ZWAS (Zoroastrian Women’s Assembly, Surat) – the city’s leading group helmed by dynamic Zoroastrian women, recently held an installation ceremony of its new President – Mahazarin Variava and her team, for 2023 – 2025, in the presence of ‘Steel Man of India’ and Guiness World Records holder – Vispy Kharadi. Also on stage were inspiring personalities – Padmashri Yazdi Karanjia and Asst. Municipal Commissioner – Dr. Gayatri Jariwala. Padmashri Yazdi Karanjia showered his love and blessings on new President Mahazarin, as she is also his granddaughter and shared how being happy and contended could help resolve many problems and confusions of life.

Being the installing officer, Vispy Kharadi convened the ceremony awarding Mahazarin Variava as President, Daizy Patel as Secretary, Keshmira Kama as Joint Secretary, Aafrin Ambapardiwala as Vice President, Mahtab Variava as Treasurer and Board of Executive Directors –Mahatab Bhatporia, Tanaz Coachman, Kashmira Palia and Nilufer Bavaadam. The new team took the oath promising diligence, dexterity and dynamism in every activity undertaken by ZWAS. The new ZWAS leaders lit lamps commencing the auspicious start of their new journey, with kanku-tilli done by senior ZWAS members.

The event commenced with a prayer song rendered by Dilnaz Besania. Retiring President Delnaz Katpitia welcomed the gathering and shared her experiences. Floral bouquets were presented to Guest of Honour – Dr. Gayatri Jariwala, Vispy Kharadi and Padmashri Yazdi Karanjia. Incoming President, Mahazarin Variava shared her vision and mission as President, for ZWAS. Young Zoroastrian achievers were honoured by dignitaries on the dais. ZWAS also celebrated and felicitated 50 years of togetherness of Dr. Firoz and Khushnoor Khandhadia. This was followed by a fun round of Antakshari played between teams ‘Malido’ (winner); Bhakhro and ‘Ravo’. Food stalls put up by Surat’s enterprising youth saw items sold off like hot cakes!

Here’s wishing the very best to the new Team ZWAS – may the lovely ladies continue delivering their goals of uniting the Zoroastrian residents via numerous activities and events, amidst much fun, harmony and camaraderie.