Sanatorium in Sanjan

The World Zoroastrian Organisation (WZO) Trust Funds Bai Maneckbai P. B. Jeejeebhoy Sanatorium at Sanjan, which became operational on September 23, 2001, is the result of a munificent donation received by the WZO Trust Funds from the generous trustees of the Maneckbai P. B. Jeejeebhoy Deed of Settlement Fund. Over the years this has become a popular retreat for community members.

The Sanatorium is located in a palatial bungalow and has comfortable rooms radiating understated elegance. The huge front yard has a beautiful garden which is always in bloom. The backyard has a planned mango orchard, coconut trees growing along the boundary, palms and many other trees, all combining in harmony to create an ambience without parallel. The pollution free environment complements the trees, the flowers and the fauna.

The very name Sanjan conjures up nostalgia and sentiment in the heart of every Zoroastrian for it was on these shores that we received sanctuary when our ancestors landed there 1,377 years ago to preserve our faith. Zoroastrians, proud and patriotic citizens of India, were given not only sanctuary but permitted to retain and follow their faith in an era when it was not easy to maintain religious identity other than that followed by the rulers of the day. This is indicative of the warmth and enthusiasm with which visitors to Sanjan have been greeted since time immemorial.

Sanjan’s Sanatorium: full of surprises

Sanjan is steeped in history. Did you know that according to tradition, the holy Iranshah fire was created at Sanjan. The ‘alat’ for the consecration was brought on foot by Zoroastrian clergy from four atash behrams of Iran? Did you know that Iranshah was consecrated on the collection of 16 different fires, including one from lightning brought down by the strength of mantras and rituals performed by Dastur Naryosang Dhaval? Did you know that Iranshah was resident at Sanjan for 669 years and thereafter to protect it from external threats in turbulent times was shifted to the Bahrot Caves for 12 years and thereafter to Vansda forest for 14 years? The holy Iranshah was then taken to Navsari (313 years), Surat (three years), Navsari again (five years), thereon to Valsad (one year) and finally enthroned at Udvada 265 years earlier on October 28, 1742, where it reigns in all its majesty and glory.

Did you know that one of the oldest dakhmas was professionally excavated at Sanjan in 2002 by the World Zarathushti Cultural Foundation (WZCF) with the support of the Archeological Survey of India? Whilst the structure can be dated to the 11th century, the bones found have been dated by Oxford University to the period 1410-1450 AC. WZO London assisted the WZCF by partly sponsoring the dating process at Oxford University.

The Sanjan Memorial Column standing next door to the Sanatorium is a community symbol that generates awe in our hearts and reminds us of the farsightedness of our revered ancestors, the fruits of which we enjoy to date.

Yes, Sanjan is full of surprises. We too have a surprise of our own. We combine history with the beauty of nature and blend them with comfortable living and sumptuous meals. In this day and age, full board and lodging for just Rs 250 per person per day is another pleasant surprise that greets our guests. Come visit Sanjan today and have a great holiday. For bookings please contact WZO Trust Funds, Shanti, 5th Floor, 6 Banaji Street, Fort, Bombay 400001, tel: (022) 22813718-19; WZO Trust Funds, Bai Maneckbai P. B. Jeejeebhoy Sanatorium, Udva Road, Sanjan 396150, Tal: Umbar­gaon, Dist Valsad, tel: (0260) 2575018; or WZO Trust Funds, Bai Maneckbai P. B. Jeejeebhoy Senior Citizens Centre, Pinjar Street, Malesar, Navsari, tel: (02637) 246073, 245402. DINSHAW K. TAMBOLY

Chairman, The WZO Trust Funds