Future torchbearers

Two Zarathushti boys from North America underwent the maratab ceremony in Bombay in December 2007. Varun Rayomand Bhadha and Zerkxis Zarrir Bhandara successfully completed this milestone at the Sethna Agiary under the guidance of Ervads Captain Parvez Dordi and Khushravi Palia, informs Burjor Tarachand, manager of the Anjuman Atash Behram in an e-mail to Parsiana.

These future torchbearers of the North American community were trained by Zarrir Bhandara of California, who believes that Zarathushti priests should possess certain qualities reflecting the life of a true Zarathushti, and inspiring everybody they meet, writes Tarachand.

Left: Zerkxis Bhandara flanked by his father Zarrir and Dastur Firoze Kotwal; Right: Varun Bhadha (left) with Ervad Khushravi Palia

Priests need to engage the youth in religious activities one on one; in particular young men/women should come to know and see their priest as someone they can relate to and consult over any life issues. Priests have the responsibility of being good listeners, to nurture and support any profession in their community. If someone is in trouble, their first stop is their priest, where the response must be warm, understanding and welcoming. Wise, knowledgeable, righteous, dedicated, kind, loving, caring, giving, sensitive, thorough, optimistic, progressive, productive, good role models, decisive, responsible and happy are some of the qualities a Zarathushti priest should possess, as per Tarachand’s e-mail.