The FEZANA UN-NGO Committee is looking for participants to attend the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) at the UN Headquarters in New York from July 9-15, 2018.
The theme is, “Transformation towards sustainable and resilient societies”. The set of Sustainable Developmental Goals to be reviewed in depth are:
- Goal 6: Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all
- Goal 7: Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all
- Goal 11: Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable
- Goal 12: Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns
- Goal 15: Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss.
For more information: https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/hlpf/2018
Individuals aged 16 and over who are interested in attending the conference, are requested to send their resume and letter of intent by May 18th, 2018. Please send the e-mail to both individuals below:
Behram Pastakia (bpastakia@aol.com)
Afreed Mistry (mistry.afreed@gmail.com)While FEZANA, as an NGO in consultative status with the Economic and Social Council [ECOSOC] and the Department of Public Information (DPI), will facilitate registration to the Conference, the selected participants are expected to make their own financial arrrangements regarding visas, tickets, accommodation, food, and transportation in the city. Details about the vision, mission and activities of the United Nations can be accessed at www.un.org.
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Call For Participants at the United Nations
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ZFN Webinar – Applying to Graduate School in the US
Thanks to all those who participated in the above Webinar. Special thanks to Farrokh Mistree and Janet Allen who lucidly explained the details lucidly. All participants greatly benefited and expressed satisfaction at the takeaways from the session.
For the benefit of all, here is the recording of the session
And here is the presentation – Click Here to View
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The Football Fanatic’s Essential Guide
Please click on the link below and read an excellent review of my latest book,
The Football Fanatics,.
Review appeared in The asian age today
Regards,
Novy Kapadia
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A hat-trick from Dilshad Daruvala
Hello Humdeens
Many of you will remember the Parsi Panja of Dilshad Rayomand Daruvala as she participated and won in the past two years at the All Zoroastrian Arm Wrestling Competition at the Parsee Gymkhana at Marine Drive.
1. On Sunday, November 20, 2016:
Dilshad arm-wrestled three contestants before she won the the Gold Medal that many of us saw.
She won the Medal in the Over 40 Ladies category.
2. Then, on Sunday, November 19, 2017:
Dilshad arm-wrestled her way to retain her title and won an easy gold medal as an individual.
Besides, she was part of a team that scored the highest points and received a cash-prize at the
All Zoroastrian Arm Wrestling Competition at the Parsee Gymkhana at Marine Drive.
3. Now, last Tuesday, May 1, 2018:
Dilshad called me from Nagpur, where she lives with her advocate husband and two lovely little
daughters, and where she had recently participated in the 31st State Arm-Wresting Champion-
ship organised by the Nagpur District Arm-Wrestling Association.
She has sent the following two attachments with this brief little WA message:
“Stood Second and am selected for the national level arm-wrestling championship to be
held at Lucknow“
Congratulations Dilshad. What a hat-trick!
Great seeing your medal and your certificate in the attachment.
May you have many more such victories !!!
dara
P.S. Dilshad can be seen seen arm-wrestling at 3:47; (she is in a yellow dress) in the attached 2016 YouTube video clip:
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FEZANA Reports on a Successful 31st Annual General Meeting
The 31st Annual General Meeting of the Federation of Zoroastrian Associations of North America was hosted by member association California Zoroastrian Center at their Dar-e-Mehr in Westminster California over 4 days.
Published on FEZANA website
Over 70 official participants formed part of a larger group of friends attended this annual event held over the last weekend of April every year.
This year’s event started with a series of programs on the Pre-AGM day Thursday April 26, 2018. A jashan ceremony organized by the North American Mobed Council and led by Ervad Zarrir Bhandara kickstarted the four day program. Ervad Bhandara was joined by other mobeds and mobedyars. This was followed by a detailed presentation on the functioning, challenges and future initiatives of the North American Mobed Council by its president Ardaviraf Minocherhomjee. In the afternoon an informative discussion was led by Dr. Dolly Dastoor and Ardeshir Irani on FEZANA’s participation in the upcoming Parliament of Worlds Religions in Toronto in November 2018. A second session was led by Rohinton Rivetna on Infrastructure needs in North America and what FEZANA and its member associations and Zarathushtis in North America can do to make some of the ideas come to fruition.
In the evening the entire group went out to Huntington Beach to see the sun set with a beautiful bonfire. The evening was planned out by Cyrus Irani and his team from the host CZC, and everyone had a memorable (and cold) time sharing stories and making memories.
The official AGM program began on Friday April 27th, 2018 with a benediction led by our Ervadsahebs. FEZANA President Homi D. Gandhi called the meeting to order and welcomed all the participants.
In a short presentation, FEZANA remembered three of its stalwarts Dhunmai Dalal, Professor Kaikhosrov D. Irani and Dr. Farhang Mehr who passed away in the last year. The contributions of these three individuals in the formation of FEZANA and their continued guidance over the last three decades was celebrated.
Homi D. Gandhi gave his Presidential address where he laid out the work done by FEZANA and its members, committee chairs and executives over the past year. He also addressed some of the success stories and asked those present to help brainstorm some of the issues we all need to address in the days months and years to come. FEZANA Vice-President Arzan Sam Wadia, Secretary Percy M. Master and FEZANA Administrator Zenobia Damania all spoke about their activities in the past year and action items for the year ahead.
Results of the elections were announced. FEZANA is happy to announce the re-election of Homi Gandhi as President for his second two year term. FEZANA also welcomed Rooky Fitter of Zoroastrian Association of California-Los Angeles as the new FEZANA Treasurer.
Homi Gandhi also thanked past FEZANA Treasurer Shirin Jahanian and past Assistant Secretary Afreed Mistry who stepped down at the end of their respective terms.
FEZANA conducts its activities through a series of Standing and Ad-hoc committees. This year we are happy to announce that the FEZANA UN-NGO committee was voted to become a Standing Committee at FEZANA.
All FEZANA committees presented the work they did right through the year in a series of presentations and annual reports. This allowed for a review of the activities of FEZANA and provided the committee chairs and member associations to find potentials to collaborate on projects that are mutual in intent.
Evening celebrations were organized by the Zoroastrian Association of California, Los Angeles at their new center in Orange, California. A humbandagi at their new Atash Kadeh began the evening festivities. The ZAC-LA kids and toddlers put up a beautiful entertainment program and ZAC-LA members Shazneen Gandhi and Gulshan Pagdiwala gave a sneak peak of their upcoming children’s book Hello World. The evening ended with an amazing spread of food enjoyed by all.
Saturday April 28, 2018; the second day of the AGM began with a benediction. This was followed by a video presentation FEZANA had made at the last Iranshah Udvada Utsav. Titled “Zarathushtis in North America: A FEZANA Perspective” it showcases the work of FEZANA in the recent past.
FEZANA and its member association CZC will also be the hosts of the 7th World Zoroastrian Youth Congress in July 2019. The Executive committee of the 7WZYC2019 made a detailed presentation at the AGM. Periodic updates on the Congress can be found on their website and Facebook page.
FEZANA AGMs are a place where member associations present their activities from the past year and this time was no different. Associations shared success stories and innovative ideas, programs and asked their fellow members for suggestions to unique problems.
The afternoon session put Hamazori in practise as various presentations were held by organizations that FEZANA works and partners with all the time. The youth participants of the Zoroastrian Return To Roots (RTR) program spoke about their recent trip to India in December 2017. The World Zoroastrian Chamber of Commerce President Edul Daver spoke about the new initiatives WZCC has put in place and outlined areas where they are collaborating and working with FEZANA and its member associations. The North American Mobed Council President Ardaviraf Minocherhomjee spoke about the work done by NAMC and an interesting discussion on the role and future of mobeds in North America followed. FEZANA Vice President Arzan Sam Wadia was a participant at the recently concluded 1st World Zoroastrian Youth Leaders Forum at the ASHA Center in United Kingdom and presented an update of that Forum and the upcoming initiatives by the attendees at the WZYLF.
Bids had been invited for hosting FEZANA’s 32nd AGM in 2019 and FEZANA Corresponding Member Central Florida Group was selected as the host of the next AGM. This is the second time that this small group within FEZANA is hosting an AGM. However in what will be a first of its kind, they will also host the WZCC Global AGM around the FEZANA AGM. Tentative dates for WZCC Global AGM and FEZANA’s 32nd AGM are early May 2019. The WZCC AGM will be over Wednesday and Thursday May 1-2, 2019. The FEZANA AGM will then begin on Friday May 3 to Sunday May 5th, with the WZCC Awards Gala Night on Saturday May 4th. The event will be held in Orlando Florida. More details on this in the weeks to follow.
Funds and Finance committee Co-Chair Ratan Mistry went over the new Budgeting procedures implemented last year for all the committee co-chairs.
The hosts California Zoroastrian Center hosted the FEZANA AGM Gala that evening at the Westminster Dar-E-Mehr. It was a beautifully organized Gala with a fantastic entertainment program that included youth Mehraban Mehin playing the Piano, Danesh Bhandara solo danced to Bollywood music, Bestoon sung some amazing Persian and English songs. The show stopper was an event compered by Meher Amalsad that saw Karate 5th degree black belt Shihan Ervad Zarrir Bhandara and Karate 1st Degree black belt perform some amazing stunts showcasing mental and physical prowess including a motorcycle plank ride over Shihan Bhandara’s abdomen !
Arman Ariane the President of the Board of Trustees of CZC felicitated Daryoush Irani and Benham Abadian for their contributions to CZC over the decades. The evening ended with a fantastic spread of Persian food and dancing.
Sunday April 29th was the last day of the AGM. After the morning benediction, Meherji Madon gave an update on the movie On Wings of Fire that has currently been restored to digital specs.
FEZANA past presidents Katayun Kapadia and Rohinton Rivetna addressed the AGM and spoke about what they have been doing since their terms ended and the initiatives they want to continue to see succeed in the years to come at both the FEZANA and the member association levels.
Since 2017, FEZANA Executive has introduced the FEZANA Open Forum which is a free-for-all discussion on a variety of topics that participants want to speak about. This has been a very valuable initiative where all the official participants and those in the audience get to express their thoughts on some of the topics discussed at the AGM and others that they would like to bring up to FEZANA.
The AGM concluded with the Closing remarks by President Homi D. Gandhi who touched upon the discussions at the AGM and FEZANA’s and his own vision for the year(s) ahead.
The post AGM session saw all of the participants drive to CZC’s Valley Dar-e-Mehr in Canoga Park to participate in the WZCC Southern Californai Chapter’s meeting. The CZC’s LA Valley Dar-e-Mehr was recently renovated with a beautiful facade restoration and everyone got an opportunity to visit this center.
WZCC Southern California Chapter event started with a video call with Danny Khursigara, the award winning author and banking professional from Hong Kong who did a Q & A with chapter Chair Kavasji Dadachanji. This was followed by an inspiring talk by Arman Ariane, who spoke about his journey and business initiatives. The keynote talk was given by Edul Daver, the Global Chairman of WZCC who spoke about his business journey with Acupowder.
A hearty Persian buffet followed the talk as participants started bidding goodbye’s with promises to meet up in a year in Orlando.
No event of this size can be successful without the countless hours of volunteer work that is put in by dozens of volunteers. The team at CZC aided by ZAC-LA completely outdid themselves in producing a truly memorable AGM with fantastic events, entertainment and great hospitality.
Courtesy : Arzan Wadia – Parsi Khabar
https://parsikhabar.net/fezana/fezana-reports-on-a-successful-31st-annual-general-meeting/17590/
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Simurgh, the Mysterious Giant Healing Bird in Iranian Mythology
The image of the serpent is widely acknowledged in western culture to symbolize medicine. One of the most recognizable symbols for medicine today is the rod of Aesculapius with its entwined single serpent. It was originally a symbol representing Aesculapius, the Greek god of medicine, from around the 6th century BC. In the early 20th century the US Army Medical Corps (USAMC) adopted the caduceus of the Roman god, Mercury, with its double entwined serpents capped with wings as a medical symbol, although it had no medical association in early Greek or Roman tradition. In contrast, Iranian mythology has no recorded evidence that the image of the serpent was ever associated with the practice of medicine or pharmacy. Instead, it was the mythical bird, Simurgh.
Simurgh (Image: Jahan-e-Khosrau / Free use )
The Simurgh was described as a peacock with the head of a dog and the claws of a lion. She was a creature big enough to comfortably carry an elephant or a whale. The Simurgh was said to be so old that she had seen the destruction of the world three times over. This afforded her so much wisdom and learning that she possessed the knowledge of all the ages. In one legend, the Simurgh was said to have lived for 1,700 years before plunging herself into flames, much like the Phoenix. The figure of the Simurgh can be found in all periods of Iranian art and literature, as well other regions that were within the realm of Persian cultural influence. In the Avesta, the Zoroastrian holy book, containing the oldest record of the Simurgh, the Simurgh is written as Meregho Saena . Later, the name ‘Saena’ was also associated with healers. In Farvardin Yasht , verses 97 and 126, several physicians have also been mentioned bearing the name ‘Saena’. In the Dinkard, a 10th century compendium of the Mazdaen Zoroastrian beliefs and customs, it is mentioned that there was a physician by the name of ‘Saena’ who was born 100 years after Zoroaster and who trained 100 students to be physicians, during his long life.
The Birth of a Hero by the First Caesarean Section
The Simurgh represented the union and served as a mediator and messenger between the Earth and the Sky. She lived in the ‘Tree of Knowledge’ and, when she took flight, her powerful ascent shook the tree’s branches so violently that the seeds from every plant that had ever existed, were scattered throughout the world, bringing a wealth of valuable plants to mankind.
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Meet the Kavinas, one of the only two Parsi families in Kerala
Dressed in regular ‘nighties’ with a dash of sacred ash on their forehead, Rathi and Dhan Kavina could easily pass off as Malayalis.
But a look around their modest flat reveals a picture of Prophet Zarathustra on the wall, as well as a prayer note with the Faravahar (symbol of Zoroastrianism), pasted behind the front door. The sisters, into their seventies, are the only remaining members of the Kavina family, one of the only two Parsi families in Kerala today.
But neither Rathi nor Dhan are too concerned about their Persian roots, or the fact that they don’t share a God with many others in the State. “God is one, only the names are different,” says Rathi, the older of the two, a perpetual smile playing on her lips. On a shelf in the bedroom are pictures of Gods of all religions, besides that of their late parents and brother, with rows of small lamps before them.
“We celebrate all festivals including Onam, Christmas, Vishu besides Zoroastrian festivals,” they say. In fact, when their brother was alive, they used to go on pilgrimages to various temples, as well as the Anjuman Baug, the only Parsi Fire Temple in Kerala, situated near SM Street, Kozhikode. “We worship the fire and recite a prayer in Gujarati to Ahura Mazda (the Lord of Wisdom) every day. But we don’t have a holy book. Our only motto in life is: good words, good thoughts and good deeds,” says Rathi.
Their family settled in Kerala after their parents moved to Thrissur from Ahmedabad, home to one of the largest communities of Parsis. Their father, Padamsha Kavina, had come to work in a textile mill in Thrissur, and the two sisters were born here. “We attended school and college in Thrissur, and have lived here all our lives,” says Rathi. While their brother started a textile business later, where Rathi assisted him, Dhan has been a home-bird all her life. “I’m the one who does all the shopping and banking, but I don’t even know how to make a cup of tea. Dhan is a great cook and homemaker,” Rathi says with a laugh.
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Bafaenu — Ripe Mango Pickle Quick and Easy Recipe
Here is a Quick and easy recipe for Bafaenu, in the event some friends find the earlier recipe too cumbersome and elaborate. However, this Bafaenu may not stay well for as long as the Bafaenu from the first recipe. It would last at the very least for four to six months; though I have known it to stay well for much longer. You may also refrigerate the pickle after the first four, if you so desire.
INGREDIENTS:
25 ripe but firm mangoes about the size of your palm,
2 kg approx (2 Ser) jaggery;
900 gms (1/2 seer) mustard powder, preferably ground at home;
260 gms kilo (1/4 seer) garlic coarse paste;
750ml (1 seer) vinegar, preferably Sugar cane vinegar;
250 ml (1 pav) a *cooking oil of your choice;
60 Gms (5 Tola) salt;
Coarsely ground:
60 Gms (1 chatak) Red Chili powder;
60 Gms (1 chatak) turmeric powder;
METHOD:
Wash the mangoes, towel dry, and boil;
When fully cooked and soft, remove the mangoes from the vessel;
Spread them out to dry;
Mix the mustard in half the quantity of vinegar and whip;
Let the mustard mature in the vinegar;
Once the mustard is mature add the rest of the vinegar and the turmeric powder, and chili powder;
The mangoes should by now be dry, check for any remaining moisture (the slightest moisture will cause fungus to form and ruin the pickle);
Place the mangoes in a jar Of China clay or in a glass jar;
Pour the vinegar mixture over the mangoes, sprinkle the salt and pour the oil over it;
DO NOT MIX OR STIR IN ANY FORM WHATSOEVER. It is likely to break the mangoes and destroy the pickle;
Close the bottle with an air-tight lid;
Tie a piece of cheese clothes or Muslin cloth on the lid;
For a few days, open the jar Every 2 days and bring the bottom-most mangoes to the top;
Thus evenly marinating and pickling the mangoes;
Then let it rest for a further 15 days to complete the pickling process.
The pickle is now ready to eat.
Please DO NOT ATTEMPT TO HASTEN THE PROCESS by using a stove to cook the mangoes in the vinegar marinade.
This will destroy the vinegar marinade and may even turn bitter.
- Then they used home drawn unrefined peanut oil.
http://www.mumbaiblogg.com/old-parsi-recipes/bafaenu-ripe-mango-pickle-quick-easy-recipe/
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PRAYERS
Prayers are like
The rays of
The golden Phoebe
When chanted
“Emitting” intense heat
Cleansing one`s
Thoughts words deeds
As the sun
Seems to retire
For the night
Casting an reddish
Orange glow all over
Signaling that evening
Is drawing near
As we are ourselves
About to retire
A”Comforter” of the night
Gently covering the earth
While the quiet moon in
Her silvery chariot
Floating by
Accompanied by
Her train of stars
Strumming:
“Twinkle Twinkle
Little Star”
As though singing
A lullaby
Prayers seem to
Have a soothing effect
‘Cause everything is
Peaceful & quiet
Before we close
Our eyes and
Settle down to sleep
Recapping what
Thoughts we thought
What words we uttered
And what deeds we did.
At the end of the day
Of one has Faith
It`s the Power of Prayers
That can save the day!
Choicest Happiness
Farida
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Do You Know-What You Know? Khurshed Batliwala
Mr. Khurshed Batliwala emphasized on education as a means of knowledge and not employment. He also talked about doing things differently and having faith in our decisions even if they go against the flow. “Twenty five years ago no one had heard of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. The whole world stood on the other side and said you are mad. I said yes, but I am happy. Be happy don’t compromise on that. You have dreams, you have visions, you have hopes don’t let people around you kill that for you. And that’s an idea worth spreading” With a postgraduate degree in Mathematics from I.I.T., Bombay, Khurshed Batliwala is a senior faculty at the Art of Living. Mr. Batliwala is a firm believer in the power of self-identified aspirations and this led him to follow an unconventional and challenging career path. He has been instrumental in designing the Youth Empowerment Seminar (YES!+) series that inspires the youth to break free from the shackles of society expectations and follow their dreams courageously. With this course he aims to propagate the vision of the Art of Living, which is to see a smile on every face on the planet. A blend of intellect and innocence, mind-blowing wit yet unconditional warmth, he continues to be a favourite among youth, and is committed to utilizing every moment of his time in enriching the lives of people around. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community.
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ASHO ZARATHUSHTRA VERSUS THE EGOIST
When Asho Zarathushtra
Was the Chosen one
He didn’t
own a palace
Leave aside a
Be jeweled throne
Nor people to
Do His bidding
He lead a very quiet life
In some secluded alley
In a very simple home
Where ever He went
He did not strut
Like a peacock
Nor did He have
Any Ego or Pride
Though He was
Protected by His Mazda
He was put through
A rigorous ordeal
Through out His Life
To prove His worth
Often felt like
Throwing in the towel
Why can’t our
“Learned Ones”
Follow in His footsteps?
Why be full of
Ego & pride?
One simple reason
`Cause they think
They are the “Anointed Ones”
Time is running out
No time to snooze
Down a glass of whiskey
Or take a Parsi Peg
By sitting in a rocking chair
Unleash the Pristine Message
`Cause we have a lot loose
Finally He made it through
With utmost Faith & determination
That is why we have
A religion named
After Him
Zoroastrianism
With a very Unique Message;
“No Rules”
Choicest Happiness
Farida
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Vintage Rusi
Vintage Rusi is a short film made for the 2005 Kala Ghoda arts and street festival in Mumbai. With Mahabanoo Mody Kotwal , Bapu Malcolm and Beezan Charna in leading roles. It was directed by Ashok Salian, noted photographer and film maker.
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World Zoroastrian Organisation Trust & WZO Trust Funds
As the scope of our work continues to grow and as more community members continue to support the work our Trusts do we would like to share with you some of the success stories you have made possible.
We now have a YouTube Channel. Please do connect with us. If you have a YouTube account please do subscribe to our channel.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsEcS6aTA4p4EAdutq4yI1w
Thank You!
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Meaning of Sadra
What is the meaning of the word ‘Sadra’ and why is it so called? Er. Dr. Ramiyar Karanjia explains:
• The word sadra or sudreh is derived from two Persian words sud “beneficial” and reh/rah “path”. Thus, sudreh means “a beneficial path”.
• The sadra is the road map that leads a Zoroastrian towards his duties and obligations of life. These duties and obligations are:
i. To be good
ii. To be responsible
iii. To be mindful of the two forces – good and evil – and work towards increasing the former and decreasing the latter.
iv. To be mindful of the two worlds – the physical and spiritual.
v. To look after the three main creations – plants, animals and minerals.
• These duties are symbolically enshrined in the nine seams (called saandhas in Gujarati) which make up the sadra – 1 gireban, 1 girdo, 2 sleeves, 2 sides and 3 tiris.
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Learn Avesta in Mumbai
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Farah Ghadiali Wins ‘All India Western Classical Vocal Competition’ In New Delhi
Soprano Farah Ghadiali recently won the Joint First prize in ‘All India Western Classical Vocal Competition’ held in New Delhi, on 27th April, 2018. Organised by the Neemrana Foundation of Music and the French Embassy in India, Farah received the ‘Neemrana Voice Competition – The Godrej Talent of India’ Award, based on three selection rounds, that rounded up five finalists who battled it out at the Akshara Theatre, New Delhi. Having to sing one compulsory piece and one classical piece of the singer’s choice, Farah sang the ‘Aria Of The Fairy’ from the Opera La Cendrillon by Pauline Viardot as the compulsory piece and ‘Der Holle Rache’ from the opera Die Zauberflote (the Magic Flute) by WA Mozart, as her choice in the finals.
Currently a music teacher in Bombay, Farah completed her MBA from the University of Mumbai and worked as a Senior Marketing Manager at the NCPA, before taking the leap of faith and signing up to study classical music at the Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music in London. Having completed her Masters in Music in 2016 and the Post Graduate Advanced (Artist) Programme in 2017, studying with Soprano Patricia Rozario (OBE, FRCM), Farah is on the coveted student scheme of the Philharmonic Chorus and has delivered various operatic performances in London and India.
Speaking to Parsi Times, Farah Ghadiali said, “The award validates all those who supported and believed in me. Pursuing Western Classical Music in India is a real labour of love and I am very happy that there is a growing interest in encouraging Indians to do well in this field.”
Currently, Farah is busy with her project, ‘Duo Farinaldi’, established in 2017 by Steinway Artist and award winning Italian pianist, Paolo Rinaldi. Together, they have curated and performed in two seasons of concerts in the UK and are set to perform concert tours in Italy and India, later this year.
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BPP – Candidate Profile and Manifesto – Ratan Patel
I Mr Ratan Patel retired businessman would like to offer my services as a Trustee of BPP for which I have registered my nomination. My decision to contest this election is purely based on trying to improve the not so satisfactory working of the BPP as is observed by the community in the recent past. My primary aim is to bring about 100% transparency ( Digital INDIA Digital BPP ), to decentralize the power quotient from Trusteeship and Community members to have complete freedom to raise justifiable objections about the working of BPP staff or its Trustees without the fear of any repercussions by the BPP, besides I plan to improve upon many related issues which is described in my detailed manifesto to be posted soon on social media.
Humbly request your valuable vote to enable me to segrve my community to the best of my ability.
Please forward to as many people as possible so it can reach each and every member of our community.
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“KOMMNO” ANNE “KAMMNO” TRUSTEE” – Xerxes Dastur’s Manifesto
Why I am contesting the Punchayet election, by Ervard Xerxes Vispi Dastur.
Each one of us has wished that community challenges – from housing to funding for Parsi entrepreneurs are tackled with transparent trust policies to balanced opinions by the Bombay Parsi Punchayet.
Trustee elections are round the corner. This is your time to vote in a fresh thinking – professionally-minded trustee committed to fulfil your desires. Our community has lost three more years since the last election and any further time wasting would be greater disservice to founders of this esteemed institution.
As a qualified professional with wide experience in leading and being part of teams, and building organisations, I have a responsibility to the community. As promised after the previous elections I have continued with grass root work for the community which has kept me well informed of their needs and desires. For this reason, I am contesting the Punchayet election.
I have been a partner for several years at V.S. Dastur & Co. Chartered Accountants, established by my father who believed that the drive of young qualified persons – combined with the wisdom of elders – is a magic formula to achieve great heights. To put into practice what he believes, my father chose to test me by handing over the reins.
As a chartered accountant, I work with many trusts across the country. Some of this work has been for the Punchayet, so I am already familiar with its working.
I have nurtured and enjoyed working with teams that have delivered remarkable results in terms of community service. These required teamwork and the ability to carry everyone along, a quality that has served me well as vice-chairman and treasurer of the Mumbai chapter of the World Zarathushti Chamber of Commerce. This is a philosophy I bring also to my responsibilities as Trustee and the Chairman of the Managing Committee of the Ripon Club, Treasurer of Rustam Baug Welfare Association, Secretary The Ness Wadia Memorial Pavilion and INDIA Board Member World Zarthosti Chamber of Commerce.
Importantly, Parsi youth need to be involved in tackling our issues. We will not be able to progress unless we can engage with our young – a lesson I’ve learned as a member of the advisory council of Xtremely Young Zoroastrians (XYZ).
As a trustee, there are many challenges I will take on. Here, I list a few
• Independent. I am not a part of any consensus group or coterie. It is this independence of thought that I believe is much needed to serve the community rather than one’s own interests.
• Transparency. I intend on bringing much needed transparency back to the functioning of the esteemed BPP.
• Modernity. Along with transparency, I intend on modernising some processes as well as bringing back some processes from the past that have been disbanded.
• Many of our elders face severe medical problems, but are unable to get treated due to various reasons. I will put in place a scheme covering orthopaedic, cardiac, neurological and cancer treatment. There are various ways we can do this – from group insurance schemes to tie-ups with reputed medical institutions.
• Parsis need to rekindle their entrepreneurial flames. I believe strongly in this and would help facilitate members of the community flourish.
• Ending the housing shortage for the young of our community is a major focus area for me.
As a trustee, my first task would be to push for a referendum on all major issues. Your views and hopes would serve as my guide.
I believe in one-on-one contact rather than public meetings that involve wasteful expenditure. I have listed my email address and phone number below; you will also find me on Linkedin. Feel free to get in touch with me anytime.
I need your support to make your life better.
Ervard Xerxes Vispi Dastur
Email: Xerxes.Dastur.2018@gmail.com
Cell No.: 9820084449
Blog: xerxesvdastur.wordpress.com
Facebook: fb.me/xerxes.dastur.2018
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‘Zenobia Mistri, Teacher Par Excellence’
‘Zenobia Mistri: Teacher par Excellence’ by Shireen Isal is available
Online at www.Amazon.co.uk (£5.99 + postage)
Link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1527220001/ref=olp_product_details?_encoding=UTF8&me=
In the Parsiana bookshop in Mumbai, India (Rs.399/-)
(K. K. (Navsari) Chambers, Ground Floor, (Opp. St. Cathedral School side entrance) 39B, Amrit Keshav Nayak Road, Fort,
Mumbai 400001. India. Tel: +91-22-2207 8104 * +91-22-2207 7543 * +91-22-2207 2624)
Online at www.parsiana.com (Rs.399/- + postage)
Link: http://www.parsiana.com/bookclub/book-club.aspx
For North America readers: online at www.fezana.org
A young girl, with gritty determination, pursues her college education in Bombay (now Mumbai), then goes on to successfully obtain her doctorate from the prestigious Sorbonne University in Paris, France – not a given in the Bombay of the 1920s and 30s, when most girls were destined to a life of domesticity – thereby defying social conventions of the time! On her return to Bombay, she, in turn, offers the gift of education to women aspiring to a better life. Through teaching – her profession of choice from an early age – she acquires something loftier: the power to transform lives, to enhance the independence and self-esteem of young aspirants, rich and poor alike, through learning.
Thus did Zenobia Mistri (née Bamboat) not only pursue an exceptional path all her own but went on to become one of the most iconic teachers of French language and literature in twentieth century Bombay. Over a period spanning fifty years, scores of her students benefited from her brilliant grasp of the language and her unique ability to teach it. Her generosity of spirit and commitment to her work touched many hearts. Through teaching, Zenobia found her own voice which she used to brilliant effect. In revealing the merits of the language and its poetic beauty, she became a link between east and west, India and France, creating a powerful legacy and proving a unique ambassador for that country.
FEEDBACK:
‘A vivid and sensitive portrait of the aspirations and possibilities as reflected in the spirit of Zenobia Bamboat Mistri, a talented young woman from a Parsi family in Karachi; her inspiring search for an intimacy with French language and literature; her unwavering commitment to family and friends; and the art of making teaching a compelling experience several times a day. The author has portrayed all this with economy, grace and warmth.’
HOMI K. BHABHA
Anne F. Rothenberg Professor of the Humanities, Department of English
Director, Mahindra Humanities Center
Senior Advisor on the Humanities to the President and Provost
Harvard University
‘For the monumental work you have accomplished with so much love and care and hours of hard work, our deepest appreciation.’
Mehroo Golvala and Gool Mistri, grandchildren of Pirosha and Zenobia Mistri, Mumbai, India
‘What an extensively researched and vivid account of Zenobia’s life. And how perfectly placed you are to have written it! Enjoyed the easy and fluid read. Am sure her spirit rejoices at this publication!’
Yasmin Stafford, student of Zenobia Mistri, Mumbai, India
‘I bow to you. The book is more precious than a Rembrandt.’
Neville Golvala, great grandson of Pirosha and Zenobia Mistri, USA
‘I have already dipped into it and it promises to be fascinating both because of the Karachi connection as well as the link Zenobia forged between India and France, Bombay and Paris and which you now embody.’
Kairas Kabraji, Karachi, Pakistan
‘Ton hommage à Zénobia est remarquable, bien écrit, bien documenté. Un bel hommage et un vrai travail de recherches. Bravo!’
Geneviève Pascaud Bécane, auteur, Paris, France
‘It’s a true labour of love on your part. And it takes lots of painstaking research lovingly pieced together to produce it.’
Alaknanda Samarth, actor, London, UK
‘I didn’t know her, and yet you have brought her to life in a way that the reader can actually evoke her from your descriptions. You have also created a picture of her times and the Parsi community in that day…the language is very readable.’
Meher Pocha, London, UK
Zenobia in Paris in the early nineteen thirties
Photo (detail): Collège de France. Institut d’études indiennes, Rapport d’activités de lCI 1932-1933, Page 5.
(Collège de France, Institute of Indian studies, ICI Activity Report 1932-1933, Page 5)
Shireen Isal
Association Sargam
52 Peterborough Road, London SW6 3EB. UK. Tel:+44(0)7958.312548
E-mail: shireen@associationsargam.com – www.associationsargam.com
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Message of Zoroastrianism must be heard worldwide: Iran President
Iran’s President Hassan Rouhani has sent a message to the 11th World Zoroastrian Congress, expressing hope the meeting could help spread the message of divine religions the world badly needs.
In a Saturday message to the event, which was started in Perth in western Australia on Friday and will last until Monday, Rouhani said the congress is a source of pride for Iran, the birthplace of the Zoroaster and the first home of Zoroastrians.
The president said Zoroastrianism is a divine religion highly similar to Islam and other monotheistic religions, whose message needs to be heard.
“The world today needs moral teachings of prophets, including Zoroaster. The world ought to pay attention to [basic Zoroastrian] tenets of Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds,” he said.
“These tenets point out that our deeds are affected by our thoughts and we need to correct our thoughts before correcting our deeds and words,” he said.
The president said Zoroastrian teachings have greatly affected Iran’s culture, inspiring prominent intellectuals from Iranian polymath Avicenna to renewed poets Hafez and Rumi.
“The Zoroastrian teachings have been incorporated into Iranian culture … and have become parts of characteristics of Iranians from all ethnicities and races,” he said.
“We must be grateful for these common roots that connects us together and shape our deeds and behaviour”, he said.
“I hope such gatherings could [help] convey the message of this great religion to the whole world,” the President concluded.
Rouhani finally wished happiness and prosperity for all Zoroastrians in the world, particularly the Parsi community of India.
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