Seva and snacks

A takeaway counter selling fresh mouthwatering Parsi snacks like chicken farcha, mutton patties, puffs, etc at reasonable rates was inaugurated in April by The Poona Zarthosti Seva Mandal, notes a write-up from its joint secretary Mabrin Nanavatti referring to the current activities as also providing a historical background. On the occasion of its 70th anniversary, the Mandal undertook major repair and renovation of their premises on Mahatma Gandhi Road which were in a dilapidated condition.

The most important activity of the Mandal is the shop on their premises where they encourage Zarathushtis to bring and market their home-made products like food items, readymade garments and traditional Zoroastrian artifacts like prayer books, topis, kustis, ses, chalk dabbis, etc. "The shop has assumed a new look with modern amenities. We now venture to upgrade the shop,” mentions Nanavatti.

Promoting Poona Zarthosti Seva Mandal (from left) Ratush Wadia, Rukh­shana Anklesaria, Nancy Bagla, Bapsy Postwalla, Dr Sarosh Soonawalla, Dr Sanjana, Meher Gazder, (behind) Jehabhux Desai and Rustom Bharucha

One of the oldest charitable organizations in Poona, the Mandal was established by Goola Patell, Meherbai Wadia and Marazban Medora in 1940 to bring the community together as also to assist the underprivileged section of the community. Their endeavors prompted Hilla Nicholson to offer her premises to set up a regular establishment.

The Mandal has 250 members on its rolls with a managing committee of 15 members overseeing its activities. Whilst promoting entrepreneurship within the community the Mandal’s aims and objectives encompass assisting the needy Zarathoshtis of Poona with financial aid for education, medical assistance of the aged and disabled, cultivating religious interest through discourses, encouraging sports and fellowship within the community, states the write-up.

The income from their shop generates some funds to continue with their activities. However, they are largely dependent on the largesse of philanthropic and generous well-wishers and donors.