On getting to know of Vada Dasturji Khurshed Dastoor’s visit to Dallas (Texas), the Zoroastrian Association of Houston (ZAH), sent a formal invitation to Dasturji Khurshed and wife Havovi, which was gracefully accepted, inspite of the short notice and tight schedule. Dasturji’s cousin in Dallas, Er. Yazdi Dastoor kindly undertook the four hour drive to reach them to Houston, which went abuzz with enthusiastic volunteers anticipating Dasturji’s arrival in the afternoon on 9th September, 2016.

Chairman of ZAH, Aderbad Tamboli, gave Vada Dasturji a quick tour of the Zarathushti Heritage and Cultural Center with over 150 ZAH members and well-wishers in attendance, who got an opportunity to informally meet-n-greet Dasturji. The main program started with a benediction by Dasturji Khurshed accompanied by ZAH’s two youngest Ervads, Yazad Sidhwa and Neville Kanga.

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of a proclamation by the Hon’ble Mayor of Houston, Sylvester Turner, proclaiming September 9, 2016 as ‘Dasturji Khurshed Kaikobad Dastoor Day’. The proclamation certificate was presented by Mike Laster, Houston’s Council Member District J.

Vada Dasturji addressed the audiences about Udvada’s progress and ongoing plans to improve its infrastructure. An enraptured audience heard him speak on the history of sacred Iranshah Fire in India, and the bravery, dedication and sacrifices displayed by our forefathers to protect and preserve the fire for future generations. Dasturji mentioned the Indian PM, Narendra Modi’s support and encouragement to award Udvada ‘heritage status’. Later, a dinner was hosted by Sanober and Aderbad Tamboli at their home, where many got to talk to Dasturji on one-on-one basis.

Dasturji also visited Feroze and Shernaz Bhandara’s home as they have pledged to donate an Atash Kadeh to the Houston Zarathushti Community, providing valuable inputs into design and operation of the Atash Kadeh. He also addressed a group of about 12 Ervads including 4 young navars and answered many questions during an hour and a half long meeting. Dasturji’s message to continue to maintain peace and harmony in the community was very highly appreciated. Parsi Times, on behalf of the community, heartily congratulates Vada Dasturji for the international honor.