Move forward unitedly

As we celebrate the Shahenshahi New Year 1375 let us rekindle, reignite and reaffirm the fundamental principles of Zoroastrianism, namely to foster unity, practice non-violence, help the poor and lead a righteous life of humata, hukhta and hvarshta.

Zoroastrians have proved to be one of the most philanthropic communities in the world. Pioneers in almost every field, resilient and steadfast, our community has overcome overwhelming challenges to maintain our faith and way of life. Today, the very existence of our community as we know it is in danger. This time around the threat is from within. The growing discord has serious implications for the future of the Zoroastrian community worldwide.

The recent judgment of the Supreme Court in not accepting another small community as a minority within the larger hierarchy of Hindus is a very clear example that in future any specific focus on a religious monolog will not be accepted and beneficial even under law.

To divide our community would mean the very division of our identity. We are the only religion in the world that has not legitimated its differences by creating separate factions. To do so now would be a step backward.

Let us stand up and take charge of our future. Our energy and effort need to be focused on far greater things. We live in a shrinking world and we will have to give way for a new thought process for our community, one of cooperation and understanding. We have enough wisdom and compassion and we have to use these to our advantage and this is where our religious principles and teaching of Zarathushtra should be applied to reverse the present trend that seeks division of the community.

In today’s context, ecology and its preservation afford a very significant opportunity for our youth to show their talent and ability. Zarathushtra, in his wisdom, talked about preservation of nature 3,000 years ago and our prayers enshrine this.

May I earnestly request our younger generation to take up projects and save our heritage which has to survive not by dogmatism but by leadership and cooperation, looking at the future?

If we as elders can be of any assistance to anyone anywhere in India we would welcome an opportunity to contribute towards your growth.

May I request all our so vociferous speakers and writers to spend their time, talent, effort and monies to project the community and help it grow; a good word or praise for work done does not go to waste but builds bridges to move along. We have argued and torn each other apart for what purpose and for how many years?

If the community faces difficulties or calamities worldwide, are we united to face them? Who shall we approach? Which international organization or country will recognize us when we do not have a united world body of Zoroastrians? Can we please have a consensus and pledge our talent and resources to move forward unitedly? In this spirit let us usher in the New Year YZ 1375.

DADI E. MISTRY

New Delhi