Language loyalty

Parsiana contains the word Parsi with the suffix ‘ana,’ which means ‘for the purpose of…’ in Persian, just as when premises are reserved for ladies it is known as zanana, ‘zan’ meaning a lady.

Any publication must have the motive to guide people in the right direction. Parsiana also has such intention to guide our community for the upliftment of our great religion and cultural heritage. But readers are confused when they read conflicting, ambiguous views, with no indication of the right direction.

Our community is cent percent educated and intelligent, so controversial debate is likely. Opinions naturally differ from the west and the east as they face different situations.

Parsiana is entirely in English. Most readers with religious fervor know Gujarati better. They cannot take advantage of such English publications.

I have published a dozen books in Gujarati on religious and cultural topics. They are received with interest by Gujarati readers outside Gujarat also. In Gujarat, demand is more for Gujarati literature.

Due to scientific advancements, unfortunately interest in reading is gradually decreasing. One of the promises given by our forefathers to King Jadityarana of Sanjan was to adopt the Gujarati language. It is shameful that Parsis openly confess that they cannot follow Gujarati.

Our young generation is tempted to get education in the English medium only. Why should they not learn Gujarati also when they can take tuitions to learn a difficult language like Sanskrit? Gujarati language is more easy. Most of the religious guidance on our Zarathoshti din is available in Gujarati volumes.

It is the religious duty of Parsi publications to encourage our generation to learn Gujarati and to preserve our cultural heritage.

Most readers are more eager to get knowledgeable information on the religion and other interesting issues pertaining to life. They are not interested in factions.

The purpose of this letter is to request you to have a few pages in Gujarati also to guide the community in the right direction. Can Parsiana accede to my request? It will be a good service to our small community.

NOSHIR DABOO

Ahmedabad

The editors reply

As much as we would like to publish some pages in Gujarati it is not practical because we do not have the necessary personnel and resources. Just coping with the material in English is difficult enough. We lament the non-usage of Gujarati just as we do the dearth of scholars in Avesta and Pahlavi. Finally if the language is to survive it can only be through the concerted efforts of dedicated people who keep the tradition alive.