Bhavnagar appeal

Parsis in Bhavnagar, in Saurashtra, Gujarat, once numbered a few thousands. Today their number has dwindled to just about 15 families. Bhavnagar is a well planned town which offers industrial and business opportunities. It is linked directly by rail with Bombay; trains from South India too come here. The airport has two flights daily, by Jet Airways and Air Deccan.

The Bhavnagar Parsi Agiary, situated in the heart of the town, is over 110 years old. The Agiary complex has a dharamshala, a hall for weddings, navjotes and other social and religious occasions which is looked after by the trustees, the caretaker and the members of the community. For the past few years there has been no mobed to tend to the holy fire. The caretakers and trustees of the Bhavnagar Parsi Anjuman also look after the aramgah.

Even though there are not more than 30 Parsis living in Bhavnagar today, on occasions like Jamshedi Navroz and Pateti there is a community get-together with an entertainment program and a celebratory dinner.

The 110-year-old Bhavnagar Parsi Agiary lacks a mobed

We request members of the community to contribute towards the day-to-day expenses of the Agiary and its complex as well as for the kathi fund. Cheques made out in the name of "Bhavnagar Parsi Anjuman” may be sent to trustee Cavas K. Daruvala, 1131, Ahuramin, Meghnai Circle, Sir Patni Road, Bhavnagar, 364001, tel: 0278-2510243; secretary Dr Roh­inton Mahuvawalla, Plot No 2150, Behind Pooja Flats, Vagawadi Road, Bhavnagar 364002; or Kurush E. Daruvala, 001-C. D. Baug Annexe, Sai Baba Enclave, Next to Citi Centre, S. V. Road, Goregaon (West), Bombay 400062, tel: 022-65079756. CAVAS K. DARUVALA

Trustee, Bhavnagar Parsi Anjuman

Bhavnagar, Gujarat