[Courtesy: Zubin Darashaw]

 

The havoc and continuous heavy, rains, caused by cyclone Biparjoy failed to dampen the spirits of devotees who flocked to the Ajmer Agyari – the only fire temple in the heart of Rajasthan – to seek the blessings of the sacred fire which has glowed for 125 years now.

 

Ajmer, a picturesque city surrounded by Aravali Hills, in the midst of Rajasthan is a popular pilgrim centre. Parsis of Ajmer have always felt especially blessed to attend religious ceremonies on festive occasions and seek the divine protection of Padshah Saheb in times of need.

 

The glorious 125^th Salreh of Ajmer Agiary, which was held on 19th June, 2023, was duly attended by a good number of Parsis, and celebrated by offering a Hama Anjuman Jasan and Machi. The Jashan was performed by Er. Aspi Mobedji, former Ajmer-resident who currently serves as Panthaki of Mumbai’s Kapawala Agyari, along with Bedin Pasban Eric Hansotia, who tends to the sacred Atash Padshah of Ajmer. After the Jashan, the congregation chanted in unison, the Yatha Ahu Vahriyo and Ashem Vohu.

 

Secretary of the Ajmer Agairy, Dr. Aspi Contractor, gave a short meaningful speech welcoming all and elucidating the miraculous powers of the Holy Dadgah Saheb. Along with Er. Adarbad Motafram, he felicitated Er. Aspi Mobedji with a garland and shawl. Care takers of the Agiary – father and son – Firdaus and Eric Hansotia were also felicitated on the auspicious occasion.

 

As twilight descended, the fragrance of Sukhad and Loban wafted in the hall, and the Hama Anjuman Machi was performed, as all present, stood with heads bowed reverently and hands joined in prayer to Pak Atash Padshah to shower his choicest blessings on the whole community, as Er. Eric recited the Atash Niyash.

 

Deep gratitude was extended to founding fathers – the Kalyaniwala family, whose vision and generous donation guided them to construct this sacred edifice to house the holy Dadgah, which was consecrated on Roj Daepadar, Mah Bahman – 1267 YZ.

 

After the religious ceremonies were performed, the congregation moved to the hall opposite the Agiary for a sumptuous dinner and the rendition of the Parsi anthem – ‘Chaiyye Hame Jarthosti’. Er. Adarbad Motafram read out the congratulatory message sent by the President of the Anjuman, Jal Bodhanwala, who conveyed his best wishes to all and prayed to Pak Atash Padshah for his divine blessings, stating that all who visited and prayed with faith, always experienced His divine grace. The Ajmer Agiary Atash Padshah Saheb has always had a marvellous influence on all visitors, with each experiencing a deep sense of gratitude, joy and contentment, and often returning to pay their continued respects.