Panoramic vision

"A Zoroastrian Panorama,” a four-day exhibition showcasing the Parsi community and the Zoroastrian religion, was organized by the Frohar Foundation from April 22 to 25, 2010 at Allbless Baug. Inaugurated by Dastur Kai­khushro N. Dastoor, the special features introduced this year were the depiction of Prophet Zarathushtra’s life, three-dimensional models of a fire temple and a Tower of Silence created in thermocol by artist Jennifer Dinshaw, and the release of the book The Zoroastrian Saga – A Pictorial Overview written by Ervad (Dr) Ramiyar Karanjia. "My aim is to simplify the religion by giving people a visual idea of its various rites, rituals and history,” Karanjia was quoted in the Hindustan Times of April 23.

"While non-Parsis have a lot of misconception about our religion, often many young Parsis themselves are ignorant about their culture and the reasons behind our rites,” conveyed Frohar Foundation founder Ervad Cyrus Dastoor who had conceptualized the exhibition for the fifth consecutive year. Yet another draw this year were the films shown on the last two days, presenting the rise and fall of the Zoroastrian religion over the five dynasties — Peshdadian, Kayanian, Achemenian, Parthian and Sassanian — and depicting the heroic deeds of emperors with the painful narration of the father-son duel.

Alongside: Visitors admiring three dimensional models at "A Zoroastrian Panorama;” (below, from left) Ervad Cyrus Dastoor Dastur Kaikhushro Dastoor and Aban Baria

The first declaration of human rights promulgated by Cy­rus the Great was also given publicity at the Panorama. Further charts, posters, power point presentations, artifacts and cultural exhibits explained Zoroastrian culture, history, customs and ceremonies. Audiovisual shows carried snippets of the popular teleserial Humata Hukhta Hvarshta.

Stalls exhibiting Zoroastrian culture and the all-time favorite Parsi delicacies attracted the visitors as did the evening cultural items like Burjorji no barapo, a skit by the students of the Dadar Athornan Institute, Bollywood songs and dances by Ahura Gen-X. The last day included a grand finale with a contributory lagan nu bhonu.

Remaining committed to its projects like helping destitute women and children, giving medical aid to the needy, awarding educational scholarships, distributing exercise books to poor students, cultivating a talent bank, Frohar Foundation is also keen to pursue new community welfare projects like an ambulance with an ICU and critical care facility, a medical diagnostic center offering treatment at subsidized rates and free medical camps for the poor, states the press release from the Foundation.