As a beacon of excellence, resilience, and unity, our small but influential community has built institutions that have withstood the test of time, preserving our traditions while embracing modernity. Our heritage institutions are not just a relic of the past, these are the foundation of our future. These time-honoured legacy establishments are not mere relics of the past – they serve as cultural landmarks and are the cornerstone of our future.

With great pride we honour and celebrate these institutions, particularly those that have crossed the remarkable milestone of a century, for they symbolize our enduring legacy and the collective spirit that binds our community across generations.

On 25^th February, 2025, the Parsee Gymkhana marked its 140th anniversary – a monumental occasion not just for the fabulous club, but for the entire community. Founded in 1884, Parsee Gymkhana is revered as the towering symbol of Parsi excellence much beyond sports – for generations, it has been a vibrant cultural and social hub of our community, leaving an indelible mark on history. From pioneering cricket in India to nurturing young athletic talent, Parsee Gymkhana has been a driving force in shaping our community’s and our country’s sporting legacy, while leading the way in fostering community camaraderie through countless initiatives and endeavours.

Institutions like Parsee Gymkhana serve as living testimonials to our collective aspirations and achievements. They remind us of the visionaries who laid their foundations and the countless individuals who sustained them through dedication and perseverance. As we commemorate 140 years of Parsee Gymkhana, we must also pledge to safeguard and support our other historic institutions – be they educational, religious, cultural or social, as these constitute an integral part of our identity.

But mere acknowledgment is not enough, each one of us needs to actively take a proactive role by contributing time and resources, and encouraging the participation of our younger generations. Without collective effort, these historic institutions risk fading into obscurity. Let this glorious anniversary serve as a reminder that preserving our heritage is not just about honouring the past but ensuring a vibrant future. Going forward, instead of being passive observers of our own history, let us be active stewards, ensuring that the legacy we inherited continues to thrive. The future of our institutions is in our hands, and their survival depends on our commitment. In celebrating them, we celebrate ourselves.

Here’s raising a collective community toast to the fabulous Parsee Gymkhana on its 140^th anniversary, and to many more milestones ahead!

Have a good weekend!

– Anahita