Dear Readers,

The onset of the holy Muktad days heralds an atmosphere of serenity and purity in fire-temples and homes, alike. Many take the effort to spruce up their homes in advance, preparing for ten of the holiest days of our religion, culminating into New Year. Offerings of special daily prayers, fresh flowers in polished vases specially meant for the auspicious occasion, divas kept lit all through the days and nights, the sweet waft of lobaan or incense, et al create the perfect ambience to welcome our sacred fravashis into our homes and fire-temples.

Such surroundings and efforts have an amazing impact on our minds too, nearly transformational – making us calmer, happier, more peaceful – better versions of ourselves, as we focus on our connect with the divine energies and share heartfelt gratitude for their blessings. If only we could extend this mindset into a more permanent way of being, even post New Year… wouldn’t that be amazing?

Speaking of amazing, Indian athletes at the Tokyo Olympics have been outdoing themselves this year with some spectacular wins, making the nation very proud… the definite highlight being the Indian men’s hockey team bagging the prestigious bronze – India’s first podium finish at an Olympic event in over 40 years! What stood out even more, was despite our women’s hockey team losing their opportunity to clinch yet another bronze, they won over the heart of the nation, with an outpouring of praise from across every corner of India, proving we are no less proud of our fabulous girls! Kudos and salute to the entire Indian Olympics contingent!

Next weekend, Parsi Times adds to the New Year excitement with our bumper Parsi New Year Special Issue, which will yet again wow you with excellent features and content, curated for your full-on entertainment and interest! So, ensure to book your copy of our New Year Special issue with your newspaper vendor, next Saturday, 14^th August.

Have a lovely weekend!

– Anahita