Zest and zeal of ZYA

It is the aim of the Zoroastrian Youth Association (ZYA) of Poona to preserve the flavor of Parsi culture, foster the spirit of fellowship, develop character by healthy means such as sports, cultural and intellectual activities as well as to provide recreation. Formed three decades ago and built brick by brick purely on the enthusiasm and sense of bonhomie of its members, the ZYA has worked hard over the years with zeal and determination to fulfill its aims.

With the amazing go-getting spirit of the youngsters, the ZYA organizes an annual two-week summer camp in May, the Jamshedi Navroz function on March 21 and the Khordad Sal function in August. The camp is a great way to learn while having fun, to interact, make new friends and spend time constructively instead of merely sitting glued to the TV. About 40 youngsters aged between five and 25 years attended it last year and enjoyed the prayers, sports and games, breakfast, morning show of a movie at a multiplex, the various competitions, quizzes on various topics, glass painting, theater workshops, magic show and making plaster of paris murals. At the valedictory party the kids displayed talents that had been nurtured at the camp in the form of performances, to enthusiastic applause from their proud parents. This was followed by dinner.

Clockwise from right: ZYA members at Manali Resort; at a salsa workshop; and guests at the Navroz function

The Jamshedi Navroz and Khordad Sal functions are the most eagerly anticipated events with their variety programs and decked up kids running around saying the cheekiest things in the most innocent way, nudging each other, singing and having fun. To create awareness about Persepolis and instill a sense of pride among Zoroastrians a documentary was shown, which was liked by all.

Recently, in an attempt to get the youth to interact and make friends within the community, 57 youngsters aged between 16 and 35 were taken to Manali Resort in Loni, on the outskirts of Poona where they enjoyed the water rides and the greenery. Games were organized and a delicious lunch of biryani and mutton cutlets served.

The latest event organized by ZYA was a dinner-dance at Poona’s Turf Club. This time the turnout was 150 youths, including out-of-towners. The event, which required a formal dress code, was graciously sponsored by Dinyar Jalna­wala. The evening comprised introductions, a salsa dance workshop, musical arms and prizes for the best dressed couple and dancers, amongst others with participants vying for prizes ranging from Shoppers’ Stop gift vouchers to multiplex tickets. The dinner menu comprised Parsi cuisine.

Next on the anvil is a quiz on the Zoroastrian religion, history and the Parsi community in general.

Khursheed Dinshaw