Dear Readers,

Over the last few days, even as the community grieved the demise of our popular philanthropist and personality – Muncherji Nusserwanji Cama, we received more sad news – a national tragedy, in the passing of India’s first ever superstar – Dilip Kumar. 

A former BPP Trustee and Director of Mumbai Samachar, India’s oldest newspaper, Muncherji shared his presence on the boards of numerous charities and donated much towards the cause of education and medical support for the underprivileged. Known for his wit and his humour, he was a sharp intellectual who nurtured a keen passion in history and linguistics. He greatly valued his privacy. 

As we pray for his soul to attain Garothman Behest, Muncherji will surely be missed by both – his few, select friends who were truly close to him, as well as the community at large, for the lives he touched and made a difference to, with his generosity and philanthropy. 

Even more recently, the entire nation plunged into grief, over the death of Dilip Kumar – the first and real superstar of Bollywood. An absolute favourite of the community, especially our seniors, Dilip Kumar was indeed the perfect combination of class, talent, charisma, culture and sophistication, both – on and off-screen. Even today, in so many Parsi homes, we get to hear old Hindi songs sung on-screen by Dilip Saab, with our seniors excitedly sharing the story of the film and the star’s inimitable panache. May his soul rest in eternal peace! Do check out our tribute to him (Pg. 16) where you get to know of his Parsi-connect! 

As I bid you adieu for the week, I request all to maintain and reinforce Covid Appropriate Behaviour and to get yourselves and your loved ones vaccinated. Talks about the dreaded third wave are already rife – let us not just do our bit, but our best, to stay safe.

Have a good weekend!

– Anahita