World alliance

World alliance has been a dream since a long time. Societies formed to this end have failed to achieve their goal. It is human mentality to think of lofty targets, but these efforts are negated at the lower level due to lack of unity and sincere desire to attain results.

The word "alliance” is usually used in connection with treaties, compromise and cooperation. So why does it not work for societies? It is possible that this is due to differences of opinion between ideologies. But this does not mean that they should perpetuate these differences with a rigid, egoistical attitude. Positive thinking can help them reach a compromise.

There is no clear definition of racial heritage. Who are the Parsis? The progeny of our pilgrim fathers who have come from the province of Pars and maintained Parsipanu are confirmed as Parsis. They should have both Parsi parents. But the progeny of "falooda culture,” when the father is a Parsi but the mother is not, creates problems. The judgment of the High Court defines progeny of a Parsi as a person whose father is a Parsi. Thus priority is given to fathers, as the source of heritage.

The situation is reversed when a Parsi woman opts for a non-Parsi spouse. She loses her Parsipanu along with all benefits from the community. Her progeny are not Parsis, though she may claim that she observes all the tenets of the Zarthoshti religion and Parsi customs. After marriage girls are considered as parki amanat (someone else’s treasure) in all communities and cannot profess double standards. All Iranis are also not Parsis as they are not from Pars and belong to various provinces of Iran.

Societies mention only the religion and avoid the racial identity, like the World Zoroastrian Organisation. When such societies use the word "world” the situation becomes serious.

If we want to survive, we must cultivate a harmonious attitude and decide to compromise. Why create unnecessary splits due to differences of opinion? Harmony has more power than money. We are known to be a peaceful and intelligent group. Understanding is real Parsipanu. Dedication is the main quality inherited from our forefathers. Determination is required to unite on a common platform. Let us stay together and remain allied for a better future. May Vohuman, the good mind, guide us.

NOSHIR DABOO

Ahmedabad