31st January, 2025, marked the glorious 178th Salgreh of Seth N H Karani Agiary in Cusrow Baug, Colaba. The auspicious celebrations began with a Havan Geh Machi followed by a Jashan at 10:30 am, led by Dasturji Kaikhushroo Ravji Meherjirana, alongside Panthaky of the Agiary, Er. Yazdi Nadarsha Aibara, his son Er. Farhad, and other mobeds.

Managing Trustee, Bomi Hansotia requested attendees to stand in silent prayer, paying respects to the souls of the Wadia, Karani, and other Zoroastrian families. In the evening, a Huma Anjuman Jashan was performed, followed by an insightful talk by Noshir Dadrawala, who was introduced by Homi Ranina.

Noshir Dadrawala delivered a compelling lecture on ‘The Zoroastrian Way of Life’, emphasizing the pride of being Parsis, tracing back to the Persian King, Cyrus the Great, who laid the foundation of human rights. He highlighted the core Zoroastrian values of truthfulness, loyalty, and charity, stressing that charity is not just monetary but also a way of life inspired by Asho Zarathushtra. He elaborated on the importance of embodying the Seven Ameshaspands in daily life and encouraged beginning all tasks in the name of Dadar Ahura Mazda, performing them with sincerity and righteousness. He advised against letting power and position overshadow humility, urging everyone to learn from Mother Earth, bowing in gratitude each morning and reciting Ashem Vohu. He emphasized respecting natural elements, especially water, and the spiritual significance of Atash Padshah Saheb as a divine connection to Ahura Mazda.

Bomi Hansotia expressed gratitude to Noshir Dadrawala for his enlightening lecture. Next, Percy Siganporia explained the significance of the Godha (Sacred Bull) found at the entrance of many Agiaries. Er. Yazdi Aibara thanked Noshir Dadrawala and reiterated the purpose of human life – to progress spiritually. He emphasized that each religion has its own Prophets and prayers, with the Zoroastrian manthravani being divine speech, also known as Fashusho Manthra or Manthra Spenta. He highlighted the role of Atash Padshah Saheb as a living spiritual entity through which divine blessings are received. He explained the significance of standing in reverence during the Boi ceremony, as five Fareshtas of the different Gehs are present, purifying the environment.

Homi Ranina then presented floral tributes to Noshir Dadrawala, while Bomi Hansotia honored him with a shawl. He also garlanded Khurshed Vajifdar for annually photographing the event. Er. Yazdi Aibara thanked the Trustees for their continuous support in maintaining the Agiary, as also Noshir Bulsara and wife Pilloo, for their active role in the Dasturji Kookadaru Trust. Homi Ranina concluded the event by expressing appreciation for Er. Aibara’s years of dedicated service, praying for the continued blessings of Atash Padshah Saheb upon the entire Parsi community. Special thanks were extended to the Parsi media for their support.