny hairs on his hand at dawn, without any artificial light. ” Perplexing as the last statement is, even for an adult, what correlation should a child reader perceive? Some words about... navjote, sudreh kusti, fire and ses give simple and succinct explanations which a child can compre ­ hend. The chapter on History of Zoroastri ­ ans in India recounts the ever popular sugar-in-the-milk story and how the Parsis known for their good, honest and cial cover with a special cancellation i-' fiM z / I '' ¦¦¦ From Brig D. S. Virk to Dastur: the President’s pin on the lapel “are charitable ways.” Actually, even the financial returns of this venture, after meeting the basic costs, will go to charities for Parsi children, inform the publishers, M/s Business Com- Roake Trophy for original research in philately, has won gold medals too, men ­ tions the release. President of the Bombay Parsee Asso ­ ciation as a.ov . ..........— — —- --- - _ - . Dharmashala and the District Benevolent presented before the learned legal authon- Society, Dastur had earlier released a spe- ' 1 on the occasion of the Dadar Athornan Board- ties... ” “I’m still running” “In India sports should be made compul ­ sory in schools. This will make children more disciplined and India can look for ­ ward to a gold medal in Olympics which has been eluding this country for more than a century, ” emphasizes Ms Zenia Ayrton who had won a silver for India at the Beijing Asian Games and was at 18 temples. Five lines of the Avesta script years of age acclaimed the fastest woman appear in pale lemon against the white “ background of the cover. The special with the lettering “Athornan Boarding running. It has developed into a scientific Stamp of success Madressa — Platinum Jubilee. ” Accord- sport. The spikes available noware scien- Hpndincr the Philatelic Consress of India ing to Dastur, the cover and the cancella- t _ „ . - - - . , - tion were designed in consultation with arch as also made of light material to give ing Madressa ’s platinum jubilee in De ­ cember 1995. Portrayed on the cover is the Madressa ’s old building encased in a platinum colored border. Below that is municators. depicted the afarganiu and the crossed Those interested in procuring a copy of maces each ending in the shape of a cow ’s the book should send a draft for Rs 170 (Rs head that is supposed to represent the Those interested in procuring a copy of 150 being cost of book plus Rs 20 postage) priestly class who tend thj fire in the fire ­ payable at New Delhi in favor of Business Communicators — A/c Book Publishing, B7/64 (Main) Safdarjung Enclave, New Delhi 110029. as its new president for the next two years 18 Parsiana July-August 1996 appear in pale lemon against the white in the country. Athletics is no longer a sport “where cancellation bears an afarganiu encircled you just pick up a pair of sport. The spikes available now are scien ­ tifically designed to support your runningi 'f ¦ s J*' |B running. This is possible only because I H think positively and have set a goal in front of Poonawala Group of Engineering Com- H of me — to represent India at the Olym- H pics, ” says the sprinter. I For the juniors, 23-year-old Ayrton ’s ranged for all the participants to partake of ¦ advice is; “Try and pay respect to your ¦ parents and coaches because they are the ¦ people who guide your career. ” Ayrton man of the Bombay Parsi Punchayet, B acknowledges that she was influenced con- siderably by her school (Convent of Jesus Jimmy M. Panthaki, managing director panics and his wife Saroshbanoo who were the chief guests at the function had ar- a free dinner. Guest of honor. Jamshed Guzder, chair- 1 IE pointed out that it was Jimmy Panthaki ’s father who had donated land for Panthaki and Mary, Fort) physical training instruc- Baug at Andheri where today reside hun- I tor Ms Naazneen Irani who, having spot- S ted Ayrton ’ s potential when she was barely j seven, made her run for the 80 m sprint at ¦ the interschool athletic meet which she I won easily, and subsequently her coach in I Bombay, Adille Sumariwalla. Family support for Ayrton has come from her parents Bomi and Arnavaz, brother Jawahar, and now husband Vibhu Ranjan who invariably accompanies her to the training sessions as also to the competi ­ tions. In the absence of any official spon ­ sorship it was her dad who had to finance her coaching initially, she mentions. Her earnings as an athlete, as a model in a couple of ad films, and her part-time job as network administrator in a telecommuni- j cations firm have helped defray costs too. S Holding the distinction of being the youngest Indian to represent the country at Pirojsha Mehta, the founder of Boys ’ Town ' the SAF Games where she won a silver and a gold for India when she was just 15, the following year she had earned the title of have offered free admission as also board ­ ing and lodging to deserving Parsi stu- Ayrton does not disclose much, stating dents, guardedly, “Within a few months...people will hear more about me. ” In her pursuit League, joint honorary secretary Ervad excellence the athlete is goaded by her Parvez Bajan appreciated the efforts of its conviction: “There is no substitute for hard work. ” Aspi ustad dreds of Parsi families. Jii I* 4 S v''' •S''?* ¦5'#' pn' o |pSW"W : Ayrton: learning to run faster faster movement to your legs. Also sports open national champion. As for the future, medicine has advanced so much. In Euro ­ pean and American countries they have a doctor and sometimes a psychologist ac ­ companying an athlete... We are behind them in time... Indian sports is all messed up because of politics entering the arena, ” Presently studying for her masters in Community involvement computer science at the University of Pitts ­ burgh, USA, it is her University coach Steve Lewis under whose tutelage she is improving her timing in the 100, 200 and 400 m sprint events as also the 100 m hurdles. In her rigorous schedule for the April 20,1996 at Cama Baug, notes a press day, the first round of practice cum train ­ ing session starts at 6.30 in the morning. Then she is at the University where she is trying to pack in four years of work in two- and-a-half so that she can save money. In the early evening she is back at the gym or the tracks for another round of training. By certificates. Consolation prizes were as- the time she returns home it ’s around 8 p.m. when she has to cook food, do her studies and prepare herself for the next day, she gives an account of her busy release giving a detailed account of the routine. “After so many injuries I’m still proceedings. tor f, 20 Parsiana July-August 1996 Guzder, S. Panthaki and Y. Panthaki at Iran League’s prize distribution The newly appointed joint honorary secretary Ervad Yezdt Panthaki referred to Saroshbanoo as being the granddaughter of Seth Mancherji Eduljee Joshi, the founder of the Dadar Parsi Colony, and of School at Nasik. In their endeavor to en ­ courage Parsis to join this institute they While recapitulating the history of Iran stalwarts like the late Ervad Fall Master who was instrumental in reviving these lease. All the 161 competitors in the five to 90 <- years age category who had participated in A hotel-frieudly pUCkUgC the various competitions organized by the Iran League last year were rewarded at the annual prize distribution function held on A corporate house in Bombay is expecting a foreign delegation. One of the members wants to be booked in a hotel which is close to the corporate office, has fax facilities release. The participants were adjudged and a color photocopier, as also a swim- for their talent at rangoli drawing, elocu ­ tion, recitation of Avesta prayers and the Shah Namah, essay writing and music. They vied for the 28 trophies, cash prizes worth Rs 9,635, 12 medals and honor ming pool and a beauty salon, accepts American Express credit cards, and pro ­ vides a baby-sitter. A senior executive expects his office attendant to stay in Pune for two days on a budget of Rs 100. Where does one go scouting for information of this kind? DataSoft Exports has the answer. Percy sured to all. Also distributed were reli ­ gious books and cassettes by the trustees of the F. H. Sethna Legacy Trust, states the Ghaswala, director of the company launched in January 1995, has compiled an all India database on hotels, resorts and IGhaswala: hotel friendly software and Patel (right): emoting monologues claims the 34-year-old computer buff, tragedy of the same name, she was an im- Depending on the individual need of a age of despair. Lights designed by Michael client, the package ranges beween Rs 800 Nazareth and operated by Saloni Zaveri and 8,000. The updating of this datebase is a continuous process. Those who wish to buy the package may contact Ghaswala free her daughter Polyxena, who has been claimed by the Greeks as a sacrificial vic ­ tim; and again in scene two, addressed to Agamemnon, when she offers a “Spirited justification of her revenge oruj ’olymestor, killer of her youngest son. In emoting the monologues Patel made use of weighty pauses between lines and even between words to portray the sorrow ­ ing, desolate mother; but with too much repetition the technique (resorted to by the lent shades and subtlety to her role as in the first scene Hecabe pleads with Odysseus to Ghaswala ’s earlier exposure to com ­ puters was at Computer Software Consult ­ ants where he was a general assistant. Following a masters in biochemistry, he contributed articles on neuro-immuno- restaurants. Helping him in his business are: father Soli who is the “financier, con ­ sultant and advisor, ” while brother Fram- roze looks after the advertising and public on 2007621, 2004350 or 6436842. relations. The all-India database is a computer ­ ized comprehensive directory. It has three floppy diskettes which cover more than 960 hotels, 550 restaurants in 125 business and leisure cities all over India. The kind logy in connection with leprosy. For three of information one gets is the tariffs of the various hotels, the facilities provided, cui ­ sine, distance from other important cen ­ ters, cost of reaching the airport, and alter ­ native forms of transport (even a tonga)! A list of travel agents and tour operators as well as government tourist offices, STD/ ISD codes and climatic conditions are all keyed in. The idea for this user-friendly package One-Woman shoW took root when Ghaswala was down with jaundice and needed a holiday with his family to recuperate from the illness. He searched laboriously for an ideal place to go which would be easy on his pocket too. He first started compiling data for hotels and restaurants in Bombay and Pune. A seven-page questionnaire (asking every minute detail including facilities for the handicapped) was sent out to hotels, re ­ sorts and restaurants. Some were very forth ­ coming with the information while others were not, states Ghaswala. The package is, in his words, “value for money. It saves time and gives one the best option suited for one ’s needs and budget. ” Not only as she half mocked, half wooed the lovesick frequent travellers but businessmen as well as travel departments of corporate houses have shown a keen interest in his product, reft Hecabe in two scenes from Euripides ’ years, from mid 1985 to mid 1988, he had been research assistant at the Sir Hurkisondas Nurrotumdas Medical Re ­ search Society in Bombay. His reviews of actress in other roles as well) was in dan- international publications on computers ger of becoming a device, a stage manner- and biomedical sciences have been pub ­ lished in local journals, mentions his cur ­ riculum vitae. Roxana A. Driver ism that should be more honored in its breach than usage. Indeed, with her very expressive, mobile face, Patel needs no such ploys. With playwright Gieve Patel for father, and mother Toni being well-known as a director in Bombay ’s “theater world, it is not surprising that Avaan (who studied at For her one-woman performance on Au ­ gust 16 at the American Center, Bombay, Avaan Patel selected a wide-ranging pro ­ gram of monologues from Shakespeare, the Bombay International School) gravi- Euripides, Tennessee Williams and a new musical by Aimee Young entitled Yolks, whereas 11-year-old Andie she tried to cope ing and work experiences at the Trinity with singing and breaking eggs on stage. The evening ’s mix of comedy, tragedy Rhode Island, USA. Founded by Adrian and musical was varied enough for 26- year-old Patel to showcase her talents and sensibility as an actress. As Rosalind dis ­ guised in a young man ’s garb in the forest vatory curriculum provides rigorous train- of Arden (from Shakespeare ’s As You Like It), Patel was pert and apple-cheeked tated to the stage. After her performance she spoke to the audience about her train- Repertory Conservatory in Providence, Hall, who directed the acclaimed produc ­ tion of Sam Shepard ’s Buried Child which toured India some years ago, the Conser- 22 Parsiana July-August 1996 * Orlando. If she was fetching in a boy ’s apparel, gowned in stark black as the be- ing in acting, directing and playwriting. Patel has an engaging personality on stage. The area she needs to work on is her voice. Perhaps yoga could help her im ­ prove on its range and resonance? Dina Mehta II materializes, he explains his style of work ­ ing. Jovial and humorous human subjects The 29-year-old artist ’s creations have also found a place at other exhibitions organized by the Bombay Art Society, the Lalit Kala Akademi and The Bombay Show. For the last event, his two exhibits, Khambatta and his scraptures: The Rhino (behind him), appeal to the sculptor father than abstracts. Royalty (top), Zarathushtra (left) and The Bathtub Striking Scraptures His Seated Moghul waits outside the Jewel of India restaurant at Bombay ’s Nehru Centre. The Rhino at the Nariman Point road island is a massive 18-foot landmark designed by architect-interior designer batta to frequent junkyards periodically, clear the rust off exposed surfaces, paint Megapolis and The Great Gizmo were them with epoxy compounds and then rated as among “the most striking items on assemble them such that he transforms display. ” them into works of art. ___Among his recent creations are Roy- Arzan Khambatta. Gaining popularity alty, The Bathtub undZarathushtra. While Securing the first rank from the Gujarat among the city ’s art lovers, Khambatta in some cases the theme strikes first for University at her BA examinations, Ms held his second solo exhibition, Scraptures which Khambatta has to scout around for Navaz F. Pithawalla is the pride of the — scrap metal sculptures — at the Jehangir the required fragments to express his sub- Art Gallery from February 15-22, 1996. ........................................ This self-taught craft requires Kham- SPOTLIGHTS Seth N. B. Choksi Charities Home for underprivileged children in Navsari. Like shop in the midst of his junk and a shape many other inmates who have availed of ject, at other times he just sits at his work- 24 Parsiana July-August 1996ZOROASTRIANS ABROAD Probing for Zoroastrian roots FEZANA’s new research Journal documents Zoroastrian cultural evidence in Central Asia Arnavaz S. Mama f TheJoMrna/ofthe Research and Historical the Roman soldiers went. This wealth of Zal, Faridun, Rustom and Sorab talk of Preservation Committee of the Federation the ancient world has not properly been events, adventures, lovesand wars in Turan, of Zoroastnan Associations of North identified and studied. Further there are would it be entirely speculative to suggest America (FEZANA) made its debut in ideological influences that are discernibly that they might have, first originated with early 1996. Described as a research tool for Zoroastrian and customs of erouns of the clans and tribes living in Turanian countries where Zoroastrianism was em ­ braced some thousand years before the Achaemenian empire? And thereafter, when these countries became a part of successive Persian empires, those myths and legends became so much a part of the Zoroastrian folklore of Iran as well, that the Sassanians embodied them* in the saw during a Khwaday Namag in the 4th century AD, to make (them) their own. After all, it is the 9th century AD translation of this work into Arabic which provided Firdausi with the basis for the Shah Nameh that he be ­ the ancient world has not properly been identified and studied. Further there are ideological influences that are discernibly Zoroastrian and custom,s of groups of the needs of scholars, students and general peoples that can be traced to having Zoro- public interested in Zoroastrian studies and related fields, the Journal’s editorial board comprises FEZANA president Ms Dolly Dastoor, long-time German propo ­ nent of Avesta-Pahlavi scholarship Dr Helmut Humbach, emeritus professor of philosophy at New York ’s City College Prof Kaikhosrov Irani and FEZANA founder Rohinton Rivetna with Dr Pallan Ichaporia as editor-in-chief. The editing and processing of the text has been under ­ taken by Ms Sabar Balsara of Toronto. The 63-page publication in clear, easy- to-read type and language provides three articles aimed at widening the historical horizon of the lay reader: “Journey to Sogdia, an Ancient Zoroastrian Land ” by Adi Davar, “Historical Evidence of .Avestan Culture and the Apparent Zoroastrian Be ­ liefs in Modern-Day Tajikistan ” by Ms Khorshed F. Jungalwala and “The Gathas of Zarathustra and the ‘Rule of the Com ­ munity ’ in the Dead Sea Scrolls — Theo ­ logical Similarities and Differences ” by Ichaporia. Footnotes and bibliographies follow each article. All dates are accord ­ ing to Gregorian years, together with the Yazdegardi notations where applicable. “Zoroastrianism being one ( "" revealed religions preached by Prophet Zarathushtra 3,500 years ago has had a following that today spreads over more than a dozen countrie.s from Anatolia (mod ­ ern Turkey) to China. Consequently, there are relics, monuments and archeological findings spread throughout that region. If we were to consider Mithraism as having its roots in Zoroastrianism then 1 ___ ; the sphere of Zoroastrian influence still further in every corner of Europe wherever astrian roots still practiced today. Much work in these areas needs to be done, ” notes Ichaporia in his editorial. Davar, whose work for the World Bank and the United Nations has taken him to a variety of places in the Middle East as well as the countrie.s of the Asian Steppes, relates what he heard and J recent visit to Uzbekistan (known to the ancients a,s Sogdia). He learnt that ‘the heros of the Shah Nameh — Zal, Faridun, Rustom, Sorab... — are national heros _____________ _____ ___ there; ’the tale of Shirin and Farhad is such queathed to the world in the 10th century a favorite legend that a lake and a dam have AD... been named after them; ’the legendary “For one thing, it simply confirms the bird Simurgh which i.s supposed to have historical fact that since the time of nurtured Zal, has been adopted as the Zarathushtra (some 3,600 years ago) and country ’snationalemblem;»thatthepeople ' ' — of Bukhara not only come to pray at an unearthed mausoleum with many other grave.s around it, mainly in the week pre ­ ceding the country ’,s new year on March 21, but light fires on two large stone pedestals, which resemble the stone altars in the ancient fire-temple.s of Iran, as they pray; •that many non-Jewish Uzbeks in Bukhara, Samarkand and elsewhere kept small on- ____ _______ oumvivm luui lu nfthp 11 , fires in their homes. It appears that establish the fact that Zarthushttianismdid of the oldest these people did not know why these prac ­ tices were followed — despite being de ­ nounced by the Imams a.s heretical — except that they were hereditary. Explaining how these are the Turanian lands referred to in XheShah Nameh, Davar notes, “The persistence of some of the Zoroastrian practices, legends and myths even to thi.s day (despite a few centuries of * a favorite legend that a lake and a dam have been named after them; ’the legendary ceding the country ’s new year on March 21 up to at least the 10th century AD, Zoroas ­ trianism had been practised in Uzbekistan and adjacent Turanian lands, by those of non-Iranian origin, ” Writing about Tajikistan and the sur ­ rounding regions Jungalwala notes, “There is ample evidence to prove the existence of Mazdayasni Zarthushtrianism through the ages in that part of the world going back to about 2000 BC and sufficient proof to flourish as a ‘state religion ’ between the sixth century BC and eighth century AD, interspersed with periods of decline. ” Jungalwala notes that an estimated 45,000 practising Zarthushtrians lived in the Badakhshan-Yagnab region — a remote mountainous area — during Arab rule, until the communist takeover. After that wp 1' T ¦ --------- the ancient culture and traditions began to we spread Islam and 70 years of communism), is not be preserved “at an intellectual level Stud- easy to explain... Since the legends of ies were encouraged, books were written, primordial kings and warriors like Hushang, research and excavations carried out and 28 Parsiana Juiy-August 1996} preservation of ancient local heritage was given priority... (But) in all this intellec ­ tual frenzy, the practice of religion and rituals had no place to go but go under ­ ground or pass off into history !” TheA vesta was translated into Russian and Institutes of Oriental Studies in Moscow, Leningrad, light and darkness in the fundamental du- Tashkent and Dushanbe are said to pos ­ sess an excellent collection of manuscripts. Navroze and Mehergan are national holidays and the only public ceremonies celebrated, writes Jungalwala. And though iquities...(ROC) ” “When these two spirits there are no ceremonies for the dead, when a corpse is laid out on a platform, a nail is passed around it three times “so that no one crosses the circles and touches the body, and a candle or diva is lit at the grave for three nights. ” The Pharisees, Sadducees and Essenes were the three main Jewish tribes often locked in combat of whom the Essenes cept of freedom of choice (“Humans, false who “regarded themselves as the only true gods and God are expected to choose the Israel and remained separated from their fellow Jews, ” are believed to be the au ­ thors of the Dead Sea Scrolls, informs Ichaporia. They also rejected the sacrifi- the appointed times of their sufferings cial service of the temple. The concept of God as the sole creator (God ’s) hostility... He created the spirits is common to both the Gathas and the of light and darkness and upon them ‘Rule of the Community (ROC)’ which is the first document of three belonging to the Scroll found in cave number one. Other by God ’s decree according to the Scroll common facets in the theology of both documents is the torment of humanity which is caught between good and evil, he founded every work. ”] Even the final end of evil ’s existence is whereas Ahura Mazda will renovate the world by the help of human beings guided by Zarathushtra: “Thus may we be those who make existence brilliant. ” “Zarathushtra lived in the eastern Ira- alism that pervades the world, as Ichaporia illustrates through quotes: “By the Angel nian lands and had no contact with Juda- of Darkness comes the aberration of all the sons of Righteousness; and all their in- ism in the west and as such it is unlikely that Jewish monotheism influenced Zarathushtra ’s Gathas” writes Ichaporia. “Zarathushtra ’s religion is considered as confront each other (to fight for a person, then that person) determines (his/her) first the dualistic religion par excellence, i.e. a existence (with) vitality or lack of vitality religion in which evil in the world is not and how his/her existence will be in the end (Gathas: Yasna 30:4).” There are however two basic differ ­ ences of approach in the two theologies: whereas the Gathas emphasize the con- attributed to God ’s inscrutable ways or God ’s mysterious understanding... As a matter of fact, the life of the world is a continuous conflict between the principle of truth and that of deceit... Yet... the dualistic interpretations must be modified: In the Gathas, Ahura Mazda has no indi- concepts preferred by them, ” says Ichapo- vidual antagonist, such as Evil Spirit. ” ria), the Jewish document speaks of pr ­ edestination [“And all their afflictions and dedicated amateurs, not professional aca ­ demicians or publishers, the Journal is an (are caused) by the dominion of his example of what the community is capable of when required. The few proofing errors that are apparent may be transitory. Published by FEZANA with inputs from * With Best Compliments From * DINSHAW SHAPOORJI & COMPANY 414/3, Kasarwadi, Bombay-Poona Road Pimpri, Pune 411034 (212) 779656 0146 204 DIN IN 662052 “Truck ” Pimpri Phones 778373,778055 Fax Telex Poona Phone Poona Grams Branch Office 92C Mohamedali Road, Bombay 400003 Phone 3432497,3423977,3435392 Telex on 76597 DS A IN Bombay Grams “Motor Truck ” TRANSPORT CONTRACTORS LUXURY COACH & STAFF BUS OPERATORS 30 Parsiana July-August 1996t ZOROASTRIANS ABROAD ZSO’s task force reports The [Zoroastrian Society of Ontario ’s (ZSO)] task force was set up to enquire into the practice of intermarriage among the Zoroastrian community. From the very outset, the task force realized quite clearly that the practice of intermarriage affected the existence and very growth of the Zoro ­ astrian community. Our principal task was to find out why the practice prevailed and to recommend the guidelines by which to reduce the incidence of intermarriage in North America. Initially, the task force consisted of Xerxes Bamji, Ms Bina Behboodi, M.s Huzan Daver (nee Kharas), Ms Pervin priate in a later age. We have to act in Mistry, Kawus Nanavati, Percy Patel and keeping with the need of the times. Under friendships. Perhaps a well supervised Keki Shroff. After the third meeting, Shroff conditions prevailing in North America resigned for personal reasons. After the today, intennarriagc is almost impossible fourth meeting, Daver had to proceed to India and so resigned. These two were replaced on the committee by Ms Swapna Photographer and Sam "Vesuna. The com ­ mittee, at one of its later meetings, elected Nanavati as its chairman. Through the ZSO newsetter of Decern- side our community and socialize with According to ^r Homi Dhalla, exhaus- ber 1995, intermarried couples were re- them, at school or at work, form friend- tive surveys by American psychologists quested to contact the task force and share ships, fall in love. There is nothing you can emphatically affirm that intermarriage is a their experiences arising from an inter- do about it, once two persons have decided threat to the stability of comipunal groups faith marriage, at either a personal or a to marry!) and religious denominations. “Let chil- telephone interview (but) there were no •Lack of strong religious and ethnic iden- dren choose for themselves, ” is often the volunteers. tity. stand taken by intermarried couples on It was appreciated that the task force had neither the time, talent or resources, to youth, conduct a full-scale academic research into the reasons for intermarriage in Ontario. We were content to accept Daver ’s conclusions on the basi,s of her research into the problems of intermarriage among Parsi women in Bombay, expecting that our conclusion.s would not be too different. So we concentrated on the solutions. A simple questionnaire was prepared, to solicit the views of our community on intermarriage. This questionnaire wa.s mailed with about 350 copies of the news ­ letter of December 1995. Only 22 responses were received (six percent). Bamji, contacted some of our mobeds, in order to obtain information about the problem, number of intermarriages conducted by them. Only registered priests keep a record and they were unwilling to disclose names, but they did give the number of intermar ­ riages contracted. The statistics on intermarriage arc quite interesting. In India, going by the figures from Parsiana, from January to the end of August, 1995 there were 171 marriages, of which 61 were intermarriages (36 per- way about our religious practices and the importance of not doing anything which harms our small community. •Live a Zoroastrian life at home each day. •Give our youth many opportunities to meet with other Zoroastrian youth, on a cent). Of these, 27 were Zoroastrian male,s and 34 were Zoroastrian females. Accord ­ ing to the ZSO Directoiy of 1993 there were 466 married couples, 58 being inter ­ married (12.5 percent). Of these, 34 males and 24 females were Zoroastrians. So, more females in India and more males in regular basis, with parents sacrificing time Ontario were intermarried. We all recognized that intermarriage was not desirable, from the point of view of the community, and possibly for religiou-s reason.s too, though this wa.s open to inter ­ pretation. But intermarriage was a fact of life. Things change, and what may be relevant in one age may become inappro- and effort to drive them there and back. These meetings may be more effective if grown-ups are not always present. •Make Zoroastrian youths feel comfort ­ able with each other from a young age, and increase the cultural, social and religious activities among different age-groups. •Have camps for Zoroastrian youths. It is a very good way to help form enduring 32 Parsiana July-August 1996 to stop. Our task is to see why it happen.s and how to try and reduce its incidence. Why does intermarriage occur? •A person falls in love with another indi ­ vidual. (We may meet many people out ­ side our community and socialize with them, at school or at work, form friend- group of boys and girls, at a camp, would be even better. •In addition to the age-old matchmakers, set up official marriage bureaus, and may be even use the computer network to help get our youth together. •Inculcate pride in our religion, culture and community. do about it, once two persons have decided to marry!) •Lack of strong religious and ethnic iden ­ tity. •Lack of opportunity to meet other Zarthusti religion, with the result that, very often, the child is nurtured in a spiritual void. The preponderance of Zoroastrian opinion is heavily weighted against intermarriage. It i.s now up to our local Zoroastrian •Lack of parental guidance and parents ’ limited role in mate selection. •Rejection of parental religious indoctri ­ nation by today ’s children. Some parents community, a.s well as up to all individual have a limited knowledge of our religion and cannot teach their children. •A very restricted choice for a lifetime partner, from a small community spread Canada-wide. •Seeking greater educational and career interests, and financial security, than a spouse from our community can offer. •Strong Judeo-Christian influence in west ­ ern society, affecting onc ’.s attitude. To some Zoroastrians, intermarriage is not a •All minority communities in a majority host society tend to get assimilated to some extent. How can we prevent intermarriage? The emphasi.s here i.s on education and motivation, when the individual i.s very young. •Educate children about our religion at an early age, and explain to them in a rational Zoroastrians, to take the necessary steps to ensure that, as far a,s possible, every effort is made to reduce the incidence of inter ­ marriage in our community. However, as pointed out by one member and generally agreed to by most members, every effort should be made to welcome the children of mixed marriages into the Zoroastrian faith. They should not be shut out from our community. Remember the best advice... Educate your children in their religion at a very young age. The Roman Catholic church has a firm belief that if you give them your children for the first seven years of their life, nothing you do later can veer them away from their faith. That is something which we can learn from. Edited and abridged from the Report of the Task Force on Intermarriage addressed to the ZSO president on April 26,1996.ZOROASTRIANS ABROAD are opted on the board of directors after a “show of hands ” election by the general members. “The executive officers are then elected by the board, from within the board, ” informs Ms Roshan Rivetna in the cover story “Keeping the Hearth Fires Burning ” in the summer 1996 issue of the FEZANA Journal. After the annual general meeting at which the new team for 1996-98 was elected, a well attended meeting discussed the expansion of the Arbab Rustam Guiv Darbe Mehr, informs the ZAC newsletter. Expansion plans are estimated to cost $ 200,000. The amount is proposed to be raised by the 200 families in the area contributing $ 1,000 each, according to the newsletter. The Chicago Darbe Mehr, inaugurated in 1983, is the first one in North America where the building was designed and con ­ structed for the purpose. Each family had then pledged $ 650, notes the August ’96 edition of the ZAC newsletter. Here “the Jashne Sadeh, Navwze, Mehergan and the ghambhars are celebrated with Iranian flair, usually orchestrated by Iranian families. Parsi traditions prevail at the Bateti func ­ tion in August and for the preceding five published in Manashni (June-July days of the muktad ceremonies, ” writes R. displayed ‘non traditional ’ picture which shows an old man in a long cloak, is totally different to the mental image we have of Zarathushtra. Whilst no one knows with certainty whether either of these images is a true likeness of Zarathushtra, I believe it would be wrong to place two different images of the Prophet in our hall. Young children attend our Sunday School from a very early age and this may create a con ­ fusing situation for them. “I would therefore urge each member to advise the committee against placing this ‘non traditional ’ picture of Zarathushtra in our Darbe Meher. ” The AZA commitee decided to sort out the controversy democratically. “You have the opportunity to view them both and then cast your vote either for only one of the paintings or both. To this end, we have placed a survey in this Manashni leading to a referendum on the matter. We would like each and every member of the family to have the opportunity to vote separately, including children. ” The votes on the portraits were to be examined by three independent judges. The decision — whether and which pic ­ tures remain permanently at AZA House — was AZA goes Fasli President Noshir Sachinwalla of the Aus ­ tralian Zoroastrian Association (AZA) of New South Wales declared a referendum on two issues in his Presidents ’ Column in Manashni (Jan-March 1996), the AZA newsletter. “I would like to appeal to our commu ­ nity to allow this committee to accept the Fasli calendar, which is the most accurate, for our AZA functions. I, as your presi ­ dent, feel that most of our religious func ­ tions should be carried out according to the Fasli calendar. You may still use which ­ ever calendar you prefer in your own home. To have the Fasli calendar officially ac ­ knowledged will put us in line with a number of other Zoroastrian communities around the world who have already ac ­ cepted it. In order to keep pace with changes occurring in other parts of the world, it is time that our community ... accepts a more accurate and progressive calendar, ” urged Sachinwalla. The referendum provided for individual members to accept/reject the Fasli calendar. The Fasli calendar was accepted by 76 voters and rejected by 17, according to the results published in Manashni (June-July 1996). The second exercise in democracy (it hadbeenaccordedpriority by Sachinwalla) 1996) . There were 70 votes in favor of both Rivetna. concerned two hand-painted portraits of pictures being displayed in AZA Hall as The Zoroastrian population in the Chi- Zarathushtra gifted to AZA House in against 31 who favored only the traditional cago area, which numbered around 40 in Sydney by local Zoroastrian artistMs Amy picture. the 1960s, is over 600 in the 1990s. “While Bonshahi, described by Manashni as a not one ofthe largest in size... the Chicago petite, self-effacing grandmother.One is ZAC’S nCW team community can certainly claim to be one the traditional picture, the other is “as he is The new, 23-member board of directors of of the more enterprising, involved, dy- seen through the eyes of western culture, ” the Zoroastrian Association of Metropoli- namic, and most importantly, cohesive, noted Sachinwalla. “Unfortunately we have often forgotten and neglected that there are worshippers and followers of Zarthushtra ’s teachings and philosophies in the Western world. In fact we often read translations and explanations of them by the Western scholars like F. Spiegel, M. Haug, J. Dar- mesteter, N. L. Westergaard, F. Max Muller, A. V. W. Jackson and Mary Boyce. In fact, the present Book of Vandida Sade, was prepared with the help of a French ­ man, Anquetil du Perron. I think it is „ interesting for us to sometimes look at our Mehta, Ms Roxana Mehta, Ms Roshan Zoroastrian Association of North America, heritage, which we know so well, from Patel, Minoo Press, Ms Jehan Rivetna, Ms Chicago, in 1965, “to preserve our identity another perspective. ” Farida Sharyari, Ms Zenobia Tantra, Ms and our heritage while participating fully Long-standing community priest and Aban Vazifdar and Ms Dinaz Weber. in the American way of life had attracted yeoman Ervad Peshotan Katrak had a con- Ervad (Dr) Kersey Antia continues as a a broadside from Vancouver where local trary viewpoint; “Many, if not most of us director in his role of the Chicago commu- Zoroastrians were considering the forma- have grown up with the traditional image nity ’s high priest. tion of their Society of British Columbia, of Zarathushtra which has been placed in A unique aspect of the ZAC constitu- informs the FEZANA Journal. In an open our hall since its inception. The recently tion ensures that all those willing to work letter addressed to Bhote and Jim Modi the % ZAC’s new team The new, 23-member board of directors of the Zoroastrian Association of Metropoli ­ tan Chicago (ZAC) is headed by Ms Dilshad groups of Zoroastrians in North America, ” Antia, informs the July 1996 issue of the notes R. Rivetna. Their array of social, ZAC newsletter. Vice-president Hosi religious and cultural activities range from Mehta, treasurer Behram Daboo, secretary the couples ’ night out on Valentine ’s Day Ms Dinsoo Rivetna, assistant secretary Ms to the New Year ’s eve dinner dance, all- Anahita Antia and assistant treasurer Zubin day dar-ni-pori making on Avan-Ardevisur Avari constitute her team of office bearers, parab to monthly board meetings, sleep- The 16 directors-at-large are outgoing overs, religious education classes and much president Pesi Vazifdar and, in alphabeti ­ cal order, Mazda Antia, Bomi Damkevala, Rustom Deboo, Ms Arnavaz Elavia, Cyrus ciation in Chicago had proved premature. Grant, Neriosang Karanjia, Kayomarsh Keki Bhote and 30 others who formed the Mehta, Ms Roxana Mehta, Ms Roshan " Patel, Minoo Press, Ms Jehan Rivetna, Ms Farida Sharyari, Ms Zenobia Tantra, Ms Aban Vazifdar and Ms Dinaz Weber. Ervad (Dr) Kersey Antia continues as a director in his role of the Chicago commu ­ nity ’s high priest. A unique aspect of the ZAC constitu- else. The very first attempt to found an asso- 34 Parsiana July-August 1996FOR BUSINESS FOR STUDIES FOR HOLIDAYS FOR A DOZEN EXCITING REASONS!! Your Travel Plans for India and Abroad cannot be In safer hands than with Zoroastrian associations of Northern California. Science and technology are well represented on the board, according to the newsletter: B. Patel markets computers, Sepehri teaches computer information systems at Santa Clara University, Irani is an electrical engineer for Hewlett-Packard and Karkaria, a mobed, is into bio-technology! Financial planner and stock broker Unvala and real estate broker Batliwalla are the only exceptions. In “A Brief History of ZANC” former president ManeckBhujwala notes in the newsletter that the earliest known Zoroastrian resident in the area was Rustom Bana who arrived in 1942. The informal, dhan-saakia association of 1976 was formalized in March 1980. At the Pateti dinner, the same year they received a pledge from Arbab Rustam and Morvarid Guiv of $ 350,000 towards a dar-e-mehr. However, that was the time of increased immigration from Iran, the formation of the PZO and the nadir of Parsi-Iranian relationships in the new world: The Dare-meher was eventually kept under the ownership of the Guiv Trust and leased to the PZO. It was only when ZANC members donated substantially to the construction of a separate atash kadeh on the Daremeher property, and its inauguration in March 1992 with ZANC and PZO members ’ joint participation, that the rift between the two organizations began to heal, informs Bhuj-wala. Since then the youth of both communities jointly hosted the 1995 Zoroastrian Youth Congress on the Stanford University campus and ZANC and PZO worked to cohost the Tenth North American Zoroastrian Congress in San Francisco. A fall-out of the Youth Congress at Stanford was the creation of the Zoroastrian Youth of the Bay Area (ZYBA) which is “breaking the barrier between the Persian and Parsi communities by allowing both ZANC and PZO youth to participdle, ’’ notes the newsletter. Picnics, parties, ski trips, camping trips, bowling nights and more will, hopefully, ensure a cohesive, burgeoning conimunity whose identity crisis is a part of its past. f THE HOUSE OF TRAVEL ASIATIC TRAVEL SERVICE BOMBAY PUNE 44^ 12, Murzban Road, MUMBAI 400 001 Tel: 207 8151 - 57 Fax: 022-207 3355 C-3 Konark Apts., 175 Dhole Patil Road, PUNE 411 001 Tel: 626 431/621 993 Fax:0212-627 934 The ghambar of the spirit That is how Australia ’s Zoroastrian Association of Victoria (ZAV) projected an evening of jashan, humbandagi, monajats and religious quiz and games. The full-page advertisement in ZAV’s newsletter Rathaeshtar (February 1996) projected the event, scheduled for May 11,1996 with pizzazz, promising “the traditional feast plus the joyful sharing of manual labor. ’’ The advertisement listed a few “offerings ” like sukhad/Ioban, fruits, dryfruits, sweets and desserts, drinks, home-made eatables or other items, adding “in the tradition of ghambar all offerings offered will be gratefully accepted and shared. ” Much soul-searching seemed to precede the announcement. In his editorial in the same issue ZAV president Pervis Dubash wrote, “Can an entity like ZAV initiate a pure thought, perform a pure act?... It is a real paradox, that Zoroastrians, who would qualify as one of the most benevolent people in the world, have an unusual affinity for bickering over the most trivial happenings... Have you ever pondered that Ahriman comes in small ways. He is too smart and sly to upset your whole apple cart and make you start thinking seriously. Nay, he will trip you in small ways — petty ways. What can an anjuman like ours do? Why can ’t we take up a project in which we are truly united? Why can ’t we take up a project in which ‘bickering ’ does not enter?... Why can ’t we give Spenta Mainyu (pure thought) a try? Who knows it might be a lot of fun?... ” * Spufmt^ J nymHUK A surgeon and his daughter Dameron Hospital in Stockton, California became the second place outside of Stanford University Hospital where keyhole cardiac bypass surgery is being performed by APM/ATS/93-1L 'Vancouver Zoroastrians queried, “How can a handful of Chicago Parsis meet one --------- -- o —- fine evening and'just like that, over a ‘glass letter (July 4, 1996). Ms Jeroo Kadwa and Sheriyar Pesika are directors-at-large, informs theZAPA News- Four two-member committees look af ­ ter specific areas of interest. Thus Ms Houtoxi Contractor and F. Cama are res ­ ponsible for the community ’s religious . activities while Ms Meher Dastur and Ms divine heritage.^ Zarin Balaporia take care ones. 1--------- . within the purview of L. Dastur and K. Kadwa while C. Cama and Darius Sig- anporia constitute the program committee. of whiskey ’ form the ‘Zoroastrian Asso ­ ciation of America, ’ to embrace all Zoro ­ astrians across the continent? Were you all deranged by a severe attack of ego-ma ­ nia?... ’’ The impugned association folded after functioning for three or four years as a local association serving the Chicago area. Since its rebirth as ZAC in 1975 it has pursued the middle course, with a reputa- an|^.a^coi^utute me ion for stability that prompted the associa- With about 75 individual members tions of North America in 1985 to place ZAPA’s three-event ’•ebg'o/social calem upon its then president Rohinton Rivetna dar has been buttressed by a Jourth the the task of evolving a constitution for a ^elebration of Zoroastrian Unity Day on North American federation. With the for- “ mation of the Federation of Zoroastrian Associations of North America (FEZANA) based in Chicago, the wheel had turned full circle! ZAPA’s accent on youth The Zoroastrian Association of Pennsyl- vania(ZAPA) has elected Behram Kapadia president of its 1996-97 board of trustees with Farhad Cama to assist him as vice president, Ms Veera Siganporia and Cyrus Cama are secretary and assistant secretary , Ms Lily Dastur and Khushru Kadwa, trea ­ surer and assistant treasurer respectively. of the social Membership and fund-raising falls October 1. With an accent on youth participation ZAPA revised the composition of its board Ka^aria^ of directors to include a minimum two youth members, writes L. Dastur in the FEZANAJournal. Concurrently the age limit pore, for office bearers was reduced from 18 to 16 years. Are Indian anjumans listening? A measure of compatijjility Dr Jiji Patel presides Anjuman of Northern California ’s (ZANC) program executive committee tor 1996-97, informs the Anjuman'.s newsletter (November- December 1995). In his message to the over the Zarthoshti community, in the newsletter of January- February 1996, Patel has quoted from Irach Taraporewala, “God has granted mankind three inestimable gifts — the head, the heart and the hand. Through the fullest and most perfect use of these three can a man hope to attain his goal and to obtain his ¦ - - • Assisting in the hectic organizing of the Tenth North American Zoroastrian Con ­ gress which was held in conjunction with the Persian Zoroastrian Organization (PZO) on July 5 and 6, 1996 at San Francisco ’s Cathedral Hill Hotel and Convention Cen ­ ter were also other members of the ZANC committee; vice president Bomi Patel, sec ­ retary Mehran Sepehri, treasurer Yezdi Unvala, and members-at-large Ms Zarine Batliwalla, Ms Ernaz Irani and Cyrus The three ZANC’trustees are Dhun Engineer, Bejan -Malbari and Erach Tara- This is J. Patel ’s second term as ZANC president, informs the newsletter. With wife Silloo and five children, the cardiolo ­ gist-internist has his own social service agenda. He has bgen involved with the that sends physicians to India to provide free service, has inaugurate'd a free clinic in India and serves on it% board, and is working towards the goal of uniting the * Ch^ioN Manufacturers and Exporters of III CHAMPION BUM ESB II Asbestos/Non-Asbestos, Fibre Jointings Sheets, Cloth, Packings, Seals, PTFE Spiral Wound Metallic and CAF Gaskets J]©DMTDIN1®^ OMOTTi© 15 Parsi Panchayat Road, Andheri (E), Bombay 400069. Gram; "Cafioint" Andheri • Telex: 011-79003 FIRE-IN Fax: 091-22-8370247, 091-22-8381447 • Tel; 8321071,8367311-15 *i-j-) r'^ !4l* ‘ i# I hnracoscopic bypass surgery using a laser (above) and Us practioner Dr S. Bakhshay (center) and Amalsad Far left: California Miss TEEN Perrine Bakhshay and earlier as figure skating champion (below) Drs Shahroukh Bakhshay and Alan Coul ­ son. Tlie first such operation in end De ­ cember 1995 has been followed up by otliers, as notes an article in The Record (}an\iaiy 13, 1996). Bakhshay, an Iranian Zoroastrian origi ­ nally from Bombay, told reporter 13. D. .Spence that the new laser cutting and stapling gear used for such surgical work is feasible only for single bypass operations, j Where two or more coronary arteries need i to be bypassed, die visibility and access of I open heart surgery are required. The I endoscopic or keyhole surgery greatly ben- I efils the patient physically and financially I as the reduced physical trauma of a smaller I cut permits him or her a return to relative I normalcy much earlier, with shorter peri I ods of hospitalization that can save up to a I week of $ 2,00()-a-day hospital care, notes I Spence. Earlier the surgeons had used the I technique to remove a cancer in the right I upper lobe of a 61-year-old lady ’s lung. I Sharing the limelight with Bakhshay is I his (and his wife Dympna ’s) daughter Per- I rine. The 17-year-old beauty was crowned I the 1995-96 California Miss TELN in Anaheim when she won in four of the five categoric.s in which the candidates were judged — scholastic achievement, speech, personal interview and formal presenta ­ tion, notes The Record Today. A straight A student in her school who reading skills, informs the newspaper. 1 is taking calculus al Ihc University of the Pacific, Perrine is a former skating cham ­ pion who teaches the visually impaired to ice skate and helps children develop tlieir Professional speaking “Success is not in hitting the headlines. Success is in reaching the heartline,'' as­ serts Meher Amalsad in an audife cassette, In .search of your quest — How to do your best, forwarded to Parsianci through advo ­ cate and KshnumistpropagatorKaikliusroo N. Dastoor, A professional sjieaker, seminar leader and author of Gifts that Lifts, Shifts and Uplifts (sic), Amalsad provides an inspira ­ tional thrust to various groups of people to work on their lives. According to the intro ­ duction on the cassette, Amalsad is billed as “dynamic, articulate, perceptive, coura ­ geous and outspoken, ” one who has influ ­ enced the lives of "thousands over the last decade, ” inspiring them 2to work on their lives (ami achieve) the American dream. ” Quoting the world famous cellist Pablo Cassells who at 95 continued to practise “because I think lam still making progress, ” Amalsad argues that if one continues to make progress, if one “holds on to one ’s dreams, ” success is bound to follow be ­ cause "dreams keep success alive. ” The second item on Ainalsad ’s cassette deals with "unconditional love. ” Quoting the American steel magnate and billion ­ aire, the late Andrew Carnegie, Amalsad says people are like a gold mine: one needs to remove tons of dirt to reach the gold. Rut “if you don't touch a life, you will be out of touch with life, ” he adds. Tliere no had people -? * arc “only good people and 41 Parsiana July-Auqusl !99ti Ibest wishes to the Zoroastrian community Jamshed B. Gandi CPA, MS TAX, Partner BERTORELLI COMPANY 150 Spear Street, Suite 1700 San Francisco California 94105 Tel (415) 905-0330 Fax (415) 512-7742 rashna@aol.com (e-mail) people who do bad things, ” says Amalsad, claiming he learnt the lesson from his five- year-old daughter Anahita. A good-looking pocket book with gilded lettering. Gifts that Lifts... has a message a page, most of them a telling play on words. Some are ponderable: “If you work on your job, you will only make a living. If you work on yourself, you will make a life worth living. ” “Turn your inhibition.s into ambitions. ” “When dealing with children, practise the art of rubbing out their mis ­ takes instead of rubbing them in. ” Others are rather vague (viz “We set our life by the images we get. But we get our life by the imaginations we set. ” “In life instead of getting all wired up, stay all fired up. ”) or verbose (viz “Association brings simula ­ tion that leads to progression or retrogres ­ sion. ” “May the love of all humanity fill your path and fulfill your life with a suc ­ cession of successful successes. ” None ­ theless, the messages remain wholly posi ­ tive, making it a giftable item for young or old, hale or ill. The book and cassette are available from Amalsad at 15842 Villanova Circle, Westminster, CA 92683, USA (Tel: 714- 895-3097) on a cheque payment of $ 7.00 and $ 8.00 respectively (plus $ 1.00 han ­ dling charges per item). Two dollars from each book sale to a Zarthushti will be donated towards the FEZANA Welfare Fund, informs FE7ANA Journal (Summer 1996). A Karachi boy, educated at the Bai Virbaiji Sopariwala Parsi High School for Boys, Amalsad proceeded to the US to obtain his masters degree in electrical en ­ gineering and rose to be a senior staff engineer for Hughes Aircraft Co, a world leader in aerospace engineering, informs What’s On (April 1995), the newsletter of the Karachi Zarthosti Banu Mandal (KZBM). Actively involved with Zoroas ­ trian community activities in North America, Amalsad was the founder chair ­ man of FEZANA’s Helping Hands Zoro ­ astrian youth communication network and chaired the First North American Zoroas ­ trian Youth Congress in 1987 as also the First World Zoroastrian Youth Congress in 1993 and has been visiting professor in electrical engineering at some southern California universities, notes the newslet ­ ter. An earlier (1992) audio cassette, Navjote Master, provided a “unique method of teaching ” the prayers to the very young, notes What’s On. Its copyright for Pakis ­ tan had been gifted by Amalsad to the KZBM. *1* ,1, *1* With Best Compliments From BHARUCHA fit CO Engineers & Builders ‘Kutika ’ 31/1, Pune Solapur Highway Pune 411013 Tel No; 670030 Fax: 670094 Compiled by Arnavaz S. Mama 42 Parsiana Ju/y-August 1996 * If RELIGION The elevation of Nadirshah Unvalla The appointment of a dastur, a high priest, has traditionally been the preserve of the clergy. But in February this year, Ervad Nadirshah Unvalla was appointed High Priest of The Bangalore Parsee Zoroas ­ trian Anjuman at a special general body meeting of the Anjuman held on February 24, 1996 in light of his “glorious and dedicated service ” for over 60 years as panthaky of this Deccan Plateau city. The resolution was passed unanimously with a standing ovation, truly reflecting the appreciation of our members, ” notes a circular letter issued by the honorary sec ­ retary D. N. Billimoria dated March 4, 1996 which reached the Parsiana office only on May 28, 1996. The same letter also intimates of a felicitation function planned by the Anjuman on June 7,1996 to honor Unvalla. The report of the function carried in the Jam-e-Jamshed of June 16 referred to the presentation of a citation in a silver casket and a shawl on behalf of the Bangalore Anjuman with president Kali Cowasjee remarking, “Few people can hold on to ‘ their principles as Unvalla can. ” The news of Unvalla ’s elevation was widely acclaimed by many but viewed with some apprehension by the three High Priests in Bombay, Dastur (Dr) Hormazdyj Mirza, Dastur (Dr) Kaikhusroo JamaspA; and Dastur (Dr) Firoze Kotwal. As f ¦ • resolution, your Anjuman should have taken into consideration the ‘dasturi ’ sys­ tem prevalent in our community. At present ano stanoing c there are two types of ‘dasturship ’ in the qualifications at all; th% community, hereditary dasturship; dastur ' appointed for his special qualifications. The hereditary dasturship from ancient times, from generation for centuries. This ‘dasturship ’ those times. “As for the ‘dasturship ’ of the second category, a dastur is appointed, when quired, only for his high intellectual and spiritual achievements, particularly in re ­ ligious, scriptural, linguistic and historical studies of ancient, middle and modern Iranian times. The resolution of your Anjuman does not cite any of these special qualifications 'ar .sa —v* ^a«ui yLJi) riojLc Kotwal. As per their letter of June 4, “Before passing the sys- 1 J / i. The Bangalore anjuman ’s decision to create a new dastur has been challenged by three scholar High Priests ’ ? ?------------- and no one lays any such claim in the present case. Only ‘retirement after long services and ‘standing ovation ’ are no J are only emo ­ tional outbursts. “Faith runs into all spheres of life, but in comes down religious matters faith without knowledge 0 and understanding degenerate.s into fanati- ___________ Ciom I * established by priestly anjumans of happens generation to re ­ 45 Parsiana Juiy-August 1996 e-Meher, Dastur Hormazdyar Nosherwan of Pune presided over the jashan and function when Dastur Hormazdyar Mirza of Udvada was also present. “In these circumstances, your resolu ­ tion and appointment would not do any good to our religion and community, but would be harmful and create further trouble and dissension in the community. ” In response, an aggrieved secretary of the Bangalore Anjuman wrote in his letter of June 27, 1996; “Nadirshah chose to retire after a distinguished and dedicated service of over 60 years to the Bangalore Parsee Zoroastrian Anjuman (BPZA) and the Parsi community of Bangalore at a ripe old age of 81 years. His dedication and zeal towards the religious cause of our commu ­ nity can be perceived from his involve ­ ment in the construction and consecration of our agiary and dokhma in which he played a major role. Thereafter, his contin ­ ued dedication to their perseverance (sic), safety and sanctity itself symbolizes Nadirshah ’s and BPZA’s unflinching faith in our religion. Today the Bangalore Zoroastrian com ­ munity is an active, well-knit body, thanks to Dasturji Nadirshah. All this will go down as a unique and unparalleled effort in the lifetime of any priest in our community in India or anywhere in the world. He may not be a qualified ‘dastur ’ as per your interpretation, but in Nadirshah we have a dastur who is known to be a man of strong convictions with a deep and abiding com ­ mitment to the Zoroastrian faith and its time honored beliefs and precepts. Totally uncompromising in his principles, he has often provoked dissent and debate on vari ­ ous sensitive issues. Moreover, he is one of the few, nay, the only priest, who takes a as It personal interest in the welfare and well ­ being of every family in Bangalore. These were the very qualities which the BPZA dastur. Nadirshah —-J true testimony of that appreciation is the large turnout at the felicitation function held on “Regarding your statement on Banga ­ lore being under the dasturship of Unvalla: integrity and conviction (top) the lifetime of any priest in our community in India or anywhere in the world. He may not be a qualified ‘dastur ’ as per your -------- ---------- a dastur who is known to be a man of strong cism and even threat of violence, ; ' . . i on some occasions. This i.s detri ­ mental to the very existence of our com ­ munity. ¦•Morecver^Bangalore is under rhe “qJilS'iX dasturship of Dasturs of the JamaspAsa • Meher and the were presided over by the late Dastur Nosherwan Kaikobad of Pune as the Head Priest (Dastur) of the Bangalore Anjuman. On the occasion of the jubilee of the Dar- family of Pune. Installation of the Dar-e- opening of the dokhma June 1, 1996 at Bangalore A\/Ar K\/ ___ _____ ® *’* II I come Dasturji Nadirshah P. Unvalla and I give him your blessings. ” I “A staunch traditionalist, he has not I deviated from his orthodox stand on cer- I tain issues for either money, power or I fame, ” mentions the J a me report. (Among I the principles that Unvalla has adhered to t are refusing entry into a fire-temple or a dokhma to Zoroastrian women who have married out of the community or perform ­ ing the navjote ceremony for a child whose either parent is a non-Zoroastrian. He had made a trip to Bombay in 1991 to voice his JamaspAsa family of Pune, this has not "1^ been disputed. On the contrary, messages of congratulations have been sent by Dastur Hormazdiar Noshirwan of Pune, on the occasion both to the Anjuman and to Ervad W: Nadirshah... “Your opposition has left us anguished. You have lost out on an opportunity to ; emerge as the true leaders of the Parsi community, ever ready and willing to re- ward and recognize devoted, selfless and dedicated service. We are confident that .4JJ. Dasturji Nadirshah Unvalla, along with „ u n you gentlemen, will usher in a new era of . Anjuman s opposition to the Bombay Parsi faith and understanding of the true tenets Cowaxjee presenting the traditional shawl Punchayet resolution permitting Zoroas- of the Zoroastrian religion. Your fear and trian women who had married non-Zoro- apprehension that it may degenerate into as abject indifference and insensibility to astrians to have their bodies consigned to fanaticism and-violence is unfounded, merit. His has truly been a monumental the Tower of Silence. This was in ±e Thankfully our religion does not encour- contribution to our Zoroastrian cause. aftermath ofthe Roxan Shah incident when age or tolerate religious fanatics. Besides, “It may not be out of place to mention the 25-year-old woman ’s body was denied each and every one of us has been touched that in the past, late Dasturjis Hozdar and a final resting place at doongerwadi. e by the goodness and kindliness of Dasturji Aderyanwalla, both of Pune, and late has also steadfastly held the view that the Nadirshah in our hour of need. Dasturji.s Bhesania and Sena of Surat were Bangalore Anjuman should not be a mem- “Many will agree that if ever a case made Dasturjis and neither yourself or ber of the Federation of Parsi Zoroastrian existed for an elevation to the position of a your predecessors raised any doubt or ob- Anjumans of India since the apex body ‘dasturji, ’surely Nadirshah ’s would stand jection. includes anjumans whose constitutions out like a beacon. A failure to recognize “May we therefore humbly request you confer certain pnvdeges to non-Zoroas- this on your part would go down in history to reconcile with our decision and wel- trian spouses o< individual members. ¦i! ¦i .1*. li «« Vi as abject indifference and insensibility to merit. His has truly been a monumental contribution to our Zoroastrian cause. “It may not be out of place to mention that in the past, late Dasturjis Hozdar and Aderyanwalla, both of Pune, and late Dasturjis Bhesania and Sena of Surat were made Dasturjis and neither yourself or your predecessors raised any doubt or ob- “May we therefore humbly request you decision and wel- !¦ 4’ Wishing All Our Patrons A Very Happy And Prosperous New Year M/s Framji Rustamji Choksey Estd; 1850 (Partner Sorabji Edulji Cooper) Goldsmith & Art Jewellers (Approved Valuers by Govt of India for Jewellery) Shop: 253, Sheikh Memon Street, Bombay 400002 Phone: 3425422,3442639 Residence: 585, Khan House, Chira Bazar, Bombay 400002 Phone: 2051118,2063099 46 Parsiana My-August 1996MATRIMONIAL Unvalla has also been a vocal critic of the five High Priests who initially sanctioned the navjote of industrialist and philanthro ­ pist Neville Wadia.) “Even his critics admire him for his total integrity and courage of conviction. There are many Parsis in Bangalore who are opposed to Unvalla at an ideological level on the dokhma-aramgah issue, but they all came in large numbers to do him honor ” and joined in giving the veteran priest “another standing ovation (when) some ladies even began to cry, ” notes the Jame report. In his thanksgiving speech Unvalla stated that he was proud to be an orthodox, for an orthodox is one who walks on the Matrimonial alliance invited by parents of a handsome, Zoroastrian boy, aged 28, ht 6’, well-settled in family business spanning across India and abroad. Girl should be pretty, home-loving and from a respected family. Write with complete details and recent photograph (returnable) to: “A dastur is appointed only for his high intellectual and spiritual achievements ” With Best Compliments The Advertiser Parsiana, Matrimoniai (July-Aug/29-96)* GPO Box 892, Bombay 400001 *Please make sure the reply envelope bears the reference number cited here. straight path. He further gave credit to his parents, particularly his father Pestonji who was the first panthaky of the Banga ­ lore Dar-e-Meher, for his achievements in life. It was to assist his father that Nadirshah, who was then an outstanding student of the M. F. Cama Athornan Institute,was sum ­ moned to Bangalore as an assistant mobed on a princely salary of Rs 20 per month. Following his father ’s demise he had been officiating as panthaky until his retirement last year. The addition of Unvalla to the existing list of seven Dasturs in India was wel ­ comed by most of the orthodox sections. The secretary of the Udvada Athornan Anjuman, Ervad Framroze Sidhwa, was specially airdashed to Bangalore to present a shawl and greetings on behalf of the Sanjana clan. Among the many congratu ­ latory letters received by Unvalla and read on the occasion were messages of good ­ will from Keikobad Phiroze Dastoor, High Priest, Iranshah; Sardar Dastur Hormazdiar Noshirwan Kaikobad Dastur, High Priest of the Deccan; Ervads (Drs) Peshotan and Rooyintan Peer; Ervad Parvez Bajan, joint honorary secretary of the Athornan Mandal ; Cowasjee Nusserwanji Dinshaw, president of The Bombay Zoroastrian Jashan Com ­ mittee; Jamshed Guzder, chairman of the Bombay Parsi Punchayet; Nariman Mog- relia, president of the Madras Parsi Zarthosti Anjuman, Noshir Nagarwalla, secretary of the Parsi Zoroastrian Anjuman of Secunderabad and Hyderabad, and'from representatives of other community bodies and the Parsi Press. ZARDUST & ASSOCIATES "t Builders & Engineers 31/1, Pune Solapur Highway Pune 411013 Tel No: 670494 48 Parsiana July-August 199& 4' * I{ SCHOLARSHIP The tale the Yashts tell If the Gathas provide the message of the Prophet, the Yashts give the history of the people, says Dr Pallan Ichaporia Kxnayjoz S. Mama it was because of the references in the from participating in the prayer, requests Avesta that we were aware of our history, for rewards or boons. Could the yazata be “Dadestan i dinig, Bundahishn and other the exclusion of unwanted individuals Pahlavi texts were all written by members of one athornan family in about 900 AD when Zoroastrians were still in the majority vindictive? Can a god be angry? These in Iran though politically subjugated, ” says Dr Pallan Ichaporia, chairman of the research committee of the Federation of Zoroastrian Asso ­ ciations of North America. In Bombay for the wedding of his son Burjor to Kashmira Dastur in June 1996, Ichaporia gave a series of three Government Fellowship Lectures at the K. R. Cama Oriental Institute (KRCOI) on the historical and theological aspects of the Yashts, with special reference to the Farvardin and Jamyad (or Zam) Yashts. The Yashts became predomi ­ nant as Zoroastrianism spread in Achae ­ menian times from Eastern Iran to Wes ­ tern Iran, says Ichaporia. Not all of them are believed to have been composed at the same time. The Hormuzd, Khordad, Astad and Hom Yashts were composed history with names that recur from yasht to fairly late and may have been composed by yasht, says Ichaporia. This is particularly make it strong for “if the KRCOI collapses, laymen, says Ichaporia quoting Prof true of the Farvardin and Zam Yashts, the Richard Frye. What we have inherited are said to be the fragments that survived successive invasions of Iran, beginning latter providing the glory (khorena') of the posed in the Hindu Kush region and pro- with Alexander ’s, which were pieced to- divine names including those of Ahura vided the complete geography of Iran, was gether in sometimes clumsy attempts at Mazda, the Amesha Spentas, the spiritual largely destroyed, the Bundahishn (as also reconstruction during Parthian, Sasanian and material yazatas, the born and unborn andlater periods. However, “to reject them saoshyants (divine saviors) as also of the by wrongly interpreting them is unaccep- P table, ” says Ichaporia. “We ’d lose our heritage! As it is, the extant Avesta com- 1 prises only one-fifth of our original lit- But there is much more that they offer. The Farvardin Yasht, said to have been erature. ” The Zam Yasht provides a list of moun- composed in the Afghanistan region, pro- Most of the Yashts follow the same tains. “Recent research shows that this vides three concepts of the Fravashi, ac- general pattern —the introduction of Ahura yasht was largely composed in the time of cording to Ichaporia; “Let the Fravashi go Mazda and Zarathushtra, a description and the Achaemenians (Darius I and Xerxes)... praise of the yazata including the physical The Kayanians have been ignored by West ­ attributes, dress, etc. This comprises the “mythical, legendary, cosmological, sec ­ tion, ” says Ichaporia. It is generally follo ­ wed by a request for knowledge on how the yazata should be correctly worshipped. The advent of the saoshyants and the con ­ cept of resurrection after Frashokereti (re ­ fears do percolate into the Yashts though newal of the world) were first revealed in the Zam Yasht, he notes. The Kayanian seat of power was in Sistan, and Mount Ushidarena was where Zoroaster is supposed to have received his revelation. The two parts of the Jamyad Yasht — the Zam Yasht with its geography and the Kayan Yasht with its historical references — were frd^ments of two separate original compositions that were pieced together with the aid of certain common phr^es and paras in the time of Ardeshir Babagan, founder of the Sasanian dynasty, says Ichaporia. “Karl Geldner showed that the continuity of the kardas (paragraphs) did not coincide with the text, ” says Icha ­ poria. (JI manuscript was discovered at the KRCOI, Ichaporia informed his audi­ ence, urging them to preserve the Institute, Ichaporia with wife Hutoxy Ichaporia believes that boons sought with evil intentions are not granted. The Yashts are a repository of Iranian first providing a biography of Zarathushtra and the history of the Kayanian kings, the we have no other resource. ”) Ichaporia avers that though the Zatn Yasht, which is said to have been com- 50 Parsiana July-August 1996 * Peshdadian, Kayanian and Kavi dynasties. These historical references are corroborated by the Shah Namah, says Ichaporia. But there is much more that they offer. The Zam Yasht provides a list of moun ­ tains. “Recent research shows that this ern scholars, but they are important to Zoroastrian history, ” he declares. Did the Avesta exist in Achaemenian times? “We lost it, ” declares Ichaporia, but there seems no doubt in his mind that the first chapter of the Vendidad) reflects its entirety because when this text was wri ­ tten in the ninth century all 2 inasks (books) of Zoroastrian literature were extant and had been translated into Pahlavi. back well pleased. Let them not com ­ plain, ” says the Yashts numbering these spiritual entities “in thousands, millions. ” Additionally the Fravashi connotes the essence of our forefathers as also a compo ­ nent of human personality. The meaning depends on the connotation, notes Icha-poria. The reference to the Fravashi as guardian spirit is first found in Yasna Haptangaity. In their composition, according to the Bundahishn, the Fravashis don ’t have a choice — they are always good. Having come to the material world to help fight evil, they cannot choose evil, says Ichaporia. They comprise the spiritual entity that provides protection all the time — they protect the environment, the saoshyants to come, the good everywhere. Tliere are also the ancestral spirits who are received back duringFarvardegan. But Ichaporiais emphatic: “Wedon ’t worship the dead... Zoroastrianism is concerned with the here and now. Man is Ahura Mazda ’s co-worker. The four-day funeral ceremonies relate to the urwan or soul — not to the Fravashi. It is urwan who is judged (on the Bridge of the Separator), not Fravashi. The Fravashi has nothing to do with the soul. The Avesta never mentions Fravashi in the context of the last rites. The Pahlavi people got confused since they translated later editions of the Avesta” says Ichaporia. Moreover, “the Fravashis of the living are more powerful than the Fravashis of the dead because the Fravashi is moving us toward Frashokereti, ’’ he adds. Ichaporia is unable to answer how far back the confusion between urwan and Fravashi dates and believes that it is unlikely to be cleared. But all prayers after the first four days (beginning with the Bamdad ceremony, on the fourth day) relate to the Fravashi according to Shayest-ne-Shayest. The Fravashi exists even for the unborn. The Farvardin Yasht speaks of the Fravashi protecting the foetus against abortion, evil attacks, onslaughts of the Lie. There is a tale of how Vohu Mana helped Zarathushtra ’s Fravashi lull Angra Mainyo by pretending to forsake Zarathushtra. Angra Mainyo relaxed his grip and Zarathushtra was able to enter the world — laughing! “The Fravashi is always of the truthful and never of the dragvant (evil doer). Why? Does the truthful man who becomes a dragvant lose his Fravashi? Do evil people have a Fravashi? Is it worthy of worship? We do not know. But the Fravashi remains pure so perhaps the Fravashi of the evil man just goes back (to its source), uncorrupted, ’’ says Ichaporia, admitting with scholarly humility that the concept of the Fravashi helping Ahura Mazda in the struggle against evil is confusing. “There is no adequate answer about the origin of the Fravashi, ’’ he declares. Ichaporia who recently published a new translation of the Gathas in conjunction with Prof Helmut Humbach, the German patriarch of Gathic research, is currently involved in organizing the Second International Gadta Conference in Houston come August 1996. Stolid, somber, with measured, unhurried speech, Ichaporia ’s personality, academic background and professional occupation make for an unorthodox mix. Bombay bom Ichaporia says he was inducted into Avesta-Pahlavi studies when he was 11 years old. He completed three exams in Iranian languages and won prizes, noting cryptically that the inducement was monetary. Along with two years of MBBS he completed an optional BA in Avesta-Pahlavi, dropped it all to go to Pakistan where he picked up a BSc in pharmacy and migrated 12 years later to the US where he did a postgraduate stint in North East Asian studies at Columbia University before acquiring a doctorate in business administra ­ tion from the University of Oklahoma. He is currently into marketing research for the pharmaceutical giant Bristol Meyers and lives in Pennsylvania with his wife Hutoxy, Burjor, daughters Farida and Rashna. Referring to the current attitude of most Zoroastrian in the West to rely only on the Gathas to the exclusion of later Avestan and Pahlavi texts, Ichaporia says that the latter complement and PANACEA GROUP PRESENTS A golden opportunity Pastakia Plaza Largest residential complex at Kamshet, Dist Pune 1/2 bedroom flats/shops with individual garden and all modern amenities ? Children ’s park * State of art security system for every building , ? Club House A Dish Antenna ? Natural lush green hillside location ? Over looking Indrayani river ? Just 12 kms from Lonavala on Bombay Pune N/H’way * Two minutes walk from Kamshet railway station ¦> * For inquiries/bookings contact Mr Faliseth Pastakia Pastakia Bungalow, Kamshet Tel: (02114) 62283, Time: 10 am to 1 pm Mr Anand Mutha Panacea Builders, 1/1 Gitanjali Society Ambedkar Road, Pune 411001 Tel: (0212) 635575, 636055, Time: 6 pm to 8 pm Falcon Construction Mr Sharad Goyal (Pune) Tel: (0212) 676625, 677701, Time-JO am to 8 pm Mr Rustom Dubash Mumbai Tel: (022) 2823827 . 53 Parsiana July-August1996 If 6WZ CONGRESS The rivayat of 1996 Arnavaz S. Mama Reopening channels of communication with Iran was the keynote ofthe Sixth World Zoroastrian Congress If a world council of Zoroastrian federa- tions/anjumans takes shape within the next four years, the Sixth World Zoroastrian Congress (6WZC) in Tehran, Iran (June 19-22, 1996) may well go down as a turn ­ ing point in history. Nearly 13 of the 38 (AZT) president Dr Mehraban Gudarz- papers cleared for presentation at the Con ­ gress sought an international union/coun- cil/body to advise/regulate/control social change/religious education/international philanthropy and amelioration. When ses ­ sion chairman Rusi Dalal sought the res ­ ponse of the delegates, a sea of hands rose thing, the extent of Governmental partici ­ in favor of forming a World Council of pation was awesome. Thus, the first morn- Zoroastrian Federa ­ tions. No one voted against it. To an extent the 6WZC formally es ­ tablished that the ful ­ crum of the interna ­ tional community had shifted away from Bombay, India; that Zoroastrian thinkers and workers now resided largely in the western com ­ munities; that Iran ’s growing Zoroastrian population with more than 40 percent in the below-30 age-group is likely to play an increasing role vis-a- ing and a part oFthe afternoon was spent in the formalities of the inauguration and wreath-laying at the spectacular mauso ­ leum that enshrines the rem'ains of Islamic vis the aging and dwindling population of Indian Zarthushtis. This was a far cry from the First World Zoroastrian Congress held in Tehran ’s Khosravi Hall in 1960 when, as recalled Anjuman Zartoshtian Tehran- Republic of Iran (IRI) founder Imam Ruhollah al Mousavi al Khomeini; the * second day ’s program was subservient to the audiences granted by IRI Leader Imam Mehr, Bombay Parsi Punchayet (BPP) chairman Eruch Nadirshaw had presided. In other ways too, the Sixth Congress SeyyedAIi Khamenei and President Akbar was different from its earlier Indian coun ­ terparts. Apart from its theme, “Unity with purity, ” which seemed to embrace every- Hashemi Rafsanjani; and the concluding session and summing up had hardly begun when the ladies were called away to a private audience with the president ’s daughter Ms Fatemeh Rafsanjani. A welcome sight at the Congress was the presence of Prof -Farhang Mehr and his wife Parichehr. Chan ­ cellor of Shiraz Uni ­ versity, finance mi ­ nister and vice pre ­ mier before the Is­ lamic Revolution who has since settled in Boston, USA, Mehr identified himself to ­ tally with his Iranian hosts and was greeted with a thunderous standing ovation. Ex­ pressing his gratitude Mehr, who had been president of the Tehran Anjuman for 58 Parsiana My-August 1996more than 12 years, said, ”1 restress my Top left: The speaker's podium at the conviction Mazda... Being Zoroastrian is a good deal... (Zoroastrians are) famous for honesty, abiding by the rules of die country and the government, love and other attributes," and spoke of his “happiness to see (them) after 14 years once again. ” "For (he Zoro ­ astrian community, die presence of such an international personality like Prof Facing page (top): Modi reading Capt Farhang Mehr is an honor. (1) thank the authorities and Faihang Mehr who agreed to take the trip, ” Gudarz-Melir noted his appreciation. The preoccupation with Zoroastrian Republic of IiaiTs national anthem and the lieiitage and Iradilion* was a recurring Ashem Vohu song beautifully rendered by theme of the Congress. Its corollary was a demand for the religiou.s education of priests and laity. Even as the fslamic officials began their replayed at the start of each of the follow- address with an elaborate reference to Allah, Zoroastrian Iranians began with mandatory references to Ahura Mazda, international speakers picking up the cue. The Congress began with six young Zarthiishtis invoking the Jashmc Avenghe IJielieve in the religion of right comer of the stage. Kight: VIPs at the inaugural included Mohajerani (ext L), Dasturs Oshidari, Shahzadi and Mulla Kermani and (ext R) IRI consul general in Bombay S. K. Yusini. 2nd row (from left): Dastoor, Modi. P. Ardeshiri, M. Ruvani. M. Ardeshiri. At right a view of the delegates. Hormuzdiar Dexai’x mexxage; (below) Iran's mobeds in focus Mazda.Vncy were followed by the Islamic llie Zoioaslrian Students Chorus, while the audience stood at attention. A taped video version of the first day ’s rendition was While instant translation in English and I'arsi was provided it took the audience awhile to become acquainted with the sophisticated system. Initially , head phones took some time to be distributed and occa ­ sionally tliere wa.s no translation on tap because the inteiqireters could not receive the injiut from the speakers. All Iranians — local residents or visiting emigres —spoke in Farsi at incredible spegd, a breathless interpreter in tow, sans punctuation or • expression ! At times, the hum of the trans ­ lation in the ear had a benumbing, sopo- riiic effect! Six sessions, each comprising three and a half hours as per the original program, were meant to accommodate 38 papers between them, each speaker being restricted to 20 minutes, with a 10- minute allowance for questions. Trips in response to the invitations from on high and (he disregard for time restraints by some of the speakers led to the Congress being held for longer hours beginning al 8 a.m. instead of 8.30 and ending well after 8 p.in. instead of (lie ing three days. Entertainment at the con ­ clusion of the Congress also featured the choir which comprised young Zoroastriati men and women. An outstanding item witnes.sed on the la.sl evening was the evocative play of tambourines by demure stipulated 6.30 p.iit. each day, with tea Zoroastiiaii beauties. breaks cancelled (individuals could sneak 59 Pars/sne Jufy-Auguat J996 IJ out for a quick cup of chai) and shortened lunch breaks. Each night the dinner was hosted by a Zoroastrians: Bombay accounts for 60 per- ~ cent of the world Zoroastrian community; India is the 10th most industrialized nation in the world; that of India ’s top 10 compa ­ nies, three are Zoroastrian, accounting for sales of more than 10 million dollars. Though Shroff was heard in silence, one wondered whether the brush-off had any connection to the Iranians ’ peeve dur ­ ing the Fifth World Zoroastrian Congress. Shroff ’s other reasons why the Indian com ­ munity may not be written off by world different organization viz the Zoroastrian Women, Fravahr, the Taft and Tavabe, Asha and Students and the AZT. Delhi Parsi Anjuman president and Fed ­ eration of Parsi Zoroastrian Anjumans of India vice president Lt Gen Adi Sethna chaired the session on ‘Strengthening the religious training of mobeds. ’ The ses ­ sions on ‘Preservation of the Zoroastrian Religio-Cultural Heritage ’ and the j ‘Dilemma Zoroastrian identity H and demographic trends within the community ’ were respectively chaired by F. Mehr and Hl Gudarz-Mehr. Zo- H roastrian Trust I Funds of Europe " (ZTFE) president R. Dalal chaired the discussion on ‘Col ­ laboration amongst World Zoroastrian Associations, ’ Fed ­ eration of Zoroas ­ trian Associations of North America (FEZANA) presi ­ dent Ms Dolly Dastoor presided over the session on the ‘Promotion of religious Congress convictions and awareness amongst Zoro ­ astrian youth ’ and FEZANA founder presi ­ dent Rohinton Rivetna chaired the discus ­ sion on ‘The spiritual and material welfare of Zoroastrian youth. ’ Thus the BPP was totally bypassed de ­ spite its senior trustee Minoo Shroff and chief executive Behram Laskari attending the Congress. The only recognition ac ­ corded to Bombay was in the person of Ms Homai Modi who, as co-secretary of the Fourth and Fi(th Congresses in Bombay, minding all concerned that both groups had made an earlier trip to Tehran to help the Tehran Anjuman organize the Con ­ gress and had been appointed its official representative in India. Shroff was con ­ strained to seek time to remind the audi ­ ence and the organizers of the BPP’s ha ­ loed existence of over 300 years as a (KRCOI) to the Tehran Anjuman at the “centerpiece of Zoroastrian activity. ” I ‘ Warning that though the Congress offered friction. The folios were meant for the “religion and culture (as a) sheet anchor... Iranians to reprint and return, as acknow- economic and social activity can only be ledged F. Mehr. So far nothing seems to ignored at their peril, ” Shroff reminded them of the BPP’s long-running socioeco ­ nomic welfare programs, notably housing. of adding, “(We) seek BPP funds. ” The venue of the Congress — the six- month-old IRI Broadcasting and Interna ­ tional Conference Center — was imposing without and impressive within, further beautified by arrays of artefacts, handi ­ crafts, floral decorations and the 6WZC logo designed by Ms Nooshir Jamshedi. In contrast to the state of affairs in Bombay/ India, the Center was immaculately clean, as were most of the Tehran thoroughfares (and indeed, the national highways and main streets in other cities of Iran that we saw). Wearing the identity card with photograph was mandatory and se ­ curity staff super ­ vised peoples ’ en ­ trances and exits. Communication, however, was a burden as few Ira ­ nian Zoroastrians spoke or understood 1 even their identity cards bore Farsi legends. Th* entry fee at the Congress had been slotted at US $ 400 per person inclusive of lunch and tea twice a day. It had been reduced to Rs 4,000 for individu- aks from the Indian subcontinent. Those Parsiana (January 1990) had noted, “The whose papers had been accepted for pre ­ sentation and the Press were accorded free entry but no lunch. Language problems, organizational or memory lapse had some ­ how conspired to keep these so-called invitees ignorant about their lunch status. .1 Iranian mobeds: participating in the 60 Parsiana Ju/y-August 1996 ‘ < ¦ ------------- W English and 4* 4 large Iranian delegation felt at times that its presence was not adequately acknow ­ ledged nor was enough hospitality ex ­ tended to it. ” Nor had the request for translation of the English proceedings into Farsi for the 250-strong Iranian delegation leading Dastur Dr Jahangir Oshidari to been considered sympathetically. Earlier on Dastur Jamshed Oshidari had addressed the Parsi-Irani divide by re- had common ancestors; “The burning fire was taken to India and you have protected Highlight it. Greetings to the Parsis for still preserv ­ ing this fire. ” The loan of 50 Pahlavi manuscripts from the K. R. Cama Oriental Institute quip, “Why have our Parsi brothers come here if not out of intS ’est in the religion? Here there is no theater, no attraction.You came here to pay for your own lunch! ” A paper of overriding interest for all Zoro ­ astrians was read by Dr Keyghobad Behdin of Tehran University. He revealed that there were seven cases of spontaneous abortion in a group of 50 Zoroastrian latter ’s request in 1964 is also a source of couples. Four of these were the product of 10 first cousin marriages, three being from the remaining 40 couples. The abortions are scientifically ascribed to a chromo ­ some malfunction. The finding was an offshoot of the Zoroastrian Student have been done. “It would be regrettable if we do not print them before it is too late and are completely destroyed, ” he noted. Organization ’s empirical research on chil-r ered Zoroastrians to “flood the world ” However, Congress president Dr Mahyar with simple books, videos, CD Roms which Ardeshiri seemed to be of the opinion that would answer this need as well as project the Zoroastrian religion on world con ­ sciousness. He was not clear however how “the danger...of too many schools, too ___ ___ _ ______ many unauthorized products ” could be said BehdiiK adding, “P^ents don ’t realize avoided. Apart from the paucity of text ­ dren below five years. In the study, which is half complete, the nutrition of the chil ­ dren was being correlated to their weight, height and arm span to ascertain if their profile was compatible with WHO figures. “Children under five are susceptible to greater danger and a high mortality rate, ” that these children need most attention. The difficulties arise because of differences in thinking (between American and Ori ­ ental people) rather than from the environ ­ ment. ” Behdin sought to impress on the audi ­ ence the advantages of providing a research K budget and the need to * publicize the findings not only in fields of biology and hygiene j but of social sciences | as well, in order to I improve the life of the il 1 ¦ J 4i^il 1 l;l» t f ‘‘t ’i .Il it is best to “pray in the language in which we think. ” Skits and dramas depicting Zoroastrian experience and history would enthuse youngsters, impress them with the spirit of the religion. Also it is time that the .Punchayet demanded some obligatory du ­ ties from the com ­ munity, felt school su ­ pervisor Ms Rati Wadia. She was sup ­ ported by social worker Ms Homai Billimoria who be ­ lieved that the one ­ way aid from the Punchayet with no demands in return had led to dependency. Referring to the ideo ­ logical and financial control of life where R 1 4 I Parsi children are I often powerless, Billi- L moria noted that Parsi I baugs in Bombay I require psychological and sociological in ­ puts to identify activists and youth leaders, empower them to become more competi ­ tive. The problem Mehrnoosh Khezri identi ­ fied in Iran was somewhat different: Dis­ harmony between Zoroastrian organiza- Zoroastrianism and national ambience exist among Zoroastrian teachers. ” tions, absence of facilities, lack of coaches Zoroastrian culture was viewed by some as North American Zoroastrians were con- and gymnasia confines sportsmen into a rooted in the religion — the thoughts, cerned about “gangs and drugs ” because of closed ,circle. They can ’t compete with words, deeds that produce “love, truth, peer pressure. One reaction is the revival others. ” affection elorv ’’asoerMsParvinKaviani, of caps and white clothes, as noted Behran) Advocating a better understanding of community. In the ¦ - ")'r, ' iittitit absence of a data bank M Vt . ' tilt 'it Hit iWV 111 ' 4 il Behdin ’s group is « unaware ofthe total number of preschoolers The mellifluous Zoroastrian choir in its community. The first stage of the project deals with infant mortality. The second stage will address malnutrition or chronic hunger. books (Dariash Farzaneh described avail ­ able books on religion as “repetitive, old, not updated ”), F. Mehr noted that “training (to impart) religious education does not exist among Zoroastrian teachers. ” North American Zoroastrians were con- 4’ 4 affection, glory, ” as per Ms Parvin Kaviani, of caps and white clothes, as noted Behran) and included the celebration of festivals^ and rites: “If we forget festivities, we late Dastur Navrooz Minochehr-Homji ’s might forget the thoughts and philosophies words “Avesta is not a dead language; we that the words of Zarathushtra should not be lost. “Give the youth translations to aid behind them. Man cannot adhere to some ­ thing he knows nothing about, ” she main ­ tained. According to her such education should start at the level of daycare centers and be supported by simple books to be . produced by a group jointly supported by Sethna — “there may be as many transla- India and Iran. Field trips for the youth to tour archeological and pilgrim sites, sug ­ gested as a source of meaningful edu ­ cation, was later reiterated by Rusi Bas- tani. Sethna viewed this Congress as a peer pressure. One reaction is the revival others. ” ¦ ¦ I Advocating a better understanding of Deboo of Washington State. Recalling the the links between values and religion, late Dastur Navrooz Minochehr-Homji ’s RustomKevala, chairperson of FEZANA’s ____ . .. . information receivin^^and dissemination are dead to the language, ” Deboo beheved (Journal) committee, noted, “Our religion was mostly internalized in the past — _ __ ______ changes and mistakes went unnoticed. ” their unt^rstanding, ” he suggested although Referring to the deficiencies in the transla- he was..sftumped by the same problem as tion and interpretation of texts by evan ­ gelical missionaries Kevala cautioned, “Do not underestimate the impact of western culture on our children in the west. In India children are not taught to think. Our chil ­ dren in North America are receiving the best education in the world. Parents have _ to be ready (with credible explanations). ” “rivayat ” — on the lines of the earlier trips conservatism and an attempt to hold off He urged Zoroastrians to learn to exter- of Indian Zoroastrians to Iran to ascertain change. ” To the extent that they bring the nalize religion, speak effectively. There ’s and clarify points of ecclesiastical prac- Parsis and Iranians to function as one a dire need for people who can discuss,our tice. “Today the youth need understand- Zoroastrian community in North America, faith with others in respectful debate, ing, ” said the general and urged the gath- they would ensure its survival, he added. Shifting the focus, Dr (Ms) Firoozeh tions as scholars. ” Noting that rituals sat ­ isfy peoples ’ psychological, social and spiritual needs — “the ijashne ceremony draws us into tune with nature and the cosmos, ” the pragmatic Deboo simulta ­ neously cautioned that “ritualism leads to change. ” To the extent that they bring the nalize religion, speak effectively. There ’s Parsis and Iranians to function as one Zoroastrian community in North America, they would ensure its survival, he added. 62 Parsiana July-August 1996FOOD “Throw away that lump, Ms Manekshaw. ” I looked up in sheer horror. “You have handled it too much, the texture i.s ruined. The outcome will be hard inedible pastry, if you can call it that. ” This was my first lesson in making pate sucree, the sweet French pastry, at the Cordon Bleu School of Cookery, London. This was the advanced course to which one was supposed to come equipped with knowledge of the lesser types of cakes and pastry. So I started all over again, bearing in mind that one handles pastry very lightly, and kneads lightly till smooth. From that day onwards, I have been extra careful how I handle this particular pastry. Treat it as you would a friend — gently and with respect! UH PATE SUCREE Plain flour (4 oz — 115 g) Castor sugar (2 oz — 60 g) / Butter (2 oz — 60 g) ? Eggs (2 — large yolks) Salt (a pinch) , \ / Sieve flour with salt on a marble top or A fhTrT pastry board. Make a well in the center with the back of your hand. Place butter, castor sugar, and egg yolks in the well. Using the finger tips of your right hand, soften butter with sugar and egg yolks till smooth and no lumps remain. Now with a palette knife in your left hand, draw in the flour, and (this is the crucial moment) knead very lightly till the paste is smooth. Do not overknead at this point. Put paste in a clingwrap and chill for at least one hour before using, so that the pastry is relaxed. i How to roll pastry j There is a method in rolling pastry. / We do not roll like we do our roties A or chappaties. k Place the paste on a floured board \f and pat into a round. With a floured / rolling pin (the flour should be on the u surface and on the pin, not on the paste, as that would add extra flour to the paste and make it hard: all these little tips one never finds in cookery books). Place the rolling pin at the base of the paste nearest to you. Roll two ups and one down with a firm hand, pick up the pin and start again from the point you left off. Repeat this movement till the outer rim of the pastry is reached. Make the circle large enough to line the tin which is going to be used. a BARQUETTES FRANGIPANES Take about 8-10 barquette tins (boat shaped) and place them close together, almost touching each other. Roll up the paste on the rolling pin and unroll on to the barquette tins. Lightly stretch pastry into each mold with a small ball of pastry dipped in flour. Cut off pastry with the rolling pin rolled over it. Prick the * barquettes in tins with a fork and keep in a cool place till required. 9 FRANGIPANE Qn Castor sugan^(4 oz — 115 g) Butter (4 oz —115 g) Eggs (2) Almonds (4 oz —115>—ground) K Flour (1 oz — 30 g) ? LimeMemon juice (2-3 drops) Soften butter with a spatula or wooden spoon. Add sugar and beat till smooth, light and fluffy. Beat eggs lightly and add gradually to mixture, beating all the while. Add almonds, flour and lime juice. Mix well. Fill three quarter barquette molds lined with pastry and bake for 5-8 minutes in a preset oven with temperature 375°F (190°C). With the same paste one can make I Tartlettes aux Fruits. I >>• 4' * f TARTLETTES AUX FRUITS Line small tartlette tins with pate sucree. For this roll out pastry into 0 a round. Choose a pastry cutter one ¦J size larger than the tartlette tins. Pastry dough: friend or foe? Bhicoo J. Manekshaw 148 Parsiana My-August 19965 I MATRIMONIAL Parents of a beautiful, graduate girl, aged 27, ht 5’2”, wt 53 kgs, with aptitude towards painting and craft from affluent, respected, well-known business family invites matrimonial proposals from parents of boys well-settled in business or profession with similar background. Write with returnable photograph to: The Advertiser Parsiana, Matrimonial (July-Aug/30-96)* GPO Box 892, Bombay 400001 ‘Please make sure the reply envelope bears the reference number cited here. Center during the lunch break on June 21 and 22. Bombay/Federation, Madras/ WZO, Karachi, Iran, ZTFE, Washington, Ontario, FEZANA and New Zealand were informally represented by individuals who belonged to them. Eventually, the desig ­ nated contact persons in various areas were Shroff for India, Parviz Ravani for Iran, Dastoor for FEZANA, Dalal for Europe and Ervad Godrej Sidhwa for Pakistan. Rivetna as the “acting chair ” has under ­ taken to correspond with the rest. The emphasis will be on the various associa ­ tions in each of these areas coalescing into federations which would then depute rep ­ resentatives. Each merriber would be allo ­ cated voting rights on the basis of its area and membership in such a way that no single country can dominate the body, assured Rivetna. It had been assumed that Rivetna would seek to base the Council in North America and there were voiced and unvoiced appre ­ hensions about members being unable to attend meetings there. These were set at rest by his categorical assurance that the “center is not going to be in the US.” Despite statements like “To me, the WZO is not doing its job, ” “The WZO is a misnomer, ” etc, WZO members Ms Mani Clubwalla and Aspi Irani were delegated to make a “last ditch effort ” to persuade the WZO, with its individual membership, to agree to be a part of the world body. A draft constitution prepared by Rivetna and Adi Daver had been proffered to a similar ad hoc committee gathered in Chi ­ cago in the wake of the Second World Parliament of Religions in 1993. Though it had been circulated thereafter to the vari ­ ous associations including the Indian Fed ­ eration, there had been scant response. “Our failing as a community is that we don ’t respond, ” said Rivetna and made it a ground rule that every missive would at least be acknowledged. He urged all con ­ cerned to get the feedback from their base associations to him by end December 1996 so that the document is ready for everyone to initial by July 1997 when the next meeting is planned to coincide with the Second World Youth Congress in London. The possibility of basing the headquar ­ ters of the Council in Tehran was urged by ex-patriate Iranians like Dabestani: “To me the headquarters should be where the money is.” Ravani himself was hesitant to accept the responsibility: “We may not be effective — we don ’t have facilities ” but, Rivetna countered, “You have great hu ­ man resources which are underutilized. ” Bombay and Paris were other likely loca ­ tions considered in passing. With Best Compliments From GALLERY CHEMOULD A gallery of Contemporary Indian AH Selection of good paintings Tasteful Framing Care and Restoration of old paintings Jehangir Art Gallery 1st Floor, M. G. Road Bombay 400023 Tel: 2844356/2833640 Fax: 2836058 66 Parsiana July-August 1996 %Zoroastrian Congress: Islamic commitment was welcomed by the Zoroastrian repre ­ sentative of the Iranian Women ’s Organization at the World Women ’s Conference in Beijing earlier this year. Ms Rafsanjani noted that the important issue of the cultural values of ladies had remained unaddressed since World War IL She added divine religions ” and the “salvation of that since Iran was “going towards ad- mankind. ” Ayatollah Mohajerani, IRI vice presi ­ dent of parliamentary affairs who inaugu ­ rated the Congress, described Zoroastrian ­ ism as “a religion of love and affection... Zoroastrianism is not dualistic, it is mono ­ theistic. It i.s important to consider this issue... Satan i.s against man like in Islam, a means for man to be sublimated. ” He said he had been studying the Shah Namah: “One verse i.s very interesting. Why does Firdausi end a.s though speaking to the sun? (He is addressing) not the physical ladies in the political field in the country. ” sun but the spiritual sun which lights men ’,s Ms Rafsanjani told the gathering how im- souls... Our life i.s nothing but a quest for pressed she was by the statement of Aya- the secret of purity. Hope the Congress will bring a better recognition of Zara- thushtra ’s message of friendship and for Excitement generated by the invitation from the Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran (IRI), Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei to “100 non-Iranian and 50 Iranian Zoroas ­ trians ” to a meeting at his office at 10.30 a.m. on June 20, 1996 was spiked with disappointment by a subsequent announce ­ ment prohibiting the visitors from carrying cameras, pens, wristwatches or keys (Each individual was meticulously frisked be ­ fore being admitted. Even a copy of Parsiana was not allowed inside)! A simi ­ lar ban was enforced at the following meet ­ ing with President Akbar Hashemi Ra­ fsanjani, depriving the visitors of a chance to record what might have been a high point in their lives. ‘The Eminent Leader, ’ as Khamenei is called, made certain references (as inter ­ preted in English) to “Iran, the land of the people from everywhere to learn about the divine Prophet Zarathushtra, ...your land, ” etc. The frustration at not being able to record the exact words was heightened the next day when all the three English lan ­ guage dailies — Iran News, Tehran Times and Kayhan International— reproduced a colorless press release. “Iranian Muslims consider the Zoroastrians worldwide as their own fellow countrymen...Iranians had lived and worked together in a society for a common cause free from religious dis ­ crimination and these facts... should moti ­ vate the Zoroastrians to strive for a com ­ mon goal in order to obtain divine bless- of the issues which could be raised abroad Zoroastrian woman to address the gather ­ ings... Islam bestowed on Iran indepen- is the development of sound thought re- ing, registering official thanks to the IRI dence, honor and dignity and the country ’s garding the IRI... Hope the Congress will authorities for enabling the worldwide reputation should be considered as the be a source of blessings for Iran and for all Zoroastrian community to meet in Iran, greatest achievement for the followers of people. ” The extent of help, support and in ­ different religions, ” Khamenei noted ac- Ms Fatemeh Rafsanjani expressed her- volvement of governmental dignitaries in cording to the three dailies. Only the Tehran self as “happy in the friendly atmosphere the nitty-gritty of the 6WZC was perva- Times editorial of June 23 titled “Iran, of the Zoroastrian community. ” It had sive. From the inception of the idea, to the Land of Freedom for Minorities ” noted, been mentioned informally earlier that the invitation to Lt Gen Adi and Ms Khorshed “The Leader of the Islamic Revolution, the President ’s eldest daughter, who heads the Sethna, Modi and industrialist Sohrabji highest religious authority in the country, received the participants in the Congress Foreign Ministry ’s Women and Interna- on Thursday. Addressing the gathering the tional Social Affairs Department, had Leader noted that Iranians feel honored wanted to meet the Zoroastrian lady del- that the Prophet Zoroaster was born in egates — particularly Modi and those from Iran. ” President Rafsanjani had stressed the “commonalities ” between Islam and Zo ­ roastrianism — the emphasis on good thoughts, words and deeds, the call to prayer five times a day and over and above all, their monotheism as the “pivot of vanced technology, we have to overcome the drawbacks of society, especially religion... especially wrong beliefs... upgrade the position of ladies in society. ” The literacy rate among Iranian women had risen from 35 percent to 75 percent in recent years with seats reserved for them in the universities, she observed. “An important task of the IRI was to (curtail) the rate of population growth from 3.2 percent to 1.8 percent, ” she noted, adding, “We want to increase the participation of tollah Khamenei that Iran is the land of Zoroaster. Ms Shahla Habibi, president of the Bureau ofWomen ’s Affairs and advisor on women ’s affairs ip the office of the IRI Islamic Republic of Iran, see the spiritual ­ ity and purity which is a hallmark of Iran in president, said she was “proudof being the different eras. ” citizen of a country where Zoroaster was “This Congress is like a painting of born and spread his messagOthroughout ancient Iran, ” began Hojjatoleslam Mo ­ hammad Javad Hojjati Kermani, advisor to the foreign minister. “I myself belonged Islam, and the good values preached by to a Zoroastrian family of Kerman; my " father converted in early youth... some of my family members live in India, ” he continued. Kermani said his message was one of “love and friendship. Work for the construction of Iran wherever you are. One pand further. Modi was the only other of the issues which could be raised abroad is the development of sound thought re ­ garding the IRI... Hope the Congress will be a source of blessings for Iran and for all the world. ” Quoting the martyr DrBeheshti, Habibi said, “Whatever is good belongs to Zoroaster and followed by his followers are inseparable from Islam. ” She hoped that “mutual cooperation ” between the Bureau of Women ’s Affairs and the Zoro ­ astrian Women ’s Association would ex ­ 68 Parsiana July-August 1996 Ms Fatemeh Rafsanjani expressed her- of the Zoroastrian community. ” It had been mentioned informally earlier that the President ’s eldest daughter, who heads the Women ’s Solidarity Association and the Godrej to go to Tehran to acquaint the Tehran Anjuman with the modalities of the Congress, to the assurances regarding visas for Zoroastrians from around the world to visit Iran, to the reassurance from dignitaries visiting India like President Rafsanjani and foreign minister Ali Akbar Velayati, the message was that coopera ­ tion from the IRI government could be relied upon. And as the Congress proceeded to its close, two factors became clearer. The abroad — on a suitable day after the Con ­ gress ended. However, the touring pro ­ gram of the various groups made this dif ­ ficult to organize and eventually the Zoro ­ astrian women were summoned to a sepa ­ rate hall,even as the Congress ’ concluding session was getting underway where she *I With Best Compliments From PERKS ENGINEERING Pioneer and leading manufacturers of shrink and stretch wrapping machinery and systems in India Address: Perks Engineering B-24, New Empire Industrial Estate Shri Ramakrishna Mandir Road Andheri (E), Bombay 400059 Tel: 8326349/8347745 Fax: 8384001 70 Parsiana July-August 1996 courtesies and the messages were largely targetted at the Parsis. By implication, they were expected to spread the word of Iran ’s return to normalcy. The Kayhan International’s editorial (June 24), titled ‘Parsis at Home, ’ noted, “Zoroastrians liv ­ ing outside Iran, in the Indian sub-conti ­ nent, are known as Parsis. As a matter of fact, their ancestors immigrated to India in the eighth century. And Zoroastrians pres- “I myself belonged to a Zoroastrian family of Kerman; my father converted in early youth... ” ently settled in America, Europe and other places are mostly the descendants of Parsis from India... Welcoming the esteemed par ­ ticipants of the Sixth International Con ­ gress of Zoroastrians and wishing them success in holding the next session in the United States in the year 2000, we con ­ clude this column by repeating what was said by President Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani in a meeting with them... ‘World Zoroastri ­ ans consider Iran as their true home. ’ You are most welcome to your home. ” The second factor, one of overriding political importance to our Iranian breth ­ ren, is the need to accept the monotheistic message of the Gathas (perhaps to the exclusion of other scriptures) to be in tune with Islamic theological preoccupation. On their part Iranian Zoroastrians seized the opportunity of the Congress to vouch support to the country ’s leaders. Accord ­ ing to Kayhan International (June 22) Dastur Rustam Shahzadi said that Zoroas ­ trians prayed for the longevity of upright and just rulers so that they would prevail over the wicked souls and Prof Fereydoun Janidi noted that Zoroastrians owed their religious awakening to the Islamic Revo ­ lution. The latter registered his satisfac ­ tion that non-Iranian fashions, which mili ­ tated against the religious beliefs of the people, had been replaced by traditional Iranian attire for men and women. Ravani, Zoroastrian representative in the Iranian Majlis noted, as per the Tehran Times report, that “to be honest to the political system of the Islamic Republic of Iran, to attempt to reinforce the society ’s economic condition and to struggle for the develop ­ ment of purity and virtue are among the religious and historical traditions of the Zoroastrians. ” BHARUCHA & MOTIVALA Builders & Engineers Boat Club Road, Pune *ADVERTISEMENT Under the auspices of the MAZDAYASNIE MONASTERIE and the ALL TWckcottonc^h^^withthBiainowc^ "----------------- ------------------------------------- ----------------------------------- - —. . _ . .. . Persepolis columns, hand woven carpets and the world renowned ‘Gaz ” (Nougat Sweets of almonds, pistachios, sugar and egg white) jostle in the bazaar shops side by side with books and miniature paintings and prints. In the Armenian quarter of Isphahan is the beautiful Wank Orthodox Armenian Cathedral, and the museum attached to It has some artefacts which are unique amongst the best museums ot the world in Europe. Amongst these are the smallest book In the world, one thousand year old Armenian Manuscripts of the Old Testament, holy miniature paintings, costumes and other historical memorabilia of the Armenian Church. TheMuaeum deserves the best part of an afternoon to see It thoroughly. Isphahan also has architectural curiosities such as the Shaking Minarets," and the "Chaharsotel or 40 columns palace* set amidst rose gardens. The biggest mosque—the Juma Mosque—is constnjcted over the remains of one of the biggest Atash Behrams which used to exist here during the Sassanlan period. The subsequent Muslim era architects copied the Sassanlan technique of brick construction of domes atop square buildings. The original stone Afarganya —Are urns are still preserved in the Courtyard. One of the saddest sights of Isphahan was to see brass Afarganya-shaped vessels being used as waste bins and spitoons and flower pot holders all over Isphahan, In public buildings and hotels. From how many old-time Agiaries did these come? we wondered. In the Zoroastrian quarter of isphahan there Is a modem Fire Temple with big winged bulls figures, of Mithra Yazata, at the entrance. It is located in a garden behind high walls, and had beauttfui modem marble-facing with a big hall; and the Mobed Ilves in a house nearby in the garden. But the place did not have much spiritual power In Its vibration and thePriest welcomed all touristgroups from JapanU.S.S.R., Europe and U.S. A. to visit the Fire Temple and take photographs of the Holy Fire kept burning In an Afarganya behind glass. In the Kebla room. On the outskirts of Isphahan, on top of a mountain is an oldFirsTsmple in ruins. Some of our group members succeeded In walking to the top. They had a grandstand view of the countryside, and reported that there are some old buildings made of stone, on top, around the Fire Temple. Isphahan has excellent rlbtaurants serving the local speciality foods In most beautiful surroundings. OurTour Manager Sohrab took us to some of the best places for lunch and dinner; and one of tfiem had an atmosphere as though It was a ‘Palace of Arf and bad Frescoes with beautiful paintings of scenes of the Shahnamah anAom other Persian Poems adorning the walls. The people are steeped in art and culture and the ladies are well dressed and quite modem in their outlook. People there enjoy being out in the Parks beside the river, dose to Nature. The merchants travel all the way to India to buy doth to sell in the bazaars of Isphahan. Half a day ’s coach travel took us from Isphahan to Tehran past the great salt lake* and deserts south of the capital City. The salt can be seen shimmering on the desert sands giving the illusion of water. The water is so salt hardly anything living can sunrive in it. The Capital City of Iran spreads over many hills. Thais Palacea of the Reza Shah and Mohmammed Reza Shah Pahlavi Family are I spread over a large area of woods and streams in the mountains to the *" “WWiMiliiiite^ north of City. We visited the 7 Palaces open to the public and gained the impression that the present Govt, knows nothing about encouragemenet of Tourism, Not a single postcard is available; and though a stiff fee Is levied on cameras, yet no photography is allowed inside the Palace buildings. Amongst the most beautiful is the old original Palace of Reza Shah with its exquisite carpets, mirror ceilings chandeliers and French style period furniture. Even the bathrooms are special and fit for a king. Mrs. Tehmina Turel, Mrs. Roshan Doctor, standing The big Palace of Mohammed Reza Shah has a maginificent staircase and murals on the walls, beautiful carpets, chandeliers and different styles of furniture from different countries in the several rooms. The Queen’s Palace with its imitation of the Sphinx is converted into a museum of stuffed animals and butterflies. The Military Museum Palace is worth a visit to see the uniforms of the Iranian Amry from Achemenian times to the present. A picture album, or postcards should alleast be made avaialble. If forno other reason than historical education for all the school children. Two other Palaces are converted into Art Museums with lovely Persian Paintings. TheNational Jewel* are securely kept in a bank vault. These now INDIA SHAH BEHRAM BAUG SOCIETY (for Scientific and Educational Research) The one and only ZOROASTRIAN COLLEGE Correspondence address: Mustafa Building, (2nd floor), Sir Pherozeshah Mehta Road, Bombay 400001, India, Tel: 2660214 2662950 after hours: 3644737 Fax: Bombay India 022-2662735-A/c 121 and 3634274 6TH WORLD ZOROASTRIAN CONGRESS & PILGRIMAGE TOUR OF HISTORICAL IRAN in the world it' 11 t. A'i- .*i k< '1 t ¦i J I . I' fel (1) Zoroastrian College Delegation Members—LtoR. Mrs. HomaiBillimoria, Dr. Meher Master-Moos, Mrs. Amawaz Mirza, Ervad Godrej Sidhwa, in front of the great Citadel of ARGEBAM built by Founder of the Sassanian Dynasty A^eshir Babegan. (2) Dr Meher Master-Moos, Z. C. President presenting the Zoroastrian flag at the 6th World Zoroastrian Congress, designed by Dr Jehangir Medora of Canada, the Pars! Vexillographer. (Continued from June 1996 Issue] Yazd Is a bustling and big dty. Its market place Is equal to those of Kerman, Shiraz and Isphahan In the variety of goods. It has speciality ‘mlthaT and bakery products, pistachio and dried fruits; and the gold ­ smiths in the bazar specialise in making Zoroastrian figures such as that of the Asho Farohar. It is also noted tor Its melamine crockery and household products; and also for the trade with China for ceramics Imported via HongKong. The carpets made here are also special, being woven by hand by Zoroastrian women In their village homes to the accompaniment of songs sung in ‘Dari* language. A full day ’s coach drive brought us by night tolaphahan, the ‘Paris of iran.‘ Straddling across the ‘Zayanderood* river are several bridges, the most famous of them being the “Siu si Pol* or Bridge of 33 arches. Here the city people enjoy the cool river breeze sitting at chaikhanas beneath the arches, or boating on the river. We stayed at the comfortable old ‘Pol and Park Hotel" overlooking the river. Isphahan has some excellent hotels, including the famous old ‘Caravanserai", now renamed the "Hotel Abbas", which used to be rated by I ATA as the third best Hotel In the world—the old Taj Mahal In Bombay following as the fifth best, about a quarter of a century ago. Named after the quartering place of the Achemenian army soldiers, the ancient historical city of Isphahan has a modem Unhrareity with a spacious campus on the hills overlooking the city area. The traditional Unani medicine and modem allopathic medicine faculties are both taught here. Both Shiraz University and Isphahan University have good libraries with sections devoted to Avesta and Zoroastrian religious books. Our hostProf . Reza, of the Social Welfare Dept. Faculty took us to visit the University and also a Govt, funded very modem family welfare counselling centre. Women under the present Govt, regime are given consist mostly of the Jewellery of Muslim kings of the last 200 to 100 much encouragement for education and all kinds of work; including ...........................................* " ' being lawyers and taxi drivers. In Isphahan we had a delightful visit to the home of Prof. Reza. Although living in a semi detached row house of flats, his mother and sisters still practised the traditional craft of carpet weaving at home. The bride-price paid by the groom in Iran till today goes up if the girl knows the art of carpet weaving, and can bring home revenue, making carpets after marriage. The family served a delicious home cooked meal of the traditional rice, pullao, with saffron, and fish from the Persian Gulf, and vegetarian dishes with salads, fruits and maevo. Isphahan is famous for Its arts and crafts, with many museums and palaces. Inihe bazaar, around the renowned blue tiles mosque, craftsmen are busy at their forges, hammering copperplates Into shape, with every fine detail of scenes of Persepolls. Each plate is hand made and unique. years ago period, with afew pieces of Crowns and Swords of the Pahlavi period. But much of the Jewetlery seen two decades ago is gone. One of the most outstanding pieces is the Orb of the world encrusted with gems, nrbies, emeralds and diamonds on a gold mounting made to teach geography to a Prince. Princess Farah ’s Crown is amongst the prettiest pieces of the Crown Jewels. Much of It is Rajasthani style enamel work encrusted with gems of about 150 years ago jewellery style. Other museums in Tehran worth visiting include the National Museum where artefacts from Persepolis, Susa and otherancient sites are preserved; the Glass and Ceramic Muaeum with its exquisite pieces of porcelalne and painted glass miniature bottles; the museum Itself is a Palace with a period-piece circular staircase, French style furniture rich carpets and chandeliers; the keepers are most courteous *INSTITUTIONS The other woman The bonhomie shared by the members of the Parsee Gymkhana draws the regulars to this institution Text and Photographs: Gustasp Irani She was a young girl from Poona with stars Peter Pans of the community. In addition in her eyes. She had just met this wonderful to the card room, they have access to two young man from Bombay. Yes, they had billiards tables, a badminton court, a selec- liked each other and were willing to make a commitment for life. After he left, her family took stock of the situation. He was good-looking, from a decent family, had a inception. ” good job... “But he ’s a member of the Parsee Gymkhana, ” an elderly aunt had protested. “Take care child, you will have to deal with a second wife all your life. ” Fifty years later, the two are very happy witnessed violent scenes, especially across together, but the ‘other woman ’ is still very much around and making demands on his time: two evenings of the working each other. But after the bad blood has week, all mornings on weekends and holi ­ days, and most of his spare time when the wife is not in town. “I think the main attraction at the Parsee Gym is that here men do not have to grow up. Here they can remain boys forever, ” _ _ says Fall Gorimar, long-time member of women on its premises as guests, it has commissioned by the Gymkhana. “The the club. I remember the first time I visited stoutly resisted all efforts to grant them aim of such an undertaking is not only to the Gymkhana with my family as full- membership. Way back in 1913, the man- provide better facilities to members, but to fledged member. I drifted through the aging committee shot down a proposal to establish a self-generating source of in ­ colonial clubhouse on to the vast expanse have a Ladies ’ Day once a week. Then in come by providing excellent boarding and of green dotted with tables and chairs 1932, the committee fielded a similar pro- lodging facilities at competitive prices for around which families and friends batted posal which sought to allow members to members and their guests, ” he adds. (We the evening breeze. Here I was accosted by introduce one lady member of the family learn that the committee, reelected on a burly lifetime member who welcomed < „ me to the fold and then pretended — by during specified hours. N. B. Saklatvala, clapping his own hands — to slap me hard on the shoulder, which resulted in my three-year-old daughter bursting into tears. The elderly man sadistically repeated this act each time till my daughter was grown up enough to be unfazed by his antics. “The Parsee Gymkhana is a second home to me and to many of its members, ” dropped, says Kaisad Wadia, joint honorary secre ­ tary. And though the facilities here may . not match those found in more reputed face-lift, that these conveniences were fi- the ceremonial inauguration and the enter- clubs, they are good enough to indulge the nally provided. As part of the renovation tainmenl-cum-dinner offered to the delC ’ program, a segment of the card room was sacrificed to make place for a reading room and an excellent restaurant with its own separate kitchen that complemented the bar built earlier on the upper floor of the building. New floors, tiles, fittings and a fresh lick of paint restored the structure And even as we write this, the language to its old colonial splendor. “The atmo- that filters out of the card room is colorful sphere now is so much better. At one time — very colorful and that is when things are you had to think twice before you invited normal. No names please, but members guests, especially if they were women, have informed us that the card room has tion of indoor games and, of course, cricket which, according to Wadia, “has been the backbone of the club right from its very Now people tell me what a great clubhouse we have and my wife and cfiildren love the bridge table, with players throwing coming here, especially in the evenings on cards, car keys and an occasional punch at Fridays, weekends and holidays, ” says Mehrwan Irani of Olympia Stores at the Metro Cinema building. “We are seriously working on plans to build a swimming pool and even accom ­ modation facilities, ” says Rusi Bhumgara, the other joint honorary secretary, show- been wiped off, don ’t be surprised if you find the two foes laughing and joking with each other on the lawns with the glass that cheers. The Gymkhana still remains an all ­ male bastion and though it now permits ing us a copy of the feasibility studies women on its premises as guests, it has stoutly resisted all efforts to grant them membership. Way back in 1913, the man ­ aging committee shot down a proposal to have a Ladies ’ Day once a week. Then in 1932, the committee fielded a similar pro- around which families and friends batted posal which sought to allow members to as a guest, but only on weekdays and September 22, 1996 has decide to proceed with the project.) “The better part of our income is gener- chairman of the managing committee at the time, sent in a scorching return right ated from leasing out our grounds for over the stumps: before ladies could be social and wedding functions. The prob- invited as guests, the committee should lem is that after these events, we are left consider whether the Gymkhana was able with a damaged cricketing outfield, ” says to provide the conveniences and comforts Wadia, a key player in the Gymkhana team the ladies would expect. The proposal was who feels deeply about such sacrileges. Probably the only time Wadia and his colleagues did not mind was when the _ _____________ the clubhouse had a major (Rs 22 lakh) Parsee Gymkhana grounds were used for not match those found in more reputed face-lift, that these conveniences were fi- It was only as recently as 1993, when 72 Parsiana July-August 1996 *» II » •>10.1 9« V , » c I • , 8/ J J .'-'x AM* exza IF-, fi'J ¦ i--. '* .1 i Flag hearer of Farsi cricket (lop) Colonial facade and salubrious sea breeze ship fees which, after much agonizing and The verandah (right): a place to digest lunch or enjoy an evening's gossip gates to the Fifth World Zoroastrian Con ­ gress held in Bombay in 1990. One way of cutting free of the depen ­ dency on revenue generated from leasing quarterly.) out the grounds was to raise the member- Currently the Gymkhana has 1,177 members of which about 10 percent are non-Parsis. “Earlier our limit was 1,000 members and only recently we have raised it Io 1,200." says Marazban Dhanbhoora, debate within the managing committee, was recently raised to R.s 30,000 for ordi ­ nary members and Rs 50,000 for life mem ­ bers, (Earlier the corresponding fees were president of the club. Periodically, when Rs 25,000 and Rs 40,000. Subscription fees for ordinary members are Rs 107, the number falls below the upper limit — “because of death and otlier reasons ” — the club opens its doors to new members. 73 Parsiang July-Augusi tags Iclubs that had their tented headquarters on the Azad and Cross Maidans. One such club was the Liberal Espla- to have visited all the fire-temples in the city and if his team won, liquor flowed sportsmen, ’’ adds Dhanbhoora. Further, if lected from the many all-Parsi maidan ... these young lads have represented the Gymkhana in any sport — cricket, bad ­ minton or billiards — they get to be full- fledged members by paying only 20 per- nade Cricket Club founded by Behramji cent of the membership fee. “This is not a Surti, a prosperous wholesale liquor dealer, rule but a policy we follow to encourage On important match days, Surti is reported sports, ’’ the president clarifies. Out on the grounds young gladiators are put through their cricketing paces at the freely at his Club. Not all contests with Europeans were fought on the playing fields, and some had to be resolved in the boardrooms of the gymkhanas. One issue was the matter of According to Dhanbhoora, the basic crite ­ rion for admission is that the applicant should have completed 18 years, and is proposed and seconded by members of minimum five years ’ standing. Then he is interviewed by the managing committee to determine if he is suitably qualified in terms of his profession, social standing etc before being accepted into the fold. Presently the managing committee con ­ sists of Dhanbhoora as president; Cyrus practice nets, while another group of young Baxter, Hoshang Dadachanji, Minoo Pan ­ day and Hoshang Wania as vice presidents ; Bhumgara and Wadia as joint honorary secretaries, Darius Darabi as honorary tre ­ asurer; and Kersi Commissariat, Tehmul Dalal, Noshir Driver, Noshir Khan, Burjor Lavangia, Keki Mobedjina, Percy Patel, Minoo Sarkari and Behram Sorabji as members at large. “We are looking for members who will bring credit to our club, members we ’ll be happy to accept as part of the farnily, ’’ says Dhanbhoora. Sons of existing members, once they reach the age of 18 may become members by paying only 50 percent of the membership fees. “The important point to remember. boys and girls hone their martial skills under open skies, making sure not to tread on the hallowed cricket pitch which is lovingly tended by the ground staff behind umpires, both of whom, according to the a cordon of ropes. original agreement, had to be Europeans. The Parsec Gymkhana has played a In 1898, however, the Parsis threatened to pioneering role in developing this very British game in India. We are talking about negotiations, in 1900 the first Parsi — and Indian — officiated a match in which there were European players. Apart from the annual encounters with boycott the matches if they were not al­ lowed to select an umpire from their own the Presidency Matches which were the community. After much diplomacy and cradle of cricket in India. According to an article in the Gymkhana ’s centenary sou ­ venir of 1985, the series first started in 1895 with the Parsi team playing two matches each year against European teams Europeans, the Parsee Gymkhana team — the Bombay Gymkhana and the Poona played a series of matches with the neigh- Gymkhana. The Parsi team, however, did not comprise members of the Parsee however, is that we are a sporting club and Gymkhana alone, but represented the cream (give) concessions to promising young of the community ’s cricketing talent se- of the community ’s cricketing talent se- MiUt. boring Hindu Gymkhana. But all did not Members’ choice: cards, billards, bar or the daily news 74 Parsiana July-August 1996 ¦t' *1 I «COMMENT o n October 7, 1994, ray Meher, mah Ardibehesht, YZ 1364 according to the Shahenshahi calendar, the Bai Motlibai Wadia Atash Behram at Udvada, a small town about 110 miles north of Bombay, on the west coast of India in the state of Gujarat, celebrated its first centenary as the home of the holy pak Iranshah fire. It is not generally known that the present edi ­ fice, the fourth in Udvada, is administered by the Wadia Trust while the preservation of the holy fire together with the perfor ­ mance of rituals is the responsibility of a separate local organization of mobeds. This narrative relates the history of the present edifice and discusses other related topics. Zoroastrians fleeing Iran after the Arab invasion of the country and the fall of the Sassanian dynasty first landed at Diu, a village in present day Saurashtra on the west coast of India, in about YZ 67 (697 AD). After 19 years in Diu, in YZ 86 (716 AD), these Zoroastrians moved to Sanjan. On ray Adar, mah Adar, YZ 90 (720 AD), the first Atash Behram on the Indian sub ­ continent was consecrated in Sanjan by Dastoor-e-Dastooran Neriosang Dhawal and the holy fire, created with divine help and assistance was enthroned therein. In YZ 667 (1297 AD), fearing an invasion by the Muslim army of Allaudin Khilji, the holy fire was removed to the caves of Bahrot in the surrounding hills where it remained for 12 years. In 1309 AD, three leading mobeds of Sanjan first moved the fire to a hilltop in the Vansda forest (near Bulsar), and in 1419 AD to Navsari where it then remained for over 300 years. Between 1737 AD and 1742 AD the holy fire was moved repeatedly from one town to another, to Surat and then back to Navsari, then to Bulsar and finally in 1742 AD to Udvada-which has been its home for the last 252 years. The repeated shifts were the result of disputes regarding the guard ­ ianship of the holy fire between the mobeds of Sanjan who claimed to be its sole guard ­ ians and the mobeds in the host towns who also claimed rights over it. The detailed history of the first three atash behram structures at Udvada is not known; available records indicate only that the first atash behram in Udvada was built in 1742 AD by Muncherjee Bomanjee of Nargol, the second in 1751 AD by Motlibai's act of faith Dinshaw Joshi ¦ 136 Parsiana July-August 1996 4 « ¦ VIS W ____________________ _ I ^a»4Lv ««ua Ml Repairs to the fourth edifice housing the iranshah fire has extended the iife of the 100-year-oid structure Bhicajee Eduljee of Surat and the third in 1829 AD by the brothers, Dadabhoy Pestonjee Wadia and Muncherjee Pestonjee Wadia of Bombay. By about 1892 AD however the heirs of the two Wadia broth ­ ers were unable to maintain the dilapi ­ dated structure. With their consent and at the request of the Udwada Parsi Anjuman, Bai Motlibai Manockjee Wadia of Bombay agreed to replace the third atash behram structure with a new building in memory of her late husband, Seth Manockjee Nowroji Wadia. Bai Motlibai Wadia purchased land measuring 6,660 square yards adjacent to the site of the third atash behram for the new building and the associated nahan- khana (the place where the mobeds stay for 10 days after the mandatory purifica ­ tion bath which they undergo before they can attend the holy fire). The corner stone of this fourth edifice was laid on roj Adar, mah Adar, YZ 1262 (May 22, 1893) by Nowroji Manockjfee Wadia and Nusser ­ wanji Jehangirjee Wadia, sons-of Bai Motlibai Wadia. The buildmg was de ­ signed by Dinshaw Dorabjee^istree, ar ­ chitect; the contractor in charge of the construction is not known. The combined cost of the land and the Atash Behram and nahankhana buildings in 1893-94 was (Rs 91,000). Apart from the current value of the land, it is estimated that to build two similar structures today — if that is at all feasible without the original materials and the artisans — would cost about Rs 50,000,000. After the required consecration cere ­ monies including several ijashnis and vendidads performed over a period oV seve ­ ral weeks, the holy fits was enthroned in the new Atash Behram designated Bai Motlibai Wadia Atash Behram on roj Meher, mah Ardibehesht, YZ 1264 (Octo ­ ber 30, 1894), the death anniversary day of Bai Motlibai ’s husband, Seth Manockjee Nowroji Wadia. The excellent design of the buildings by the then architects, the use of best quality materials, and the meticulous and sturdy construction by the contractor have all enabled the buildings to withstand the ravages of the heavy annual monsoon rains over the last 100 years, and the constant use of the fire-temple by the worshippers. >9Freny, Neville & Tanaz Godiwalla firmly but politely turned down. Parsee Gymkhana was exclusively for Parsis. It remained all-Parsi till 1963 when the gov ­ ernment — which leases the ground to all the sea-facing gymkhanas — recommen ­ ded that it be opened to all communities... The skyline of Bombay across the bay starts to twinkle like a diamond pendent after the sun has set. In one corner, outside the clubhouse, a hhelwalla has set up stall. His arrival sparks off a flurry of activity amongst the members and their guests who Wish all Parsi Patrons A Very Happy and Prosperous New Year Not all contests with Europeans were fought on the playing fields For the tastiest food in town; with moderate rates too; none to beat the Godi wallas! Just give us your budget and we'll fit you in. Telephone Nos 3765842, 3762065 3765360 have spilled on to the grounds in front of the club. There is a hungry demand for his delicious concoctions that supplement the eats and drinks provided by the Gym­ khana ’s caterer, Percy Bhada. Indeed, food, good food, is part of the ethos of the Gym­ khana and many good caterers have bitten the dust trying to satisfy the discriminating palate of its members. The way many members see it, the Parsee Gymkhana is their home away from home and they have the right to be as demanding as little boys. Slowly, as night claims the day, mem ­ bers melt away into the darkness to quietly rejoin the world of adults that awaits them outside the clubhouse. But the following day they are back. Early in the morning, members of and aspirants to the Gym­ khana ’s cricket team work out at the nets, refining their playing skills. As the sun rises higher, white flanneled players take to the field, hurtling red missiles at each other across a 22-yard strip of dirt over the better part of the day. By late morning, retired men start to drift in and immediately home in on their favorite easy chairs. “Where were you yesterday? ’’ one new arrival is quizzed. “Was there a crisis at home? ” “Are you keeping well? ” “Have you found a new girl-friend? ” After a hearty meal — the dhan-dal-patio was excellent — they laze around. On the verandah overlooking Marine Drive, they sprawl out with legs resting on the extended armrest of their easy chairs and doze over half read news ­ papers. Suddenly they are sharing con ­ spiratorial smiles. Yes, they are going to indulge in little boy pranks at the expense of a fellow member in this Never Never Land which the Peter Pans claim for them ­ selves forever. With Best Compliments From * 78 Parsiana July-August 1996 CADBURY INDIA LIMITED 19, B. Desai Road Bombay 400026i MEDICINE The first lady, non-surgical director of the ¦ Tata Memorial Hospital, Dr Ketayun Dinshaw believes i that cancers preponderant in j India are amenable to j treatment if diagnosed early I Parinaz Gandhi Early prevention, early detection" assigned to a female, and that too one who the culture of the Hospital, ” Dinshaw is is not a surgeon. Try getting Dinshaw to glad that people at the helm like the late elaborate on this issue and she ’ll make you feel apologetic for broaching such a trivial subject. “I look at myself as a profes ­ sional, ” she insists, a laboratory coat, with her identity card pinned on to its lapel, “Every problem is an opportunity for me, ” says Dr (Ms) Ketayun Ardeshir Dinshaw, the new director of Bombay ’s Tata Memo ­ rial Hospital (TMH), who in the course of her daily life has to encounter cancer pa­ tients for whom the road to recovery, if at all, is a tortuous process. In her dual role as director plus head of the Hospital ’s depart- draped over her sari. “I hate this attention ment of radiation oncology , Dinshaw states, “You can contribute in so many ways... This Hospital gives you opportunities to grow. ” And grown she has over the 21 years she has been associated with this Hospital ever since she joined as assistant radiotherapist. Her qualifications from the London Uni ­ versity notwithstanding (Diploma in Medi ­ cal Radiotherapy and Fellow of the Royal College of Radiologists), she was made to wait for six months before the TMH ac ­ cepted her in this her first career venture on completion of her training, she recalls. In the course of the next two decades the distinguished doctor was conferred many other appointments — as World Health Organization advisor for radiotherapy in developing countries, as International Atomic Energy Agency consultant for ra ­ diotherapy in developing countries, as hon ­ orary cancer specialist to the Governor of Maharashtra, as honorary consultant in radiation oncology to the Armed Forces Medical Services... Her selection as TMH director is per ­ haps the single most notable achievement as this is the first time in the history of the 55-year-old institution that the post was industrial doyen J. R. D. Tata and ace scientist Homi Bhabha had the foresight to hand over the management the institu ­ tion to the DAE and not the health depart ­ ment in which case it might have been like any other government hospital. With JRD on gender. I consider myself as an equal to taking a special interest in the treatment male, maybe more than equal but defi ­ nitely not less. ” As director of the TMH Dinshaw feels “responsible for the whole hospital — vertical as well as horizontal. It is like infancy, it was recognized as a very useful weaving a fabric, ” she draws an analogy, tool in the treatment of cancer. And espQ- In fact, the TMH is one arm of the Tata daily since radiation is a major peaceful Memorial Centre (TMC). The other arm is the Cancer Research Institute whose direc ­ tor is Dr A. N. Bhisey. The post of director of the TMC was vacant when we inter ­ viewed Dinshaw on July 13, 1996. Since philosophy like in the case of other Tata the TMC is one of the grant-in-aid institu- institutions was, ‘We have started you out. tions ofthe Department of Atomic Energy Hereafter you will be on your own feet. ’ (like the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research and the Indian Institute of Sci ­ ence), the directors are accountable to a governing council comprising members who are nominated by the house of Tatas as also the Department of Atomic Energy adds, disclosing that of the 27,000 cases (DAE). Invariably it is the DAE chairman registered at TMH last year, 17,000 were who serves as chairperson of the council. Very satisfied with this system of func ­ tioning, Dinshaw acknowledges the “tre ­ mendous support extended by the govern ­ ing council, ” whether financial or moral. “The freedom they give makes you feel more responsible for doing things. This is and research undertaken at this Hospital “we were considered a very special baby of the house of Tatas, ” relates Dinshaw. Even though radiation medicine was then in its use of atomic energy, it was decided to hand over the cancer Hospital to the DAE on the condition that the name of the institution should never be changed. The “We are very handicapped for space, ” points out Dinshaw although four new buildings have been created on their cam ­ pus in the last 15 years. “We ’ve reached saturation level in our present shape, ” she proven to be malignant. Since they only have 420 beds of which around 75 are in the private ward, the majority are treated on outpatient basis. Besides, 75 percent of the patients are treated totally free of cost. Dinshaw does not begrudge the expenses that have to be borne on their account as 80 Parsiana July-August 1996 *J f she explains, “This Hospital is meant for the poor people, for the people of India, (but) we just do not have the facilities for the kind of load we face. ” For the patients, therefore, treatment is invariably punctu ­ ated with long waits, realizes the director who says the administration is “desper ­ ately trying to improve ” the state of affairs. Presently it is estimated that there are nine million cancer patients in the world of whom 1.5 million are in India. In the next 20 years the world figures are expected to rise to 15 million with India showing a threefold increase in the number of cancer patients. These alarming statistics make Dinshaw stress, “We have to think in terms of early prevention and early detection... Luckily our cancers (those common in India — breast and cervix in females, head and neck among males) are very amenable to treatment, (chances of recovery being) 80 percent if detected in the first and second stage. ” However, the warning body signals being such that they don ’t stop a person from carrying on his normal duties, frequently, by the time the patient reports for a check-up, he may be in stage three or four “when the dice is loaded against us, ” says Dinshaw. “At the end of the day you are zapped. All the time you are dealing with people who are very sick, with fami ­ lies facing problems; it can burn you up. Though there are bad days, there are also “MAe should be prepared to stand up and stand out on our own” better days when you see patients getting cured. ” Teaching and travelling in the course of her work also provide a healthy break for Dinshaw who finds a temporary departure from the hospital environment sufficiently rejuvenating. Unlike the Indian population, the can ­ cers preponderant among Parsis as an eth ­ nic group are those of the breast and uterus in the case of females, and colon in the case of males. “All this is a reflection of our lifestyle, ” believes Dinshaw referring to the late marriages, late childbearing, high consumption of red meat... “As is our lifestyle so too is our cancer, ” she reminds us. As patients do Parsis differ from other groups? The big smile on Dinshaw ’s face says it all. Her tactful response is “Patients will be patients, ” with a guarded amplifi ­ cation, “I guess you need to handle them a little differently. ” When it comes to treatment, the Hospi ­ tal offers a mix of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, depending on the site of the tumor, the onset of the disease, the age of the patient. The present emphasis is on conservative therapy such that not only the length but the quality of the patient ’s life becomes a yardstick. Removing a breast or amputating a limb may lengthen the life-r span of the cancer patient but what kind of a life would she or he be able to lead after the diseased organ has been removed, is the doctors ’ concern. “The psychosocial aspect of cancer is an important parameter for our plan of treatment, ” she notes. And now at the Advanced Centre for Treat ­ ment, Research and Education in Cancer, . iw 4' 4 The Good Earth. It won ’t get any better tomorrow, unless we act today... The ills of industrialisation are making their presence felt. Result? it A mass exodus from the villages to the cities in search of a better living. To accommodate the teeming population, evergreen forests are giving way to ugly concrete structures. ¦ The time is ripe to give back to Mother Earth what we have taken from her. Which has been an ongoing practice with us at Tatas for decades. By planting more . trees. Turning wastelands into greenbelts. Conserving the soil. Installing || cleansing devices. And even going to the extent of planting woods in city centres. I Because we believe that what comes from Nature must go back to Nature many times ¦ over. s o 82 Parsiana Juiy-August 1996an extension of the TMC which is being made Bombay her new home, her explana- constructed at New Bombay and should be tion being, “As an undergraduate you are operational by 1998, certain kinds of can- ' cer as predetermined by the committee _____ _______ _____ will be intensively studied. In Dinshaw ’s world beyond. ” Until she left for Vellore, Dinshaw ’s base was in Calcutta where she was bom. MATRIMONIAL Alliance invited by parents from Parsi girls, 21-24 years, graduate, domestically trained, preferably US citizen for their son, 26 years, 5’5”, MS (USA), Engineer working in USA. Apply with photograph (returnable) to; The Advertiser Parsiana, Matrimonial (July-Aug/27-96)* GPO Box 892, Bombay 400001 ‘Please make sure the reply envelope bears the reference number cited here. MATRIMONIAL Parents of educated, daughter, 28 years, well domesticated, residing in UK, invite matrimonial correspondence from educated, Parsi men with outgoing and friendly personality with a view to settling permanently in UK. The Advertiser CZo 16, Haydon Park Rd, Wimbledon London SW198JY, UK TYPIST WANTED Wanted well-spoken female secretary under 35 years to work for lawyer, from October. Monthly salary Rs 4,000. Telephone 3634734 or reply to: The Advertiser (Typist Wanted) Parsiana, GPO Box 892 Bombay 400001 Always remember TATA BATA KHAMBATA very happy in Vellore. But once you go abroad you realize there is a whole wide / without Parsis would be much less it meant going to Vellore. colorful” group of The current debate on whether Parsis as aminority should claim certain reser ­ vation of seats saddens her, making her comment: “That get up and go is missing among the youth. We should be prepared to stand up and stand out on our own, ” insists Dinshaw who serves as postgradu ­ ate examiner in fediotherapy for the Uni ­ versities of Bombay, New Delhi, Jaipur, Indore and many odiers. ' petition is difficult as we words, “There will be almost a ‘mission mode ’ focus adopted at the new Centre. ” _______ ________ A life of moderation, controlling the did her schooling from the Calcutta Girls consumption of liquor, tobacco, spices. High School and two years of undergradu- can definitely bring down the incidence of ate studies at the Lady Braboume College, cancer, is the message — Dinshaw imparts when addressing young school and college students to create an awareness of cancer. In fact, just prior to our interview she had ad ­ dressed a collegians and hopes that the peer pressure they exert will serve to deter their friends from smoking. Dinshaw is particularly disappointed to find smoking common among Parsis as also young college girls. Does Dinshaw give credence to the claims of alternative forms of medicine in curing cancer? “As a scientific person, no, ” is her immediate response before she clarifies, “I don ’t want to be derogatory. Indore and many others. “No doubt com- Perhaps it hasn ’t been given an opportu- petition is difficult as we are small in nity to be scientifically evaluated. It can do numbers. But we have always been out- much in terms of symptom relief but there numbered and yet stood out. Why not is a delay in definitive treatment, ” believes now? Look how well the community is Dinshaw who not only heads the depart- doing abroad. Given the infrastructure they ment of radiation oncology at the TMH, shine out. ” At the TMH itself, there are reportedly the busiest in India and perhaps barely half a dozen Parsi doctors although in the world, but is also president of the shortage of staff is a constant worry, she Association of Radiation Oncologists of points out. India- , Within the community, “there is too It wasn ’t the application of radio iso- much preoccupation with the past. We topes and cobalt machines that initially should move ahead instead of being bogged drew young Dinshaw to radiation oncology, down by rules and regulations, old-fash- she admits. (By the way, while radiation ioned social customs, ” and controversies oncology is involved in the treatment of surrounding departure^om accepted norms patients, radiology involves use of x-rays, .......... etc for diagnostic purposes, the distinction is made known to us.) After completing your faith, ” she declares, adding, “I (The big bindi on her “The world forehead, characteristically sported by most women of Calcutta, reflects her roots.) With an elder sister who was pursuing medical stu ­ dies, it was but natural for her to do the same, even if “Nod sve ar( now? Look how well the community is * “which continue ad nauseum, ” she stresses. “Too many dogmas make a mockery of ’ . ___ ,,, J am no her MBBS from the Christian Medical holy Joe. But I have faith in my religion. I College and Hospital, Vellore, Tamil Nadu always carry the Avesta with me. On my she was undecided as to which branch of * " - - medicine to specialize in. She knew she did not want to be a physician, nor a gyne ­ cologist. There was a little hesitation to do that there is someone watching over her surgery. So the next best option was to do actions. And yet, “there was a period when radiation oncology especially since the I stopped wearing the sudreh-kusti, and Vellore Hospital had a full-fledged depart- then drifted back to it, both for no definite ment and she had found a guru like Dr Padam Singh who headed that department. When she went to Cambridge to gain greater exposure in radiation oncology, she ex ­ pected to return to Vellore. But instead she I contribute to that too. ” Bom into a family Ketayun & Bomi 22/A, Wellington Terrace Wellington Street, Bombay 400002 Tel No: 2069636, 2057242 Pager No: 9602-104007 way to work, I pray from the Avesta in the car. ” A portrait of Zarathushtra hung on a wall facing her also reassures Dinshaw reason. ” The decline in community numbers is a cause for concern for Dinshaw making the 52-year-old spinster acknowledge, “I guessL Gold and silver Lord Zoroaster and Asho Farohar medals available Gold, silver and diamond exclusive showroom We also undertake polishing of ses 594, Chira Bazar, Girgaum Road, Mumbai 400002. Tel: 2065137 We accept Diners, BOB card, American Express, Taj Premium, Visa & Master Cards. Saal Mubarak ANTIQUES Original Chinese garas, hand embroidered borders, zari borders, jabla, Chinese vases, marble statues, kerba beads, old coins and bank notes, medals, hallmark silver items, European glassware and old wristwatches Phone: RAYOMAND 4966679 of five daughters, having lost her mother when she was 11 years old, and her domi ­ nant engineer-architect father six years later who until then had served as the pivot for the girls, what were her reasons for not marrying? “I guess you can ’t be successful in everything in life; you have got to have some failures, ” she responds. “The world without Parsis would be a much less color ­ ful place, ” she opines, seeking a confirma ­ tion of her views, like on many other issues, by rhetorically asking, “Isn ’t it so? ” A lover of classical music, both western and Indian, Dinshaw also admires visual arts, especially paintings, is fascinated by Indian culture and enjoys picking up In ­ dian artefacts in the course of her sojourns, Dinshaw ’s manicured hands finger the as­ sorted paper weights on her table. Fond as she is of reading, the doctor also finds time to serve on the editorial board of six tech ­ nical publications like the Indian Journal of Radiology and the Indian Journal of Cancer. She has altogether 79 publications to her credit in national and international journals. The philosophy that has guided her through life is: get so much; we have to even give of ourselves to society. And especially if you have the opportunity to _do so, it ’s great. ” ¦> With Best Compliments From Mrs Dina Dara Sukhia and family And Victory Theatre 2429 Gen Thimayya Road Camp, Pune 411001 Ii PROFESSIONS The corporate sleuth Cracking the maze of corporate accounts is exhilarating work for auditor Yezdi Malegam Gustasp Irani lar did not happen again. ” According to Malegam, the reports submitted by the committee did succeed in that task. The review of the primary market, though not related to the securities scam was, according to Malegam, in some way a fall-out of the 1992 market crisis. Before the scam, there was a boom in the stock market and everyone wanted to put in money without really knowing what was involved. “There was euphoria among in ­ vestors at the time, but once the scam broke the euphoria disappeared and was He is not the stereotype sleuth you might find in novels, but in his own way is a hard- nosed detective who admits he loves a testing case. His assignments involve in ­ vestigation into dull balance sheets of the country ’s leading cor- porate houses and, more recently, the major stock market securities scam of ¦ 1992 and the primary market crisis of 1995. Yezdi H. Malegam, accountant and senior partner of S. B. Billimo- ria and Company (SBB), . ___________ ,,______ one of the country ’s old- < f k \ \ \ - - I a problem with a cool, est audit firms, looks trim, AlU 1 clear mind... Even tho- tall and far younger than h ViI | ®'¦‘Sii he is soft-spoken, his 62 years as he strides 1111| \ \ u\\\y I Malegam displays firm- into the office on the dot ‘ ness whenever issues of three. We are ushered into his cabin involving professional compromises are located strategically near the entrance. It is a compact room, devoid of hi-tech com ­ puters, and on the walls hang two paintings Malegam not only to the 180 clients SBB which we later learn were done by his son, now studying in America. From behind a corporate Who ’s Who — but also to policy only to FFIs but also to Non-Resident desk piled with files and books Malegam makers. So, during the securities scam of Indians (NRIs) who are used to receiving observes: “In detective novels I suspect the author already knows the answer before he starts writing his books. In real life there vestigate the crisis, who was not a member are no easy answers, and our task is to find out what has .really taken place. We are required to look into large volumes of data and account books where there are hundreds erations of the primary market. and thousands of transactions. It is inter ­ esting work, mainly because it is so diffi ­ cult. ” Interesting because it is difficult? In ­ deed, Malegam loves a challenge. “If some ­ thing is easy and the solution obvious, (it) is no longer interesting. But if it ’s a situa ­ tion where you have to perform, where you our report. It ’s easy to make allegations, learn something new and educate y< urself. it becomes interesting, ” says Malegam. No matter what the situation might be, the bottom-line in Malegam ’s personal fingers but to ensure that something simi- 4 88 Parsiana July-August 1996 and professional life, according to a Busi­ ness Today feature, is governed by ethics, replaced by disillusionment and lack of Of course. Malegam will not talk about it. confidence in the stock market, ” says “It is not proper for me to advertise myself Malegam. “The job of my committee was to restore confidence in the market, and to do so it was important that companies provided investors with the right sort of or my company, ” he says. But that does not stop others from doing so. N. Vaghul, chairman of information to know the risks involved... Industrial Credit and In- Judgment to invest or not to invest (should vestment Corporation of be based) on valid information. ” India (ICICI), of which Malegam is a board member, observed in Business Today. “He is intelligent, innovative, and above all approaches tions (FFIs — investing aroulid six billion US dollars), and Indian financial institu ­ tions like mutual funds (with around Rs 80,000 crores to invest). “Earlier the stock market was like a retail market for small investors. Today it is more like a whole ­ sale market for large investors, ” observes involved. ” Malegam. Secondly, there are far more It is these qualities that have endeared financial publications and analysts to guide investors. And finally, the market is no represents — the list reads like an Indian longer domestic but global, catering not 1 . * According to Malegam, there are three factors that differentiate the stock market today from whaffit was in the days before the scam. First, there are numerous larger players like the Foreign Financial Institu- * 1992, Malegam was the only member of certain basic information that companies the four-man committee, appointed to in- abroad provide. - At a personal level. Malegam welcomed the challenge of the assignment because it of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Then again in 1995, he was called upon to head involved studying foreign markets. “It was the committee assigned to review the op- essential, ” he said “to understand what in ­ formation was required abroad and why. ” Malegam recalls the challenges he faced And, it was exciting to deal with a broad when investigating the securitie.s scam: “The challenge was to get a total picture of what could have gone wrong. (This) meant we had to go through records of the banks and individuals involved, which ...were voluminous. It was important (to be) fair in but another matter to back up these allega ­ tions with facts. The primary task of the exercise was not to go around pointing based committee with conflicting inter ­ ests, and work out a consensus without compromising the objectives. “I believe we succeeded in our task in that most of the recommendations we made were accep ­ ted, ” says Malegam. As a senior partner of a leading auditing firm. Malegam sees his role as not very different from the one he had to play as head of the primary market committee. “The main function of an audit firm is to( * With best compliments from NARIMAN NALLASETH Pvt Ltd PLUMBING ENGINEERS CONSULTANTS 17, Tamarind Lane 1st Floor, Block No 11 Rajabahadur Compound Opp Allahabad Bank Apollo Street Mumbai 400001 Phone Nos: 2650066 & 2652986 Fax:091-022-2655834 90 Parsiana July-August 1996 lend some degree of confidence to the financial statement of a company, which is really the only way in which it communi ­ cates its performance over the year to its shareholders, ” says Malegam. According to him, there are a number of ways in which an audit firm may evaluate its own performance: the number of clients, the total billing, profitability, etc. And while these are valid yardsticks, he measures the performance of SBB by quality. “The true measure of a good audit firm is the quality of its clients, the quality of its partners and the quality of its staff, ” ob ­ serves Malegam. And to maintain this level of quality the audit firm has to have Bhikaji Billimoria “taught me the true code of business ethics ” the courage to say “No! ” to prospective clients, as SBB has done repeatedly over the years. According to Malegam, the com ­ pany has client acceptance and client con ­ tinuance policies whereby companies are first reviewed before being accepted and then reviewed again before SBB deter ­ mines to continue doing business with them. “Trust and honesty are essential between an audit firm and its clients. Our job is not to go around rapping companies on their knuckles, pointing out mistakes. Mistakes will always happen. Our job is to correct them and work together as a team, ” says Malegam. Malegam singles out three people who have had a profound influence on him. One was his father, Hirji, a self-made man, whose most valuable gift to his three sons was to groom them to stand on their own feet. “Rather than leave money for us he spent it on the best education possible, and on vacations and holidays. He created an environment in which we imbibed good qualities. He encouraged us to speak freely and excel in whatever we did. He gave us all the opportunities we needed. What we made of our lives was up to us, ” says Malegam. Similarly, his mother Bacha was one of the first women graduates in India and the principal of a local girls ’ school in Bombay before she met and married his father. She was always there when her children needed her, reassuring them at every stage of their lives. “At home, authority was never im ­ posed on us. We voluntarily accepted the discipline, ” says Malegam. With best compliments from VARSHA AIR INTERNATIONALi POLITICS AND POLICY The Federation friirnin^ theTide? The Federation members pledged funds for saving the Udvada coastline T he project to save Udvada from the erosion of the sea netted donations amounting to Rs 1,26,000 at the executive council meeting of the Federation of Parsi Zoroastrian Anjumans of India on July 13 and 14, 1996 at Bombay ’s Muncherji Khareghat Hall. Udvada has been declared as one of nine pilgrim centers of India, as indicated former minorities commission member and Save Udvada Committee chairman Homi Taleyarkhan. The rearguard action being waged by stones, bricks and gates from the comma- the Federation ’s defunct anjumans sub ­ committee has been buttressed by the all- India extension of the Bombay Parsi Punchayet ’s (BPP) newly constituted vigi ­ lance committee with the addition of youth stalwarts Eruch Irani, Poona Parsi Punchayet (PPP) trustee and vice president of the Federation, Porus Karanjawalla and sentative clout to speak to governments the auditory nerves and ccmprehension Parvez Irani, president and secretary of the and/or the United Nations/UNESCO has faculties of those present. At me other end. Federation of Zoroastrian Youth Associa ­ tions (FOZYA), respectively. Their man ­ date is to keep community propertie.s in far-flung areas under observation and to (6WZC). The cantankerous debate not- nip encroachment in the bud as far as withstanding — the World Zoroastrian president Jamshed Guzder ’s gentle calls possible. However, BPP trustee Rustom Organisation (WZO) projects itself as a Tirandaz ’s attempt to enforce a ‘no-sale of world body — the terms of reference of the Zoroastrian land ’ policy on Federation proposed World Council as conceived by members was shot down. The board of trustees of the PPP has demonstrated that Zoroastrian property can be salvaged and safeguarded for the future provided by Dadi Engineer, BPP trustee if those at the helm can weather the initial storm. In their case, property extending 1.5 acres, valued at Rs 4.5 crores, has been Arnavaz S. Mama walled in without expense to the Punchayet, by seeking raw materials like cement. nity as material donations. In the process, the land which was being lost in terms of unauthorized acces.s roads has been saved by the trustees ’ refusal to be intimidated by interested neighbors. The question of forming an interna ­ tional body of federations with the repre- on the matter beforp the next Federation meeting to be hosted by the Iranian Zoroastrian Anjuman (IZA). Despite these positive developments, this meeting of the executive council may well go down in history as the noisiest, most indisciplined gathering of commu ­ nity ‘elders. ’ At one end of the spectrum Tirandaz vented ’his lung power in the small hall with disastrous consequences to once again been revived at the insistence of North America, Iran and the UK at the Sixth World Zoroastrian Congress groups of representatives (unhappily the more prestigious groups) talked among themselves with flagrant disregard to the speakers. BPP chairman and Federation for order fell on deaf ears. The question of adult franchise in the election of BPP trustees was raised by Federation of Zoroastrian Associations of Tirandaz in the course of a discussion on North America ’s (FEZANA) Rohinton the defunct anjumans. The Federation ’s Rivetna as also the WZO’s objections to be honorary secretary Keki Gandhi attempted several times to prevent this unscheduled derailment of discussion on the basis of the Federation ’s constitution which specifi- and president of the WZO’s India chapter, will be circulated to Federation members to enable them to formulate their position cally prevents it from discussing the inter ­ 94 Parsiana Juiy-Augus! 1996I r‘> ’’i 95 Parsiana Juiy-August 1996 Clockwise from top left: Guzder, Ghandhi, Mogrelia, H. Modi, Dossu Ghandhi, Katpitia, Dara and Eruch Irani j Facing page (from left): Shroff, I Engineer, Tirandaz, Taleyarkhan % 4^ HH nal affairs of member anjumans. W (It may be recalled that it was on the issue of then Federation president J Shiavax Nargolwala criticising the scheme of BPP trusteeship elections 4 in the Third World Zoroastrian w Congress that the BPP had walked- m out of the Federation in 1978.) None- theless Tirandaz, Engineer and Taleyarkhan spurred a cjebate that though ruled as “out of order ” by the secretary was eventually permitted by the chairman. About a dozen youths attending the forum were disgruntled by the elders ’ fail ­ ure to seek their opinion when discussing the community ’s “future. ” According to Tirandaz, the BPP is in the process of installing a computer with a modem at 11, Jer Baug where the youth can access information from anywhere in the world at BPP expense. Approximately two-and-a-half hours of debating time on the first day was devoted to a visit to the B. D. Petit Parsee General Hospital ’s (PGH) new Jokhi Wing, with its up-to-date intensive care unit (ICU) and state-of-the-art operation theaters, for the benefit of upcountry delegates who saw the facilities for the first time. Also on view were the Hospital ’-s spanking new male and female geriatric wards which have replaced the ICU. The second floor, each furnished with foam mattresses on 12 comfortable surgical beds, lockers, baths with geysers, pantry and-ii sitting room with TV. Delegates from outlying anjumans took the opportunity to also view what Gandhi described as “the current demo ­ graphic and health situation of the community. ” Another topic that is periodically resus ­ citated is that of reservation for the com ­ munity in educational institutions. Though politicians Taleyarkhan and Tirandaz were ll^ categorical that any such expectation for the community was totally unten ­ able, the diehards persisted. % Congress “Nothing at all was said (at the 6WZC) which had not been said before, ” attestedL to R: Patel, Boman Cama and Mistry Rustomji (center) and K. Modi I clashed with the Congress ’ concluding I session. I “Young Zoroastrians were anxious for I more prominence, but were kept in their I place... If there is a world organization, the Iranian youth are ready to handle it, ” felt Modi who stated that for the first time she got the impression “that people are begin ­ ning to feel that India is no longer the apex body (of Zoroastrians). ” “I hope someone mentioned our history and progress in the last 1,300 years, ” inter ­ posed Taleyarkhan anxiously and Modi confirmed that that had not been possible. “Even Sohrabji Godrej ’s paper could not be read. Dr Peshotan Peer and Ervad Parvez Bajan, whose papers had been accepted, found that they had not been accommo ­ dated in the program, ” though they even ­ tually got a chance to speak, said Modi. “I was greatly annoyed that India had no place at all. I had to remind them that of the 10 largest business houses in India, three belonged to Zoroastrians, ” noted the Congress ’ India representative Ms Shroff. Homai Modi. Modi and BPP trustee Minoo Apart from its idyllic setting, the man- Shroff provided the Federation delegates a agement expert found the identity-oriented description of events at the recently con- Congress badly organized with too many eluded Tehran Congress. papers, no discussions and mediopre rep- The quality of discussions was uninspi- resentation. “I am convinced that Iran wants ring according to Modi because the sub- to ... build bridges with the wWst, ” he con- jects had not been properly selected and tinned. The country and the community “there was no linkage with past Con- has “good, promising professionals —doc- gresses... There was no open forum, only tors, engineers. ” Shroff was particularly questions... Demography did not feature impressed by the “personalities of the on the agenda as they were not interested, mobeds. ” probably because their population is going Barring oil and gas, carpets, pistachio, up while ours is going down, ” Modi noted. dry fruit and caviar, there is not much else The rapporteurs made no attempt to report that the economy has to offer, said Shroff, on their respective sessions. There was not Though the quality of textiles is very good, much achieved, but then “in the past three there are no takers, no tourists, commented Congresses very little was achieved any- Shroff who had seen a small group of way!” admitted the lady. westerners doff the ubiquitous manteaux Modi, who had been joint honorary with obvious relief at the airport. As he secretary of the Fourth and Fifth Con- saw it, “the capital stqck is well over 30 gresses in Bombay, had been invited by the years old and new foreign investment is Tehran Anjuman in October 1995 together unlikely in the present conditions ...” But with Delhi Parsi Anjuman (DPA) presi- their “military hardware is supposed to be dent Lt Gen Adi Sethna, Ms Khorshed very good. Their armored cars, tanks, are Sethna and industrialist Sohrab Godrej to not very much behind India ’s because they help them with laying the Congress ground Shortly after the inaugural the delegates feel they are a threatened country, ” noted Shroff. Also, archeological relics are well emony at the magnificent mausoleum of the maintained in this vast land (approximating IRI founder Ayatollah Khomeini. Visits at halfofindia ’slandmass) with a population work. She had then attended one meeting witnessed the formal wreath-laying cer- of the Zoroastrian Iranian trustees when government officials were present. Indeed, the government presence was strong the invitation of the all-powerful Leader of only 63 or 64 million people, throughout the Congress which had been Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei and _ formally inaugurated at the Islamic Re ­ public of Iran ’s new Television Broadcast ­ ing and Media Center by Iranian vice president Ayatollah Mohajerani on June Ms Fatemeh Hashemi Rafsanjani, the Pre- told the assembled delegates as he re- 19,1996. Iran ’s consul general in Bombay sident ’s daughter and Ms Shahla Habibi, a counted events in Tehran pursuant to was often present at the proceedings, leading member of the Iranian Parliament, Rivetna ’s paper suggesting a World Coun- President Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani ac- World Council of Federations counted for the greater part of the second “We need to give serious thought to the morning. On the last evening, the arrival of concept of an international council, ” Shroff 96 Parsiana July-August 1996I S ¦ ¦ ¦ SB® L to R: Cursetji, Illava, Dick, and Ginwalla "it cil of Federations to represent Zoroastrians worldwide. When Zoroastrian Trust Funds of Europe ’s (ZTFE) president Rusy Dalal, who chaired that 6WZC session, took an impromptu vote, “It was passed over ­ whelmingly —there was no dissent, ” noted Shroff. In 1993, after the Second Parliament of the community? ” World Religions in Chicago, Rivetna had assembled the gathered Zoroastrians in an informal meeting to discuss the formation of such a body. A number of draft consti ­ tutions had been discussed — both with and without the WZO incorporated into the proposed structure. The WZO repre ­ sentatives present had rejected them all. The draft constitution had been circulated vague and inapproriate suggestions. Guzder to other countries without eliciting much reaction. Now, in the wake of his speech at the Congress, Rivetna had invited repre ­ sentatives of all areas to meet for further members). None of these are discussions where it was conceded that the Council would need to be located either in Iran or India, North America being ruled out as too small a community and too expensive and distant a location for the rest representative as the world of the world. “(Tehran Anjuman president body of Zoroastrians. The Dr Mehraban) Gudarz-Mehr did not think Iran was an appropriate location... the op ­ tions are open, ” reported Shroff. A source of discontent for Shroff and other Indians at the 6WZC was India ’s “very poor presence in Tehran — an in ­ kling of what could happen in North America (where the next Congress is slated dency of the Council should rotate be- in 2000 AD).” He strongly suggested that tween India, Iran and North America, the constitution draft of the World Council — which had been “lying with us for three years ” — be circulated, comments elicited and a considered response readied at the next Federation meeting to forward it for the London meet of the steering body of said that its session chairman Prof Farhang the World Council in July 1997 on the occasion of the Second World Zoroastrian Br Youth Congress, strengthened; fV 9 Shroff urged the F gathering to “stand bK \ up and be counted ® I as Zoroastrians, wherever we are. There should be no area of conflict. What is the problem if the WZO and the Council both work together for the betterment of (of subjects) on which the anjumans could have their say. The offer is still open, ” said Engineer, although he did not detail why the said list had Rot been compiled so far. “Very few people know that so many Zo ­ roastrians are settled in other countries, ” he added. '* As an example of the fissiparous nature of Parsis, Tirandaz noted that there are 2,500 trusts in the community of which 23 different organizations are in the Dadar Parsi Colony alone. “The oldest is the BPP at 350 years. Why not strengthen that?... If you want a world body, remove ‘Bombay ’ and make the Parsi Punchayet a world body... If you ’ve done something for the community, let not your right hand know what your lefthanddoes. Charity should be a natural duty... Wherever money is involved, people who sacrifice life, limb, etc are nowhere... The WZO is praised to the skies because they are giving out money — so many crores donation given in The Bombay Samachar. It makes people feel small. You are removing a physical want and destroying a mental quality. One more institution means only one more expense. ” Even as Tirandaz rambled over the vir ­ tues of the cooperative sector as a source of wealth, an irate Taleyarkhan raised a point of order: “This is not a general discussion in a public meeting. ” He felt that “the Council and the WZO could work together •that its headquarters remain in London; •that there be no controlling interest for anjumans and that •a bicameral system (of representation) be explored. “(Then BPP trustee and the Federation ’s joint honorary secretary) ’ Eruch Desai and I were to work out a list 98 Parsiana July-August 1996 The ensuing WZO/Council debate pro ­ duced its share of heat. The usual represen ­ tations were made that the Federation and the WZO work out an acceptable via me ­ dia. Characteristically, no one was both ­ ered to enquire about the Council ’s realm of work, nor its anticipated mode of func ­ tioning, resulting in time being wasted in was however explicit that “any world body will have to have only ... federations of the world (as members of the WZO. The needs of the community have been met by the WZO, but that does not make it WZO is incorpor.ited in London yet the ZTFE is not a member of the WZO. Does it make sense? ” He was of the opinion that the office bearers of the Council should be elected every two yeans and that the presi- “You are removing a physical want and destroying a mental quality ” The history and origin of the WZO were once again presented — this time by Engi ­ neer — as an answer to the implied criti ­ cism. Referring to the separate session on the world body at the 5WZC, Engineer Mehr had detailed four conclusions: •the present WZO be supported and «¦-»s Top (L to R): Dittia, Minochaher Bharucha, Dandiwalla. Below: Pastakia and Nakra 77 while offers are awaited for the rest. A Mohammedan has got his name into the 7/ 12 records of the dokhma there, said Katpitia who is fighting to nullify it. At Ambala a compromise formula is likely to yield good results in eight- 10 months while Dharwar has consented to hand over the documents pertaining to the one acre aramgah to the Federation. Tombs cover half the area, the rest being bare. Elsewhere the picture is bleaker. Re ­ peated efforts have not convinced the Badhnera/Amravati anjuman to accept the Federation as co-trustee. Instead, the three families there are seeking donations to survive as an anjuman. From Gwalior and Hathras there is no response. At Bhow- nagar, valuable property in the city should be handed over to the BPP according to its original trust deed which requires this again under the aegis •... transfer of ownership if the Bhownagar yet... The Council will IR,; anjuman finds itself incapable of main- increase the ^ea of un- \ e, \ taining the property. Despite that, two sale derstanding (but) there V / . deeds have been authorized by the rump can be no^ntrol from / ' \ anjuman, informed Katpitia, urging the London The majority V gpp to intervene as beneficiary and scotch IS here. the sale. Regarding Banaskaka which has a fire- called Tirandaz s ver- temple and dokhma and only three fami- biage of words, ” Engineer said that the circulate copies ofRivetna ’s draft together lies, Katpitia had a difficult time tracing an “concept of the WZO is that we do not with Engineer ’s objections (to be submit- ex-trustee in Navsari. After iindertaking believe in charity. We have given infra- ted by mid-September according to Engi- all the trouble of hunting out missing structure, information, loans to young en- ----- x - . .. . trepreneurs. If we get publicity in The Bombay Samachar, it ’s not because we wanted it... ” According to him, the WZO has the infrastructure “to marry the con ­ cept of the world body. ” Noting that “the WZO has so much and forming the Council instead of wasting opposition in London itself, the BPP has so 1............... ” ’ much criticism in Bombay itself, ” Madras Parsi Zarthushti Anjuman president Nari ­ man Mogrelia suggested the formation of already born... Now we are deciding a “body that brings all these bodies under whether the second baby can be born! ” one head. ” Promoting a “merger of all the bodies, ” as an answer to the current divi ­ siveness, Mogrelia proposed, “Start afresh SPP chief executive and member of the with a fresh sjate rather than (with) the same egos in conflict. ” In the meanwhile Taleyarkhan and En ­ gineer argued about whether or not the WZO can claim to have a corpus. Engineer area of operation but once again raised the task. Mistry assured the assistance and spoke of a corpus of £ 200,000 from an questions of definition and approach for support of the DPA as the matter would anonymous donation. Taleyarkhan, who the council to deliberate upon. need to be taken up in the capital, had been vice president of the India Chap- The Nadiad and Junagadh properties Engineer referred to the BPP’s newly ter of the WZO until he resigned a few now stand in the name of the Federation instituted vigilance committee consisting years ago, was sceptical. (According to i ' ...................... Gandhi the WZO’s balance sheet does not Junagadh a four lakh rupee offer was show any corpus of £ 200,000.) < ................................. Gandhi asked the delegates if they were but the buyer is now trying to get out of the agreeable to the concept suggested by deal. In Khambhat two lakh rupees have Mogrelia — that the Federation secretariat V W- J' with Engineer ’s objections (to be submit ­ ted by mid-September according to Engi ­ neer) and any other suggestions/comments records, etc the anjuman has refused to that Gandhi may have received from the accept the Federation as cotrustee. anjumans by then. Instead of an orderly response, the council broke into pandemo ­ nium. One school of thought, promoted by dokhma properties in Khambhat.^'There ’s E. Irani, considered bypassing the WZO Karanjawalla enquired why there was no barbed wire nor board at the agiary and 101 Parsiana Juiy-August 1996 % time. “After all, the WZO was formed without our knowledge, ” he noted in justi ­ fication. Replied Gandhi, “That baby is Defunct anjumans no notice that the property is under litiga ­ tion. The property is open to misuse. We need to take these precautions, otherwise we ’ll be back to square one... ” But Katpitia countered, “Fencing without security is of no use. How long will it exist? ” DPA vice president Dadi Mistry again urged the BPP to seek compensation from the Indian Navy for the dottma and other land the Navy has requisitioned in Uran. Mistry said that under the law the govern ­ ment was obliged to provide an alternate site. Though the property belongs to a Federation ’s defunct anjumans subcom ­ mittee Sorab Katpitia made up for a long absence from the executive council with a detailed report that not only covered each private trust, if one BPP trustee undertakes area of operation but once again raised The Nadiad and Junagadh properties now stand in the name of the Federation and will be sold as buyers materialize. At of people in various baugs whose mission > ac- is to catch encroachments in the nascent ceptable to the joint charity commissioner stage, report periodically regarding tres ­ passing on properties. “Most problems re ­ sult from negligence and delay, ” averred been realized from part sale of the land. Engineer, adding, “Vigilance is the halli ‘ PPP trustees (Lto R): Firdous Kayani, Boman Irani, D. Irani, Farokh Irani, E. Irani and the wall under construction at Lullanagar, “blocking all possible ingress into Panchayat property and preventing any encroachment” — financed through anjuman members directly paying the bills t k- 4 ki««, Jl 1^: ^rr 'W ' ¦ '¦ '1 ¦"wmm MMIP' ' aMiaB sugne ® * bers too small. Place an embargo on sale of difficult to get records. 1,1| f mark of democracy. ” Welcoming the idea of a vigilance com- They should come for- mittee, Gandhi urged E. Irani, P. Irani, and Karanjawalla to assist Katpitia by way of a vigilance committee and to take the aid of youth from various locations. “The in ­ formation should be backed by proof, not the locality but how many are willing to wild allegations, ” cautioned Gandhi. Davar come forward to work for the community. ward while two or three families exist. ” Gandhi voiced his personal view; “The land... in the interests of futurCigenerations definition of defunct anjumans should be not whether there are Parsi Zoroastrians in when our numbers may increase. ” Taleyarkhan rejected the argument as “more contention than persuasion. The wild allegations, ” cautioned Gandhi. Davar come forward to work for the community, anjumans are fully conscious of their re- Kavasji Modi, SPP trustee and president of An anjuman is defunct if no one is willing sponsibility... Utilize the funds for the several anjumans in the area, urged the to look after its affairs. ” betterment of Zoroastrians in the areas Federation to save two dokhmas (of the original seven Tenna dokhmas) that still during the discussion on defunct anjumans was, “No Zoroastrian property should be sold, ever. ” “Letindividual anjumans come prices)? ” demanded the un-put-downable forward and declare this on the floor ofthe Federation, starting with the BPP,” chal- stand,in the interests of archeology. “The government is acquiring the land and if we don ’t act, they will demolish the dokhmas, ” he feared. “Every three to six months I am asked lenged Gandhi. This led to another face- about the progress of defunct anjumans. We are always faced with litigation, lack of records... It ’s a time consuming pro ­ cess, ” said an exasperated Katpitia. When dokhma/cemetery land is sold, “the gen ­ eral expectation is that the buyer will main ­ tain the structures and land in a certain atmosphere. Generally the buyers do not accept this. They do not want to carry out this condition, ” noted Katpitia. He has also been repeatedly requesting a revision of the definition of defunct anjumans. “When property exists but there are no people, it ’s a defunct anjuman. Now redraft the defini ­ tion so that when the anjuman is down to two or three or four families, they should come to this conclusion of their own ac ­ cord. After everything is over it is very finding our assets too great and to look after its affairs. ” Another brick that Tirandaz dropped they represent. ” “Pmm black ne white nu soon (What about under-the-table components of sale Tirandaz. “No property can be sold with ­ out the Charity Commissioner ’s permis ­ sion, ” notedEngineerbutE. Irani reminded off between the chairman and the maverick the delegates how the community had trustee. ' " ' * ' Tirandaz: “The BPP has taken this deci ­ sion. ” Guzder: “No, we have not! ” Tirandaz: “Yes, we have! Without my vote mitted Mogrelia, “Tirandaz makes good you can ’t sell! ” Gandhi reminded Tirandaz: “You were all for democracy when you spoke of adult targetting everybody, but such cases do franchise. How can we pass such a resolu ­ tion regarding individual anjumans?... What about community property where Agreeing with Mogrelia that “a little more there is no one to look after it? ” An angry persuasion and less rhetoric ” would be more Guzder invoked the “understanding that effective. Shroff provided the pragmatic the Federation will not interfere in individual anjumans ’ affairs. ” Tirandaz would not budge. “We are our num- benefitted because the Federation had in ­ terfered and become a litigant on more than one occasion when properties were being sold at ridiculously low rates. Ad- points but his vociferousness prevents them from reaching the delegates... He is not exist. A resolution is definitely not pos ­ sible. The anjumans may walk out... ” touch: “We are living in a world where virtues are changing ...” When at last calm was restored to continued on page 164 102 Parsiana July-August 1996 ¦eTRAVEL Iron in the soul A penchant for art, color and spiritual yqaring spring naturally amid the austere beauty of the landscape A Text: Arnavaz S. Mama Photographs: Farrokh Khambatta I ¦¦'ft I iP -w z'4 ¦« ¦ .35 « Wherever we went, they were there: clad in raiment of many hues — blue, purple, green, brown benign testators to Iran's glories and fol ­ lies, its loves, its hates, its immense art ­ istry, Its yearnings for divinity. In vastly windward slopes catch the rainbearing * amplified scale, Tran's mountains seemed the prototype of the “Ten Thousand Im­ mortals ” who constituted the permanent Capsian sea (with its wealth of caviar), bodyguard of the Achaemenian kings. The Zagros, Iran's western backbone, the Elburz to the north, Tavalish Moun ­ tains between them, the Mercy Mountains of Pasargadae... enclose the Iranian pla ­ teau like a vast desert bowl. Some sheer as a knife edge, others jagged, witli gurgling the ghunals; Cyrus’ tomb; roof-top gashe.s of fluorescent green highlights jashan; caretakers at the Pir-e-Hirisht welcoming or distant, among the scrub, sand and salt that was | once a vast lake millennia ago, the per- I ished civilizations on its periphery now a i secret of the sands. Cultivable land is Ji restricted to the north of the Elburz whose • clouds, banking their precious fluid on the narrow stretch of rich soil bordering the “green gold" bursting with wheat, barley. Clockwise from above: Hambundagi ar Pir-c-Hirisht; a dokhma in disuse in the background with one of the innumerable ventilators that keep the waters cool in 106 Parsiana July-Augus11996 g ••t g >1 'A s!*¦ > A' ??*?!¦¦• iiiiii ¦j.’jjj iiOl ': '- 'f .'i sf* - *4 • 1^' \--^' •. ¦^‘ i' -** , A ' '. -^W*—''' i* f' 1,^ v;* SS^^T: ¦- gSSr) B ' ' '*a''' 'X.|-SK' ' &r ¦ ¦ '• « •V • •¦¦c : Jb- ' *" ?. v*’ '.» i-tl ¦fl w^ fl tr isssiik It* BiiB .'¦ 4^- I k I .7?- h¦i ...-'J*; •aMi I I ¦Vf* 1 maize, oranges, tangerines and other citrus H fruits, olives, apricots and grapes, tea, al- H monds, pistachios — and rice. Thirty var- H ieties of rice are produced in Iran they say. Having received a couple of kilos of ex- M quisite Iranian rice as a gift some 25 years S ago — like silk to the touch, aromatic and inordinately long — one can well believe the claim. i Elsewhere too melting snows add agrar- » ian sparkle to a life of quiet attunement ¦ with nature, proud, unhurried, indepen- ¦ dent of urban consumerism. And beneath S the plateau underground canals, known as H ghanats, carry the snowy discharge miles away to irrigate patches of the desert. The system is said to date back to 2000 BC — a specialized piece of engineering, dange ­ rous and highly prized, in which the people the peaks, as though imitating a Cecil B. of Yazd have traditionally been known to excel. Super-smooth highways slice the desert, clean, unassuming cafes ensconsed in a wind their tortuous path over the moun ­ tains where winter avalanches and land- on a protruding shoulder of the mountain, provinces we travelled. The logistics of slides cut off sections of the country for offering decent toilet facilities (answering clearing the debris of dry leaves and desert weeks at a time. To maintain some control, nature calls in the open air is not an option) sand (we failed to spot floating papers, iron girders cover the precarious areas like man-made caves. Each turn unfolds a dif ­ ferent vista as the road winds from leeward to windward and back, barren brown and 4-lane highways restrict buses to 80 kmph lush green alternating with kaliedoscopic in daytime, 60 kmph at night. But even unpredictability. Dusk metamorphoses the where the concourse is comparatively crow ­ landscape to a purple haze until visibility is restricted to the reflectors on the edges of r ¦* I. 108 Parsiana Juty-Augusl 1996 ?< A section of Persepolis Inset: The rock-cut tomb of Darius I with the sovereign praying before the fire altar. Seen below are the bas-relief motifs of the Sasanians Photo: Mani Clubwalla CSH rare and considered rude, high and dipped ¦m^ headlights being used politely to claim . JiyiR right of way. In the pre-dawn purple Tehran glitters ¦ from the sky like a cascade of jewels. Daylight displays the sculpted grace of -4 Azadi Square, the monumental allure of Firdausi whose Shah Nameh saved not only the history of Zoroastrian and pre- Zoroastrian antiquity but the very lan ­ guage, Persian, which the Arabs had tried to eradicate. Flowering bushes at the foot of his statue — roses, pansies, flox, et al — dress the lawns of Firdausi Square as well as almost every road divider in the national curve of the highway or perched jauntily capital and the cities and towns of the on a protruding shoulder of the mountain. <• the curves. But ere the sun sets at 8.30 p.m. in mid June, its rays fan out from behind De Mille movie scene. Iran ’s answer to the Indian dhabas are nature calls in the open air is not an option) and often, a spectacular view in addition to plastic bags, abandoned slippers and such the refreshments. Speed limits on the scantily trafficked other detritus of ‘civilization ’), trimming the bushes, watering the plants, etc seemed a part of life. In Tehran, the clean, clear water from the Elburz gurgles in open canals, nurturing the foliage along the way, even as the range hovers above the * * ded (traffic in the streets of Tehran is high even at 11.30 p.m. or midnight) honking is city, crowning its main avenue like an -tit A I fefit arrowhead. The same water flows tlwough the residential pipes, crystal cool and po ­ lable. Other mountains, other streams, wa­ ter other (owns. And at the toot of the re ­ vered Mount Damavand a bolding plant taps lhe invigorating mineral water for areas not so blessed. Despite the comfort of an air-condi lionedluxury bus, traversing the land whose continental temperature spread ranges from SO'C to -50°C impacts the psyche as doe.s an ocean voyage on a cargo canier: con ­ cerns of traumatic imporlanec in an urban milieu recede into insignificance in an amphitheater where Nature and Nature ’s God alone are relevant. Tlic demands of westernized consumerism seem a million miles away. And that is where the Islamic Republic of Iran's (IRI) government would prefer them to remain. Tlie black chaddor covers lhe beautiful women from head to foot, preserving their translucent skin from the rigors of climatic extremes (Zoroasirian women wear a manteati or overcoat and white or colored scarves). In lhe towns, radio, TV and loud speakers provide an unending feniindel*of spiritual concerns buttrcs.sed by the strong arm of lhe reli ­ gious police, present on highway intersec ­ tions and even on the Caspian* waters to emsurc that travel and joy rides do not undermine lhe national dress code for women. While the people must pursue the quirements of profcs.sed spirituality, the demands of realpolitik are met by infla ­ tion. The people of Iran must pay the price of power over tlie minds of men, allegedly sought through the Hezbollah ’s (an under ­ cover organization believed to be financed by the TRI) international education, propa ­ ganda and medical aid programs — and terrorism. A similar dichotomy between re- Left (from top): Vazd Atashbehram, keblah and entrance to the Esfahan Atashbehram and (riyhl) devotion al the Pir-e-Hiriskt Phoin Mani Nowroji v » J Parsiana July August 1996111.. <1 5t* . >2 * i Top: The Friendly Zoroastrian Tour j group below Mt Damavand and tasting \ the water that is bottled at its base. i Below: The Ganj Nameh inscriptions (Photo: Mani Clubwalla) and boating in the Ali i Sadr Caves (Photo: A. Mama) noire —and is commemorated in the UN’s group ’s desire to opt out of the trip and the own co^ention of human rights. The idea Congress unless arrangement was made for another plane to ferry us across. The response was electric: by 4.30 p.m. we were on our way to the Centaur Hotel behind Darius ’ courier service, immortal ­ ized by the Greek historian Herodotus, is inscribed on the portals of New York ’s General Post Office. The Ali Sadr Caves where we spent a second sleepless night. under the Zagros were also discovered by courtesy Iran Air. We finally landed in Te ­ hran around 9 a.m. on the third day (June third of its land area arable, the country ’ s 16) in another plane specially flown out for all the stranded passengers.] The remain ­ ing nine and a half days were spent in large measure on the road, beginning with a nix-like from death and defeat at the hands glimpse of beautiful Hamadan, the summer of the Greeks, the Mongols, the Arabs, the capital of the Achaemenians in the upper "" ’ ” ' reaches (3,000 m above sea level) of the Zagros (400 km from Tehran). Close by are the Ganj Nameh cuniform inscriptions profession and practice is evident too in American mountaineers! With barely a ! the verbal acceptance of Zarathushtra ’s di- 1......................... r vinity and the Zoroastrians ’right to a place fertility and beauty have attracted plun- I in the Iranian sun while ancient laws remain derers from east, west and north. And each 5 unrevoked (eg. Islamic blood spilt by a time the vanquished Iranians rose phoe- Zoroastrian demands Zoroastrian blood in return; a Muslim need only pay blood mo ­ ney for his Zoroastrian victim. The Zoro ­ astrian who converts to Islam inherits the family fortune to the exclusion of his Zoro ­ astrian siblings. The entire family some ­ times converts to maintain their claim to and 36 hours spent in the familiar bedlam patrimony!). of Bombay ’s Sahar Airport. [The in-com- Such current ironies are reflected in ing Iran Air flight burst four tyres (around largest known caves in the world, the Ali I Iran ’s history. The glories of ancient Per- 6 p.m. on June 14,1996) —a fact revealed Sadr Caves, said to be 1.5 million years sia are known to the world today thanks to only under consistent badgering, with vague old, spread under the Zagros through two promises of rectification postponed from Iranian provinces and not yet fully explor- hour to hour. It was 2 p.m. the next day Turks to civilize and Iranize their conquer ­ ors. Ours was a 15-day odyssey of which four days were devoted to the Congress of Darius and Xerxes avowing their faith to ' I “Ahura Mazda — the Greatest God. ” A nondescript entrance leads to the i the historians of its arch-enemies — the Greeks. It was Cyrus the Great who con- hour to hour. It was 2 p.m. the next day ed. A paddle boat tows a plastic gondola of ceivedthefirstconventionofhumanrights. when Delhi Parsi Anjuman president Lt tourists (entrance fee 4,000 rials, approxi- A replica of Cyrus ’ cylinder, enshrining Gen Adi Sethna, who was invited to de- mately Rs 40) through the cold clear waters, the concept, now lies at the United Nations liver a lecture to the Iranian institute of varying in depth from five to 11 feet, dod- headquarters (the original is in the British strategic studies, spoke to the Foreign Of- ging stalagtites and stalagmites carved into Museum) in the USA—Iran ’s current bete free in Tehran and declared his and the exquisite shapes by the dripping waters 111 Parsiana Juiy-August 1996 I,a«8! Shah Nameh fresco at the tea house, Shiraz; bazar at Esfahan; Matboi, Irani, Demehri, Sandbuf, Kashef and Sorab before the air-condi­ tioned bus (Photo: Mani Club- walla); hoatmg on the Caspiai year.s to build and, when destroyed by and soda pop. its tile-frescoed walls depict Alexander of Greece in 323 BC, was still scenes from the Shah Nameh and its decor under construction. Skilled workmen from maintains its period ambience. Shiraz also holds the tomb of Hafiz, the from the Zagros' crowns of snow. Electri- Iraqi tanks proudly displayed in the com- or Persepolis — the Greek caption for the cally spotlit, the ceric drama of the pound. Though a teahouse on the premises cityofthePersians — which had taken 200 subterranean treasure is best explored in providesrefreshments.includingicecrcam groups. The chill of the place where no sunlight has reached in millennia, also ensures total appreciation of the IRI dress code as we snuggle happily in our manteaux! Among the mountain ranges Sufi poet through whose verses people still are housed some of the strategic installa ­ tions pertinent to national housekeeping in the 1990s — bunkers for military hard- saidtohavespurnedthehypocriticalclergy. ware, atomic energy reactors, TV trans- mitters, the Karanj Dam which provides and his books. The mausoleum to Hafiz Tehran and its environs with water and power... Sand colored tile facades blend with the sands of Fars in Shiraz, a former national capital, now a provinci'al capital and im ­ portant university town. Only two percent of its population of two million are Zoro- a.strians. Though the town is .said to have little commercial importance it is, we are told, the most expensive place to live in, apart from Tehran, with average rent for a two-bedroom apartment being around Mehernegar and a young daughter Yasmin 200,000 rials (Rs 2,000). Its Afifabad Gar- all attending school. The family had come den, a palace built by the Qajjar kings in from Yazd and were happy to be in Shiraz, the 19thcentury, had belonged to Shahbanu Farali during the Pahlavi rule. Now it is a rifle museum with two captured US-built around the empire were collected by Darius the Great to construct the religious capital of the Achaemenians who then controlled two-thirds of the known world. [Temporal affairs were managed from Susa, Babylon and Ectabana (Hamadan).] Here the king The mullahs, in their turn, burnt his home received delegations at the Navroze fes ­ tivities in symbolic representation of the was built in the 18th century, nearly 400 Divine Powers. Clay tablets with notations years after his death, with a beautiful mo ­ saic canopy above his tomb. At Shiraz ’s Ave Zend Bage Vakhfe is the Anjuman Zarlhostian, a large enclo ­ sure containing a courtyard, an agiary, and pot to create a brave new world. Stone bld- a 17-room dharamshalla, a hall and a large cks from a distance of 60 km were joined varandah with a substantial table where we together with iron hooks and clasps, each dined. Sarvar and Meraboon Khosraviani cubic meter of stone weighing 10,000 tons, have been caretakers there since the past each block yielding eight steps leading to several years, their sons Jehangir and seek solutions to the problems of living. A rebel against the establishment, Hafiz is of the salaries of the workers and their names demonstrate that this edifice was not built on slave labor. And the art of dif ­ ferent nationalities went into the melting Xerxes ’ Gate of All Nations where it is said that on the spring and autumn equi ­ noxes the sun ’sraysenter precisely. Human headed bulls with eagle wings guard the entrance — the human head signifying the right mentality that Zarathushtra preached, Of course Shiraz ’s raison d'etre on Zo- roaslrian (and perhaps most tourist) itiner ­ aries is its proximity to Takht-e-Jamshid the bull implying strength, the wings, free- 112 Parsiaivi Jufy-August 1996t i, dom. And high above, inscriptions in three languages — old Persian, Elamite and Babylonian — in tune with the cosmopoli ­ tan nature of the Achamenian court, note: “I build this gate for the people who visit here... for the greatness of Ahura Mazda. ” At the Apadana Palace where the king received state delegations the 23 nationalities under Darius are depicted with a wealth of detail: Medes, Armenians (with a lioness and 2 cubs in tow — the lioness being the only female figure in Persepolis), Babylonians, Phoenicians, Bactrians, Sumerians with two woolly lambs, Balkians, Drangians, Aeschetians (with their pointed hats), Egyp ­ tians, Sogdians with rings in their ears leading camels, Indians, Capadocians, lonians, Macedonians, Arabs, Lybians, Ethiopians with curly hair and upturned nose leading a giraffe... The sculptors did not even miss the pins on the cloaks or the lions ’ testes! By contrast the Thachera, the private palace of the great Darius, was small and simple so that it could remain warm in winter. A deep well at the base of the mountains supplied water to the palaces. The queen ’s palace has been converted into a museum (with photographs of Ayatollahs Khomenei and Khamenei presiding over the 2,5(X)-year-old relics) where are displayed the pulleys that were already a part of the knowledge of that world, flexible chariot wheels, metal and stoneware including ornaments. Cyrus ’ capital at Pasargadae, 1,750 m above sea level, was by contrast a simpler, smaller establishment. Much less remains to view today apart from the emperor ’s tomb: seven levels leading to an unadorned stone sarcophagus where Cyrus is said to have been laid to rest with substantial riches in the Egyptian fashion, a stone inscription within, pleading to be left in peace. The story goes that when Alexander had conquered the land, he entered the edifice, read the dead king ’s request and respectfully withdrew. However, the rest of his conquering army was not as sensitive and the tomb was desecrated, though the structure remained unharm ­ ed. Centuries later the Arabs were told it was the tomb of Solomon ’s mother to preserve it from their destructive frenzy. This led them to bring pillars from Persepolis to build a mosque around it. Rezashah II is said to have had it all removed and rehabilitated at the time of Cyrus ’ 2,500th anniversary celebrations in 1972. Column stumps, the flooring paved in two types of stone, black and white, his figure with the eagle wings are but a few remnants of the secure, mountain-walled city of Pasargadae that was home to this daring yet God-fearing and just ruler whom the Jews revered as a messiah. In a different sector of the Mercy Mountains is located Naqsh- e-Rustam. At the upper level are the rock-cut tombs of Darius, Xerxes and Artaxerxes, each sovereign portrayed before a fire altar in respectful devotion. Below them are a series of bas reliefs depicting the coronations of the Sasanian kings — Ardeshir, Shapur I, Behram II, each on horseback (because the horse was considered sacred), each followed by their high priests and governors-general. A short distance away are two stone fire altars of the Sasanians, whose flames must have been visible far away on the plains below. Stone, sand and scrub surround these archeological remains, maintained with care by the IRI government. The same vista, ageless, timeless, unrelenting, follows the road to Yazd where the very architecture merges into the sand. There, miles into the desert, far removed from each other, stand the Pirs — islands of greenery, reverence, nostalgia and Zoroastrian faith. Pir-e-Hirisht, Pir-e-Saabs, Pir-e-Banoo-e-Pars... they represent spots where the wife, daughter and other female relatives of Yazdegard III sought and gained divine refuge from the pursuing Arabs in the embrace of the mountains. Water and vegetation sprang up where they disappeared, and in each case a lost or seeking human who 115 Parsiana Juiy-August 1996 ____ _____ ¦AK' z CRDLL-REYNDLOS TWO-STAGE VACCUM PUMPS I Illi I TWO STAGE 100 20 ---------------VACUUMPUMg - — •cr^^moklWMI MOTOR-5 HP1498 RPI K X p» S ________________ I ' ‘ X \ CURVES ARE BASED ON 30’ C SEALANT WATER St B V vZ M) A, \ /ITrl TcrLON / MOTOR-7.5 HP 600 580 710 720 740 VACUUM-MM HG HIGHER VACUUM & CAPACITY AT REDUCED POWER CONSUMPTION & RPM Over 75 years of depth and Experience Technically the most advanced of its type on the market ¦ EFFICIENCIES THAT PAY OFF IN SAVINGS OF THOUSANDS OF RUPEES PER PUMP PER YEAR- CR Pumps offer the first real improvements in Vacuum Pump technology in nearly 75 years. They have dramatically improved operating efficiencies and offer long-term savings of tens of thousands of Rupees in power costs. You not only save elecricity to run the Pump, you can often downsize the motor to gain additional-savings. rilazda CONTROLS LTD. Mazda House, 650/1 Panchwati, 2nd Lane, Ambawadi, Ahmedabad 380006 Phone: 408967, 408014, 408654 Fax:0272-427394 Telex: 0121-6620 Iinnocently chanced upon the spot, dreamt gard ’s court, Firdausi, Maneckji Hataria, of a damsel asking him to build a shelter Peshotan Marker, Ustad Daboo... In place for the weary. In course of time these spots became ’ Zoroastrian shrines with the community from all over the country visiting them on anniversary days, many an anjuman having its own set of rooms with water, electricity and toilet facilities melons, water-melons, cherries, apricots ' —and further generously packed and dis ­ tributed in plastic bags, as were the dry fruits. Indeed each of us must have con ­ sumed a quarter kilo of dry-fruit per day — porches are said to have been influenced handed out each morning in packets to by the Sasanid art of Ctesiphon, the Sasa- nian capital where Byzantine craftsman ­ morning and afternoon our expert driver ship had been drafted by the Sasanians after defeating the Christian king Vale ­ rian. Its mosaic tiled dome is zealously maintained by the Archeological Office with detailed pictures, each tile numbered built in. Dedicated caretakers who continue to reside in the arid isolation are living testators to the faith of Iranian Zoroastri ­ ans. Dedication to the past was evident too at the Yazd Atash Behram where a bust of munch during the long bus rides. And mid- Maneckji Hataria and portraits of Sir Dinshaw and Maneckji Petit face the fire. It was Petit who had founded the Society days with an undying fondness for Raj for the Amelioration of the Zoroastrians of Kapoor melodies) would stop at a scenic grove or highway cafe as Demehri (alias 'Qi'' Persia in the latter half of the 19th century at the urging of his wife Sakar- bai, herself an Iranian Zoroas ­ trian refugee in Bombay. For years, the Amelioration Society paid the jazia tax (described by Prof Ms Mary Boyce as a humiliating and impoverishing poll tax on non-Muslims) on behalf of indigent Iranian Zoro ­ astrians. And Hataria had been the Society ’s agent in Iran, his standing, influence and persis ­ tence finally resulting in the revocation of the hated impost. A highlight of our Yazd stay was an open-air jashan on the terrace of Ardeshir Demehri ’s farmhouse. To hear the afrin prayers under a canopy of fruit r-i «r And so to our final port of call — Esfahan. The capital of the Safavid kings, of the flowers normally exchanged in the this lush Asiatic beauty needs to be seen course of the ceremony in India, the Iranian and experienced ! Old European travellers mobeds held twigs (of barsom) crossed had called the city “half the world. ” Its above the fire from time to time. center square is dominated by its high After the jashan the fruit was served — domed markets — cool in summer, warm in winter —the Blue Mosque at one end of the square, the Palace at the other. Built by Shah Abbassi with the 17th century pas­ sion for the color blue, the Mosque ’s four Hossain Matboi (a wrestler in his college U.I.I.R. to enable immediate replace ­ ment when' dislodged and de ­ stroyed in Iran ’s periodic earth ­ quakes. Even as we walked through the edifice, workmen were busily etching tiles in a side enclosure. The over l{X)-year-old Ar ­ menian x:hurch imitates the Vatican with ornate wall and ceiling frescoes depicting scenes from the Old Vestament and the birth of Jesus. In regular use, the small but beautiful church is well-maintained with regular services. Tovar and Meheraban Gu- shtaspoor rebuilt the Esfahan Atash Behram three years ago, ‘Superman ’), his unflappable son-in- the atash being transported from Yazd. bw Farhang Irani of Friendly Zoroastrain Khushro Pookiani who retired from the . ---- ------- ----- 1 iron and steel works came from Tehran to Bombay, the latter ’s ebullient, helpful take charge of Zoroastrian House, as the friend Cusrow Sandbuf, Demehri ’s young Esfahan dharamshalla is called, a year ago. j--_ rr , _ ¦ ¦; The four rooms of the 60-year-old dhar- Hossain Kashef — ex history professor, amshala are booked for Navroze and during . ’ r5_j-. . summer, lie fallow in winter. The three offreshanddryfruit,sukhad heaped by the would slice and serve succulent canta- unattached toilets and baths are well-tiled, visiting Parsi Zarthostis, an old afargania loupes/watermelons which were downed modern, equipped with geysers. Indeed a and a small, nondescript, tarnished cha- with greedy abandon. Such juice, sweetness washing machine is available on the pre- mach were the only items on the bare white and abundance touched both taste and mises for the use of the passengers. sheet as Keikhosrow Khosiavi and Rustom memory buds ! Cold water and hot tea were The Esfahan dokhma built in Sasanian Shahriari, the two Iranian mobeds, alter- available in the moving bus, sometimes times, was in use till about 60 years ago. nately recited and read from the Avesta. interleaved with biscuits, peaches and Once outside city limits, it is now envel- Perhaps itwas because the priests better cherries. And at each meal were platefuls oped by development but maintained as an there was expression here in tone and face yoghurt and salad, stereotyped but plentiful, phed and' ’ striking framed on the waUsof that made the prayers come alive as they ' invoked blessings on the “buste-kustian (from) Bombay. ” The names of past achiev ­ ers (which we could catch) had a place in Iranian lore —Ardeshir Babakhan, Shapur, Dastur Azargoshasb, the banoos of Yazde- would be this ! I i' I f /¦ / ?* Rahtj CMplsn Sm < ' I' •• Hamadan t.. < Khorri A ( L, (, Ar«h ' 'Ah«M( ^MMMwd j ^Esfahan_ aMu^Kwd '• Yazd Shiraz % 4 Abbi* . / trees (one had rained the most succulent apricots on our unsuspecting heads on a playful shake from Demehri), the gentle Tours who was our tour leader from babble of a running brook in the back ­ ground, a mountain like a backyard wall, omniscient, benevolent, reassuring, was a grandson Sorab Kaviani and our tour guide memorable, deeply moving experience, I’ unlike any jashan witnessed earlier. Piles Jeeves and Man Friday rolled'into one — and abundance touched both taste and memory buds! Cold water and hot tea were available in the moving bus, sometimes interleaved with biscuits, peaches and the atash being transported from Yazd. understood the language of the recital but of rice, chunks of meat, fish or chicken, archeological site, artistically photogra- ' th Al* A 11/(JO A V Cl h A**A m AMzI a 1 rzx n«<«z4 .^4.. _ 1 _1 1 1 1 .><• a The inevitable excess was packed and the Suiet Hotel where we spent the night, taken along and distributed to poor A series of bridges span the Zayandeh- settlements along the highway. Could rood river that flows through the city. The Iranian hospitality be leavened with In- river banks have been developed as a park dian culinary variety, paradise on earth where groups ofEsfahanis picnic and camp -- overnight in the balmy summer air. Known 117 Parsiana Ju/y-August 1996 IHAPPY NEW YEAR FROM HOMI & Company Opticians and Contact Lens Clinic Authorised dealers of Bausch and Lomb Raybans and soft contact lenses and solutions. Varieties of frames lenses —CR39 plastic multifocals, photochromatics tinted — high index and UV for ultra violet protection from computer glare. For complete eye-care, a trusted name for over 50 years. Only at Grant Rd ® 3823980 Peddar Rd ©3861073 Girgaum Rd © 3879629 3823564 for their joy of life, separate groups of men and groups of girls could be seen strolling along the bridges and the park while more energetic individuals jogged or took a brisk constitutional. It was past midnight but we seemed to be more aware of the clock than they were. Regretfully, we made our way back to Suiet. Breakfast was, as usual, at 6 a.m. and dryfruit packages, guz and knickknacks happily acquired in the brimming bazaar needed to be packed! If we could find a satisfactory job, would we relocate to Esfahan? Yes, oh yes! Its allure was unde ­ niable. Earlier we had asked ourselves the same question and returned the same ans ­ wer in Shiraz. Perhaps other parts of Iran had different attractions. We needed to see it all.. . For now, it was back to Tehran and Bombay. Education under the Achaemenians The Persians owed their achievements in various fields to their system of education which was singularly extolled by the Greeks... The type of Vacation which the Persian youths received made them worthly citizens, and so molded their life as to make them capable of serving their native country with noble deeds. The Persians instructed their sons, says Herodotus, from the age of five to the age of twenty in riding, in shooting arrows and in speaking the truth. Before the age of five, continues the Greek historian, they were not brought in the presence of the father, so that if they died during this period, it would not be a cause of grief to him. Xenophon has given a rather detailed account of the system of education among the Persians. According to him the place for the education was the open space in front of the royal palace and the important civil buildings... All the boys, youngsters and elders, gathered in four separate rooms. The classes were held under the superin ­ tendents. They instructed the boys in righ ­ teousness. They were, also, taught the art of shooting arrows and throwing javelins. This training lasted till their sixteenth or seventeenth year, after which they were admitted to the youngster ’s class where they remained for nearly ten years, during which period they had to serve the govern ­ ment in various capacities, as watching and tracing out criminals, arresting robbers, etc. Besides, they had to accompany the king on hunting. After the age of twenty- With best wishes from 4 Nergish and Soli Arceivala 118 Parsiana July-August 1996GLOBE THEATRES Pvt Ltd Established April 3, 1915 Pioneers of Show Business in India for the last 81 years We rededicate ourselves to the ideals we have cherished and practised all along -- namely to show NOTHING BUT THE BEST to our ever increasing number of Patrons Controlling : REGAL BOMBAY CAPITOL BOMBAY GLOBE CALCUTTA The above three cinemas installed with Qn|PtXB>< STEREO I are 120 Parsiana July-August 1996 five they had to serve in war and in peace time. They were appointed to various of ­ fices of the state. Plato informs us about the education of the Persian princes. After the birth, says he, a prince was put under the care of eunuchs, who were responsible for his upbringing. In the seventh year he was taught to ride and hunt. From the age of fourteen he was placed under the care of the royal instructors, who were four spe ­ cially selected Persians, of whom the wisest instructed him in the science of the Magi and in the laws. The most righteous one taught him to speak the truth the whole life; the most discreet taught him to refrain from greediness; and the most valiant taught him to be brave. Persian education, thus, combined within itself the ideals of loftiness and pra ­ ctical usefulness. It was geared to the need of producing suitable officials in civil ad ­ ministration as well as officers in the army. Its aim was, however, not merely to produce administrators and generals, but men of lofty stature and noble ideals, who would be an asset to their country. Hence, emphasis was laid on their instruction in righteousness and truthfulness. Excerpted from History Of Ancient Iran by Ervad Ratanshah R. Motafram (published in 1993 by the Society forthe Promotion of Zoroastrian Religious Knowledge and Education, Noble Chambers, Jan- mabhoomi Marg, Fort, Bombay 400001. Pp: xxiii + 374. Price: Rs 100). Available from: Parsee Vege ­ tarian and T emperance Society, Vatsa House, 4th Floor, Janmabhoomi Marg, Fort, Bombay 400001, Tel: 2870795; Marzban J. Giara, 667, Lady Jehangir Road, Parsi Colony, Dadar, Bombay 400014, Tel: 4120371; M. F. Cama Athoman Institute, Andheri West, Bombay 400058, Tel: 6283154. Getting there, living there The return airfare to Iran from Bombay costs Rs 22,(X)0 (Rs 16,010 for groups of 15+) by Iran Air. The four-star Kowsar Hotel in Tehran offered the same facilities as did three-star hotels in Hamadan, Yazd, Shiraz and Esfahan — air-conditioning, TV, refrigerator, hot and cold running water and music. Parsian Hotel in Shiraz charges US $ 53 for double occupancy. Groups of 10 or more get a 20 percent discount. Engalab Hotel at Yazd and Shiraz charge US $ 38 for single room and $ 47 for double. At Esfahan ’s Suite Hotel double occu ­ pancy costs US $ 41.50, triple occupancy US $ 53.50 and four beds $ 65.50. In all cases 15 percent tax plus 2 percent service charge are additional. With best wishes from ¦‘C Farah & Tanya *HISTORY The Parsi Punchayet Case — 2 The voice of the community All the members had a say in the appointment and dismissal of the Punchayet members J Should the entire community have a say in the election of trustees of the Bombay Par ­ si Punchayet? There is a constant fear that by disregarding the present scheme for October 1981 to March 1983. In four epi ­ sodes, we are carrying at length Justice fr ij election of trustees, a time-honored insti ­ tution may be abused and po- wer may vest in the wrong hands. ESHF' Many community members ¦ may not be aware that original ­ ly the Punchayet whose selec ­ tion was ratified by the entire anjuman and in whose hands the affairs of the community were entrusted, were invari ­ ably accountable to the anju ­ man or the community at large. Though the Punchayet mem ­ bers could suggest new names on its body as replacements or additions, it was only after the anjuman sanction was obtained that the changes were recognized as official. These facts come across clearly in The Parsi Punchayet Case (Suit No 689 of 1906) when in the historic plaint filed by Sir Dinsha Manockji Petit, II Bart and others against Sir Jamsetji Jejeebhoy, IV Bart and others. Justices Dinshaw Dhan ­ jibhoy Daver and Frank C. O. Beaman ruled on two issues in 1908; whether the Punchayet trustees were validly appoint ­ ed and entitled to fill up vacancies in their ranks; whether the funds and properties in the custody of the trustees were intended for all Zoroastrians (including converts) or only the born Zoroastrians. The six others who joined Petit as petitioners were Sir Cowasji Jehangir, Rustomji Behramji Jijibhoy, Ratanji J. Tata, Bapuji Sorabji Patel, Ratanji Dadabhoy Tata and Nana- bhoy Naoroji Katrak. Arraigned as the defendants were Jamsetjee Jejeebhoy, Hormusjee Edaljee Albless, Jamsetjee Cursetjee Jamsetjee, Merwanji Muncherji Cama and Bomanji Dinshaw Petit. The verdict on the latter issue had been serialized over 16 issues of Parsiana from f * W- ft 1 c Daver and Beaman: in agreement Bombay Punchayet funds and properties. The judgment on this topic is being carried almost in its entirety barring those references which are technical, or of com ­ mon knowledge to the community, or re- petitions of statements made earlier. Minimal editing and stylistic corrections have been undertaken to facilitate smooth reading. Th? first instalment gave an account of the origin and necessity of establishing the Punchayet as a go^rning body to regulate the internal affairs of the community. The nature constitution of the earlier jPunchayets is analyzed in this second instalment such that it establishes “beyond all doubt that the right of electing members of the Punchayet always was in the general body of the Parsi community of Daver ’s opinion (fully supported by Jus- Bombay. ” tice Beaman) reflecting the careful scru ­ tiny he made of varied documents. In his words, “The members of the Punchayet were the appointees of the commu ­ nity...They had themselves no legal right to nominate successor trustees, an authority to appoint trustees of property that belong- ' . ............................ ed to the community, and they had cer ­ tainly no right whatever to confer on others the power which they themselves never had. ” The court however noted that the defen ­ dants were of impeccable integrity and honor “and their management of proper- _ _______________ ties devoted to charity have been so fair Parsiana and carried in parenthesis for and faultless that not a complaint has been reasons of brevity. Parsiana has also abri- heard against them. ” The judges observed dged the last part of the judgement that that they were forced to remove the trust- refers to the status of the defendants. The ees from office on technical defects. Thus, developments in the Punchayet after the framed, Daver authorized the surviving trustees to once again take charge of the while ordering a scheme of elections to be judgment, presented in the article, have been taken from Sapur Desai ’s History of the Bombay Parsi Punchayet: 1860-1960. In the subsequent instalments we leant how exigencies of administration necessi ­ tated the appointment of the first four trus ­ tees who assigned to themselves the power later codified by the deed of 1851. How ­ ever, as per the court ruling, “nothing that is subsequently done can validate an act which in its inception was invalid and unauthorized. ” The original intention of the donors of immovable properties, analyzed in depth by Justice Daver, has been summarized by 122 Parsiana July-August 1996A‘ A S much argument was addressed to us . on this point (whether the Punchayet in days of yore was a self-constituted body), I think it is desirable to examine a few of the principal documents placed before us to see what they establish. That the Pun ­ chayet existed long before 1778 is evi ­ denced by the fact that in that year certain parties styling themselves “the managers of the Punchayet of Parsis at Bombay, ” presented a petition to Governor Hornby, wherein they complain: “certain low Parsis who are ignorant of the rules of our religion are going to infringe the same. ” They say they desired to prevent the same and were unwilling to trouble justice every time, and therefore they pray that they should be permitted to shame these people in the Punchayet “by beating them with a few shoes agreeably to their crime. ” On July 5, 1778, Governor Hornby empowers the petitioners, amongst other things, to beat the delinquents with shoes, but they are told that they should not inflict any o±er corporal punishment. A copy of the peti ­ tion and the answer thereto appears at page 219 of the first volume of Mr Dossabhoy Framji ’s book. This seems to be the first formal official recognition of the powers of the Punchayet. Previous to the year 1787, there seems to have arisen a violent controversy be ­ tween the priests and the laymen of the community with reference to tfie priests refusing to give their daughters in marriage to the boys of the behdins or laymen. The “Certain low Parsis who are ignorant of the rules of our religion are going to infringe them ” disputes assumed such grave proportions that Government had to interfere and ap­ point a commission to bring about a satis ­ factory settlement of those disputes and one of the results was that the Parsi com ­ munity were asked to submit to Govern ­ ment the names of 12 priests and 12 lay ­ men, and out of these 24, Government in 1787 selected six priests and six laymen to form the Punchayet. In the whole history of the Punchayet, this is the only instance when the powers of appointing members of the Punchayet were exercised by the Government, and it is quite clear that Government had to step in and interfere because the community was at that time divided by violent dissensions and it was not possible for the Parsis themselves to nominate members of their Punchayet. The next incident in the history of the Punchayet is evidenced by (another) docu ­ ment (which) contains the minutes and resolutions of a meeting of “The entire Parsi anjuman. ” Amongst other things, that meeting, which was held on March 4, 1818, (passed a resolution): “The entire anjuman having this day assembled here it is resolved as follows; Hereafter a Pun ­ chayet consisting of 18 persons made up of 12 behdins and six mobeds is to be appointed for hearing family disputes re ­ lating to our community and to decide the same. Accordingly the undermentioned 18 gentlemen have been appointed Adhi- karis of the Punchayet. ” And then follows the names of the 18 persons appointed at the meeting. From the preamble to the resolution it appears that after the deatl^of some of the members of the Punchayet appointed by Govern ­ ment in 1787 their sons stepped into the 4 SORABJIRUSTOMJI & CO. Exporters & Stockists of Sandal Wood, Sandal Wood Oil & Other Essential Oils Sales Depot Durlab Bhavan, Shop No 4, R. M. Roy Marg Chami Road Junction, Bombay 400004 Tel: 3856675, 3821637 Fax: 3738161 Cable: INSANDAL Sales Depot & Factory Hooseinbad Compound, Champsi Bhimji Road Old Anjirwadi, Mazgaon, Bombay 400010 Tel: 3738343, 3728346 124 Pa/s/ana July-August 1996 «is signed by Wadia Bomanji Hormusji and 46 other members of the community. the Punchayet who seems to have been dis- ------ ------- is important as showing that the resignation is tendered to the anjuman. Framji Cawasji Banaji at the end of his s letter says: “I inform you the members of the anjuman as follows; When all of you gentlemen call the anjuman ’s meeting be good enough to make my request known to them which is to the effect that the gentle ­ men of the anjuman should relieve me from the Punchayet ’s work and that they should entrust the said work to some other person. ” (One more exhibit) evidences the min ­ utes of another meeting of “the whole of the Parsi anjuman (community) of Bombay, ” held on July 2, 1818. At that meeting it was resolved that as Andhiaroo Hormusji Dorabji Laskari, one of the 18 Adhikaris appointed previously, had gone to China for the purposes of trade, Dastur Edalji Dorabji Sanjana was appointed in his place at that meeting. (Yet another exhibit) shows that vacancies were filled “d i up at (a) tneetiug of the “whole of the satisfied with the way the Punchayet was S? fafsTd " 'ih' ‘*1 'loiue its work, tenders his resignation. He members of the anjuman to resign the Jo' “Xer JaJ i^Jw^fii'Mehef Tk’" s,.”Thedr«u,.,entJho Nowroji Meherji and take place m our community and no arran- juman the resignation is tendered, and this is done because it was the anjuman who appointed them members of the Punchayet. The tender of resignations by two of to sit in the Punchayet the 15th of league ’s resignation and tenders his resig- ------------------XK _ _ BB F«... . - . 1 T 1 > . -------------------- *X1V/1I4W1O llltV U V U V 11V . 1 nation also. In the course of his minute he They called a meeting of the “whole Pun- “At present many improper things take place in our community ” . in our community and no arran ­ gement whatever is made to prevent the same. ” In the course of circulation, this letter Punthaki Dorabdaru Framji, who sat and were members of the Punchayet, have become denizens of paradise. In order to _ ___ _____ _ ^..vf.auvu uii» icuci sit in the Punchayet in their place, the reaches Framji ciwasirBanajk another Jamsetji Jejeebhoy and Hormusji Dorabji October in the year 1823.” This resolution 1836, he makes a long minute on his col- had been allowed to creep in, seem to have roused the other Members into activity. Kerman! Transport Service Truck Owners & Contractors H. O. & Admn Office: Guru Himmat ‘A’ Wing Dr Mascarenhas Road Mazagaon, Bombay 400010 Phone: 3723333, 3712715 Booking Office: Opp Jakeria Masjid 7-C, Dhobi Street Bombay 400003 Phone: 3420271, 3420272 Branches: Delivery Godown: B-Anjirwadi, Mount Road, Mazagaon, Bombay 400010, Tel: 3725002/3724273 Thana: (1) Chitalsar, Manpada, S. V. Road, Next to Tatwadyan Vidhyapeeth, Tel: 5344823 (2) Puma Village, Thana Bhiwandi Road, Near Uttam Roadways, Tel: 34698 VapI: Near R. T. O. Check Post G. I. D. C., Tel: 30037/32766/32767 Valsad: Kamla Nehru Road, Tel: 53294 Billimora: Gohar Baug Road, Tel: 53175/53397 Navsari: Opp Central Bank, Tel: 5900819 Delivery Godown: Zaveri Sadak, Tel: 1601 Udhna: Road No 2, Tel: 678612 Surat: Delhi Gate, Dangi Sheri, Tel: 35428-35712 Delivery Godown: Ring Road, Near Surat Textile Market, Tel: 621774 UNN: Near Bus Stand, Tel: 872807 126 Parsiana July-August 1996 «‘i Gold and silver Lord Zoroaster and Asho Farohar medals available Gold, silver and diamond exclusive showroom We also undertake polishing of ses 594, Chira Bazar, Girgaum Road, Mumbai 400002. Tel: 2065137 We accept Diners, BOB card, American Express, Taj Premium, Visa & Master Cards. Saal Mubarak ANTIQUES Original Chinese garas, hand embroidered borders, zari borders, jabla, Chinese vases, marble statues, kerba beads, old coins and bank notes, medals, hallmark silver items, European glassware and old wristwatches RAYOMAND 4966679 Phone: of five daughters, having lost her mother when she was 11 years old, and her domi ­ nant engineer-architect father six years later who until then had served as the pivot for the girls, what were her reasons for not marrying? “I guess you can ’t be successful in everything in life; you have got to have some failures, ” she responds. “The world without Parsis would be a much less color ­ ful place, ” she opines, seeking a confirma ­ tion of her views, like on many other issues, by rhetorically asking, “Isn ’t it so? ” A lover of classical music, both western and Indian, Dinshaw also admires visual arts, especially paintings, is fascinated by Indian culture and enjoys picking up In ­ dian artefacts in the course of her sojourns, Dinshaw ’s manicured hands finger the as­ sorted paper weights on her table. Fond as she is of reading, the doctor also finds time to serve on the editorial board of six tech ­ nical publications like the Indian Journal of Radiology and the Indian Journal of Cancer. She has altogether 79 publications to her credit in national and international journals. The philosophy that has guided her through life is: “'^e get so much; we have to even give of ourselves to society. And especially if you have the opportunity to _do so, it ’s great. ” ¦9' l/lZ/Yh Best Compliments From Mrs Dina Dara Sukhia and family And Victory Theatre 2429 Gen Thimayya Road Camp, Pune 411001 ¦9adverse criticisms and give a true explana ­ tion of the acts of the Punchayet, a work was published in the year 1843, entitled Punchayet. ”...(In) the same book, ... Sir The same gentleman, Mr Nowroji Kholasa-e-Punchayet (explanations of the Jamsetji says: “Therefore in the place of Fardunji, in giving his evidence before the Punchayet). The author of this book veiled the remaining five, new members are to be Parsi LawCommission on March 31,1862, his identity under the anonym of “A ser- appointed at a meeting ofthe anjuman. But says: “The old Punchayet used to be elected vant of God and a follower of the Mazda- they are not yet appointed according to the at a general public meeting held in some yasni faith. ” The anonymity evidently did ancient custom ”... sacred place — as a fire-temple...It was a - not long continue, and it is admitted on all Speaking of these five persons nomi- popularly elected body... The mode of hands that the author of this book was the nated by the Punchayet to fill up vacancies, filling up vacancies was usually this. The first Parsi Baronet Sir Jamsetji Jejeebhoy, Sir Jamsetji says; “But they remain unad- surviving members proposed new ones the grandfather of the first defendant... mitted, as, according to the old rules of the and if there seemed no objection they were (On) page 255 of this book. Sir Jamsetji Punchayet, their appointments are not not- duly elected. Their election was ratified by describes how a member of the Punchayet ed in the book of the Punchayet after the Parsi community, and such ratification was elected. After stating how the commu- making the usual proclamation before the was signed and certified in the book kept nity met on March 4, 1818, and elected 18 anjuman. ” for that purpose. ” persons as members of the Punchayet, he ’ ” says: “And whenever any of these sahebs Fardunji, the secretary of the Parsi Law die another is appointed in his place, and whenever the Punchayet meets for any purpose whatever at that time it announces to the anjuman as follows; ‘Such and such a person has died. Such and such a person Punchayet, he says: “Many of these gentle- has from this day been appointed in his men cannot be called members of the place a member ofthe Punchayet on behalf Punchayet of our anjuman (community) right of appointing a member of the Parsi of the anjuman. Do you approve of that because our nobility and gentry have not, Punchayet belonged to the Zoroastrian appointment? ’ Thereupon out of the mem- by convening a small or large meeting of anjuman. ” bers present at the meeting some member 1 says: ‘Yes, Sir, we approve of it. Appoint appointed them as members of the Pun- him a member. ’ That fact is then entered in the Punchayet ’s books and the signatures of all those present there are taken thereon. Then that person becomes ci member of the according to our old practice. ” Punchayet. ”...(In) the same book, ... Sir entered in our Punchayet ’s duftur (record) the remaining five, new members are to be appointed at a meeting of the anjuman. But they are not yet appointed according to the ancient custom ”... Speaking of these five persons nomi ­ nated by the Punchayet to fill up vacancies. Sir Jamsetji says; “But they remain unad ­ mitted, as, according to the old rules of the Punchayet, their appointments are not not ­ ed in the book of the Punchayet after making the usual proclamation before the anjuman. ” In or about February 1856, Mr Nowroji Association, delivered a speech before a subcommittee of the Association... In that speech, referring to some of the persons who then claimed to be members of the Lastly, (there is an) exhibit (of) a letter addressed by the late Bomanji Jejeebhoy, written to the members of the Sir J. J. Baronet Institution and the members of the Zoroastrian anjumanon October 11,1859, wherein he refers with approval to the claim made by “many gentlemen of the Zoroastrian anjuman, ” who said that “the because our nobility and gentry have not, by convening a small or large meeting of the anjuman according to our old practice, There is one ot^er document that I must refer to before I conclude my examination of some of the more important documents chayet, and, on their appointment having been made, their names have not been relating to the subject now tipder discus- * With best compliments from TIME WATCH MAKERS MARCKS AND CO Empress Mahal, Block-A Khodadad Circle Dadar TT Bombay 400014 97/103 Shetty House Opp Bombay University M. G. Road Bombay 400023 Tel; 4143898/4141610 Tel; 2670999/2676412 130 Parsiana July-August 1996sion. The document I refer to is... the trust deed relating to immoveable properties — got, prepared, and executed by the defendants ’ predecessors in office on September 25, 1884. This is an important document on which the defendants have placed great reliance throughout the hearing. One of the recitals of the deed is in the following terms: “And whereas for very many years the management of the social and religious affairs and the settlement of religious, matrimonial and other social disputes of and between Parsis in Bombay were entrusted by the community to a Punchayet or committee selected from amongst the most influential or leading members of the community. ” After this admission on the part of the defendants ’ predecessors in office in 1884 that the entrustment of power and authority to the Punchayet was by the community, it is, I think, hardly open to the defendants to contend — as was contended by Mr Strangman on their behalf — that the practice of submitting to the anjuman the name of the member to be appointed to fill a vacancy in the Punchayet had, in the words of Mr. Strangman, “died out prior to 1843.” There are many other documents before us, the effect of which is also, directly or indirectly, to establish that the Parsi Punchayet of Bombay was a body elected by the entire anjuman — in other words, the whole community. There are, of course, as is usual, instances at times of the rights of the anjuman being disregarded, but such instances cannot affect what seems to me to be the established usage of the community. On the evidence before the court, I hold that it is proved that amongst the Parsis of Bombay, after their settlement in the island, there was a usage to elect a few headmen from amongst them to act as members of their Punchayet, * Sawn Timber * Doors & Windows * Kiln Seasoning * Chemical Preservative Treatment Packing Cases & Pallets * Furniture Components B. F. Wadia & Sons 142, Reay Road Bombay 400010 Tel: 3721934, 3720235 Fax: 3739373 Tlx: 11-74571 BFW IN T Burjor Framji & Company Licensed Plumbers Sanitary & Drainage Contractors Marine Mansion, 1st Marine Street, Bombay 400002 Tel: 2083207 132 Parsiana July-August 1996Get good value for your money Visit RAILWAY BAR Railway Hotel Building Charni Road Junction Bombay 400004 Telephone; 3852035 Beer Parlour/ Permit Room the numbers of men so elected varying from time to time as it seemed fit to the anjuman. The ancient usage prevailing amongst them proved before us was that, on a vacancy occurring, the surviving members nominated or selected the name of a successor. Such name was submitted for election at the next meeting of the members of the community, and if such name was approved of by such meeting he was elected a member of the Punchayet. His name was then entered in the dufturs of the anjuman and thereafter he was recognized as a duly appointed member of the Parsi Punchayet of Bombay. It is, I think, established beyond all doubt that the right of electing members of the Punchayet always was in the general body of the Parsi community of Bombay. Having considered how the Parsi Pun ­ chayet came into existence — what was its constitution and what were its powers; having seen how its members were elected and by whom they were elected, it becomes necessary now to see how trustees of the funds and properties belonging to the community came first into existence and how the present defendants came to assume office as trustees. To be continued. _ E. A. Chindhy INDUSTRIAL Su DECORATIVE PAINTERS 4, East Street, Camp Pune 41 1CXD1 Phone: BS29'74 Pes: B3Ba2'7 Fax: BBOO1 2 SERSON Electrolytic Capacitors For All Electronic Applications From 12 VDC To 350 VDC Manufacturers: Serson Industries Pvt. Ltd. Pimpri P.F.P.O., Poona-18. Cable: Etchfoil Poona-18. Phone: 772379 & 774296 134 Parsiana Juty-August 1996 ICOMMENT o n October 7, 1994, rcy Meher, ma/i Ardibehesht, YZ 1364 according to the Shahenshahi calendar, the Bai Motlibai Wadia Atash Behram at Udvada, a small town about 110 miles north of Bombay, on the west coast of India in the state of Gujarat, celebrated its first centenary as the home of the holy pak Iranshah fire. It is not generally known that the present edi ­ fice, the fourth in Udvada, is administered by the Wadia Trust while the preservation of the holy fire together with the perfor ­ mance of rituals is the responsibility of a separate local organization of mobeds. This narrative relates the history of the present edifice and discusses other related topics. Zoroastrians fleeing Iran after the Arab invasion of the country and the fall of the Sassanian dynasty first landed at Diu, a village in present day Saurashtra on the west coast of India, in about YZ 67 (697 AD). After 19 years in Diu, in YZ 86 (716 AD), these Zoroastrians moved to Sanjan. On roj Adar, mah Adar, YZ 90 (720 AD), the first Atash Behram on the Indian sub ­ continent was consecrated in Sanjan by Dastoor-e-Dastooran Neriosang Dhawal and the holy fire, created with divine help and assistance was enthroned therein. In YZ 667 (1297 AD), fearing an invasion by the Muslim army of Allaudin Khilji, the holy fire was removed to the caves of Bahrot in the surrounding hills where it remained for 12 years. In 1309 AD, three leading mobeds of Sanjan first moved the fire to a hilltop in the Vansda forest (near Bulsar), and in 1419 AD to Navsari where it then remained for over 300 years. Between 1737 AD and 1742 AD the holy fire was moved repeatedly from one town to another, to Surat and then back to Navsari, then to Bulsar and finally in 1742 AD to Udvada which has been its home for the last 252 years. The repeated shifts were the result of disputes regarding the guard ­ ianship of the holy fire between the mobeds of Sanjan who claimed to be its sole guard ­ ians and the mobeds in the host towns who also claimed rights over it. The detailed history of the first three atash behram structures at Udvada is not known; available records indicate only that the first atash behram in Udvada was built in 1742 AD by Muncherjee Bomanjee of Nargol, the second in 1751 AD by Motlibai's act of faith Dinshaw Joshi j 136 Parsiana July-August 1996 ar-!'- fv* .71 ¦{ Wl ¦ 'US MSUWl aw _____ ____ Bhicajee Eduljee of Surat and the third in 1829 AD by the brothers, Dadabhoy Pestonjee Wadia and Muncherjee Pestonjee Wadia of Bombay. By about 1892 AD however the heirs of the two Wadia broth ­ ers were unable to maintain the dilapi ­ dated structure. With their consent and at the request of the Udwada Parsi Anjuman, Bai Motlibai Manockjee Wadia of Bombay agreed to replace the third atash behram structure with a new building in memory of her late husband, Seth Manockjee Bai Motlibai Wadia purchased land measuring 6,660 square yards adjacent to the site of the third .atash behram for the new building and the associated nahan- khana (the place where the mobeds stay for 10 days after the mandatory purifica ­ tion bath which they undergo before they can attend the holy fire). The corner stone of this fourth edifice was laid on roj Adar, mah Adar, YZ 1262 (May 22, 1893) by Nowroji Manock^e Wadia and Nusser- wanji Jehangirjee Wadia, sons-of Bai Motlibai Wadia. The buildmg was de ­ signed by Dinshaw Dorabjee^istree, ar ­ chitect; the contractor in charge of the construction is not known. The combined cost of the land and the Atash Behram and nahankhana buildings in 1893-94 was (Rs 91,000). Apart from the current value of the land, it is estimated that to build two similar structures today — if that is at all feasible without the original materials and the artisans — would cost about Rs 50,000,000. After the required consecration cere ­ monies including several ijashnis and vendidads performed over a period of seve ­ ral weeks, the holy fire was enthroned in the new Atash Behram designated Bai Motlibai Wadia Atash Behram on roj Meher, mah Ardibehesht, YZ 1264 (Octo ­ ber 30, 1894), the death anniversary day of Bai Motlibai ’s husband, Seth Manockjee Nowroji Wadia. The excellent design of the buildings by the then architects, the use of best quality materials, and the meticulous and sturdy construction by the contractor have all enabled the buildings to withstand the ravages of the heavy annual monsoon rains over the last 100 years, and the constant use of the fire-temple by the worshippers. • J Nowroji Wadia. Hi Repairs to the fourth edifice housing the iranshah fire has extended the life of the 100-year-old structure 4»l'The Udvada Atash Behram also suffers from a severe shorta^ of professional mobeds A vi'itical cxuniination of the structures by the architects and contractor during the 1993-94 renovation revealed that the build ­ ings were still structurally sound. On the occasion of the centenary, a marble bust of Bai Moilibai was installed on the veranda of the renovated Atash Behram. On September 22, 1896, the lady ex ­ ecuted the Bai Motlibai Wadia Udwada Atash Behrain Trust (hereinafter referred to a.s The Wadia Trust) with a corpus of Rs 61,000. Over the years, the Trust has seen substantial growth; the current corpu.s of '/'he Atash Behram’s outer hall, two angles ofthe well-known exterior ami the threshold of the inner hall Facing page: Acommemorative bust of Motlihai (I8/I-1S97) installed by the N. M. IVtK/ja Charities in 1994 Photographs: Qustasp Irani y. 1 J 137 Parsiana My-Augusi i996 Ithe Trust is about Rs 600,000 with an estimated annual income of about Rs 80,000, adequate for routine maintenance change of each gah is rotated be-ween the (nine families). The right to perform the boi ceremonies five times a day at the ---------------------------------------- J of the Atash Behram and nahankhana families from month to month. The Udwada and repaving the outside courtyard. The total cost of these works was estimated at about Rs 2,000,000. The architects, Dara . .... - -------------------------- B. Mistry and Partners, and the contractor, buildings. In 1909, under the will of Bai Anjuman has at present two presidents, Cyrus Unwalla, both graciously waived Motlibai ’s son Nowroji Manockjee Wadia ” ¦ ... - -- who died in 1907, another trust titled N. M. Wadia Charities (hereinafter referred to a.s The Wadia Charities) was established in Bombay with the objectives of general technically the high priests are appointed secular charity, relief of poverty, educa ­ tional and medical aid, performance of religious ceremonies and rituals, etc. The current common trustees of The Wadia Trust and The Wadia Charities (and three other associated trusts) are Ratan Nowroji of the buildings — has occasionally caused Vada Dastur (Dr) Hormazdyar Mirza and their own fees for this specific assignment. Vada Dastur Kaikobad Dastoor Pheroozi; ‘ ~ " hence, the two high chairs in the outer prayer hall of the Atash Behram. Though As The Wadia Trust did not have the necessary funds to finance these costs, The Wadia Charities (which currently has a corpus of about Rs 70 million, and an annual income of about eight million ru ­ pees) financed the entire cost of repair and renovation of the Atash Behram. Since the major repairs were required to by the anjuman, in practice the positions are hereditary. Though this dual control — one for the preservation and perpetuation of the holy fire and the associated religious ceremonies, and the other for maintenance be carried out by non-Zoroastrian laborers. the holy fire had to be temporarily relo ­ cated in the adjacent Petit Dar-e-Mehr building on October 21, 1993. By early June 1994, major repairs and renovation of the Atash Behram had been completed at a cost of Rs 1.20 million; only some minor work in the open courtyard was left to be monsoon Bhavnagri, Sorab Hormusji Commissariat, problems, these have been resolved, al- Sam Framroze Joshi, Jamshed Khurshed Setna and Burjor Hormusji Antia. The maintenance of all Atash Behram properties is the responsibility of The Wadia Trust. The custody of the holy fire, its maintenance and perpetuation includ ­ ing the provision of kathi, the performance The Wadia Trust decided to undertake season. However, before the renovated of the daily boi ceremonies, the maachis complete repair and renovation of the two building could receive the holy fire, the offered by devotees and all rituals and buildings, including water-proofing of the inner sanctum and prayer hall and the outer religious ceremonies are the responsibili- roofs, retiling of the walls of the inner and hall where the other rituals and ceremonies ties of the Shree Udwada Nav-Kutumbi Athornan Anjuman. All mobeds attending the holy fire are from the nav kutumbs outer prayer hall floor in the Atash Behram, ways amicably, through mutual under ­ standing. The last renovation and repainting of the Udvada Atash Behram had been car ­ ried out in 1982-83. With the approaching centenary of the Atash Behram buildings completed after the end of the The Wadia Trust decided to undertake offered by devotees and all rituals and buildings, including water-proofing of the roofs, retiling of the walls of the inner and outer prayer halls, installing a new carpet are performed had^to be individually re ­ consecrated: one vendidad and three continued on page 144 in the inner prayer hall and retiling of the LONDON 4 • Bed - Breaktast • Homely Atmosphere .Xenial minutes walk to to central' cleaning mzkchines / 1923-1996 Seventy-three years of clean service! DIANA-ECLIPSE For all your carpet and upholstery cleaning EZI “Parag ” 27, Peddar Road, Bombay Tel: 4941987, 4945302 • Three Tube station • I weiuy, London by reasonable invited preferably Twenty minutes • Very • Visitors 7nroastrians CONTRACTORS Bombay Phone Nos; 3634161, 3641581 10.00 a.m. to 12 noon, 8.00 p.m. to 10 p.m. 3760707, 3728549 11.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m. London contact: Beroz Mody No 10, Court Farm Road, Northolt, Middlesex, UB 5—5 HQ Tel No: 00441-0181-8413491 Ring Bombay Time: 12.30 Midnight to 2.30 am or 11.00 am to 1.00 pmM' J HUMOR a L .i.tl5TEN,cuz. «»< ? l> I ** w iHe#<»NeR 306 HONE - THE SOON^ cousin Janies. Phone calls from cousin ,,, , ! were not uncommon and by now even their content had ceased to startle me. * . vvuoiiJ James t=a»a Once then now but the opening line of this one did throw me off balance. “You must come and see me at the hospital tomorrow evening, Dil. ” My first reaction was one of alarm. “Whatever for? Is something the matter? ” “Nothing that can ’t be remedied, fortu ­ nately, ” said cousin James. “I am going in for a bit of plastic surgery. To be precise, I am going to have a bit of bone removed from my shin and added to my chin. “James! ” I exploded. “I’ve heard your woes and held your hand through a great many mad moments but this is going a bit too far. ’Why, your chin is not even visible under its growth of beard. ” Good looks run in the family and cousin James was no exception. He was wide shouldered and fair and had melting brown eyes with a fringe of thick dark lashes. A luxuriant head of hair and beard completed the ‘swoon at sight of doctor ’ effect he had on his patients. * “Please hear me through, before you bite my ear off, ” pleaded James. “I have decided to shave off my beard dht I can ’t possibly expose my weak and receding chin to the world ! If I am to walk the earth without my beard, I must have my chin repaired. Don ’t worry, it ’s not a serious operation. ” “Why this sudden decision to look like the under-belly of a fish? ” I asked. “Well, I was going through this Ameri ­ can Medical Journal where it is stated that according to recent research Americans prefer the clean look. They have greater faith in the crew-cut, clean-shaven, all- American image. I think there is a lot of truth in this observation, I always sus ­ pected it, but this research confirms it.' “Look James, ” I said with mounting irritation. “If you are a good doctor — and you are — they will come to you anyway, with or without your beard. When will you stop taking every American pronounce ­ ment as the gospel truth and start thinking for yourself? It is absurd to undergo major surgery involving a bone graft just because season ’s greetings. ’ The letter Americans have not solved the problem of ...1 J .. chaotic, dope-ridden lives but they will go and research the drinking In early spring I got a phone call from JAMSHED JIMMY, JAMES The Americanization of Jamshed was swift and complete Dilnavaz E. Bhagwagar * When he left India 15 years ago, he was i 2___ _____ Jamshed, the second of three children bom of T-steak and 20,000 hours'S telev'isiom to my aunt. Like most middlings, he car- In addition he grew begonias, he grew a ried a chip on his shoulder all his life for beard and he grew prosperous. Though we v.,... were both in New York it was not possible to meet very often as we were busy pursu ­ ing our own careers. We, however, kept in touch over the phone and an occasional dinner or theater evening to celebrate some special occasion, or to meet and en ­ tertain a friend or relative from India. ______ ______ _ ujtvvvauac One Christmas I received Jimmy ’s usual of some American research finding. The paper was thick and expensive and bore a 5 on top, ran through two wives, two cars, two tons being so cruelly sandwiched between two siblings. Jamshed left for England with his shin ­ ing new stethoscope and the ink still wet on his MBBS degree. Living on endless cups of tea and packets of fish ’n chips he determined to master the intricacies of medicine. In the process of adding a string > of alphabets to his degree, he altered a few scrawl of in his name and became Jimmy. Then i __________ deciding that England was not his cup of single elegantly embossed line f c? r u u- 1 . . , , ° ----------J —Uli tup, uicj will gu anu researcn me unnKing tea nor the English his cake, he left for proclaiming it to be the stationery of Dr habits oftropical fish and the mating habits A ¦ • • . James Cooper. Wow! Cousin James had oftheMasai. Why not! As long as there are The Amencanization of Jimmy was as really arrived! suckers like you to swallow it all. Come swift as It was complete. In two years he In early spring I got a phone call from on, kid. Grow up! ” 141 Parsiana Juiy-August 1996ADVERTISEMENT Under the auspices of the MAZDAYASNIE MONASTERIE and the ALL TOckcottoncioths,h^dprintedvrithtteiamoustervin^^ u ic auopiwo __ ____ Persepolis columns, hand woven carpets and the world renowned INDIA SHAH BEHRAM BAUG SOCIETY (for Scientific and Educational Research) The one and only ZOROASTRIAN COLLEGE Correspondence address: Mustafa Building, (2nd floor), Sir Pherozeshah Mehta Road, Bombay 400001, India, Tel: 2660214 2662950 after hours: 3644737 Fax: Bombay India 022-2662735-A/c 121 and 3634274 6TH WORLD ZOROASTRIAN CONGRESS & PILGRIMAGE TOUR OF HISTORICAL IRAN in the world i 'it t •> .-Lt I i. f; f i ‘ ¦ « f (fj Zbruasfrian College Delegation Members—LtoR. Mrs. HomaiSillimoria, Dr. Meher Master-Moos, Mrs. Amawaz Mirza, Ervad Godrej Sidhwa, Mrs. Tehmina Turel, Mrs. Roshan Doctor, standing in front of the great Citadel of ARGEBAM built by Founder ofthe Sassanian Dynasty Ardeshir Babegan. (2) Dr Meher Master-Moos, Z. C. President presenting the Zoroastrian flag at the &h World Zoroastrian Congress, designed by Dr Jehangir Medora of Canada, the Parsi Vexillographer. (Continued from June 1996 Issue) Yazd is a bustling and big city. Its market place Is equal to those of Kerman, Shiraz and Isphahan in the variety of goods. It has speciality "mithaT and bakery products, pistachio and dried fruits; and the gold­ smiths in the bazar specialise in making Zoroastrian figures such as that of the Asho Farohar. It is also noted tor its melamine crockery and household products; and also for the trade with China for ceramics imported via HongKong. The carpets made here are also special, being woven by hand by Zoroastrian women in their village homes to the accompaniment of songs sung in 'Dari' language. Afull day's coach drive brought us by night tolsphahan, the 'Paris of Iran." Straddling across the “Zayanderood" river are several bridges, the most famous of them being the 'Siusi Pol' or Bridge of 33 arches. Here the city people enjoy the cool river breeze sitting at chaikhanas beneath the arches, or boating on the river. We stayed at the comfortable old “Pol and Park Hotel' overlooking the river. Isphahan has some excellent hotels, including the famous old 'Caravanserai', now renamed the “Hotel Abbas', which used to be rated by I ATA as the third best Hotel in the world—the old Taj Mahal in Bombay following as the fifth best, about a quarter of a century ago. Named after the quartering place of the Achemenian army soldiers, the ancient historical city of Isphahan has a modem University with a spacious campus on the hills overlooking the city area. The traditional Unani medicine and modem allopathic medicine faculties are both taught here. Both Shiraz University and Isphahan University have good libraries with sections devoted to Avesta and Zoroastrian religious books. Our hostProf . Reza, of the Sodal Welfare Dept. Faculty took us to visit the University and also a Govt, funded very modem family welfare counselling centre. Women under the present Govt, regime are given much encouragement for education and all kinds of work; Including being lawyers and taxi drivers. In Isphahan we had a delightful visit to the home of Prof. Reza. Although living in a semi detached row house of flats, his mother and sisters still practised the traditional craft of carpet weaving at home. The bride-price paid by the groom in Iran till today goes up if the girl knows the art of carpet weaving, and can bring home revenue, making carpets after marriage. The family served a delicious home cooked meal of the style, traditional rice, puliao, with saffron, and fish from the Persian Gulf, and vegetarian dishes with salads, fruits and maevo. Isphahan is famous for its arts and crafts, with many museums and palaces. Inthebazaar,around the renowned blue tiles mosque, craftsmen are busy at their forges, hammering copperplates into shape, with every fine detail of scenes of Persepolis. Each plate is hand made and unique. •Gaz" (Nougat Sweets of almonds, pistachios, sugar and egg white) jostle in the bazaar shops side by side with books and miniature paintings and prints. In the Armenian quarter of Isphahan Is the beautiful Wank Orthodox Armenian Cathedral, and the museum attached to it has some artefacts which are unique amongst the best museums of the world in Europe. Amongst these are the smallest book in the world, one thousand year old Armenian Manuscripts of the Old Testament, holy miniature paintings, costumes and other historical memorabilia of the Annenian Church. TheMuaeum deserves the best part of an afternoon to see it thoroughly. Isphahan also has architectural curiosities such as the Shaking Minarets,' and the “Chaharsotel or 40 columns palace' set amidst rose gardens. The biggest mosque—the Juma Mo^ua —is constructed over the remains of one of the biggest Atash Behrams which used to exist here during the Sassanian period. The subsequent Muslim era architects copied the Sassanian technique of brick construction of domes atop square buildings. The original stone Afarganya —Fire urns are still presenred in the Courtyard. One of the saddest sights of Isphahan was to see brass Afarganya-shaped vessels being used as waste bins and spitoons and flower pot holders all over Isphahan, in public buildings and hotels. From how many old-time Agiaries did these come? we wondered. In the Zoroastrian quarter of Isphahan there is a modem Ftre Temple with big winged bulls figures, pf Mithra Yazata, at the entrance. It is located in a garden behind high walls, and had beautiful modem marble-facing with a big hall; and the Mobed lives in a house nearby in the garden. But the place did not have much spiritual power in its vibration and thePriest welcomed alllouristgroups from JapanU.S.S.R., Europe and U.S.A, to visit the Fire Temple and take photographs of the Holy Fire kept burning in an Atarganya behind glass, in the Kebla room. On the outskirts of Isphahan, on top of a mountain is an oldHrsTemple in ruins. Some of our group members succeeded in walking to the top. They had a grandstand view of the countryside, and reported that there are some old buildings made of stone, on top, around the Fire Temple. Isphahan has excellent r^aurants senring the local speciality foods In most beautiful surroundings. OurTourManagerSohrabtookus to some of the best places for lunch and dinner and one of them had an atmosphere as though it was a 'Palace of Art" and ted Frescoes with beautiful paintings of scenes of the Shahnamah and item other Persian Poems adorning the walls. The people are steeped in art and culture and the ladies are well dressed and quite modem in their outlook. People there enjoy being out in the Parks beside the river, close to Nature. The merchants travel all the way to India to buy cloth to sell in the bazaars of Isphahan. Half a day's coach travel took us from Isphahan to Tehran past the great salt lakes and deserts south of the capital City. The salt can be seen shimmering on the desert sands giving the illusion of water. The water is so salt hardly anything living can survive in it. The Capital City of Iran spreads over many hills. Thel 8 Palaces of the Reza Shah and Mohmammed Reza Shah Pahlavi Family are spread over a large area of woods and streams In the mountains to the north of City. We visited the 7 Palaces open to the public and gained the impression that the present Govt, knows nothing about encouragemenet of Tourism. Not a single postcard is available: and though a stiff fee is levied on cameras, yet no photography is allowed inside the Palace buildings. Amongst the most beautiful is the old original Palace of Reza Shah with its exquisite carpets, mirror ceilings chandeliers and French style period furniture. Even the bathrooms are special and fit for a king. The big Palace of Mohammed Reza Shah has a maginificent staircase and murals on the walls, beautiful carpets, chandeliers and different styles of furniture from different countries in the several rooms. The Queen's Palace with its imitation of the Sphinx is converted into a museum of stuffed animals and butterflies. The Military Museum Palace IsworthavisittoseetheuniformsofthelranianArmyfrom Achemenian times to the present. A picture album, or postcards should atleast be made avaialble , if for no other reason than historical education for all the school children. Two other Palaces are converted into Art Museums with lovely Persian Paintings. TheNational Jewels are securely kept in a bank vault. These now consist mostly of the Jewellery of Muslim Kings of the last 200 to 100 years ago period, with afew pieces of Crowns and Swords ofthe Pahlavi period. But much of the Jewellery seen two decades ago is gone. One of the most outstanding pieces is the Orb of the world encnisted with gems, rubies, emeralds and diamonds on a gold mounting made to teach geography to a Prince. Princess Farah's Crown is amongst the prettiest pieces of the Crown Jewels. Much of it is Rajasthani style enamel work encrusted with gems of about 150 years ago jewellery other museums in Tehran worth visiting indude the National Museum where artefacts from Persepolis, Susa and other ancient sites are preserved: the Glass and Ceramic Museum with its exquisite pieces of porcelains and painted glass miniature bottles; the museum itself is a Palace with a period-piece drcular staircase, French style furniture rich carpets and chandeliers: the keepers are most courteous II advertisement and play delightful musicfortheirvisitors. The Carpet Museum houses a magnificentcollection of Persian carpel with thepatlems of the various provinces. The Zoroastrian quarter in Tehran is located in the heart of the old city. There is a comfortable Dharamshala, much frequented by Parsis of India during theirgroup louts, although ourgroup stayed at the comfortbale ‘Parsa Hotel" off the Vali Assr Avenue. This avenue is narned aftera person who is yet to be bom. The Persians believe Shah Behiam Varzavand Saheb will come, and so the avenue is named after the SoshyanI to come. The main Zoroastrian Anjuman office and Meeting Hall is also located here near the Agiary building. This Agiary is much used by the local Zoroastrian community: and there ate kitchens and a Gahambar area in the compound. Zoroastrian women prepare special food for Mukhtad and after-death ceremonies. The ladies had ananged an exhibition of home made embroidered articles made by the Zoroastrian women of Iran, and also some of the dinners during the Congress were held here. After the Congress we flew by Mahan Airlines local flight to Kerman , from where many Zoroastrians still come to India. This historic old city was one of the capitals of the Sassanian Monarch Ardeshir Babegan; whose magnificent Palace in ruins straddles across the hill lops. From Kerman a long coach journey look us to the 1 Sth century palace of the Gajjar Muslim King of this area who had built a miniature Versailles, by landscaping the hill side and converting it into beautiful gardens, with a series of fountains, streams and water pools with roses. Cypress and apple trees to cool the country side. The su rrounding land is a hot barren desert, and the Palace is a green spot oasis, for the benefit of the people who make good use of the palace restaurant and also the gardens as a picnic ground. Our coach reached the ancient Citadel of Argebam, around tops, nowin ruins, underrestoration by UNESCO. Twohoursof climbing from the entrance gates to the top of the Citadel were rewarded by a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside with the sun setting behind jagged black peaks of the distant hills. This city had one of the three big Atash Behrams constructed by the founder of the Sassanian Dynasty, now disused. In a comer of the Atash Behiam courtyard is a well named "Shah Behram’, after the coming Rainidar Saheb. The Military Courtyard and Soldiers Barracks area has a whispering gallery, amarvalofarchitecture.TheAimyQeneralsstandingonthecommand - ___,___________ platformneededonlytowhispertheircommandforittobeheardclearty You are the only COUSin I have in New byalllhesoldieisintheirquarters. Thelocalpeoplecontinuedtoinhabit ~~ ¦ * the ruined dty till thiscentuiy.Rightontopofthe Citadel is the4Seasons Palace which remainscool even in the mid summer heat. Also from the top is a secret escape tunnel through which food and supplies could secretly be brought into this city when beseiged. The grand Citadel of Hoch Auslerwictz in Klagenfurt region of Austria appears to be a copy of Argebam. This region is famous for its pistachiou nuts plantations and luscious dates. Kerman can also boast of agood bazar where artefacts made from copperand brass are hand crafted; and nuts, fruits and "maevo" are on the wholesale market. The Govt, ran restaurant and chaikhana attached to the public bath and wax museum depicting Unani style massage of about 4 centuries ago, serves excellent vegetarian food for a change. The first stone construction of a Fire Temple building, of the time of Ardeshir Babegan is also still standing intact in Kerman. Next evening we took the retu m flight to Tehran , to reach rather late for a dinner party hosted by the Majlis Member Mr. Panriz Ravani at his residence in honour ot the Foreign Delegates attending the World Congress. One of the highlights of this trip was a full day coach drive to Mount Demavand on the outskirts of Tehran. The weather in the Elburz Mountains changes rapidly; and the day we visited the mountain was in heavy rain with thunderstorm, mist and fog. The entire mountain range in this arsa has panoramic scenery. Some of us ladies from India _____ consecrateda'Jashan'bylightingafireattheentranceofthecavenear how they must be Celebrating Navroze thebridgeovertheDemavandriver.andplacingfreshfruits,riverwater korV in Tnriio j 4.1-° t and other offerings, on the ground to the recitation of Avestan prayers. 1** maia. INOW and then, James Severaloftheladiessaidthattheysawmysteriousfiguresappearand Scribbled a few words in reply on a pad disappearontheoppositebankoftheriver.clamberingupthemountain ' ¦ • r > slopes and then vanishing. The best biggest, freshest and juiciest apricots, walnuts and cherries and healing mountain-springs water are to be found here al Mt. Demavand. The shepherds construct stone cairns Io collect snow and preserve it for providing drinking water for their flocks through the long hot summers. Mt. Demavand is a defunct volcano. Beautiful flowers and herbal medicinal plants grow on the Mountain slopes. People of the villages are friendly but poor and we came across beggerwomen in this area. Excellent honey isto be found here; and the mineral spring-water is bottled near a waterfall. We are indeed thankful to Iran Air for all the courtesies extended Io all the returning passenger groups on the flight of 28th June from , . TehrantoBombayincludingwaivingthroughthegrosslyheavyweight leered tO DC onc of the subjects. The baggageoftheCongressparticipantsandsetvingofvegetarianfoodon Search team is here to talk tO him ” flight. TheDelegationmembersthankedAhuraMazdatorasateretum T'kJ- home to the friendly shores of BOMBAY, the City of the Parsis, with * Signed m resignation. James WaS in- its 4 big Atash Behrams, over half a hundred Agiaries, dokhmas still in corrigible but he Was mv COUSin I Said use and Parsi residential Baugs, housing a living population of ” . Zoro^rians who have kept the flames and tires of the Ancient Faith burning brightly with the performance of ceremonies, after a month of touring the ancient rains of Iran. “It ’s all right, ” said James, the hurt in his voice throbbing over the telephone. “You needn ’t take the trouble of coming to the hospital. I just thought I’d let you know. ” I was immediately overcome by re ­ morse. Heck, we ’d grown up together back in the sunny and dusty town of Nagpur in In two years he ran through two wives, two cars, two tons of T-steak and 20,000 hours of television Investment in Property: Pune is the best city central India. Besides I was his only kin in _ ________ cold-heartedNew York. If we didn ’t stand sunset.Thisgreatcity.builtbyArdehsirBabegan.sIraddlesacrosshill by each Other at times like this we didn ’t tops, nowin wins.underi»stoiationbviJNFSr.n Twnh™..«nfriimhin„_____y we dldn t deserve to belong to the same fine family tree or share a grandma who had always stressed the thickness of blood over water. “Okay pal. I’ll see you there, ” I said. “Just give me the name and address of the hos ­ pital ... and take care of yourself, James. Be your budget low or high, we help you book flats, Pent ­ houses, Row-houses or Bungalows in various schemes in and around within about 15 kms from Pune. York. ” Buttoning up my coat against the chill of the evening, I left the office half an hour early the next day. I picked up some flow ­ ers and a basket of oranges on my way to the hospital, where a pretty red-headed nurse directed me to the room of Dr James Cooper. Cousin James looked like Amitabh Bachchan in a hospital scene, victorious but battered after having fought five hood ­ lums single-handedly. His head, face and neck were swathed in bandages with elon ­ gated slits for his eyes, mouth and nose. A ghost of a smile cracked the white mask. I held his hand and told him he looked great. I talked to him of home and family and back in India. Now and then, Janies and handed it to me. About 20 minutes after I had come, a serious, clean-shaven, white-coated gentle ­ man looked in and politely asked me if I would now leave. “The New York State University is doing some research on the effects of cosmetic surgery on the male psyche. Dr James has very kindly volun- re- Modern facilities like swimming pool, health club, landscaped gardens with jogging tracks, centralized security systems, generators for lifts, satellite TV connections, telephone points, etc. - Prices range from as Idw as Rs 800 to a high of over Rs 4,500 per sq ft built-up area. Commercial complexes with modern facilities also available. Booking opened in an exclusive small scheme, having Bungalows and Row-houses with modern amenities, near Pashan Lake 6 km from Pune University. Limited availability. Booking opened in Palm Grove Apartment, a luxury complex about 2 km from the race-course, having modern amenities and near Eastern Court which is fully sold out. For particulars write to: Minoo Bhathena BySel Estate goodbye and walked out into the Ameri ­ can evening. 302 Devika Apartment 2010 West Street Pune 411001 Tel: 650757 IDorrabji ’s JERROZ HOTEL Panchgani 412805 Central Situation Finest Hotel in Panchgani Stay an(d enjoy the mountains and our hospitality Phone: (91) (02168) 40238 MOTLIBAI’S ACT OF FAITH continued from page 138 ijashnis were performed by a number of mobeds, separately, in the inner and outer prayer halls. However, like most other atash behrams and agiaries in India, the Udvada Atash Behram also suffers from a severe shortage of professional mobeds, specifically those able to perform the elaborate consecration ceremonies. Currently, the Udvada Atash Behram has only about 10 resident mobeds. Consequently, the consecration ceremo ­ nies had to be programmed to the availabi ­ lity of the mobeds. Due to the very heavy monsoon rains between June and Septem ­ ber 1994, the consecration ceremonies could not be completed in time for the holy fire to be relocated on roj Meher, mah Ardibehesth, YZ 1364 (October 7, 1994), the centenary date of the Atash Behram. The holy fire was finally shifted in the Ushen gah on roj Aneran, mah Ardi ­ behesth, YZ 1364 (the night of October 21/ 22,1994). In preparation for the shift of the holy fire from the Dar-e-Mehr to the Atash Behram, all street lights in the area around the Atash Behram were turned off to avoid artificial light shining on and polluting the Holy Fire during its passage; all lights in the two buildings were extinguished and the whole area totally darkened. Thereaf- B.Jamshedji Jivanji Goldsmiths & Manufacturing Jewellers Estd 1901 Opp Mumbadevi Zaveri Bazar Bombay 400002 Phone: 3427464 With compliments of f Bombay Real Estate Development Company Private Limited M/s S. F. Engineer Noshirwan Mansion, Henry Road, Colaba, Mumbai 400039 Telephone: 2841475, 2841491 Fax: 2833563 IWith Compliments From THE PLACE TOUCHE THE SIZZLER 7, Moledina Road Poona 411001 Tel: 634632 ter, the nine mobeds who had taken special nahans jointly carried the holy fire back to the inner sanctum of the Atash Behram. The first boi and maachi were offered to the holy fire in its newly renovated home by the son of Dastur Pheroozi (who was in Bombay, recovering from a heart attack) in the Ushen gah. The next day, in the Havan gah of roj Hormuzd, mah Khordad, YZ 1364 (at about 6.30 a.m. on October 22, 1994), a maachi was offered to the holy fire on behalf of The Wadia Trust, followed later in the morning by a jashan performed in the outer prayer hall of the Atash Behram by Dastur Mirza and nine other mobeds including the son of his compeer Pheroozi, the manager of the Atash Behram and the secretary of the UdwadaNav Kutumbi Athoman Anjuman, both of whom are mobeds. Attending the jashan was a representative trustee of The Wadia Trust, the architect and the contractor all of whose roles in renovating the venerable structures were highly com ­ mended. Devotees have been exuberant about the fire-temple ’s overall appearance — the choice of the tiles, carpets and color schemes. The world Zoroastrian commu ­ nity commends with gratitude their execu ­ tion of this onerous task which has ensur ­ ed the preservation of the holy Iranshah fire, in befitting status, for the generations ahead. Engineers of repute for construction works of good quality RATAN SURVEYOR &Co Engineers,Contractors & R.C.C. specialists Arbitrator (Member» The Indian Council of Arbitration) Piramal Mansion Dr Dadablpy Naoroji Road Fort, Bombay 400001 Phone: 2619670 * r- ^edena^ PROTECTION & INTELLIGENCE SERVICES Sacurity/Manpower Consultants * Armsd/Personal Body Guards * Cash/Cargo Escorts (with vehicle) * Kennel squad Spot payment offered for Indian/ Imported cars For booking of flats under construction at Udvada (Near Iranshah) Main Street, Pune 411001, \q\ No: 631963 250,1/1 Perin Nariman Street, Fort, Bombay 400001, Tel No: 2611926, 2621281,2617331FOOD “Throw away that lump, Ms Manekshaw. ” I looked up in sheer horror. “You have handled it too much, the texture is ruined. The outcome will be hard inedible pastry, if you can call it that. ” This was my first lesson in making pate sucree, the sweet French pastry, at the Cordon Bleu School of Cookery, London. This was the advanced course to which one was supposed to come equipped with knowledge of the lesser types of cakes and pastry. So I started all over again, bearing in mind that one handles pastry very lightly, and kneads lightly till smooth. From that day onwards, I have been extra careful how I handle this particular pastry. PATE SUCREE Plain flour (4 oz — 115 g) Castor sugar (2 oz — 60 g) / Butter (2 oz — 60 g) '( Eggs (2 — large yolks) Salt (a pinch) . \ / Sieve flour with salt on a marble top or A [hyrT pastry board. Make a well in the center with the back of your hand. Place butter, castor sugar, and egg yolks in the well. Using the finger tips of your right hand, soften butter with sugar and egg yolks till smooth and no lumps remain. Now with a palette knife in your left hand, draw in the flour, and (this is the crucial moment) knead very lightly till the paste is smooth. Do not overknead at this point. Put paste in a clingwrap and chill for at least one hour before using, so that the pastry is relaxed. ? How to roll pastry J There is a method in rolling pastry. / We do not roll like we do our roties \ or chappaties. k Place the paste on a floured board Xf and pat into a round. With a floured / rolling pin (the flour should be on the U surface and on the pin, not on the paste, as that would add extra flour to the paste and make it hard: all these Treat it as you would a friend -- gently and with respect! ll(( ;0 little tips one never finds in cookery books). Place the rolling pin at the base of the paste nearest to you. Roll two ups and one down with a firm hand, pick up the pin and start again from the point you left off. Repeat this movement till the outer rim of the pastry is reached. Make the circle large enough to line the tin which is going to be used. BARQUETTES FRANGIPANES Take about 8-10 barquette tins (boat shaped) and place them close together, almost touching each other. Roll up the paste on the rolling pin and unroll on to the barquette tins. Lightly stretch pastry into each mold with a small ball of pastry dipped in flour. Cut off pastry with the rolling pin rolled over it. Prick the barquettes in tins with a fork and keep in a cool place till required. 9 FRANGIPANE nn Castor sugaPi(4 oz — 115 g) Butter (4 oz — 115 g) Eggs (2) Almonds (4 oz —115 —ground) L Flour (1 oz — 30 g) P LimeMemon juice (2-3 drops) Soften butter with a spatula or wooden spoon. Add sugar and beat till smooth, light and fluffy. Beat eggs lightly and add gradually to mixture, beating all the while. Add almonds, flour and lime juice. Mix well. Fill three quarter barquette molds lined with pastry and bake for 5-8 minutes in a preset oven with temperature 375°F (190°C). With the same paste one can make I Tartlettes aux ^uits. * f TARTLETTES AUX FRUITS Line small tartlette tins with pate sucree. For this roll out pastry into 0 a round. Choose a pastry cutter one •A size larger than the tartlette tins. Pastry dough: friend or foe? Bhicoo J. Manekshaw 148 Parsiana Ju/y-August 1996 IPlace cut rounds of pastry in molds. Press twice with two thumbs, taking care not to press the edges. Prick and bake blind for 5-8 minutes. Filling Apricot glaze or black or green grapes (seeded), or cherries or strawberries. Apricot Glaze Apricot jam (3-4 tbsp) Water (2-3 tbsp) Place jam and water in a pan and bring to a boil. Stirring all the while reduce the mixture by about 1/3. Sieve and brush the cooked pastry while glaze is still hot. Cool, and fill with fruit. Add fruit in the tartlettes and brush again with hot glaze. Leave to set and get cold. PATE AU CHOUX (Oven temperature 420°F — 220°C) This paste is used for eclairs or for savory fillings. Flour (5 oz — 115 g) Butter (3‘/2 oz — 100 g) Water (Vi pint imperial or 10 oz) Eggs (4) Salt (a pinch) Sieve dry flour with salt on a plate or stiff all at once. Beat till smooth. The mixture paper. Melt butter with water in a pan, should now leave the sides of the pan and D * ( i. )) 7 & bring to a boil. The ideal is to melt butter and bring water to boil at the same time, if possible. Remove from heat. Shoot in flour to 425°F- form into a ball and, if pressed with a finger, the pastry should not stick to it. Do not overheat at this stage or the butter will separate, making the pastry heavy when baked. Cool mixture. Lightly beat eggs. Add a little of egg mixture to the cooled pastry and beat well till all the eggs are used up. Beat thoroughly till pastry is smooth and shining. Grease a baking sheet and flour it lightly . Either pipe paste into eclairs or pipe into balls or spoon paste on baking sheet with two wet spoons. Smooth over with the back of a wet spoon into a ball. Bake in a preset oven and increase heat 220°C as choux paste rises better in rising heat. Bake for about 30 minutes. Do not get deceived if you see the pastry well risen, puffed up and light brown. It has to stop “singing. ” This trick was taught by my ustad in the bakery department at the India International Center where I used to work as their catering consultant. Once I told ustadji that the pastry should be removed, as I thought that it was done. He said, “Nahiji, unhe gaana nahi bund kiya (no, they have not stopped singing). ” He took one out and firessed it to my ear — it was hissing! He said that until the-hissing stopped, they were not baked through and With z Gomplifiients of CPEC LIMITED 1, Industrial Estate. Lalbaug, Bombay * 400 012. Tel. : 413 7353, 7431,0349, 412 8387, 1591 Fax : 0091*22-4130937 Pioneer in the field of manufacture of Mechanical power transmission systems. * Helical and Bevel/Helical Gear Boxes * Worm Reduction Gears inline Helical Gears & Geared Motors * Automatic Control Variable Speed Pulleys & Drives * Non-Standard & Custom Built Gear Boxes * Flexible Couplings etc. 150 Parsiana July-August 1996 I «THE ZOROASTRIAN CO-OPERATIVE BANK LIMITED (Established 1927) would collapse as soon as they were brought out. I timed the pastry to 30-35 minutes, and all the guesswork was cut out. Do not be impatient, wait for them to be light golden brown and they must stop “singing ”! One can never stop learning in this wonderful profession. And here is another trick: immediately they are out, pierce them with a skewer to release the steam, so that they become nice and crisp and not soggy. Place them on a cake rack to cool. Then slit open and fill with any of the following fillings: Savory Fillings: 1) Cooked prawns with bechamel sauce and chopped celery, with a dash of tobasco. 2) Cooked prawns with mayonnaise or in Thousand Island dressing. 3) Cooked diced chicken in bechamel sauce or in demi glaze sauce with a little red wine or in mayonnaise. 4) Cooked mush-rooms in bechamel sauce, or demi glaze with a little red wine. 5) Cooked vegetables with bechamel sauce mixed with a little oyster sauce or with mayonnaise. We welcome you to: — Fully Computerised Operations — Extended Business Hours — Prompt Personal Payments on Teller — Courteous and Efficient Service — Higher Interest Rate on Deposits — Competitive Interest Rates on Advances — Banking Facilities for all Communities We invite you to give us an opportunity to offer you our modem and efficient services and facilities So come Bank with us Sweet Fillings: Sweeten cream flavored with brandy with the top dipped in praline sauce or caramel. 2) Filled with sweetened cream and the top covered with chocolate sauce. 3) Filled with creme patissiere and covered with chocolate sauce. CREME PATISSIERE (Confectioner ’s custard) Egg (1) Egg yolk (1) Castor sugar (3 oz — 85 g) Flour (‘/2 oz — 15 g) Cornflour ('/z oz — 15 g) Milk (Vi pint imperial or 10 oz) Vanilla Separate egg. Cream two yolks with castor sugar t^l white and light. Add flour and a little cold milk to make a paste. Scald rest of the milk, pour over egg mixture, blend, put on low heat. Stir all the while till mixture boils. Remove from fire, add vanilla. Whip egg white till stiff. Fold into the mixture. Cool and use as required. * * “A Bank that is Big on Tradition and Trust ’’ For opening new accounts please contact us at: Head Office Zoroastrian Association Building, 16, Homiman Circle, Fort, Bombay 400023 Tel 2665617/2665937 Tardeo Branch Gamadia Colony, Tardeo, Bombay 400034 Tel 4927173/4971963 Bandra Branch 9-Pluto Coop Housing Society Ltd, Master Vinayak Road, Bandra, Bombay 400050 Tel 6456244/6456992 Andheri Branch Shop No 2, Parsian Coop Housing Society, V. P. Road, (Off S. V. Road), Opp Fidai Baug, Andheri (W), Bombay 400058 Tel 6238237 LINZER TORTE (Oven temperature 375°F-190°C) This recipe has been taken from Gourmet’s Old Vienna Cook Book. Butter (P/2 cups) Sugar (1 cup — fine confectioner ’s icing sugar, sifted) Egg (1 — large) Flour (2 3/4 cups — sifted) Hazelnuts (P/2 cups — ground). Can use walnuts or almonds instead, if hazelnuts are not available. Salt (a pinch) Cinnamon (Vi tsp — powder) Raspberry jam as needed, extra confec-tioner ’s sugar. Cream butter with confectioner ’s sugar till light. Add egg, beat well. Fold in flour alternately with hazelnuts, salt and cinnamon. Mix and chill for V2 hour. Roll out in a round 1/4” thick. Place in a flan ring or a spring form pan with the pastry 1” rim up the sides of the pan. Prick. Spread jam about P/2 to 2 cups, with a dash of lime/lemon juice. Roll out rest of pastry dough. Cut into V2” wide strips and form a lattice on top over the jam. Bake for 40 minutes. Cool, and remove from pan. Fill squares with more jam and sprinkle sides with extra confectioner ’s sugar and serve. Bhicoo J. Manekshaw, a graduate of the prestigious Cordon Bleu School of Cookery, London, and author of Traditional Recipes of India, has been associated with many haute cuisine organizations in the country. ^52 Parsiana July-August 1996 IBOOKS She books the crook Homi J. Rogers actions between the characters, as well as their foibles are etched with an observant eye. However, Wandrewala is not able to maintain this felicitous streak. As she shifts towards building up the tale to its some ­ what labored finale, her characters appear 1 The Turningby Armin Wandrewala. Published in 1996 by Astarte Publications, 1-A, Metro House, 23-25, Colaba Causeway, Bombay 400001. Distributed by UBS Publishers Distributors Pri ­ vate Limited, 5, Wallace Street, Bombay 400001. Pp; 160. Price: Rs 98. Step aside Perry Mason. Aapm Zerxes Avari is here to solve complicated crime cases. With knowledge of the law, and assistance from his part- _ time live-in girlfriend, I Scherezade Vatcha, an ex- I freelance journalist turned copywriter. Vatcha pro- | vides no intricate play on words despite her vocation, but the plot of Ms Armin Wandrewala ’s maiden no ­ vel The Turning twists its | way to an absorbing finale I on why (more than ‘who ’) I Ms Dina Prakash Sattar I was killed. I The Turning is a tale ol | two families, and the sad | chain of events that grips j them within a month. On the 10th anniversary of Prakash Shah- ane ’s wedding to Dina, his first wife Ka- runa, who had refused to give him a di ­ vorce and permit his remarriage, commits suicide. A fortnight later, Dina is found dead. An autopsy conducted on her ‘cadaver ’ (Wandrewala being a practising lawyer prefers to use legalese in place of the more familiar ‘corpse ’) reveals that what could have passed off as a natural death is in actuality an almost perfect ly this fear^in murder. And 70 pages through the book, the stage is set for unravelling the answer to - - - ------- _ - new Moslem surname adopted by the birthday, couple after their wedding). ' Wandrewala assembles a large cast of suspects for her whodunit and manages, despite ponderous language and a rather pedantic style, to keep the reader inter ­ criminal lawyer tracks down the murderer. The case is made all the more interesting by the fact that Dina, in her search for sex and happiness, abandoned her faith and converted to Islam to marry Prakash, a Hindu who also converts to Islam without predictable; they do not evolve, divorcing his first wife. Such a conversion and marriage “to avail of the benefit of a second wife ” has ramifications on inheri- „ . - tance as well. Earlier Dinahad gone through the complexity of the novel she packs a divorce from her wimp-like husband many as 33 characters in its 160 pages. Khurshed Sooneji and an involvement with There ’s Aftab Dastoor, cousin of Dina s first husband Khurshed , a rabidly orthodox priest who has seen Dina sneak into a fire ­ temple at Bandra. He sends word through . "1 visit her on the morning of her death) that he would take matters in his own hand if he ever saw her repeat the act. Even Dina ’s brother, Fredun, is portrayed as never hav ­ ing forgiven her for the ‘sin, ’ and identi ­ fied by the reader as a possible suspect. It would not be fair to tell more about the plot, but thert! ( nil •' H ** Throughout the book there are several references to the house of Tatas and members of that leading family. The most interesting and enter ­ taining however is the farewell message deliver ­ ed by J. R. D. Tata on Sir Homi Mody ’s retirement and the repartee he earned from the quick-witted di ­ rector. At One point JRD commented, “Of all men I know, none enjoys fare ­ well functions as much as Sir Homi. This is the third he has got from us... He is a very resourceful man, and in spite of all the pre ­ cautions we have taken... he might well infiltrate again into the board of Tatas... ” Take now Sir Homi ’s response: “As Mr Tata has rubbed it in, this is the third occasion on which Bombay House is ion non-Zoroastrians refused entry into fire- I temples he states: “When I a devotee goe.s to the I temple, he first has to go I to the temple-well in a I corner of the compound, * wash his hands, and untie and recite his kusti... Then only can he enter the fire ­ temple. Even a Parsi who has not worn the sudreh-kusti cannot enter the temple. ” On holding a function in my honor, and I was this reasoning even children whose navjotes have yet to be performed would not be entitled to enter fire-temples. Dadachanji ’s six-fold recipe for sur ­ vival stresses on the need for individual members to subordinate their personal in ­ terests to the larger interests of the commu ­ nity, realize the importance of duty, and book gives an overall impression of being exercise rights with responsibility. Com- going to say that it looks like being the last, until I heard the heartening wdrds of the chairman... We have as chairman a most unusual person. He has a very keen intellect, a little too keen... ” Even though there are some spelling errors and a mix-up of certain pages, the Speeches and Writings on Zoroastrian Religion, Culture andCivilizationbyF. K. Dadachanji. Pub ­ lished in 1995 by the author, Dadachanji House, 4 Katrak Parsi Colony, M. A. Jinnah Road, Karachi. Pp:XV-r449. Price: Rs 400. In his eightieth year of life Karachi ’s Faredun K. Dadachanji launched his sec ­ ond book Speeches and Writings on Zoro­ astrian Religion, Culture and Civilization, exercise rights with responsibility. Com- a neat, presentable work. That the frontis- The author ’s rationale for this present work menting on the economic condition of the piece of the book has been designed by as per his preface: while he waited in the community the author despairs, “Our com- departure lounge of the terminal airport munity today is again maintaining a very waiting to be carried to his final destina ­ tion, he could not sit idle doing nothing. Actually his article on Parsi Character extravagance and indulgence... Even in notes, “A Parsi never rests. As a matter of advanced countries... the present slogan chanji ’s first book, Papsis: Ancient and fact, laziness is a sin according to the Parsi (is) ‘Save and Prosper ’ whereas the Parsi religion. ” The 449-page volume contains some of the speeches and articles the author had plicity. ’” delivered and written during the past nearly 30 years, plus some other contributions from varied sources. “This book is like a grand buffet-banquet, where all sorts of lasting testimony to their greatness. Unfor- food for thought are spread out, from which tunately we do not get to know the source you may select any item you like, digest it, of some of these writings. The photographs been promised to the Dastur Dr Dhalla and try another one. But you do not have to accompanying the text are impressive. Memorial Institute which will open a Spe- consume all items at one go... ” Dadachanji outlines his objectives. However when sampling such varied fare one should also be prepared to come across the same thoughts and words more than once. Including controversial subjects like bhai Naoroji ’s patience and tolerance in high and artificial standard of living. We are getting used to a life of comfort, ease. slogan is ‘Eat, drink and make merry... ’ Our motto today should be ‘Back to Sim- 156 Parsiana July-August 1996 * Jimmy Engineer who deserves a mention in the work is understandable. But to see over a dozen pages devoted to this artist seems disproportionate. Similarly repro ­ ducing the foreword and reviews to Dada- Modem, seems unnecessary. As comments Dadachanji ’s colleague Behram Rustomji, “It ’s a valuable, infor ­ mative and inspiring volume which makes pleasant reading... should be in every Parsi The section on Ancient History eluci ­ dates the reigns of the glorified Persian home. ” Available in Karachi for Rs 4(X), rulers and their monuments which are a for the book to be mailed to India, it will cost Rs 530 per copy if sent in a parcel of six books. The proceeds of the book have accompanying the text are impressive. Prominent Parsis includes mention of cial Endowment Fund Account and utilize those known to the author like the Dinshaws and Avaris of Karachi, and Dr Aspi Gol- walla and Parvez Katrak of Bombay. It is through these pages that we learn of Dada- the interest therefrom to invite Zoroastrian and non-Zoroastrian scholars to deliver lectures and papers, as notes a newsletter issued by the Informal Religious Meetings Trust Fund. f I «MEDIA Making crime pay Following The Turning, her first release, counsel Armin Wandrewala already has five other books in the pipeline Homi J. Rogers For quite a few years, Ms Armin Wan ­ drewala was just one of those black robes who walk purposefully down the sun- streaked corridors of Bombay High Court, holding their clients ’ briefs — and destiny mony to Parsi culture, ” she states. — in their hands. Then one monsoon mor ­ ning in 1996 she surprised everyone with the release of her book The Turning, a detective novel. For our interview we met in her office en ­ livened with potted plants. A wreathed-in ­ warmth Wandrewala greeted us, trying to shuffle aside the papers that crowded her desk: testimony to the twin ca ­ reers she now straddles — writer/publisher and practising lawyer. phy he gifted me an entire set of law books for the first year. ” That marked Wand ­ rewala ’s story-book entry into the musty world of statutes and tomes, though not all the dust and dreariness of the courts could stop her from viewing life through rose ­ colored glasses. Wandrewala fell in love with, and subsequently married her boss, then an advocate ’s assistant at Romer Dadachanji Sethna and Company, the law the Parsi baugs, which is another facet of firm she signed up with on becoming a the city she loves. “I grew up in the Bandra lawyer. Her husband, Shiraz Rahimtoolah Parsi Colony, a beautiful place. And like has been her friend, philosopher and guide, most Parsi colonies, an enduring testi- and, as she acknowledges in her book, “my harshest critic and staunchest supporter. ” Another place close to her heart is her Wandrewala, however, retains her maiden school, Bombay ’s J. B. Vachha High surname for her own legal practice and School for Parsis Girls writing career. in the Dadar Parsi Co ­ lony. Wandrewala re ­ calls her schooldays with dewy-eyed nostal ­ gia. “Such a lovely place... superb teach- issue of conversion to give my views, ” she I ers... ” she raves, adding I that they were the ones I to spot her talent in I writing. “I won numer- I OUS essay competitions that inbreeding is bad, we Parsis scowl at I at school, and always marrying outside the community, as it I got the highest marks would ‘dilute the Parsi strain. ’” It is a co- Wandrewala has had I for composition, ” she nundrum on which Wandrewala chooses a checkered life. Having I recalls, traipsing merrily to hold no brief, on either side, at least not lost her father Ratan __________________________ I down memory lane, when she was just seven, “My love for writing is a she worked her way thro- Wandrewala: an interest in debt I owe my school, ” ugh school and college writing fiction avers Wandrewala, add- by giving piano lessons ing that her mother also and winning scholarships, then dabbling played a role in encouraging her fondness in marketing before straying into law, al ­ most at the cost of sacrificing her earlier ambition to become a writer. “I have sold space in Gentleman maga ­ zine, and marketed sites for the Asiad in Bombay and.-Calcutta for a Dubai-based firm, ” she reveals. She recalls those early College, too, Wandrewala secured the high- years when she worked for a law degree from Bombay ’s Government Law Col ­ lege, acity Navsari-born Wandrewala came Trophies. the argument that such an acceptance would to in her infant years and grew to loVe For some time her yen for writing had to lead to a generation having names like immensely. “I missed Bombay tremen- take a back seat, as Wandrewala was drawn Hutoxi Narayan, or Jehangir Varma, dously, when we (the family, including into the world of law by a strange quirk of “What ’s wrong with that, ” she argues, mother Homai and younger brother Hoshi) fate. A practising lawyer who heard her “don ’t we have Frasers and Morrises and migrated to Canada in the ’70s,” she says. A possible reason why the Wandrewalas during a litigation case involving her winged back home? It is also probably why mother, was convinced she would make a Wandrewala has set her first novel in good lawyer. “I was born on June 22 — Bombay, etching out in detail the sights don ’t ask me the year, please. On my and sounds of the bustling city and life in birthday after my graduation in philoso- Her own marriage to a non-Parsi (thou ­ gh he ’s half-Parsi, she reveals, “his mother is a Zoroastrian ’’) has not clouded her views on conversion or intercommunity marriages. “I don ’t know enough on the states candidly, “a^id hence prefer to be non-committal. But on the subject of inter ­ marriages, there appears to be a contra ­ diction. While on the one handjwe are told for the present. “I would like to do research on Parsi philosophy one day, ” she sighs, wondering how she would find the time for such a major project. “But intercommunity marriages, ” ob ­ serves Wandrewala, “are bound to take for this activity. “She is a very imaginative place in cosmopolitan work-cities like person, with a great love for books and Bombay. It is time the community accept- literature, a passion shared by my father as well. ” So, call it genes or upbringing, the young Wandrewala had it within her to write — and write well. At St Xavier ’s performed. If we can accept children of Parsi fathers with non-Parsi mothers, I see no reason why the community cannot ac- ed that, and also took into the fold children of Parsi mothers whose non-Parsi fathers have no objection to their navjotes being est marks in English in her first year BA, and bagged the Father Degan and Father Divine cept it vice-versa. ” Wandrewala scoffs at For some time her yen for writing had to take a back seat, as Wandrewala was drawn talk and saw the way she carried herself Crawfords and such other English sur ­ names in our community? ” Her spirited argument and unconven ­ tional thinking reminds one of a character in her maiden work. “Yes, ” she laughs, “friends do tell me that Scherezade in The Parsiana July-August 1996 4' * I{ , of Zerxes Avari and Scherezade quite a few close shaves, though as Vatcha are to find a second expression in < T«ming reminds them of me. ” But then, all tures first novels are autobiographical in part. Yet The Turning has its roots in a case which presented itself to her a few sum ­ mers ago. A five-month pregnant French ­ woman visited her, and expressed her de- ------------ - --------- -- - site to get married to a Hindu after they Turning when the book was at the proofing graphs, awahs an both converted to Islam The situation set stage so that I could develop him m a later t ----- , W^^drewala thinking, and Turning work. ” Also slated for early publication comnionsense tipsforte^^ was conceived. Wandrewala added the corpses and a fair dose of sex and sin, so that her work does not become a legal case study ; and thus she metamorphosed from a legal-eagle to a crime-czarina. “I’m so glad the book has succeeded, ” she gushes, , . _ ... “because it has helped to explode the myth gerial books, though myjntcrcst is in wri ­ that crime tales by an Indian author won t sell. ” Wandrewala, who published the book herself along with a well-wisher so as to r- rr c retain total control over its production, be published by Vakils Feffer and Simons says she has been flooded with orders. f It has also opened the floodgates for La,.,.,... ---------- ---------- c, and write” Tnterest- manv more works to spring from Wandre- 1993. She had kept a diary of her travels, back to the office and write. Interest wahfs prolific pen, or rather personal which involved a solojourney to Hemkund ingly, Wandrewala who writes on criminal P , . , • nrominent *\flhph a Sikh oilarim snot some 15,000 law is a counsel practising essentially in TudK fabled Valley .he Bombay High Court, having speeial- atouTAe tovX blo^^^^^^ U ofFlowers.and.hereaf.erasol„aryadven- ked in pubhe and private .ntemauonal Hindu and a Parsi girl. Moon Across Heavens will be out soon, published by last Indian village before the Magna Books (publishers of Stardust and ' * ‘ a clutch of other magazines). The adven- dieted by Jagjit and Kamini Uppal whom solitary trek, I emerged unscathed. ” The 24 color plates besides numerous photo- early release and con ­ tains, according to the author, many The Ceremony of Innocence due for release I met at the beginning of my impulse uy solitary trek, I emerged unscathed The father Sam plays a prominent role. Says book with 120-odd pages of text and lo to by the end of the year. In this novel Zerxes ’ 1...... the author, “I actually put him in The are two non-fiction books commissioned to her adventures, by UBS Publishers Distributors Ltd, one on a hard-core legal subject but written with the layman in mind, the other a gen ­ eral anecdotal book. “People are now ­ adays fond of reading non-fiction and mana- ting fiction, ” says Wandrewala. But the book currently closest to her heart is Alone in the Valley, a travelogue to With a profession as demanding as law, we wonder how Wandrewala finds the time for her writing, which includes not just the books in the pipeline, but also a weekly column on legal matters for The Metropolis, and reviewing .-books for the Indian Review of Books. “Writing is my passion, ” she says with a smile. “I write sometimes late into the night, and almost daily till around 8 or 9 p.m. in my office. ___ ________ ___ Sometimes, an idea strikes me when I’m Ga'rhwal Himalayas undertaken in August awaiting my case to come up in court; I get 12 from Wandre- 1993. She had kept a diary of her travels, back to the office and write. ” Interest- rather personal which involved a solo journey to Hemkund ingly, Wandrewala who writes on criminal _ a. ______ IC MAA lAtii lo o nrQPtiQlHCT ftSSftntiallV 111 Pvt Ltd, on Wandrewala ’s trek in the law. “I was born 5n the cusp of Gemini and uci 11 la a .. ......._____ o ___ Cancer, and Geminians are supposed to alone, ” recommends Wandrewala. “T had have dual personalities, ” laughs Wandre- ture at the Vasudhara Falls past Mana, the der. “It is a place no tourist should go to 4 ASPY LITHO WORKS Specialists in Cine Poster Printing 85, General Patters Road Madras 600002 Phones: 833133, 832344 & - 832833 Grams: “STRAIGHT” Telex No: 041-8718-ASPY-IN 160 Parsiana Juiy-August 1996 EWith Best Compliments From SEALOL HINDUSTAN LIMITED 163 Parsiana July-August 1996 wala, explaining the reason for her twin vocations. “And my palm says I’m des ­ tined to write. ’’ On a more serious plane though, Wan ­ drewala attribute.s her success to persever ­ ance and the courage of her convictions. “When I decided to go independent in my “Sometimes an idea strikes me when I’m awaiting my case to come up in court ” practice, people said I would not succeed. They felt that law is a male-dominated field, and neither clients nor fellow lawyers could relate to a female. But I had confidence in myself. I knew I would get briefs, and I did. Similarly, ” she continues, “when I took to writing crime fiction, it was assumed that my book wouldn ’t sell because Indian authors in this genre have not been well received. ” Yet, as Wandre ­ wala states with a bit of pride, her maiden book is the toast of literary circles in town. “If you firmly believe you can do some ­ thing, do it. Don ’t be cowed down, or allow anyone to discourage you, ” she ad ­ vises. “However, should you fail, don ’t flounder in recrimination; get on with your life. Let failure not daunt you. Remember, by the law of averages, the tide has to turn in your favor some time. ” For Wandrewala, the turning has al ­ ready come. Critics like M. V. Kamath, ex-editor of The Illustrated Weekly of In­ dia, and S. Muthiah, founder-editor of the Indian Review of Books, have praised her work in glowing terms, suggesting that Wandrewala has a second vocation all lined up and awaiting her. With a school ­ girl-like charm she exults, “I have even been approached by television serial pro ­ ducers to script some episodes for them, which I may soon do. ” There is no doubt that with Wandrewala writing is a passion, and her return to an old love is filling her with unbounded joy. “Be happy in whatever you do: happiness is what you owe to yourself, ” remarks Wan ­ drewala, then slips into Shakespearean sagacity as she quotes: “To thine own self be true... thou cans ’t not then be false to any man. ” From a little girl who shouldered family responsibility at an early age by giving piano lessons (“I don ’t find the time now to play it ”), Wandrewala has struck the right note in legal and literary circles, combin ­ ing the two with rare eclat. LORD’S CENTRAL HOTEL Matheran 410102 Enjoy the mountains), antics of the monkeys and our hospitality Matheran telephone number 021483-0228 Fax 021483-0595 Bombay telephone number 3867776 Ii L to R: Karanjawalla, Marfatia, P. Irani. Below: PGH administrator Dr Nisar Siddiqui (3rd from L) guiding Federation delegates at 4.5 to 5 lakh rupees , the primary concern is to generate funds. Guzder has already pledged one lakh rupees (for five consecutive years) from his personal trust. Mistry and Mogrelia pledged Rs 50,000 and Rs 25,000 SB M V V T/ respectively. Burzifi Mehta of the BPP’s Youth Club and one of the Guzder at the 1994 Federation meet in organizers of the scheduled fest noted that Baroda is yet to get off the ground. In the they were planning to publish a souvenir on the occasion and hoped their advertise ­ ment appeals will be well received. They are also looking for sponsors for meals each day at an estimated cost of Rs 25,000. - FEDERA'nON...conrinMeJ/rom page 102 Khareghat Hall, Mogrelia was heard jest ­ ingly advising his neighbor Tirandaz, meantime Tirandaz announced that the “Rustom, tume calmpose laine aavo (swal ­ low a tranquillizer before you come)! ” Udvada I ' ...................... Taleyarkhan apprised the council regard- be patron members... We are all Zoroastri- ing the progress of work at Udvada where engineering and afforestation are seen as two arms of the attempt to curtail the inroads ofthe sea which has already claimed noted banker Maneck Goiporia, Tirandaz sections of the beach, compound walls and property on the seafront between Udvada and the fishing village of Kolak. Zoroas ­ trian experts and government representa ­ tives together with the expertise of the Central Water and Power Station in Pune community in the world. ” have come to the conclusion that a 3*/2 m high wall, approximately 300 m long, 30 m into the sea would act as a breakwater. The central and state gov ­ ernments “have agreed to bear the brunt of the estimated cost of Rs 40 lakhs ” but have asked the Save Udvada Committee (SUC) to contribute whatever it can. “The total cost includ ­ ing affores-tation will amount to 1,5 crores. We have agreed to pay about 10 , percent, ” noted Taleyarkhan. The ; program ’s time-frame is estimated by bgL him as two to three years and the SUC is seeking the 80G exemption from the and bio data he had collected inf Income Tax authorities but it is yet to register of forming a body of industrialists, busi- itself as a charity in Bombay or Gujarat. Moved by Taleyarkhan ’s account, phi ­ lanthropist Dossu Ghandhi of Allahabad set the ball rolling by promising to donate develop it in Bombay, ” he told the corpo- Rs 25,000. The DPA, Calicut and SPP offered Rs 10,000 each, the Mhow anjuman Rs 11,000, the Madras Anjuman Rs 5,000 and the BPP offered Rs 50,000. Mogrelia personally donated Rs 5,000. BPP had taken the first step towards insti ­ tuting a Zoroastrian Chamber of Com ­ merce, Industry and Trade to be spear ­ headed by Shroff where “money bags will Among the proposed activities is the selec ­ tion of Mr and Ms Zoroastrian and a paint ­ ing competition for those between 12 and 22 years of age, according to P. Irani. Holiday Programme for Youth (HPY) organizer Ms Didha Marfatia gave a syn ­ opsis of the program that was held last ans, equal to one another irrespective of finance and wealth orientation, ” he de ­ clared. Voicing his sorrow at the loss of said, “We will try and take in (former chairman of the Central Bank of India) April with 40 upcountry youths from Noshir Mistry... All the Zoroastrians of the Calcutta, Madras, Pune, SuraTand Navsari world will grow together... We ’ll go into participating along with 109 from Bombay. One of the program ’s most effective fac ­ ets, according to Marfatia, is the opportu ­ nity it gives the budding adults to “interact and hobnob with very important people (who) leave their telephone numbers and visiting cards with the students, keep themselves on call. ” The HPY youths, specifically Ms Khushnooma Deboo, are also sup ­ posed to be organizing a represen ­ tation for the Second World Youth Congress to be hosted by the ZTFE in London in 1997. w Apart from these specific tasks , which were barely referred to, the youths felt sidelined among the jos- the process tling egos of Federation representatives. “Why is it that people over 50 are discuss ­ ing our future while we are sitting here for the past two days and not getting a chance to speak? ” asked Mehta. While Ms Navaz Palkhiwala translated her opportunity to speak into a quick litany of the activities of the youth in Pune — Khordadsal function, trip to Bushir Dam, Agiary salgreh, badminton competition, etc — Mehta, P. Irani, Neville Todiwalla and Deboo were concerned about the issues that were osten- the 21st century as the first, most credible In support Gandhi offered the 400 names * nessmen, professionals, etc under the Fed ­ eration umbrella called Zotarians. “We shouldn ’t pull in different directions. You rator. Zoroastrian Chamber of Commerce? ’ A scheme of venture capital, mooted by (tentatively November 8-11, 1996) placed Youth The 10th annual Youth Seminar is sched ­ uled to be held in Bombay during the Diwali holidays, according to P. Irani. With the cost estimate of the four-day fest sibly discussed by Federation members. I Some telling comments: 164 Parsiana July-August 1996•“Half an hour was spent in discussing whether the word ‘hulla ’ should be deleted from the minutes... The same points were made again and again regarding the world body because many people here have a lot of ego hassles... There can be no progress if the same people come back and say the same things. ” •“Why should the youth waste time to come here and hear you quarrel? ” •“The future of the community is never discussed at these meetings —only whether the BPP, the Federation or the WZO are supreme. ” •“Remember one phrase —united we stand, divided we fall. ” While Gandhi protested that he had always given the youth a chance to speak but they had not availed of the opportunity, the only one to return the fire of the youth was E. Irani. “Can you... let me know what constructive work you ’ve done for the community? ” he challenged. On Todiwalla responding that they had been cleaning agiaries through the HPY, E. Irani coun ­ tered coolly: “I am talking of FOZYA and the youth as individuals. The HPY is funded and backed by the BPP.” The HPY has created its own corpus through a paper collection drive and other activities, Mehta and Todiwalla justified themselves. Mogrelia with customary con ­ ciliation urged them to “throw some con ­ structive idea into the pool. ” “Tell us when you have a project. We ’re very willing... ” offered the BPP Youth Club ’s Urvakshi Mistry, but E. Irani was determined that the youth become self-motivated: “If you have financial problems with particular projects, come to us, ” he reiterated. Deboo ’s query, “Why can ’t the BPP have a youth representative? ” led Gandhi to recall that at Madras the BPP, the Iranian Zoroastrian Anjuman (IZA), PPP and Madras had agreed to have greater deal ­ ings with the youth. “Not one of these zones has held meetings with the youth, ” he charged and was corrected by E. Irani. The PPP has held meets with the youths, involving them in the beautification of the doongerwadi in Poona, he was informed. “We are motivating the youth and they are coming forward. But what about self-mo ­ tivation? We expect them to come forward and work (of their own volition), ” noted E. Irani. Gandhi now suggested that youths in Bombay start with the BPP and the IZA, and urged the BPP to consider a youth wing in the Zoroastrian Chamber of Commerce proposed by Tirandaz. A youth exchange had also been planned With Best Compliments From A * 165 Parsiana July-August 1996 WELL-WISHER I *MATRIMONIAL US based, well-settled, Zoroastrian male, 40, 5’8”, seeks matrimonial alliance with good-natured, Zoroastrian graduate, around 32 years. Please apply with full-sized photograph (returnable) and detailed bio data to: The Advertiser Parsiana, Matrimonial (July-Aug/21-96)* GPO Box 892, Bombay 400001 •Please make sure the reply envelope bears the reference number cited here. ACCOMMODATION AVAILABLE In posh Koregaon Park (Pune) Zoroastrian ’s fully furnished flat, area 1,150 sq ft. 2 BRHK with swimming pool and car park - Eighty lakhs. Fax: Daver (0212) 672988 between Madras and Secunderabad that, according to Mogrelia, was scotched as being too close to the exams. An exchange between Pune and Madras was being planned in December. He now welcomed any BPP/ IZA youth who might wish to join. Reservation The community ’s impotent concern for its youths who earn over 90 percent marks but are unable to enter professional institu ­ tions of their choice adds to the poignancy of the situation. Again and again the de ­ mand for reservation surfaces and needs to be quelled. There is “no reservation for minorities in any educational institution, ’’ assured Taleyarkhan. “The Modem Edu ­ cation Society controls Ruparel College, Wadia College of Management and other Wadia institutions. Neville and Nusli Wadia have a great say...’’ noted E. Irani. “At (Pune ’s) Wadia College they tell us to get a letter from Neville Wadia, ’’ added PPP president Dara Irani. “At Jai Hind and K. C. Colleges, Sindhi students with 55-60 percent marks get admission while our students with 80 percent are turned down, ” corroborated Thana Parsi Zoroastrian Anjuman president Rustom Cursetjee. With 73 percent seats reserved for sched ­ uled castes and tribes and other backward MATRIMONIAL Parents of a fair, attractive, 25-year-old, post graduate daughter, 155 cm, from a well-settled and respected family, invite corespondence from qualified, well-accomplished, Zoroastrain boys. She is mature, of pleasing personality and desires a modern and like-minded life partner. Write in confidence with photograph (returnable) to: The Advertiser Parsiana, Matrimonial (July-Aug/22-96)* GPO Box 892, Bombay 400001 •Please make sure the reply envelope bears the reference number cited here. MATRIMONIAL Alliance invited for only son, 35, looking much younger, 5’2”, graduate, well-settled in reputed company as Assistant Manager, drawing a five figure salary and having good other income and decent accommodation from good-looking, good-natured, working/non-working girls. Reply with full bio data and photo (returnable) to: The Advertiser Parsiana, Matrimonial (July-Aug/24-96)* GPO Box 812, Bombay 400001 •Please make sure the reply envelope bears the reference number dted here. --------------------------------------------y—— STERLING AND WILSON ELECTRICALS PVT LTD Leading Electrical Engineers & Contractors City Office Esplanade House, 2nd Floor Hazarimal Somani Marg Fort, Bombay 400001 Telephone: 2041882, 2044177 Telex: 011-85153 SWIL IN Fax: 2853741 New Delhi Office Flat No 205, Ansal Chambers II 6, Bhikaji Cama Place New Delhi 110066 Telephone: 608250,6882454 Telex: 031-72291, SUPR IN Fax: 6888878 Registered Office 70, Nagindas Master Road (Medows Street), Fort, Bombay 400023 Telephone: 2653287 166 Parsiana July-August 1996categories, the competition for the open 27 Mehta outside the BPP. If the Government have to be deposited with the collector percent seats seems to be driving Zoroas- < ........................ . . trian children to the wall and delegates like (which embodied the rights of the Indian Dr Syrus Irani from the IZA accused the top Parsis of egoism because they are not trying to get the required reservation, at least in institutions which had been founded on Zoroastrian funds. They got a hard ­ hitting reply from Tirandaz who alleged the right to all those over 18 years of ag^ " ...................... ... According to Tirandaz, “If all seven trust ­ ees go to the High Court and tell it we want all Parsis over 18 years to have the right to vote and we have 350 years of history of India could do away with Privy Purses before construction can begin, informed ' I E. Irani. Another area of 63,180 sq m is princes who acceded to the formation of proposed to be developed as ownership the Indian republic) what is the right of housing for the community later. As the donors? ” Besides, as he saw it, the donors PPP is seeking funds for the project were not being deprived of their right to Tirandaz offered Rs 20 lakhs as a loan vote. It was only the question of extending from the BPP against allotment right to ' _ . five tenaments but neither could the PPP that: “The B. Y. L. Nair College had ‘x’ According to Tirandaz, “If all seven trust- trustees make an immediate reply nor did number of seats reserved for nominees of ees go to the High Court and tell it we want other BPP trustees endorse the on-the-spot the Nair family who started charging three all Parsis over 18 years to have the right to offer. lakh rupees per nomination. On one occa- vote and we have 350 years of history Though the Zoroastrian population in sion they changed the nomination in favor behind the Punchayet, ” there is no way the Pune is estimated at between 7,500 to 8,000, membership of the PPP currently rests at 1,200 as per D. Irani. Their immov- The back and forth battle and threats to able properties are now worth Rs 300 expunge Tirandaz ’s remarks from the of someone who paid five lakh rupees and the original nominee went to court. The request, court struck down all donor reservations beyond 30 years, Fifty percent of the In- expunge Tirandaz ’s remarks from the crores and liquid assets total 21 lakhs, he dian population belongs to the scheduled record had scant impact on the verbose added. Bodies of Zoroastrians in the vicin ­ trustee. The DPA’s Farokh Rustomji and ity, including Panchgani, Mahableshwar, ---------------- -------- Satara, etc are consigned at the Poona the DPA’s and PPP’s constitutions give dokhma and are given four-day facilities at every adult member the right to elect trust- the Kayani bunglee, he informed. Until ees. However E. Irani suggested that their mobed died recently even prayer Tirandaz hasten slowly: “Can we start by services were provided, said D. Irani ac- court would refuse to acquiesce to the castes, therefore 50 percent of the seats in I ' ~ ‘ ‘ educational institutions are reserved for E. Irani were both in Tirandaz ’s favor as them... The Parsi population is 0.0001 percent of the Indian population. So there have to be five lakh seats in medical/ engineering colleges for one seat to be _ ______ ___________ _ reserved for them... If BPP trustees ask for motivating people to become members, cording to whom there are two nassessalars reservation, we ’dmakeafool of ourselves. ” then try to change the constitution? ” and two khandhias in the Panchayat ’s pay and “plenty of \^ltures ” to take care of the 60-80 bodies annually consigned there. then try to change the constitution? ” Reminding the delegates that the BPP is first and foremost a trust, not an anjuman, Gandhi noted, “That the beneficiary is entitled to elect the trustee is an innovation Adult franchise Adult franchise was a runaway topic intro ­ duced into the discussion on defunct entitled to elect the trustee is an innovation The two priorities of the iMJahabad Parsi anjumans by Tirandaz, aided by Engineer in legal practice. It is the settlor (of the Zoroastrian Anjuman as per its president despite Gandhi ’s attempts to scotch the right to define how trustees will be ap- issue. Unlisted on the agenda, the long pointed. ” discussion played havoc with time limita ­ tions. “If a small anjuman like Nargol can have universal adult franchise... bring all other anjumans to bear pressure on the BPP,” began Tirandaz eliciting Gandhi ’s Requests to Pune Zoroastrians yielded Md Taleyarkhan who joined the debate trust) who nominates trustees and has the Capt Homi Dandiwalla, was a census of the anjuman and the induction of younger members as trustees. Estimating the total number of Zoroastrians at 34 (of whom seven are in transit, generally being mem ­ bers of the Indian Army or Air Force), Dandiwalla said that since 1985 there have been 11 deaths, three births, eight mar ­ riages (of whom seven have settled outside response, “Internal matters of an anjuman gates, cement, stones and bricks to the Allahabad). He expected five-six deaths in cannot be discussed in the Federation. ” PPP, enabling them to fence off 1.5 acres ------ - ’ • ¦ • ~ The matter might have ended there but of land valued at Rs 4.5 crores, informed Engineer mentioned how he was in favor 1 --- .... __ of the system though the Bombay High being used as roads since the past 10 to 12 lack physical strength, noted Dandiwalla who has suggested to his fellow trustees that the Federation be inducted as a co ­ trustee. Happy to be able to attend all meets of The argument continued but Tirandaz was adamant; “The High Court has no choice if all seven trustees ask for it. ” Individual anjumans the next 10 years and no births. Despite their numerical strength of 27 individuals D. Irani. Nearly 1,000 sq ft of the land was (of whom three are above 70 years) they Court had ruled it out and Taleyarkhan, voicing his appreciation of “Tirandaz ’s outspokenness, ” agreed with his principle though, he said he did not agree with neighbors. We just stood there and encour- I’ ______; “Tirandaz ’s manner. ” He then turned to aged the workers... Till now the Parsis the Federation, Dandiwalla noted that the Guzder, saying “Mr Chairman, you are also in favor... ” Guzder, eyes round in amazement, shook his head from side to side indicating disagreement. Though faulters had cost it a whopping Rs 50,000. Gandhi tried once more to prevent the ~ ' argument proceeding, Tirandaz ’s superior lung power soon reduced him to silence and the debate became generalized. According to Tirandaz, he was “liberat ­ ing the community from the tyranny of the meter has to be paid immediately and the sonally goes to pray aCAnand Bhavan on few which kept people like Sir Pherozeshah total municipal charges of over Rs 19 lakhs Jawaharlal Nehru ’s death anniversaries. years, as residents from neighboring colo ­ nies took short cuts through the property. “There was strong resistance from the have been taken for a ride, ” continued D. Irani, recounting how the PPP’s last re ­ course to legal action against outside de ­ important thing is to convey the informa ­ tion gathered here to his anjuman at home. “My minutes are generally circulated well before the Federation secretary sends the official minutes! ” the ancient mariner took a gentle dig at the Federation ’s honorary sec- The enclosed area (under serial no 607 at Kondwa) amounts to 21,807 sq m where the PPP proposes to build rental housing retary. The aging community cooperates for the community. Ninety percent of the with sister communities in varied activi- layout developing charge of Rs 20 per ties, said Dandiwalla, adding that he per- 168 Parsiana July-August 1996 ISal Mubarak a F The premium food caterers for quality service, traditional style Parsi sitdown meals and buffets as well as exotic meals and decorations At reasonable rates contact Farrokh K. at 3870856, 3872350 Fax: 3851103, Ness Baug Annexe II, 2nd floor, Nana Chowk Mumbai 400007. Production: 2011037 There are approximately 250 families in the Delhi area amounting to about 650 individuals plus 50 floating families who are in the capital on posting, according to Rustomji. As the detailed all-India survey questionnaire aimed at ascertaining the attitudes of the community was not ready even at the end of 1995, Rustomji says that the DPA has prepared its own question ­ naire and involved the youth in the task of getting responses. As the demographers had warned from the start, this is no easy matter. “The responses have been poor. We don ’t know why, ” confessed Rustomji. The DPA has consistently seen itself as the spearhead of Zoroastrian public rela ­ tions in India, thanks to its position of vantage in the capital. Delhi Zoroastrians have projected a better understanding of Zoroastrian thoughts and ways by their interaction with other communities as also by a regular program of inviting VIPs to DPA functions. Last Jamshedi Navroze, the DPA entertained the Iranian Ambassa ­ dor and his staff. The guests responded by presenting the DPA a 30-minute video tape Iran: past, present and future and set up an exhibition projecting their country, Rustomji informed the gathering. The re ­ sulting amity no doubt had something to do with the comparative ease with which With Best Compliments of HOSHANG J. BUCHIA &CO ENGINEERS CONSTRUCTORS Tel: 4112539 4’' * With Best Wishes J. M. SHROFF TRANSPORT Private Limited TRANSPORT CONTRACTORS For Bulk Liquids, Petrochemicals, Petroleum Products, Acetic Acid and other Chemicals all over India. Special Fleet of Stainless Steel “MINI-TANKERS” for loads upto 6.5 KL or 4.5 KL Sita Estate, “A” Wing, No 1, 1st Floor, Unit No 1, R. C. Marg, Chembur, Bombay 400074 Tel: 5555425, 5519359 BRANCH BARODA: Tel No 329924, 329818 }70 Parsiana My-August 1996I Indian Zoroastrians were able to visit Iran during the 6WZC and the courtesies they received there. The DPA will be co-sponsoring a scholarships, he says, women ’s conference in September and expect to participate in a march for peace and unity from Chandni Chowk . Bharuch Parsi Punchayet joint managing Farokh Umrigar and members of the trustee Sarosh Ginwalla. The Punchayet Anjuman, notably Dick. The surgery had helps with the repair of properties and with been a failure and Merchant now hopes to walk again thanks to the orthopedic hono- raries at the PGH. He is also hoping to According to the original trust deed women do not have the right to vote, undergo eye surgery for the removal of his though all men do. At their forthcoming cataracts. When Parsiana met him at the elections the Bharuch trustees have invited Hospital, he was full of praise for his women, 18 and over, to vote as well as SPP president Dr Sam Bhadca estimated women, 18 and over, to vote as well as friends in the Jhansi Anjuman, particularly the Zoroastrian population in Surat at about stand for elections, despite the fact that Dick and Umrigar, underscoring the gen- ’ r,.,.., . consensus that caring remains an essential component of the small town 3,500. “The SPP takes us from birth to their two-year-long application to the char ­ death. Our vast dokhma lands are known to ity commissioner has failed to elicit a res- everybody, especially the Press, ” he noted ponse. Engineer, senior partner at Crawford community ethos, cryptically, adding that the SPP receive Bayley and Co, Solicitors, advised their share of brickbats and praise. K. Modi, who represents six anjumans of Gujarat, noted that in three of them everyone above the age of 18 is allowed to vote. The main problem in these small places is that their mobeds are lured away by larger anjumans. K. Modi suggested figure at 350, “with a 10 percent margin of adverse possession, not having any docu- with due pragmatism, “Wherever Parsi population falls, agiaries should be amal ­ gamated and one fire transferred to wher ­ ever required. There are 22 agiaries in Surat with a population of 3,000. The aramgah are looking pristine. ” The history trustees must offer amalgamation. ” of the Anjuman was sought to be encapsu ­ lated and buried on the Anjuman property, but the capsule proved too costly and now them rebuild the Mhow Agiary — the only . , ¦ consecrated fire in northern and central India — at a cost of 17 lakhs Vd create a maintenance fund as well. The 125-mem- ber Anjuman ’s youngest trustee, Illava, says he is over 68 years of age. His sister, at 83, is “a mother figure and the people are Bhavnagar ’s 40 Zoroastrian inhabitants unwilling to let her go. ” Mhow is the only find it very difficult to make ends meet. The 103-year-old agiary is being sustained Ginwalla to move the Gujarat High Court The Vishakhapatnam Anjuman ’s 16found- with an urgent application to settle the question as the elections need to be held. ing families are now reduced to three, comprising 12 adults — the majority being between 50 and 60 years — and two chil ­ dren. Their only property is the aramgah A rough and ready assessment of the com- <' ’ munity population of Madras placed the which, as notes Dinyar Nakra, it holds'by error ” as per Mogrelia. Having recently ments in support. A part of a Hindu cem- celebrated 200 years of Zoroastrian settle- etery, it was granted on the request of Ms ment there with a Federation meeting last Choksey when her husband died there. Xmas, “All properties like the agiary and Thoughthe Ahmedabad Parsi Punchayet ’s I ’ (APP) housing stock has increased by four the trustees are on the lookout for some flats and four more are on the anvil, it other container, said Mogrelia. He felici- prefers to give housing loans instead of tated neighboring Bangalore on honoring houses, informed Karanjawalla who is a “ member of APP’s governing body. Hous ­ ing in Ahmedabad is not as critical as in Bombay. A donor has provided the Pun ­ chayet Rs 1.5 lakhs to distribute as a housing loan to one or two parties, added Karanja ­ walla. There has been a satisfactory increase by donations from Ahmedabad and Surat in population, now estimated at 2,300 individuals, as couples from other cities are tending to settle here. Ervad Nadirshah Unvalla, urging others too to honor their priests of long standing. Phiroze Illava, trustee of the Mhow Anju ­ man, thanked the Federation delegates for the Rs 22 lakhs i^ donations that helped anjuman to have accepted the Federation as a co-trustee and executor of its proper ­ ties. The Anjuman, said to be “more than 1,000 strong before I was bom, ’’ as noted Illava, has 14 residential properties at very nominal rent. The usual story prevails: “People stay elsewhere but hang on to the The 68 Zoroastrians in Jhansi ranging in properties. What do we do? ” Illava asked but the dharamshala hardly has the flow of passengers required to enable it to break even, said the Bhavnagar Anjuman ’s hon ­ orary secretary Dr R. R. Mahuvawalla. The 306 families in Baroda amount to about 1,000 individual Zoroastrians, esti ­ mated Baroda Parsi Punchayet president age from five to 88 years, requested the the assembled delegate. Shavak Patel as the census work had just BPP to organize a priest to go there at Illava informed the gathering that many begun. Despite its limited resources the Punchayet distributes an annual Rs 65,000 among 22 families. Awards and scholar ­ ships total more than Rs 4,000. The dharamshala facilities are availed of by ting an affidavit from them regarding her 700 outsiders apart from students who use Zoroastrian faith, as informed the Jhansi it at Rs 250 per term, inclusive of linen, Anjuman president Ronny Dick. electricity charges, etc. He had also brought Jhansi resident Faram Merchant with him to Bombay and admitted him as a free patient at the PGH BPP to organize a priest to go there at festival times as also to conduct the last of its 36 khatas (or accounts) no longer rites. Recently an 87-year-old lady living with a non-Parsi was buried in the aramgah on her and her family ’s wishes after get- serve a valid purpose. Initially the trustees used the idle moneys as a loan towards more pressing needs. Thereafter they moved the district court at Indore asking for a blanket order to use funds wherever essential and got the ruling to their satis ­ faction in two years which other anjumans could emulate, said Illava. In Bharuch, the 270-300 individuals have four agiaries and a dearth of mobeds though courtesy Dr Marazban Nalladaroo. Mer- At Bardoli there are the lll-year agiary the Punchayet has one on its board of chant a school master and inmate of the and 120-year dharamshala. The latter needs trustees. The once large and wealthy Jhansi dharamshala who had broken his anjuman still musters an annual income of leg in an accident, had undergone surgery between Rs 75,000 and 80,000, informed to be pulled down and replaced as per the order of the municipality, informed J. J. in Jhansi and been tended by neighbor Mohta. Its T1 families comprising 127 173 Parsiana July-August 1996,Wishing you aii a Happy New Year from Oiiaji Duke-Hotei Duke Hotel Estd 1936 Doshabhai Nariman Oiiaji President Daman Parsi Jarthosti Anjuman Devka via Daman 396210 Tel: 02636 34251 individuals are impoverished and the ap­ peal for funds for the project speaks of the need to provide shops, flats and dharam ­ shala in the rebuilt building. The Borivli Anjuman ’s geographical spread from Jogeshwari to Dahisar enfolds 1,000 families (approximately 4,000 indi-viduals), as per its secretary Khurshed Pastakia. A paucity of funds (total financial assets; Rs 51,000) however curtails them to peripheral activities. Due to the lack of a baug or cen ­ tralized hall, the community can get together only six or seven times a year. Their ne ­ wsletter is their medium of communication. Conscious that their children are losing out on the communal and religious ambi ­ ence of the baugs, Pastakia wondered if the Federation could finance video cassettes on rituals and religious tenets. He was also interested in the establishment of a corre ­ spondence course in the religion. In the meantime the Anjuman had invited the Zarthosty Brothers ’ Trust to hold their lectures in Borivli and Ervad Ramyar Karanjia was scheduled to give his first lecture shortly, informed Pastakia. He also sought BPP and Federation aid towards their long-term goal of a community hall. While Guzder advised him to write to the Federation with a copy to the BPP, M/s G. D. Anklesaria & Company P O Box No 1 New Road, Ratlam Makers of Generators Caterpillar/Stamford 200 KVA to 2000 KVA Phone (07412) 20109, 20809 Fax(07412) 33909 T 4' * With best compliments DINSHAW & DINSHAW ENGINEERS & CONTRACTORS 390/286, Bootee Street, Camp Poona 411001 Tel Nos: 634746-630930 174 Parsiana Ju/y-August 1996 IN DAVAR & Company Painting Contractors interior Decorators 2, Commerce Centre Tardeo, Bombay 400034 Tel: 4944856, 4943210 tributing to the solidarity of the community. ” Current programs include the celebration of the Patel Agiary ’s 260th anniversary and an Anjuman sponsored population growth support beginning with the second child of one family in Thane. Cursetji said the Anjuman intended to raise the amount gradually from the current Rs 6,000 per annum to support the child up to the age of 18. But he is aware that “providing finance is not the answer (to the declining population). Not every one needs finance. ” The topic of financial support to young couples to enable them to increase there family size, so hotly debated a year ago, was now down to a joke as Tirandaz en ­ quired if the Punchayet would support his efforts for begetting more children with a second wife. “The support is only for legi ­ timate children, ” cautioned Gandhi. Tiran ­ daz had the last word: “But then, I am called a bastard! ” The most recent construction of a build ­ ing of 12 ownership flats has come up on the Thana dokhma land where the Anjuman has secured exemption from the Urban Land Ceiling Act. Since the past year the dokhma has not^een in use “but if anyone wants to be placed there, the trustees must * America ’s No. 1 Engine Oil PENNZP'L PENNZOIL INDIA LTD Apeejay House, 3, Dinsha Vachha Road, Bombay 400 020. Bombay 2820818, Delhi 3315051, Madras 451236, Pune 54053, Ahmedabad 353420, Indore 62878. 178 Parsiana July-August 1996MATRiMONiAL Wanted a well-educated, Parsi girl for a Parsi gentleman, tall, fair, 42 years, PhD, Computer Engineer, settled in USA - Univ Prof and own software programming. Write to: The Advertiser Parsiana, Matrimonial (July-Aug/25-96)* GPO Box 892, Bombay 400001 •Please make sure the reply envelope bears the reference number cited here. MATRIMONIAL Parents of daughter, 31 years, 5’5” tall, slim, graduate and earning five-figure income, invite correspondence from educated Parsi gentlemen up,to 36 years of age, with good family background and own accommodation. Please write with complete bio data and recent photograph (returnable) to: The Advertiser Parsiana, Matrimonial (July-Aug/26-96)* GPO Box 892, Bombay 400001 •Please make sure the reply envelope bears the reference number cited here. Gandhi was sure that video cassettes had been recorded in the West which may be available. Depending on the level of scholarship to which Pastakia aimed, Gandhi noted he also had a copy of the Essays on the Gathas edited by Ms Dina McIntyre. BPP chief executive Behram Laskari offered audio cassettes of Zoroastrian prayers avail ­ able with the Punchayet. 'Fhe BPP’s fund for translation of books was also evoked. Bombay ’s eastern suburbs of Mulund, Bhandup and Vikhroli also coalesce with the Thana Anjuman amounting to between 500 and 700 individuals (145 families), Cursetji informed the executive council. Though a census has not been undertaken, the new cosmopolitan colonies in the area have also attracted Zoroastrians. A census/ directory is now on the Anjuman ’s agenda. Happy that the Rs 8,000 in fixed depos ­ its that the managing committee had inher ­ ited a little over 10 years ago had now burgeoned into a corpus of Rs 16 lakhs, Cursetji acknowledged the source as prop ­ erty improvement schemes and donations against housing allotments. The Thana Agiary is now very well attended because of the housing colony created on its prop ­ erty, with 50 to 60 individuals present at the bimonthly maachi ceremony, “con- MATRiMONiAL An elderly, well-to-do, Parsi gentleman, having independent accommodation is interested in meeting a cultured, elderly lady in excellent health .Those fond of outdoor life, travelling, socialising and friendly by nature preferred. Please write to: The Advertiser Parsiana, Matrimonial (July-Aug/20-96)* GPO Box 892, Bombay 400001 •Please make sure the reply envelope bears the reference number cited here. Broke your vase? Call 3095779 to mend your broken antiques/artefacts * With Best Compliments From UNIPHARMA GLASS PRIVATE LIMITED AMPOULES UBAS CONTAINERS Manufacturers of Machine-made Ampoules & Vials Victoria Buiiding S. A. Breivi Road, Fort , Bombay 400001 Cable: UNIQLASAMP Phones: 2660069/2660130 Fax: 91*22-2660427 Telex: 11*84739 DFCO IN 176 Parsiana July-August 1996With Best Compliments JAYANT MEDICAL & SURGICAL COMPANY Exporters, importers and dealers in: Surgical instruments, hospital sundries, etc. 52/58, New Hanuman Lane Princess Street Bombay 400002 Tel; 2019940, 2005265 Gram: ‘JAYAMEDICO’ accede, ” said Cursetji adding that the present requirements do not justify the provision of complete dokhma infrastruc ­ ture and it is more economical to use the BPP facility in south Bombay. The current fly in the ointment in Thana is alleged non-Zoroastrian encroacher Anand Dighe, a prominent member of the Shiv Sena, who has used a 5,000 sq ft plot totally gratis for the past 15 years. Though the Anjuman has got a court decree in its favor, “for obvious reasons (it) has been unable to execute it. ” Anxious though they are to prevent the plot slipping out of their hands, Cursetji noted that “when we went to court (there was) one encroacher, (who has) since moved out and installed an ­ other. ” Jamshedpur numbers 550 Zoroastrian heads (175 families) as per its representative Eruch Surti. While there are no problems and no factions in the liberal group, ac ­ cording to Surti, the youths generally move out after their 10th or 12th standard exam and hence there is generally no one around to represent Jamshedpur at FOZYA meets and seminars, explained Surti. MATRIMONIAL Parents of Zoroastrian boy, fair, good-iooking, 27, residing in UK, working as an executive in an international firm, seek correspondence from parents of good-looking, cultured, well-educated, Zoroastrian girl with a view to matrimony. Please apply in detail with photograph (returnable) to: The Advertiser Parsiana, Matrimonial (July-AugZ23-06)* GPO Box 892, Bombay 400001 'Please make sure the reply envelope bears the reference number cited here. The IZA has initiated a new scheme of 4* A With Best Compliments From WHITE CLOUD FILTER PADS Private Limited 412 Gultekdi Road, Pune 411037 PIONEER MANUFACTURERS OF Finest Quality Machine Made Filter Pads in the Country and Merchant Exporters Phone: 462236,463476,461078 Fax: 91-212-467923 Gram: Filter Pads 180 Parsiana My-August 1996MATRIMONIAL donating implant lenses directly to an eye hospital. Also, anjuman youths going abroad for further education receive subsi ­ dies from the Anjuman, IZA representa ­ tive P. Irani informed the Federation. L» Alliance invited for smart, well-settled, Parsi boy, 28 years, 5’7”, having established family business from beautiful homely, Parsi/lrani girls. Please reply with bio data, photograph, horoscope if possible (returnable) to: Newsletter The sponsorship amount per edition of the Fed Newsletter has been increased from Rs 4,000 to Rs 5,000, at the suggestion of Rustomji and with the acquiescence of Guzder and his cotrustees as the BPP is the Fed Newsletter’s biggest sponsor, footing four issues each year. For 1996-97 too the BPP has agreed to underwrite this quota with Guzder and Shroff personally con ­ tributing towards the cost of two and one additional issue respectively. The DPA, Madras, Surat, Calicut, Baroda and the WZO agreed to sponsor one issue each. The Advertiser Parsiana, Matrimonial (July-Au^28-96)* GPO Box 892, Bombay 400001 *Please make sure the reply envelope bears the reference number cited here. AGM The expenditure of the Federation in the year ending March 31, 1996 amounted to Rs 1,43,197 of which the Newsletter ac ­ counted for one lakh rupees and the Federation ’s contribution toward the daycare center projects of the BPP amounted to Rs 40,000. Its income amounted to a little over two lakh rupees. THE PARSIANA BOOK OF IRANIAN NAMES The Iranian names of boys and girls along with their meanings which originally appeared in Parsiana have now been reprinted in £ln attractive 24-page booklet. The book, which is priced at Rs 25, is available on sale at : Kaiser-E-Hind, 300 Pehn Nariman Street, Behind Reserve Bank of India, Fort, Bombay 400001. Faredoon and Burjor Sandalwood Shop, Princess Street, k \ Xunion Press, 13, Homji Street, \ Bombay 400001 With Best Compliments From 4* Manize Estd: 1959 Ladies Department Store JEUNESSE: Total beauty care and hair dressing Cumballa Hill - Flyover, Bombay 400036 Telephones: Shop: 3877833, 3869855. Resi: 2151900 and Spin Weave Textiles Philco Industries HO: Piramal Mansion, 235, D. N. Road, Bombay 400001 Telephone: 2616781 Fax: 2611744 182 Parsiana July-Augustl996J Bhtcoo J. Manekshaw ’s Parsi Food and Customs A treasure-house of recipes and customs that define the Parsi way of iife. From Navroz.the dawn of the Parsi New Year, to navjote, the initiation ceremony of a young child, lagan or marriage, jashans and ghambars, there is a variety of food to suit every occasion. In this unique book, Bhicoo J. Manekshaw takes the reader on a journey far beyond the traditional stereo-typical dhan sakh recipe. For those who love fish, there is a choice of patra ni machchi (fish in banana leaves), masala ni machchi or the famed tarapori patio made with sookha boomla (Bombay duck), amongst many others. Our weakness for eggs, on the other hand, has created a range of mouth-watering dishes from the kera per eeda (eggs cooked on bananas) to the humble scrambled egg. There are also teatime snacks, sweets and desserts and a chapter on kitchen medicine straight from grandmother ’s recipe book. Published by Penguin Books India. Illustrations by Bindia Thapar Price: Rs 200 Available at leading book stores or contact Mr Om Arora, Variety Book Depot Flat no 103 A.V.G. Bhavan. M/3, Connaught Circle, New Delhi 110001. Tel: 3327175,3322567, Fax: 3714335 Sixty-seven of the approximately 90 anjumans of India are now Federation members though many do not attend regu ­ larly and some have never attended a Fed ­ eration meeting. According to Gandhi, 20 to 25 anjumans are regular attendees, al ­ though only 10 were present at the last meeting in Madras when he had been instructed to write to the defaulting mem ­ bers. “People who don ’t come are those who live in far-off locations, ” he con ­ ceded, simultaneously praising the late Ardeshir Batlivala who travelled second class from Calcutta to attend every single executive council meeting (which was held quarterly in those days as against bi-annu- ally now) and Homi and Shireen Dandiwalla of Allahabad who do likewise despite handicaps of old age and ill health. It was good to learn that Batlivala ’s grandson, Nauzer Batlivala, was present on this occasion to represent Calcutta. If the 30 percent members who attend represent 80 percent of the community, it ’s okay, remarked Shroff, changing the num ­ bers perspective. In answer to a^juery from Vishakha- * 184 Parsiana Ju/y-August 1996 With Best Compliments From PENOSH 94-A, M. G. Road, Pune 411001 Tel: 645162-65 Fax: 645166 Telex: 145-7418 «BOYS’ TOWN Public School Nasik 2 patnam ’s Cmdre Jal Postwalla, Gandhi informed the gathering that the Federation ’s 1994 Awards for Excellence have been held in abeyance as the main committee felt that substantial nominations had not been received. It is now intended to hold the 1994 and 1995 awards ceremony to ­ gether, perhaps at the next Federation meeting. The Top Ten “Lives of great men all remind us...” Recognised as a Public School by the Department of Educa ­ tion for Indian Merit Scholars. Excellent Climate — All- round Education. Anew two-storeyed dormitory with attached bathrooms, study and lounge rooms has just been completed to house 180 boys. All Academic Subjects — Technical Subjects: Work ­ shop Technology, Mechanical & Electrical Maintenance, Carpentery & Farming. Train ­ ing in Self-Government through Elected Boys ’ Office bearers. Games — Physical Training — Daily Assembly with Congregational Prayers — Weekly intensive Zoroas ­ trian —Geeta —Koran classes — Excellent Modern Kitchen and Dining Room facilities. Moderate Fees. Concessions and even freeship to Deserving Students. Children of priests-freeship. Navar Martab facility. Also arrangement to send such boys at Trust expense to their vari ­ ous destinations, so that they are in touch with performing religious rituals. Also further studies after SSC can be ar ­ ranged if desired. Apply to THE MANAGING TRUSTEE P. N. MEHTA EDUCATION TRUST Cooks Building, 3rd Floor 324, Dr D. N. Road Bombay 400001 /Those attending the Federation meeting ' were: Porus Karanjawalla from Ahme ­ dabad; Ms Shireen and Homi Dandiwalla greats? Zoroastrians talk proudly and Dossu Ghandhi from Allahabad; Rus ­ tom Daruwalla from Badnera Amravati; Pervez Mehta and J. J. MohtafromBardoli; Shavak Patel, Rusi Kasad and Boman Cama from Baroda; Ms Pilloo and Sarosh Gin- walla from Bharuch; R. R. Mahuvawalla, M. B. Bharucha and Jal Irani from Bhavnagar; Jamshed Guzder, Minoo columns tO suggestions from rea- ............ ... ” ders as to who they consider to be the 10 most outstanding Zoroas- _ __ __ trians globally in the 19th and 20th and Peshotan Nargolwalla from Bombay; centuries (10 in each century). The Khurshed Pastakia, Noshir Paghdiwalla nominees could be from any field of and Yezdi Motiwalla from Borivli; Nauzer endeavor, from politics to poetry and Batlivala from Calcutta; Darius Marshall “ from Calicut; Dadi Mistry, Farokh Rus ­ tomji, Noshir Captain and Keki Gandhi Do you have a G6PD enzyme deficiency? The G6PD enzyme deficiency, common among the Parsis, makes them highly susceptible to certain drugs.* The deficiency may cause jaundice in the newborn and severe hemolytic crisis (destruction of red blood cells) in adults. Ask your family doctor to arrange for a blood test to detect whetheryou have G6PD enzyme deficiency. If you happen to be a G6PD-D patient, it is essential that you carry your card at all times so that in any emergency you would receive appropriate treatment. *Analge8ics: Acetanilld, Acetylsalicylic acid, Aspirin, Acetophenetldin (PhenacetIn), Antipyrine, Pyramldone. Sulfonamides and Sulfones: Sulfanilamide, Sulfapyridine, N2 Acetylsulfanllamide, Sulfacetamide, Sulfisoxazole (Gantrisln), Thlazolsulfone, Salley lazosulfapyrldine (Azulfadine), Sulfoxone, Sulfamethoxy pyridine (Kynex). Antimalarials; Primaquine, Pamaquine, Pentaqulne, Quinaalne (Atabrine). Nonsulfonamide antibacterial agents: Furazolidone, Nitrofurantoin (Furadantin), Chloramphenicol, Para-aminosallcyllc acid. Miscellaneous: Napthalene, Vitamin K (Water soluble analogues) , Prodenedd, Trinitrotoluene, Methylene blue, Dimercaprol (BAL), Phenylhydrazine,Quinine and Quinidine; Sulpha containing compounds Including Septran, DOS and Daraprim; Nitrofurantoin, Nalidixic acid Including all derivatives of this group, AntistIne, Diphenylhydramine, Pronestyl, Nitrites; Large Shroff, Ms Silloo Kavarana, Dadi Engineer, Dinshaw Mehta, Rustom Tiran-daz, Behram Laskari, Ms Gool Tata, Ms Sheroo Master, Ms Homai Modi , Aspi Crawford n highly dosesofChloroquine.CNoromycetin, Vit.Cand Vlt. K. Published in the public interest by Parsiana Who were the greats? Who are the of the community ’s achievements in the past and present. Names are mentioned randomly but collectively no international list has been com ­ piled ofthe most outstanding Parsis or Zoroastrians. Parsiana opens it science to soldering. The purpose of the exercise is to create a greater awareness of the commiinity ’s past and present achievements and to put these in perspective. 4* % Readers should send in their sug ­ gestions stating the full name of the individual, his or her field of en­ deavor, the reason why they feel the person is deserving of this clas ­ sification and the century for which they are being nominated. The reason for choosing the two centuries togetherls to allow for the overlapping of many significant lives. The reader can decide in which century he or she wishes to identify the individual ’s contribution. Per ­ sonages should be nominated ac­ cording to the century in which they made their major contribution to humanity. Send your entries to The Editor, Parsiana (Greats), GPO Box 892, Bombay 400001. 186 Parsiana July-August 1996MILESTONES This issue of Parsiana presents data for the months of July and August 1996. There were 33 babies bom in Bombay in this two month period as against 169 deaths. Twenty ­ seven Zoroastrians were 80 years and above from among the 53 who fell prey to heart disease. Nineteen deaths were attributed to pneumonia and lung related diseases. While cancer claimed 17 victims and brain disease, 15, hypertension took a toll of 12 lives. The other killers were old age and general debility (eight), septicemia (six), asthma, tuber ­ culosis, bronchitis and kidney fai ­ lure (four each) and gastro-enteri- tis (three). Two patients each succumbed to liver disease, dia ­ betes, Parkinson ’s disease and anemia. The 10 isolated cases registered for the two month period; rheumatic fever, haema- AHMED ABAD BORN A boy,' Zubin, to Archana and Percy Muncherji on June 23, 1996 BANGALORE DIED Mary Nariman Gazdar, mother of Aban and Kaiwan; June 22 BARODA BORN A boy, Delzad, to Monaz and Adil Randeria', June 20 A girl, Mahzarine, to Hutoxi and Jarsis Bonesetter, August 16 DIED Feroze Dady Muncherji (68), brother of Bomi, Perin and Pesi; August 10 BOMBAY BORN A boy, Kiez, to Yasmin and Adil Kavina; May 7 A girt, Shazneen, to Gulshan and Mehemosh Patel; July 5 A girl to Anahita and Behram Ardeshir, July 11 Twins (girl and boy) to Roshan and Parvez Bharucha; July 11 A girl to Faranak and Cherag Khandadia; July 11 A boy to Khurshid and Jehangir Mistry; July 11 temesis (vomiting of blood), in ­ jury due to fall, tumor, gastro-in ­ testinal haemorrhage, vehicular accident, suffocation, hypopro- teinaemia (deficient protein in the blood plasma due to dietary defi ­ ciency or excessive excretion), malaria and gastro-intestinal tract infection. A 75-year-old lady was strangled to death. A stillborn female baby, a two-month-old baby boy and a 26-year-old girl were also lost to the community. The coroner ’s report was pending in the case of one death, liie high ­ est age at death was 100 years. The 2k)roastrian life expectancy at birth, in Bombay, was 75 years for the two month period. The data on births, marriages and deaths has been compiled from information supplied by various newsletters and anjumans in India and abroad, courts and hospitals. This information is not A girl to Khushmede and Maneck Patel; July 11 A boy to Tanaz and Kersi Deboo; July 12 A boy. Kaizen, to Nilufer and Cyrus Khambatta; July 13 A girl to Anahita and Cyrus Nagporewalla; July 23 A girl, Rian, to Parveen and Zarir Mistry; July 24 A girl, Areeza, to Yasmin and Karl Divecha; July 26 A boy to Yasmin and Feroz Ebtedai; July 27 A boy to Rohira and Cyrus Mistry; July 31 A boy. Sunny, to Shirin and Mehemosh Patel, brother to Benaz; August 1 A boy to Benaifer and Nitin Menon; August 2 A girl, Anahita, to Julie and Mehemosh Mistry; August 5 A girl to Shehnaz and Karl Mistry; August 6 A girl to Farzana and Kali Bordiwala; August 7 A girl to Persis and Paurus Irani; August 7 A boy to Freni and Neville Patel; August 7 A boy to Shemaz and Cherag Khambhatta; August 8 A girl to Jinoo and Sarosh Daruwalla; August 10 A girl to Farzana and Navil Doctor, August 10 A boy to Yasmin and Percy always complete or consistent; we are unable to carry data from areas where the anjumans do not Li Jamshed Aspcmdiar Mehershahi furnish the particulars; the birth (52), 18/5, Gamadia Clinic figures for Bombay are supplied Bldg, Gamadia Clny, Tardeo, by four hospitals — births in su- 400(X)7; July 1 burban hospitals and private nur ­ sing homes are not included unless individuals send us information together with a copy of the birth July 1 certificate. There may be an inad- Rustomji (Rusi) Adarji Mistry vertent repetition of names in the (89), 4/G, S. B. Bharucha Baug, marriage list when a civil marriage Andheri (W), 4(X)058; July 2 precedes a religious ceremony. In Jal Jehangir Balsara (76), C/o the breakup of deaths according Armin R. Elavia, 20, Banaji to illnesses, especially of the el ­ derly, death is often due to a com ­ bination of several diseases. If readers have any births/ (86), A/20, Gool Mhl, Sleater marriages/deaths they would like Rd, 400007; July 3 published, some proof to ensure ? Aloo Eruchshaw Pavri (69), 20, the veracity of the report would Ahmed Bldg, Gunpowder Rd, be required. We are sure our rea- Mazgaon, 400010; July 3 ders would appreciate this require- ^ Sabarmai Pestonji Poncha (95), ment and cooperate with us. 301, Sand Pebbles, Master Vinayak Cross Rd, Bandra (W), 400050; July 3 Sheroo4lomi Soonawalla (82), Sanjana Bldg, Foqett Hill Rd. 400036; July 3 Hoshang Jijibhoy Ditfiai (56), 1202, Mazgaon Towers, 21, M. P. Rd, Mazgaon, 400010; July 4 Khorshed Dinshawji Driver (85), J/13, S. Bharucha Baug, S. V. Rd, Andheri (W), 400058; July 4 i !\ Maneck Ardeshir Khumbatta (83), K/16, Cusrow Baug, S. B. Rd, 400039; July 4 Fali Peshotan Sethna (69), A/12, Rustom Baug, Victoria Rd, Byculla, 400027; July 4 Sohrab Jamshed Gazdar (69), 285, M. A. Rogay Apts, Thakurdwar, ‘-400002; July 5 Jerbanoo Dorabsha Medhora (82), A/6, Shalimar Apts, S. V. Rd, Andheri (W), 400058; July 5 ; o Dara Jal Vania (63), C/o F. J. Vania, 347, A/6, United Chmbs, M. S. Rd, 400007; July 5 ' !Amy Sorab Vesuna (67), 688, P. A. Hormasji Bldg, Dinshah Master Rd, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 400014; July 5 'VTlloo Kawas Baria (74), Dhun Keki Ardeshir Ankalesaria (87), Mhl, Garden Rd, Colaba, 400039; July 1 2 Noshir Jamshedji Batiwalla (90), B, Shirin Mans, Tardeo Rd, 400007; July 1 } Banoo Darabshaw Khambatta Hansotia; August 10 A girl, Kayan, to Tanaz and Meherwan Daruvala; August 11 A girl to Sunita and Percy Bulsara; August 16 A boy to Faith and Dhunjee- shaw Wadia; August 21 A girl to Jasmine and Burgis Daruwalla; August 24 A boy to Manize and Tirandaz Irani; August 25 A girl to Rukshana and Cyrus Siganporia; August 25 A boy to Shaheen and Hormuz Irani; August 27 A girl to Benaifer and Porus Irani; August 30 MARRIED Mahatab Cavas Kohla and Khushru Fakir Randelia of Poona; August 25 DIED Pirojsha Dinshaw Sachinwala (86), residing at 275, Village Vali, Tai Vasai, Dist Thane, 401201; June 30 Framroze Burjor Vajifdar (86), V/7, Dalal Est, Lamington Rd, 400008;June 30 I’ (69), Sidhwa Bldg, Balaram St, Grant Rd, 400007; July 1 Khorshed Cawas Pavri (73), 764-B, Naval Hse, Dr Ganti Rd, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 4(XX)14; Hse, Contractor Baug, Mori Rd, Mahim, 400016; July 3 Jamshed Merwanji Bhathena •<» C/o Dinshaw Ankalesaria, 515, Ratan Mans, R. P. Masani Rd, Matunga, 40(X)19; July 6 ' A di Nadirshaw Hodiwalla (75), Karai Villa, Bhardawadi, Opp Navrang Talkies, Andheri (W), 190 Parsiana July-August 1996I All Parsis Annual Athletic, Aquatic and Cycling Meet The Managing Committee of the All Parsis Athletic Meet will be organising their 17th Annual Athletic Championship on Saturday Sth and Sunday 9th February 1997, at University Stadium, Mumbai. In order to encourage our youth to improve their standard in Athletics, we propose to offer handsome cash awards alongwith medals and certificates at the meet. To begin with, we have selected the following events to try out this unique idea for which we require SPONSORS/DONORS. AGE GROUPS Girls Under 12 Girls Under 15 Women Women Boys Under 12 Boys Under 14 Boys Under 16 Men Men EVENTS 1) 4 X 100 M. Relay 2) 4 X 100 M. Relay 3) 4 X 100 M. Relay 4) 4 X 400 M. Relay 5) 4 X 100 M. Relay 6) 4 X 100 M. Relay 7) 4 X 100 M. Relay 8) 4 X 100 M. Relay 9)4 X 400 M. Relay We therefore appeal to all the members of our microscopic but enlightened community to come forward in large numbers and contribute their mite to enable us to encourage CHAMPIONS of tomorrow. Interested persons may please write to Jt Hon Secretary, All Parsis Athletic Meet, C/o The Nowroze Baug Play Centre, E/18, Nowroze Baug, Lalbaug, Mumbai 400012, or Sir Cusrow Wadia Pavillion. Cusrow Baug, Shahid Bhagat Singh Road, Colaba, Mumbai 400001 or call on tel no 3443518 between 10 am to 12 noon and 3 pm to 5 pm. Support them today to become Champions of tomorrow Sow a seed today and watch it bloom tomorrow from Delhi; Syrus Irani and Pervez Irani from the Iranian Zoroastrian Anjuman; Eruch Surti from Jamshedpur; Ronny Dick and Farokh Umrigar from Jhansi; Nariman Mogrelia from Madras; Phiroze Illava and Rumi Panthaky from Mhow; Dara Irani, Farokh Irani, Eruch Irani, Boman Irani and Firdous Kayani from Poona; Homi Palsetia, Ms Rubi Palsetia and D. R. Patel from Saronda; Dr Sam Bhacca, Davar Kavasji Modi and Sorab Katpitia from Surat; Jal Postwalla and Dinyar Nakra from Visha- khapatnam; and Homi Mehta from Zai Bordi. Homi Taleyarkhan and Bazun Dittia were the special invitees. The Press was represented by Parsiana. With best compliments of REQUIRED Production Manager Sales Manager for printing press in Santacruz (Kalina), Bombay. Write giving full details to: The Advertiser (Press) GPO’feox 892 Bombay 400001 or Fax: 2074541,2654585 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ? Starlite Electrical Works ELECTRICAL ENGINEERS & CONTRACTORS 104, Shree Hanuman Industrial Estate 42 B, G. D. Ambekar Marg, Wadala, Bombay 400031 188 Parsiana Juiy-August 1996 ¦«400054; July 7 Rustom Behram Irani (43), Dahanu At & Post, Dahanu, Dist Thane, 401601; July 7 Mehernosh Rustomji Mis try (59), Godrej Clny Rly side, X99/3, Vikhroli (E), 400079; July 7 - L Ratan Faramji Pardiwalla (78), 89, Banoo Villa, Malcolm Baug, Jogeshwari (W), 400102; July 7 Jt'.Soona Rustomji Nanporia (86), 3' Boman Ardesher Irani (50), 9, Arya Bldg, 209, P. D’Mello Rd, Fort, 400001; July 8 iC- Themina Rustomji Sidhwa (85), >Maneckbai Khurshedji Sanjana . g Karanjia Bldg, Grant Rd, 400007; July 14 J iMinoo Behramji Setna (90), 162, Jivanji Mistry Bldg, Khetwadi Back Rd, 400004; July 14 ’g Jalamai Faramroze Bhagat (80), Hirabai Petit Bldg, Opp Grant Rd Rly Stn, Grant Rd (E), 400007; July 15 » Burjor Ardeshir Daruwalla (91), 805, Tehmi Ter, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 400014; July 15 c^Aban Dhunjishaw Karma (57), 3, Jamasji Toddywalla Bldg, Sunmill Rd, Lower Parel, 4, Petit Widows ’ Chawl, Mody St, Fort, 400001; July 8 Tehmurasp Hormusji Bamboat (12), M/12, Cusrow Baug, S, B. Rd, 400039; July 9 - ( Dinoo Jamshed Bamji (19), 11, Rukhshana Apts, 9, Pali Hill Rd, Khar, 400052; July 9 - ! Mehr a Burjorji Daruwala (90), 51, Sainara, 17, Cuffe Parade, 400005; July 9 Merwan Khushru Yezdmaidi (Irani) (12), Irani Bldg, Dr Cawasji Hormusji St, Dhobitalao, 400002; July 9 ' Framroze Ratanshaw Elavia (80), Pundole Bldg, Opp Mithaiwalla Fire-temple, Sleater Rd, 400007; July lO ¦ Goal Rustamji Mehta 400013; August 15 -• * ’ Homi Jalejar Manekshaw (68), E/7, Captain Clny, Haji Ali, 400034; July 15 (W), 400058; July 11 i jBarjor Jehangirji Dastoor {1%), 2, Ramesh Bldg, Pauwalla St, 400004; July 13 J JBehram Ardeshir Dhondy (16), Lily Lodge, 3rd Pasta Lane, Colaba, 400005; July 13 Mehta Bldg, Panthaky Baug, Andheri (E), 400069; July 13 400039; July 18 n Adi Nadirshaw Sarkari (60), 2/18, Avabai Bldg, Sleater Rd, 400007; July 18 ¦' - Khodamurad Tafti (85), ¦ Piroja Khurshed Katrack (86), 674, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 4()0014; July 19 Behram Ardesar Sunavala (83), Bayside, Chimbai Village, Bandra, 400050; July 19 Rumi Darabsha Balsara (51), Mistry Bldg, Captain Clny, Tardeo, 400034; July 20 Sheroo Sheriarji Daruvalla (13), 13/B, Satyabhama Nivas, Kashinath Rd, Tardeo, 400034; July 21 53, Aderbad, Hughes Rd, 400007; July 15 J Homi Pallonji Bharucha (81), 10/B, Mehta Bldg, Pasta Rd, Dadar, 400014; July 16 J Framroj Pirojshaw Karwa (83), 803/D, Ghatalia Mans, Dr B. Ambedkar Rd, Dadar, 400014; July 16 ' Percy Polly Parekh (36), D/3, S. Bharucha Baug, Andheri (W), 400058; July 16 3 ¦ Goal Burjorji Bodhanwala (70), Jal Framroz Nariman (72), Lal 25, Fakhri Manzil, Shanker Seth Rd, Grant Rd, 400007; July 17 ¦’i”’ Motibai Dhanjisha Mistry (94), Banaji Bldg, Forjett Cross Lane, August Kranti Marg, 400036; July 17 i Pesi Manchershaw Motashaw (76), Achalkar Bldg, Kamal Niwas Bldg no 2, Nehru Maidan, V. R. Rd, Dombivali (E), 421203; July 17 Parviz Hosang Gagrat (70), ¥J1, Cusrow Baug, S. B. Rd, Bahadur Shastri Rd, Opp Police Stn, Manmad, 423104; July 22 ' Firoze Framroze Shroff (63), Shroffs, Malcolm Baug, S. V. Rd, Jogeshwari (W), 400102; July 22 Banubai Pirojsha Hirjibhoy (81), C/o K. R. Nariman, 1/5, State Bank of India, Hill View Soc, Andheri (W), 400058; July 23 Ratanshaw Nadirshaw Mithaih^alla (80), 16, United Chmbs, Grant Rd, 400007; Customer is —always Light When he entrusts his Household Packing, Shipping, Removal, Storage.... all his problems to B.Q Buhariwala & Sons. Sty * Alake the right Move, Cail: Door to door Service 5 J. N. Heredia Marg, Ballard Estate, Bombay-400 038. TeL: 2615451/3, 2613137 Tlx.: 011-75139BCB IN. Fax: 22-2620785 BRANCH OFFICE: 1310, Pragati Towers, Rajendra Place, New Delhi-110 008. Tel. Nos.: 5711876, 5713540. Tlx.: 031-61928 BCB IN Represented throughout the World by more than 600 offices 192 Parsiana July-August 1996 I„ July 23 ¦ i Pinky Minocher Irani (26), Nilambari Azad Rd, Vile Parle (E), 400057; July 24 Shirin Noshirwan Patel (80), Takshila, 31/B/3, Mahakali Rd, Andheri (E), 400093; July 24 Bahadur Kaikaus Rahadi (78), 16, Modern Flats, 128, Wodehouse Rd, Colaba, 400005; July 24 Zenobia Phiroz Banaji (72), The Cliff, 27, Pochkhanawalla Rd, Worli, 400025; July 25 Namdar Rashid Irani (75), F. S. Parukh Dharamshalla, Hughes Rd, 400007; July 25 Rati Godrej Mullan (81), 804-D, Jai Bhagwati, Dr Ambedkar Rd, Dadar, 400014; July 25 Minocher Darabshaw Patel (92), 275/B, Captain Bldg, Chikalwadi, Grant Rd, 400007; July 25 Mehroo Jamasji Todiwalla (78), 16/B, Suman Apts, Sleater Rd, 400007; July 25 / Najoo Hosie Amroliwalla (63), Nj (Dhunmai Eruchsha Dastur (82), 621!A., Homavazir Rd, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 400014; July 26 Goal Jamshed Kapadia (76), 921, Al-Ghurair Centre, Dubai; July 26 Tehmina Kaikhushru Contractor (79), 20, Todiwalla Bldg, Supari Baug Rd, Parel, 400012; July 28 ' 'Farokh Hormusji HirjiKaka (76), Naju Manor, Oliver Rd, Apollo Reclamation, 400039; July 28 Farrokh Bomansha Kasad (70), 3/27, Wadia Baug, Parel Tank Rd, 400033; July 28 Nergish Ratanshah Engineer (84), 4/33, Hormuzd Bldg, Sleater Rd, 400007; July 29 Jehangir Savaksha Irani (Kermani) (82), Redder Hse, Proctor Rd, Grant Rd (E), 400007; July 29 Homai Kersi Mistry (52), Lady S. Petit Bldg No 2, Marzban Clny, Gilder Lane, 400008; July 29 Dhunjisha Pesi Langrana (75), (- Dhun Manekji Mehta (91), 24, F. E. Dinshaw Bldg, 2nd Dhuswadi, Near Fish Market, Dhobitalao, 400002; July 30 c/o Perin Dadachanji, 153/A, Cumballa Hill, 400036; July 31 Mani Yazad Punegar (11), 1/9, Nepean Sea Rd, 400036; August 3 ' Framroze Rustomji Engineer (88), Danawalla Bldg (Akhalwaya), Dr S. S. Rao Rd, Lalbaug, 400012; August 3 Put la Nadirs haw Mistry (61), 83, Goga St, 400(X)l; August 4 Russi Manchershaw Divecha (58), 10/51, Contractor Bldg, Victoria Gardens, Byculla, 400027; August 5 Aloo Boman Irani (64), Chamarbaugwalla Chwl, Dr Ambedkar Rd, Parel, 400012; August 5 Rustom Baug, Victoria Rd, Byculla, 400027; July 31 7'kJimmy Daru Sabavala (62), Pearl Mans, M. Karve Rd, 400020; July 31 ¦ ' ‘ Neville Ness Wadia (85), Beach Hse, P. N. Balu Marg, Prabliadevi, 400025; July 31 ! Jamshed Kaikhushroo Master (85), Paowalla Bldg, Opp Cama Baug, Grant Rd, 400007; August 1 Gulshan Homi Palsetia (62), 54, Ocean Crest, 85, B. Desai Road, 400026; August 1 Faramroz Bomanji Patel (85), 5, Patel Hse, L. T. Rd, Mulund . Soli Framroz Mistry (74), (E), 400081; August 1 Daruvala Bldg, Proctor St, Hilla Banaji (75), Terrace Grant Rd, 400007; August 5 Cama, Altamount Rd, 400026; Bomanji Cawasji Coachbuilder August 2 ', Nargcz Jehangir Marker (89), 19/B, Akash Ganga, B. Desai Rd, 400026; August 2 Nepean Sea Rd, 400026; August 2 Allamai Burjorji Patel (92), M/64, Cusrow Baug, S. B. Rd, 400039; August 2 i Tehmina Burjorji Chaina (89), Rubans, Setalvad Lane, 30, (84), 67, H. Mirador, B. Desai Rd, 400026; August 6 •> Naval Merwanji Hilloo (74), 585, Khan Bldg, Chira Bazar, 400002; August 6 ' Dali (Darayes) Maneksha Masalawalla (58), 524/9, Commisariate Bldg, Adenwalla Rd, Matunga, 400019; August 6 Jerbanu Pestonje Bhakka (70), Yogeshwar Dham, Kisan Ngr no 3, Thane, 400601; August 1 X With best compliments from a Well-Wisher 194 Parsiana Ju/y-August 1996 IPilloo Minocher Chinoy (78), 4, Lady Dorab Tata Bldg no 3, Tata Blocks, S. V. Rd, Bandra, 400050; August 7 Homi Nawroji Kotwal (70), Joothica, Opp Grant Rd Ptist Office, N. Bharucha Marg, 400007; August 7 Baby of Freni Neville Patel , (stillborn), M/52, Cusrow Baug, S. B. Rd, 40(X)39; August 7 ' Khushru Savaksha Shroff (59), 97, Almeida Rd, Bandra, 400050; August 7 Dhunjishaw Shawakshaw Dolikuka (78), Amtoobai Blocks, 170/D, S. V. Rd, Bandra, 400050; August 8 Bachamai Jamshedji Ghadiali (93), 10, Modern Plots, 128, Wodehouse Rd, Colaba, 400005; August 8 ; Banoo Faridoon Irani (76), A3/35, New Khareghat Clny, Babulnath Rd, 400007; August 8 Fredoon Nawroji Rabady (78), 788, Avanbai Mans, fame Jamshed Rd, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 400014; August 8 Daulat Dara Soonawalla (57), 764E, Umrigar Bldg, Tilak Rd, Dqdar, 400014; August 8 Dhanjishaw Hormusji Zaiwala (69), Santook Hse, Dadi Santook Lane, Dhobitalao, 400002; August 8 Dinamai Manchersha Bharucha (85), 605, Karim Manzil, J. S. S. Rd, 400002; August 10 )' ¦ Aimai Rustomji Deputy (86), 1/2, Sir Ratan Tata Bldg, S. V. Rd, Bandra (W), 400050; August 10 Gev Sorabji Godiwalla (79), 61, Jupiter Apts, 41, Cuffe Parade, 400005; August 10 Darabshaw Pestonji Khambatta (79), 8/8, Tata Clny, Tardeo, 400034; August 10 ' Perin Dali Oomrigar (68), C\o >' Mehroo Kersi Variava (70), Jasmine D. Pestonji, Mody Hse, Padamjee St, Grant Rd, 400004; August 10 \ Dinyar Behram Salamati (80), 793, Family Hse, Jame Jamshed ':] Tehmina Naval Balsara (95), Rd, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 400014; August 10 Hilla Barjor Daruwalla (78), M/8, Cusrow Baug, S. B. Road, 400039; August 11 Adi Pochaji Kharas (80), 764/D, Meherbai D. Wadia Bldg, Opp BEST Depot, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 400014; August 11 August 15 jDinamai Jehangirji Chinoy *(80), 2/2, A. H. Wadia Baug, Parel Tank Road, 4(X)033; August 12 Phiroj Savakshaw Fatakia (71). 674, Society Bldg, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 4(X)014; August 12 Tehmi Eruch Major (70), 89, Queens Chmbs, M. Karve Rd, 400020; August 12 Aspi Rustom Irani (60), A, Sanjana Bldg, Forjett Hill Rd, Tardeo, 400036; August 14 ¦' Rumi Jalejar Masalawala (48), Perin Homi Bulsara (69), 8, 2A/28, Tata Mills Co-op Hsg Soc, Elphinstone Rd, Parel, 400012; August 14 D/12, Parijat, Union Bank Hsg Soc, Patel Est, S. V. Rd, Jogeshwari (W), 400102; August 14 M/44, Cusrow Baug, S. B. Rd, 400039; August 15 yArdeshir Dhunjishaw Chothia (93), 757, Rd No 7, Parsi Clny, ,Hilla Hoshang Dubash (67), 28, Dadar, 400014; August 15 ' i Meher Pestonji Dubash (93), Dhun Lodge, Next to Bhatia Hospital, Tardeo Rd, 400007; Bachan Ardeshir JasaPatel (74), Memorial Bldg, Marzban Clny, Gilder Lane, Tardeo, 400008; August 15 ‘ Dolat Noshir Karanjia (75), Yusuf Mans, 204, Khetwadi Back Rd, 400004; August 15 , ^Bapai Cavasji Katrak (80), 15, Khareghat Clny, Hughes Rd, 400007; August 15 Cooma Bomansha Patel (83), 2, Batliwalla Agiary Comp Bldg, Tardeo, 400034; August 15 Tejpal Bldg, Pan Lane, Off Hughes Rd, 400007; August 17 Mani Sapal Crawford (85), 6, Jalbhai Seth Bldg, Opp Matru Mandir, 279, Tardeo Rd, 400(X)7; August 17 Freny Jamshedji Desai (85),. 238, Dr Cawasji Hormusji St, Dhobitalao, 400002; August 17 Jaloo Dhunjibhoy Kapadia (84), E/6, Cusrow Baug, S. B. Rd, 400039; August 17 Station Ter, Sleater Rd, Grant Rd, 400007; August 18 Homi i)arabsha Minocher (80), Tarasova, 5, Odhav Ngr^ * For Pure Diamonds JEWELLERS 324, Grant Road, Bombay 400007. Telephone 3099648 Fax 3073483 APPOINTED VALUERS BY THE GOVERNMENT OF INDIA 196 Parsiana Ju/y-August 1996Borivali (E), 400066; August 18 Jer Burjor Mistry (85), 14/5, Rustom Baug, Victoria Rd, Byculla, 400027; August 18 Jerbanoo Jehangirji Bhesania (86), B/14, Godrej Baug, Off Nepean Sea Rd, 400026; August 19 Thrity Kaikhushru Colabawalla (82), Sir J. J. Bldg, Khan Est, Station Rd, Mahim, 400016; August 19 ’ Perin Noshir Driver (90), 12, Station Ter, 63/A, N. Bharucha Marg, 400007; August 19 Rhoda Nariman Jassawalla (75), 808, Boman Lodge, Dr Ambedkar Rd, Dadar, 400014; August 19 Jerbai Manekshaw Bharucha (90), 5, Vijay Bhavan, Sleater Rd, 400007; August 20 Minoo Fakirji Master (75), 5, ''. Bhikhan Cawasji Pithanwalla Todywalla Chwl, Sunmill Rd, Lower Parel, 400013; August 20 Mehran Shavaksha Nazir (84), 6A/816, Mistry Widows ’ Chwl, Jame Jamshed Rd, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 4(X)014; August 20 Burjor Hormusji Ghadiali (62), 4/1, Rustom Baug, Victoria Rd, Narayan Dabholkar Rd, 400{X)6; August 24 -^^Hoshang Nadirshah Sabavala (75), B/10, Nancy Clny, Western Express Highway, Borivali (E), 400066; August 24 ! ; Aloo Nariman Daruwalla (92), 693, Dinshaw Master Rd, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 400014; August 25 " Dinshaw Nariman Mistry (60), Patel Hse, Nawab Tank Rd, Dockyard, 400010; August 25 Banubai Jamshedji Siganporia iS Jehangirji Behramji Patel (94), 10, Jer Mans, Gowalia Tank, 400036; August 25 Byculla, 400027; August 21 Khorshed Sorab Saklat (83), 3/6, Dhunbaiwadi, Dadabhai Rd, Vile Parle (W), 400056; August 21 Alu Khurshed Dastur (90), 759, Rd No 7, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 400014; August 22 Moti Cavas Kharas (85), Mistry Bldg, 162, Khetwadi Back Rd, 400004; August 22 Parvez Darabsha Mahava (63), 788, Avanbai Mans, Jame Jamshed Rd, Parsi Clny, Dadar, 400014; August 22 , Dolly Nariman Adenwalla (85), Bapai Pestonji Captain (80), Automobile Company Bldg, 41, Queens Rd, 40(X)02; August 23 Goal Mancherji Aderyanwala (75), Botawalla Bldg, 257, Thakurdwar Rd, 400002; August 23 August 27 0; ">Bejan Dadabhoy Katrak (78), Abbas Bldg, Jalbhoy St, 400004; August 27 Piloo Hormusji Motiwalla (72), 81, Kapadia Hse, Trinity St, Dhobitalao, 400002; August 27 Ruzbeh Rayomand Patel (2 mths), 4/A, Sir Ratan Tata Clny, Sir Ratan Tata Rd, Tardeo, 400034; August 28 (77), Petit Bldg No 3, Jamshedji Petit St, Grant Rd, 400(X)7; August 23 Xerxes Nadirshah Avasia (71), 44/B, Soonawala Bldg, Proctor Rd, Grant Rd, 400007; August 24 Sheru Rusi Gilder (63), C/o Ketayun Bana, 52, Bakhtawar, M/38, Cusrow Baug, S. B. Rd, 400039; August 26 5 Villoo Burjor Joshi (76), Joshi Apts, 290, S. V. Rd, Bandra, 400050; August 26 Manek Sorabji Taback (86), 8, Doctor ’s Bldg, S. Bharucha Baug, S. V. Rd, Andheri (W), 400058; August 26 ¦ Feroze Jehangir Engineer (76), 16, Aziz Bldg, 135, Tardeo Rd, 400034; August 27 Khurshed Rustomji Feniwala (82), C/o Rusi J. Katrak, Mehella Patel Agiary Use, Balaram St, Grant Rd, 400007; (86), E/21, Jerbai Baug, Dr Ambedkar Rd, Byculla, 400027; August 28 Jehangirji Pestonji Sarkari (100), Doctor Bldg, 149/A, August Kranti Marg, 400036; August 29 Sheriar Behram Irani (60), 59/C, Bazar Rd, Bandra, 4(X)050; August 30 Jamshed /lavroji Kanga (83), Sea Breeze, Ram Krishna Mission Rd, Santacruz (W), 400054; August 31 CALCUTTA DIED Dhun Nanavatty, daughter of Amy j^d Dady and sister of Putli Martin; July 26 4’ * We are pleased to announce our appointment as a Stockist/Dealer of the well-known L & T Brand Cement from 1st April 1996 J. R. DASTUR & CO Arvind Colony, Shahibaug, Ahmedabad 380004 Fax:5621910 (O)5622167 (R) 5621910 To my young friends: C.A., C.S., is a lucrative triangle to future prosperity 198 Parsiana July-August 1996Kolla Bulsara, wife of Minoo and mother of Hormuz, Maku and Jeroo Keki Pherozsha; August 5 Katy Gherda, wife of Noshir and mother of Sarosh and Kerman Aspy Mehta; August 7 Bhikeunai Dorabji Punivala, mother of Erach, Perviz Tarapore, Rhoda Mogrelia and Mani Langrana; August 13 POONA DIED Tehmina Rustomji Patel (83), 10/A, Mody Clny, Synagogue St, 411001; June 4 Ardeshir Faramroze Kaikobad (98), 481, Rasta Peth, Sardar Mudaliar Rd, 411011; June 5 Nusserwanji Jamshedji Bharucha (90), 2127/A, Centre St, 411001; June 9 Dina Firoz Bharucha (SO), 14/A, Wellesly Rd, 411001; June 14 Soli Jahangir Laher (70), Parsee Dharamshalla, Sassoon Rd, 411001;June 15 Alamai Homi Vaghaiwala (87), Cheranjeev Apts, Mohan Ngr, Chinchwad, 411019; June 28 Homai Jehangir Ghyara (65), 2607, United Apts, East St, 411001;June 29 Maneck Phirozeshah Talati (11), 404, Shirin Apts, 929, Synagogue St, 411001; July 2 Zarin Sam Motafaram (54), 176, M. G. Rd, 411001; July 10 Dinshaw Maneckshah Cama (56), 815/14, Padamjee Palace, Bhavani Peth, 411002; July 13 Mehra Minoo Daver (78), Bakhtavar, Nagar Rd, 411006; July 15 Hilla Jehangir Shroff (78), C/7, Orchids, Koregaon Park, 411001; July 17 Burjor Darabsha Cooper (73), 95/5, Parade Ground, Near Liberty Cinema, 411(X)1; July 20 Mehru Naval Vakharia (62), 12/1, Canopus Apts, Boat Club Rd, 411001; July 28 Banu Dhanjishah Rustomji (74), 19/8, Mody Clny, Synagogue St, 411001; August 2 Noshir Savaksha Meherhomji (68), 4, Charu Apts, Salunke Vihar Rd, 411040; August 4 Minocher Manecksha Daruwala (73), Kapadia Bldg, 873, Dastur Meher Rd, 411001; August 7 Homi Rustomji Balsara (73), 2, Sunshine Apts, IC Clny, Borivali, 400066; August 18 Nariman Rustomji Dorabjee Mody Clny, Synagogue St, 411001; August 27 Perin Hormasji Cabinetmaker (11), 44, Central Apts, Convent St, 411001; August 28 SECUNDERABAD DIED Minocher Khambatta (92), father of Sarosh; July 4 SURAT DIED Aloo Khushrw Elavia (56), Bibini Wadi, 395003; July 5 Dhunjisha Navroji Patel (80), Parsi Wad, Sayedpura, 395003; July 5 Noshirvan Eruchsha Engineer (72), Vallabh Nagar Soc, Varachha Rd, 395006; July 14 Nariman Sorabji Santok (55), Khatkiwad, 395003; July 22 Ratanbai Nasarwanji Bhagwager (93), Vakil St, Shahpore, 395003; August 1 Jarbanoo Rustamji Daruwala (83), Bhavnagri St, 395003; August 3 Homi Eruchshaw Bharucha (63), Nariman Home and Infirmary, Shahpore, 395003; August 7 Diniyar Rustamji Kapadia (51), Machlipith, Shahpore, 395003; August 7 Dadiba Navroji Dandivala (84), Agiary St, Bilimora, 396321; August 11 CANADA Mississauga, Ontario MARRIED Shaan Nari Nargolwalla and Behram Dubash, son of Siloo and Framroze of Toronto; May 18 Montreal MARRIED Natasha Dastoor, daughter of Dolly and Phiroze and Adel Irani of Houston, son of Katy and Dinshaw; May 25 Toronto MARRIED Mandana Jam, daughter of Parvin and Jamshid and Mehraban Mondarai, son of Behdukhot and Jamshid; May 17^ Farahanaz Felfeli, daughter of Katayoon and Fariedon anti With compliments from B. B. GARDA & SONS 10 B. J. Road Poona 411001 200 Parsiana My-August 1996 IRamin Dehmoubed, son of Golcheher and Ardishir; May 24 DIED Perin Antia, wife of Yezdi and mother of Rayomand and Zahir; June 16 Vancouver MARRIED Mitra Lohrasb, daughter of Mahin and Khodadad and Me hr dad Misaghi-Tafti, son of Azarmidokht and Jahangeer; August 24 DIED Daryoush Dinyar Parsi (55), husband of Mehri and father of Ramin and Lila; August 10 OMAN Muscat BORN A boy, Rushad, to Shemaz and Dossabhoy Medhora-, July 27 PAKISTAN Karachi DIED Jerbanoo Murzban Dalal (83); June 3 Keki L. Spencer (60); June 3 Cawas A. Noshirwani (66); June 4 Goolamai J. Divecha (92); June 10 Shirin Rustom Mehta (90); June 14 Jal Jamshedji Dholu, father of Aspy (84); June 19 Shahpur J. Kermani (54); June 20 Khorshed C. Laskari (82); June 20 Rusi B. Mobed (80), father of Bakhtaver Byramji; June 20 Hoshang R. Parekh (54); June 20 Dolly G. Irani (63); June 21 Bakhtawar N. Purveyor (51); June 27 Jehangir P. Collector (76), husband of Roshan and father of Sarosh; July 1 Goal Jamshed Sethna (80); July 2 Zarin Pesi Gamwalla (59); July 11 Najoo Rustomjee (84); July 19 SEYCHELLES DIED Noshir Wadia, son of Pilamai and late Burjorji; July 16 UK London DIED Fali Talati', June 2 Dina Master, wife of Soli and mother of Hilda Rumi Sethna and Phili; July 22 USA Austin, Texas DIED Vahishta Engineer, wife of Soli; July 22 Broward County, Florida BORN A girl, Persis Roxanne, to Kashmira and Polly Bhadha, sister to Cyrus; February 9 Burbank, California MARRIED Zarin Maneck Dastur and Vistasp Dumasia, son of Minnie and Keki; July 14 Chicago BORN A boy, Sam, to Mahazabeen and Jimmy Eduljee, brother to Cyrus; July 11 MARRIED Homa Yazdgerdi and Bahman Abesteh; June 15 Houston DIED Burjor Hormusji Mehta, father of Armaity; March 19 New York BORN A boy, Darius, to Shernaz and Yezdi Bamji; June 29 MARRIED Ferzin Jungalwalg, daughter of Khorshed and Firoze of Boston and Rajan Patel, son of Usha and Jay anti; April 6 Pennsylvania DIED Cawsi J. Balaporia, brother of Adil; July 23 San Jose, California MARRIED Persis Madon, daughter of Perviz and Jamshed of Bombay and Sorab Vatcha of Mountain View, California, son of Scylla and late Ru#om; June 14 Difficulties In reading? * 't It’s time you saw a professional optician. It’s time you came to Baliwalla &. Homi. One of the finest optometrists and contact lens practitioners (j^ Baliwalla & Homi Private Limited OPTOMETRISTS Flora Fountain: 365, Dr. D.N.Road, Bombay 400 001 Tel: 287 4916, 287 1762 • Dhobi Talao: 614, J.S. Seth Marg, Bombay 400 OO2.Tel: 201 4906 Fax:(022)206 4363 • Parel: J.Merwanji Street, Parel, Bombay 400 012 Tel; 412 6051_________________________________________ .202 f?arsiana July-August 1996Silver Spring, Maryland BORN A boy, Jahan, to Cathy and Cyrus Bamji; February 23 TOTALS FOR 1996 Somerset, New Jersey BORN A boy, Sam, to Nawaz and Hoshi Merchant', May 22 Tampa, Florida BORN A girl, Sanaya Meher, to Anahita and Hoshedar Tamboli, sister to Cyrus and Sarosh; March 13 Texas BORN A girl, Nadia Tara, to Afsaneh and Manoucheher Samiya', March 18 Washington BORN A girl, Amitis, to Farnaz and Farhad Aidun', May 18 Woodbridge, Virginia BORN A girl, Roxanne, to Jasmine and Kaikobad Jussawalla\ March 9 BORN Boys Girls A 15 19 Bombay B A India B A World B 69 57 2 1 6 2 5 5 14 14 MARRIED Parsi Intercommunal DIED CONSIGNED Males Females CREMATED Males Females 1 83 86 A; Total numbers in this issue 127 17^ 305 331 18 18 3 3" 69 54 B: Running totals for 1996 (February-March 1996-July-August 1996 issues) Males married out - 9 Females married out - 8 -'Males - 1 Females - 2 ‘Males - 0 Females - 2 8 1 12 12 8 2* 39* 28 * Overseas deaths are listed in the consigned column as Parsiana does not have a breakup of those cremated. These figures pertain to information provided to or collected by Parsiana. They do not represent the total number of births, marriages and deaths in the Zoroastrian community in India and abroad. Compiled by Roxana A. Driver Adfactors-QuantuinDirect/IR/94-929 * 204 Parsiana July-August 1996IN MEMORIAM The legal legend Parinaz Gandhi Died: Hormasji Maneckji Seervai, 89, re ­ cognized as the headmost authority on the Constitution of India and former advocate general of Maharashtra for a record num ­ ber of 17 years, on January 26, 1996 at his residence in Bombay following cardio-res- piratory failure. “If I were asked who is the real jurist in India today, I would easily men ­ tion Seervai, ’’ wrote P. B. Gajendragad- kar, former Chief Justice of India^n his autobiography To V the Best of my Mem­ ory. “He (Seervai) L was not only the I country ’s foremost I authority on consti- I tutional law but also I a moral influence for I the entire legal pro- I fession, ’’ remarked I the Chief Justice of I Gujarat M. Jagan- I nadha Rao at the full I court reference made ¦ in Seervai ’s honor. Seervai: respect from bar and bench As a mark of respect to the outstanding legal personage both the Gujarat and Delhi High Courts, where too a full court reference was made to Seervai, remained closed for a day. In the Bombay High Court, not only the which he was held that when he was the bar but all the members of the bench too remained standing thoughout the full court reference, mentions Seervai ’s wife Feroza, and the large Central Court Room was packed to overflowing. As wrote former Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court M. C. Chagla in his Allahabad High Court to the Supreme Court book Roses in December: “Seervai pos ­ sesses intellectual integrity of a high order. He is most hardworking and conscientious and never argues a point in which he does not believe, and which he thinks is un ­ tenable... Judges can always depend on him not to mislead them... He is so sincere and so convinced about the validity of the argument he is advancing that sometimes he fails to realize that there can be equal I ment and in effect carried the burden of defending the Union of India as well. Before the largest bench of 13 judges of the Supreme Court in 1972-73 Seervai urged forcefully for unlimited power to amend the constitution. However, the abuse of the amending power during the Emergency made Seervai change his views as he can- force in the arguments of the opposite side... ” “As a young junior working with him, I thought he seemed to have an almost naive didly acknowledged in his magnum opus, faith in rationality and in the ultimate Constitutional Law of India which saw triumph of right and four editions, the third volume of which he justice, ” mentions completed on the day prior to his death. This treatise earned him the distinction of “undoubted master of Indian constitu ­ tional law, ” by The Law Quarterly Review. “On the constitutional law of India it is from several consi,derations, perhaps the former advocate t general of Maha- rashtra Tehmtan Andhyarujina in his Ba article in The Times of India of February best book ever written, ” states the Journal 1, 1996. “Over the ye^rs I have come to [¦q believe that he was I right in his convic- i I tion, however ideal- 11 istic it appears, ” adds attorney general ’s post. Among the sev- W Andhyarujina who Ja felt that sometimes a his revered senior F “lost the essential sense of proportion m in his views and ac- tions. But no one could ever doubt the struggle to procure better maintenance fa- sincerity of his ef- cilities for children detained in state-man- fort or his honest aged remand homes. Other books authored belief in the cause by Seervai includeFzngrge/icy, FufurgSa/e- he espoused. ” He guards and the Habeas Corpus Case and was wont to quote Legend and Reality: The Partition of India. Sir Walter Scott: “Without courage there cannot be truth, and without truth there can be no other virtue. ” Such was the confidence and esteem in o/ Constitutional and Parliamentary Stud­ ies. For over 35 years he toiled over its four editions, and the book was one of the reasons why he refused the offer of judge ­ ship of the Supreme Court as also the eral issues on wffich Seervai felt strongly, and on which he has enunciated-his bold stand in the book, was the Government ’s inability to prevent the denrolition of the Babri Masjid, and the insensitive treat ­ ment meted out by the Supreme Court to social activist Ms Sheela Barse in her * The man of principles had also repre ­ sented the Government ’s policies on pro ­ hibition and banning of private lotteries. So dedicated was he to his responsibilities as advocate general that during his tenure of office, which earned him limited mon- advocate general of Maharashtra his ser ­ vices were requisitioned by other states in etary returns, he appeared in only four or important constitutional law cases. One five private cases that involved close asso- such instance was when the President of dates. When he had to appear before the India referred the conflict between the Krishna River Water Disputes Tribunal he Uttar Pradesh Vidhan Sabha and the took up abode in New Delhi for three years *................ _ " " . “ t and would ensure that his boarding and for its opinion. To defend their action in lodging costs were minimal. The same issuing warrants for the arrest of two High legal titan who had been conferred the Court judges, the Vidhan Sabha engaged Padma Vibhushan in 1972 (the country ’s Seervai ’s services where his performance second highest civilian award) had opted was rated by Andhyarujina as “the most brilliant one in his career. ” In the celebrated Keshavananda Bharati case, the Government of Kerala chose Seervai to plead its case; Seervai led the team of lawyers representing the Govern- to step down as advocate general two years later following some differences with the then law minister A. R. Antulay, notes a write-up in the Indian Express of January 28, 1996. The only Indian to be conferred the . 206 Parsiana July-August 1996 -cvision caused the people of Thermax to believe in themselves and strive for sig ­ nificant results, ” remarked Paul Koender- man, senior vice president and group ex ­ ecutive of Babcock and Wilcox Power Generation Group with which Thermax corresponding fellowship of the British years. Academy, Seervai had earned this honor “reserved for scholars of the highest aca ­ demic distinction, ” as notes their condo ­ lence letter. “His election to the British Academy in 1981 paid tribute to his out ­ standing contribution as jurist, law officer and advocate to constitutional law, prima ­ rily in India where he fearlessly and dis ­ passionately maintained the constitution anniversary day every month she prefers to of which he was the principal exponent invite their circle of close friends who and interpreter, but also as a comparative share passages from works that have in ­ scholar recognized as of outstanding merit spired them during the preceding month, throughout the jurisdictions which partici ­ pate in the British and American constitu ­ tional legacies. ” Yet another distinction conferred on Seervai was the Living Legend of the Law vigor of mind and his great industry right individuals and tried always to keep the Award presented to him by the Interna- to the end of his long life... ” commented business issues on an objective basis,” tional Bar Association at New Delhi in Prof Sir William Wade of Cambridge ’s added Koenderman. 1994. Here was “a man of singular mod- Gonville and Caius College. The last case Known for introducing some of the esty and humility, ” remarked Prof David in which he appeared concerned a consti- most “forward thinking human resource Williams, vice chancellor of the Univer ­ sity of Cambridge. An Honorary Fellow- Eviction of Unauthorized Occupants Act “every last employee of Thermax to feel ship ofthe Asiatic Society of Bombay and (1971) whereby government companies or that the company was his or her own and be the Dadabhoy Naoroji Award were the corporations sought to summarily evict responsible for making the right things other honors to come his way. Blessed with a prodigious memory. The case went on for about five months unique way of conveying to all his people Seervai had by heart the speech he had and throughout the hearings managed to that their roles had no boundaries ^nd their heard, when yet a little boy, Dadabhoy read even very fine print with a reading potential had no limits. He was impatient Naoroji make when he was conferred the lamp specially placed for him in court, with those who pointed out pfbblems with- doctorate by the Bombay University, in- ' “ forms Feroza. Innumerable were the poets and authors he would quote at the apt day when the nation was granted her Con- moment to buttress a point he was making, stitution, Seervai always sought to uphold Particularly fond of Wordsworth, Seervai the spirit of the document, believing that would oft repeat that a man should belong to the “Type of the wise who soar but never roam/True to the kindred points of heaven obey, and home. ” Grandson of Hirjibhai Meherwanji daughters Meher Jehangir Pochaand Shirin Wadia (of Wadia Master Builders fame) and Nusserwanji Bachaji Seervai who was the rajvaid to the Maharaja of Baroda, Hormasji had studied at the Bharda New High School in Bombay. Following his graduation in philosophy and law he started Died: Rohinton Dhanjishaw Aga, 60, chair- his legal career with Sir Kenneth Kemp and was a junior to Sir Jamshedji Kanga for 25 years. Besides teaching English at the Elphin- stone College he had also worked as exam ­ iner in English at the matriculation exami ­ nation of the Bombay University and the bay following cardiac arrest. contribution to building a kind of indus- first LLB examinations. He later served as Starting as a small company in Pune trial and entrepreneurial temper in the a trustee of the Elphinstone College for making industrial boilers, over the last 30 Pune region would be a long lasting tribute over 35 years, was founder member of the years Thermax has diversified into pollu- to his memory, to his personality and to all Philosophical Society of Bombay, inspired tion control equipment, water treatment that he did. He really practised what he by his revered professor at the Elphinstone plants, speciality chemicals and energy preached, ” stated Dr Vijay Bhatkar, exe- College, Prof J. C. P. Dandrade, and had conservation equipment. “I am convinced cutive director. Centre for Development of officiated as president ofthe People ’s Union that Thermax has progressed as rapidly as Advanced Computing. for Civil Liberties, Bombay unit for 10 it has because Rohinton ’s leadership and “His passing away has deprived indus- Although proud of the Parsi commu ­ nity ’s contributions and the moral courage of the Parsis of yore, Seervai, who had been ordained as a navar when he was eight years old, was not particularly reli ­ gious, says Feroza, who described herself had entered into a collaboration in 1988. as an atheist and her husband as an agnos- “Whenever we talked about challenging tic. Rather than have prayers said on his opportunites or new initiatives, I do not ever recall Rohinton saying that Thermax, or for that matter Thermax Babcock and Wilcox, was incapable of rising to the occasion. He had a great deal of pride and confidence in his people and, of course. In fact, on the last day of his life Seervai was reading Peter the Great — His Life expected great things from them. While and World by Robert K. Massie. very demanding in his own quiet way, he “It was wonderful how he preserved his appeared always to have a deep respect for Prof Sir William Wade of Cambridge ’s Gonville and Caius College. The last case in which he appeared concerned a consti ­ tutional challenge to the Public Premises and motivation policies, ” Aga expected tenants from properties owned by them, happen, no matter what it took. It was his The case went on for about five months adds Feroza. Breathing his last on the 46th out suggesting solutions, ” remembers Kiran anniversary of India ’s Republic Day, the Gandhi, divisional manager of human re ­ sources at Thermax. In fact, one of Pune ’s toughest union leaders is once known to have reassured the Thermax staff, “As long as you have a man like Mr Aga at the helm, I don ’t think your company will ever have any union Seervai is survived by his wife Feroza, problems! ”AmongthejoysthatAgalooked forward to, as listed in Living a Mission, a commemorative issue brought out by Thermax, were: “The satisfaction of a job well done; the joy of a repeat order from a Strategy for energy happy customer; the^thrill of exporting successfully against global competition; the glow of seeing members of the corpo ­ rate family improve their standard of life; the fulfilment that comes from sharing one ’s time, energy and resources for larger causes. ” “A man of great vision and broad per- the role of a constitution is that of a chart or compass — to study, to consult and to Pheroze Madon, and son Navroz. man and managing director of Thermax Limited, the Pune-based industrial con ­ cern where its 3,000 strong work force is committed to manufacturing and promo ­ ting energy generating and conservation equipment, on February 16, 1996 in Bom- ception, he had few peers... His pioneering Starting as a small company in Pune it has because Rohinton ’s leadership and 208 Parsiana July-August 1996 *commitments — the surest way to contri ­ bute to the economic prosperity so neces- when just before a piano competition he advised his nervous daughter: “Darling, play to express rather than impress. ” Not one to inflict his view on others, Aga did not insist that Meher or her brother Kurush should join Thermax. He would have been try in India and Pune in particular of, if I may put it, an elder statesman, ” remarked Wilhelm Sebardt, managing director and sary for building an egalitarian society. ” president of Sandvik. Aga made the time to serve on the board of Sandvik Asia Limited, Finolex Industries Limited, Ki­ netic Engineering Limited and Peregrine compromising his conscience. Aga ’s “great content so long as they did something Capital India Private Limited. “Through- talent was apparently organization, plan- i " ’ ’’ ” ” ’’J' out his life he took his commitments very ' " .......................... seriously, ” says Aga ’s wife Arnavaz (bet ­ ter known as Anu) who has since his de ­ mise taken over as executive chairperson of Thermax. “He felt very responsible if he took up any position — be it as a board member or a trustee. He would make it a point to attend meetings, to study, to con ­ tribute. If he felt he could not make a difference, he would resign. I have never seen him accept positions for acquiring status, ” she further elaborated. Committed as he was to perfection, he chaired the Maharashtra Chapter of Quality Circle Forum of India from 1987 to 1990. For two years Aga had served as chair ­ man of the national committee on energy of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) during which term he had led the CII energy mission to the USA. As writes CII president Rajive Kaul, “Rohinton was so much of a leader in CII with his outstand ­ ing contribution on energy policy and en ­ ergy strategy... We shall miss his quiet sense of humor, his modest and low-key profile and presence, his intellectual and visionary approach and, most of all, his friendship and warmth. ” These humane virtues that were ad ­ mired in Aga were, as the industrialist had earlier acknowledged, ingrained from two women: mother Piroja “taught me in my formative years, the virtues of thrift, hon ­ esty and a sense of commitment in what ­ ever I do; ” wife Anu “taught me the value of being human (and) humble. As one grows and tastes success, (there is a) dan ­ ger of being self-important and opinion ­ ated. When that happens, Anu brings me down from that pedestal —down to mother which affected his right side as also his earth. ” “The motivation for any activity must be that it adds value — that was one mantra learning the alphabet, deciphering colors which guided him throughout his life, ” believes B. K. Khare whose firm served as auditors for Thermax. Recalling Aga ’s words, Khare continued, “More often than not he used to tell me, T am prepared to pay any tax if it were to add value. ’ Unques ­ tionably, he could add value to every rupee saved from tax by ploughing it back with a view to cross-fertilizing the corporate the capacity to make one enjoy what one Honda Accord rashly, and indulging in base from which sprouted many products, was doing, ” she reveals. She can never wrong food habits with Anu trying desper- technologies, skills, missions, managers ’ forget the confidence he reposed in her ately to keep him off cigarettes and oily “The best is yet to come, ” was the inspiration for Aga who prided himself on having achieved whatever he had without useful with their lives. He was delighted ning and continuity, ” notes Dr Sammy though when they both joined the com- Mody, head of the N. M. Wadia Institute of pany for he had already clarified that they should not expect any position as their Aga worked his way corporate 1 adder before he established him- self as the leader. His hero, where private enterprise was concerned, was Jamsetji Tata. Bombay born Aga ’s early education was at Karachi. After his graduation in commerce from Bombay ’s Podar College he proceeded to Cambridge under a Tata scholarship to do his economics tripos. “He would have loved to be a professor but mindful of the fact that he had to repay his loan and the responsibility of looking after his parents, he turned to the corporate world, ” says Anu. Starting with Burmah Shell he later joined Duncan Brothers in Calcutta and thei> took up responsibilities at National Steel Equipment Company which was managed by Anu ’s family. When Anu ’ s father Ardeshir S. Bhathenalaunched Wanson India as a simple boiler maker, Aga devoted his all to this business and succeeded in making this company (later known as Thermax) into a giant with a turnover of Rs 350 crore without having to go public. It was the first Indian private company to open an office in Moscow. “Faced with difference of goals with the company founder, Aga executed a sort of management buyout in the mid-1980s, but; t 4’ * 210 Parsiana July-August 1996 Aga: visionary workaholic Cardiology, in whose opinion Aga “had the ability to analyze a problem and come to a decision without lengthy or erudite discussions. His ability to look into the future and his sense of timing was uncanny — except when it came to catching a plane without a leverage, ” reports Shreekant or attending a dinner party! ” Besides being Sambrani in The Economic Times. When his friend, Mody was also Aga ’s doctor who had witnessed Aga ’s travails follow ­ ing a quadruple bypass operation in the UK in 1982 and the subsequent paralytic stroke steadily above Rs 300, mentions Sambrani, impressed that “one of India ’s best engi- speech and memory. neering companies was headed by an “He had to start at the very beginning — economist. ” ¦ ; The workaholic and visionary enjoyed with objects, even tying his own shoe laces, his moments of rest too. He loved holiday- His effort was truly remarkable, ” credits ing in Mahableshwar (his favorite place in his daughter Meher Pudumjee who re- the world), playing cards with his wife members imbibing many lessons from him, each night before retiring to bed, enjoying one ofwhich was “Nothing is impossible. ” the company of Bimbo, his Lhasa apso, “Performing any task, whether it was my western classical music particularly com- homework from school or work at Thermax, positions by Bach, Vivaldi and Beethoven, was never a chore to him. He somehow had doting on his grandson Zahaan, driving his the company decided to open its doors to the public last year, it got a premium of Rs 180 per share and tne prices remained I *non-vegetarian foods. Discloses his wife, “I would go out of my way to prepare dishes which were low in cholesterol and he would say, ‘Delicious; do make it when I am out of town! ’” His visits to the fire ­ temple were more to please his mother for whom he also made time, when she was 94 years old, to accompany to Mahablesh- war. Aga ’s book Changing The Mindset — Reflections of a Chief Executive which Iranian Mobeds of North America. In the was published in 1994 is a masterpiece valued by many and wherein one can get glimpses of his personality, states Khare. Multifaceted Aga was “well read with a superb intellect, a great articulator, teacher ropolitan Chicago (ZAC). He was respect- and student throughout his life, a very fully remembered at the muktad prayers intense listener, a keen observer with a finger on the pulse of markets and custom ­ ers and their needs of today and tomorrow, lege, he pursued religious studies for seven a great visualizer and dreamer with a ca- years at Bombay ’s M. F. Cama Athornan pacity to translate his dream into reality, a Madressa in Andheri. Thereafter Azargo- great charmer because of his qualities of shasb graduated in law from the University head and heart. ” One of the most touching tributes on Aga ’s demise came from Moreshwar Sevekari, a blind employee of children of their own. One of his sons-in- Thermax, who confessed, “The sadness I feel today is much more than the sadness I felt when I lost my sight. ” Aga is survived by his mother Piroja, wife Anu, daughter Meher Pheroz Pudum- Mazdayesnie. jee and son Kurush. p. g. the illness five days later. Azargoshasb ’s two-volume translation and interpretation of the Gathas is “the best possible translation in Persian, ” notes the tribute forwarded toParsiana by Meher- ban Kushesh a former committee member of the Anjuman Zartoshtian Tehran. The late Dastur had also helped in the English translation of the Khordeh Avesta tran ­ scribed on audiotape by the Council of course of his dedicated life, he gave 1,000 lectures, and wrote numerous papers on Zoroastrianism, notes the August newslet ­ ter of the Zoroastrian Association of Met- conducted by ZAC at their Darbe Mehr. After graduating from Albourz Col- Turel: passion for prayer Kotwal of the H. B. Wadia Atas Bahram referred to him as “the last of a dying breed. ” Such was the respect and admira ­ tion earned by Turel that he is said to have of Tehran ere his marriage and the birth of attracted lakhs of rupees to the Modi Atash four daughters who are now settled with Behram by way of kathi and maintenance funds and to have personally donated over law is a mobed, informs Kushesh. a lakh of rupees. Actually the felicitation The priest is survived by his wife Simin function (and the^xecutive council meeting Adarbad and daughters Shahnaz Parsi, of the Federation of Parsi Zoroastrian Mitra Kianian, Mahnaz Ormazdi andParvin Anjumans of India earlier that day) was yet another occasion when donations from Turel and others led to the eight atash beh ­ rams being gifted Rs 40,(X)0 each towards their maintenance funds. Rather than let sacred fires languish due to want of maintenance or poor patronage, Turel believed that they should be shifted to areas where they could be well looked after. On the subject of mixed marriages, Arnavaz S. Mama The Respected Ritualist * Iran’s scholar priest Died: Dastur Firooz Azargoshasb, 83, in Tehran, Iran on June 25, 1996, following the seniormost priest at Surat ’s Sheth D.N. cardio-respiratory failure. Modi Atash Behram acclaimed for having Dedicated to religious study, this son of performed 160 nirangdins and other high though, the priest held conservative views. Dastur Namdar Azargoshasb was a promi- liturgical ceremonies, on May 27, 1996 in Secunderabad born Turel, who had been nent member of the panel of priests who Bombay following myocardial infarction, orphaned while he was in his eighth year of shared places of honor with the Islamic Regarded as a “diamond in Surat ’s life, had received his education at the M. F. clergy and representatives of the Isla- crown ” by the chairman of the Surat Parsi Cama Athoman Institute in Andheri. Drawn mic Republic of _ Iran who at- I tended various I sessions of the I Sixth World Zo- I roastrian Cong- I ress in Tehran. I The austere- I looking, bespec- I tacled priest had | taken ill during Azargoshasb: Gathas the session on in Persian “Strengthening of Religious Training of Mobeds ” on the second afternoon of the Congress and was escorted off the podium shortly after he Bombay Parsi Punchayet and the SPP two and daughters Farida Tehemton Mistry, delivered his address. He was said to be years ago (see “Ritual Honor, ” Parsiana, Dhun Noshir Anklesaria and Yasmin suffering from asthma. He succumbed to July-August 1994), Dastur (Dr) Firoze Kerfegar Cooper. p. G. Died: Ervad Jehangir Hormusji Turel, 71, liturgical ceremonies, on May 27, 1996 in Regarded as a “diamond in Surat ’s Panchayat (SPP) Dr Sam Bhacca, Turel is to prayers since his youth, he had started believed to have spent almost a tenth of his his vocation as a priest when he was 16 life in fire-temples undertaking the rigor ­ ous nirangdin ceremonies. In addition he has been credited with having performed operative Bank Limited opted for a secular innumerable vendidads, ijashnes and . . . _ . visperad ceremonies, supervised the con ­ secration of new fires as also re-enthron ­ ement of fires whose shift was necessitated perform a jashan at the foot of Mount because of repairs to the fire-temples. In Damavand. fact, barring the consecration of a dokhma, the ritualist was involved in every other high liturgical ceremony. Commenting of his rare dedication, at the felicitation function co-hosted by the years old while his brother Edul, former chairman of the Bombay Mercantile Co ­ career. Among the events which Turel considered particularly noteworthy was a trip to Iran when he got an opportunity to His passion for prayers, Turel sought to ingrain in the next generation. The advent of a savior, he believed, would infuse new life for Zoroastrianism to flourish in India. Turel is survived by his wife Tehmina 212 Parsiana My-August 1996 I