Commending courage

On the occasion of its 80th anniversary the Iran League instituted the Late Maneckji Hataria Trophy for display of exemplary courage and heroism which was conferred on Air Marshal Manek B. Madon who had come from Shillong with his wife Yasmin to receive the award on October 26, 2002. Additionally 30 trophies, 17 medals (for proficiency in Shahnameh) and 132 cash prizes and books were distributed as is their annual practice, according to a press release.

Having served the Air Force for nearly 40 years during which time he was active in two Indo-Pak Wars, Madon expressed the immense satisfaction, stability, security and a sense of all-round accomplishment experienced by him. Disappointed that not many Parsis today volunteer to serve their country, he urged the youth to give it serious thought.

The Zoroastrian virtues of charity and integrity have helped us to progress and survive, observed guest of honor Homi Khusrokhan, managing director, Tata Tea Limited. He impressed upon the parents to invest their time, money and effort in the upbringing of their children, the custodians of tomorrow.

In the absence of president Sir Jam-setji Jejeebhoy, vice president Cow­as­jee Dinshaw welcomed those present while coordinator and honorary treasurer Ervad Vispi Dastur outlined the various activities of the League, emphasizing the numerous competitions held in order to ensure that the Zoroastrian religion and Parsi/Iranian culture and traditions are not forgotten.

A jashan led by Ervad Keki Raoji and a hambandagi by the students of the Dadar Athornan Madressa commenced the function. The prize distribution at the hands of Dhanoo Khusrokhan and Yasmin Madon, and the singing of Parsi monajats were the other highlights of the evening’s function. After the vote of thanks by the chief judge Silloo Shapoorjee, the singing of Chhaiyé hamé Zarathushti and the national anthem concluded the session. Thereafter more than 400 persons participated in the dinner catered by Minoo Bharucha.