Delhi aramgah appeal

The aramgah (Parsi cemetery) in Delhi which is looked after by the Delhi Parsi Anjuman (DPA) has been in existence in its present location in Central Delhi on Prithviraj Lane (less than 500 m from Taj Mansingh Hotel and 400 m from the most sophisticated shopping area of Delhi, Khan Market) since 1930. It is a serene and beautiful property of approximately three acres. We have a large empty plot of about one acre which can be used in the future.

It has served as the final resting place not only for the Delhi Parsis but has been used extensively by the Parsi community of many places in North India as well as Parsi travelers who passed away in this region. It has over 500 graves, some of which are in a dilapidated condition as there are no family members who can be contacted for the upkeep. Much of the infrastructure is about 80 years old and needs repair.
The aramgah has no source of income and it is becoming increasingly difficult to carry out the maintenance and repairs of this large area. The annual expenditure which includes salaries, electricity and water charges and basic costs for cleaning comes to Rs 4.5 lakhs (USD 6,994) per annum. In addition, there is a constant need for repairs and renovation. With this in mind, the DPA has decided to build a corpus for aramgah maintenance. We are reaching out for assistance to all families whose loved ones are buried in this place as well as to philanthropic individuals within the Parsi community to help us in this attempt. Cheques in the name of "Delhi Parsi Anjuman” should be accompanied by a covering letter mentioning that the amount is meant for the aramgah corpus. It is also possible to send a donation by direct bank transfer from India or abroad.
Any donation of Rs 15,000 and above will be acknowledged on the marble slab on the bungli wall. Donors of four lakhs and above would be entitled to a special marble plaque in the aramgah. Donors may please contact the aramgah subcommittee constituting trustee Niloufer Shroff (+919810152764, niloufershroff@gmail.com), or members Rukshana Shroff (+919810020262, rukshanashroff@hotmail.com) at E-22 A East of Kailash, New Delhi 110065, Kerman Mehta (+919810422341, kerman.mehta@gmail.com) at B-22, Defence Colony, 2nd floor, New Delhi 110024.

NILOUFER SHROFF
New Delhi