14^th April, 2024 marked the passing of revered community icon, Minoo Shroff – former Chairman of the Bombay Parsi Punchayet, and former Managing Director of Raymond, one of India’s leading textile and clothing brand. He passed away peacefully at his home in Mumbai at the age of 95.

Born in Mumbai to Jerbai and Rustomji Shroff, and husband to late Villoo, Minoo Shroff was the doting nephew to his mentor – the highly regarded late A D Shroff. His legacy will be taken forward by his two daughters – Niloufer and Soona, son-in-law – Noshir Mistry and grandson – Armaan Mistry.

A visionary philanthropist whose legacy is woven into the fabric of community service, Minoo Shroff was an exceptional individual who championed community welfare and symbolized the very essence of Parsipanu. A man of great conviction, a perfect family man, thoughtful friend and devoted mentor, his kindness and compassion impacted every person he encountered.

His business acumen was second to none, but more than that, he was dedicated to making a difference to our community. One of the pre-eminent Chairmen of the BPP, his influence has been broad and deep, through his astute leadership, which was built on the principles of ethics, professionalism and community welfare.

Through the nine and a half decades of meaningful existence, what stands out most was his gentlemanliness, adding gravitas to the famous Raymond signature slogan – ‘The Complete Man’. He exuded class, grace and etiquette from within, and it showed across all his numerous capacities – be it as the astute business doyen leading the way as MD of Raymond or as the Global President of WZCC or then as a Board Member of numerous organisations which benefitted off his expertise and governance; or an encouraging mentor to a number of successful professionals; or as a sharp economist, a highly respected Parsi personality – held in great esteem within the community and outside, a visionary Chairman of the BPP always striving to uplift the community towards greater progress and glory, or then, a dedicated, loving family man.

Speaking with Parsi Times, his daughter, Niloufer Mistry, shares, “He was an excellent father. We learned a lot from him. His values were sound, He left an indelible impression on whoever he dealt with. He always had a ‘thank you’ and a caring word on his lips for all – especially for his staff, whose welfare he would prioritize.

 He would promptly jump into action for anyone who came to him for help or advice – he gave large-heartedly of his time, resources and finances, wherever he could.

 He was the perfect family man – always wanting to please his family and always making time for us all – right from his 97-year-old father, who he looked after single-handedly to his only grandson who he truly enjoyed spending time with. As for us daughters and his wife – our wish was his command! He and mum would love to travel together and they cherished and relished their togetherness – they’d often go for cruises and trips till her health permitted. He was always by her side right upto the time she departed, ten years ago.”

His sense of fairness and justice always took precedence over his personal preferences and beliefs – he worked hard to iron out the wrinkled community conflicts and differences, propagating co-existence with an ‘agree to disagree’ outlook – often at the expense of unnecessary and unfair criticism. Another noble aspect about Minoo Shroff was his humility – humble to a fault, he rather downplayed his achievements.

A beacon of kindness and peace, Minoo Shroff’s long and fulfilling life serves as a testament to how one person can make a difference – his incalculable impact ripples through innumerable orgaisations and non-profits that he aided, the causes they served, and scores of professionals who walk in his footsteps today, carrying forward his legacy of ethical leadership, commitment to philanthropy and community service as beneficiaries of his generosity, passion and vision. 

As the community loses another great stalwart, we stand by his family extending our heartfelt condolences. May his noble soul lie in eternal peace. Garothman Behest hojo ji!