The Zoroastrian Association of California (ZAC) transformed its center into a vibrant spectace of tradition and community on 22^nd March, 2025, grandly celebrating Jamshedi Navroze, attended by a large number of Zoroastrians and distinguished guests. Weeks prior, a dedicated team of volunteers cleaned up the ZAC center. Festivities commenced with a Jashan on 21^st March, followed by a talk by Sam Billimoria and Er. Zerkxis Bhandara.

Navroz celebrations started with an Avan Yazad Parabh Jashan performed by Er. Zarir Bhandara, Er. Zerkxis Bhandara and newly ordained Martab, 15-year-old Kyan Arzan Lali, attended by over 75 Zarthostis. The evening was resplendent with a dazzling display of cultural elegance with ladies donning vibrant gaaras. The event was graced by esteemed guests – Janet Brown, representative to US Congressman Lou Correa; Professor Dr. Carlo Cereti (UCI); Professors Dr. Ketu Katrak and Dr. Beheroze Shroff (UCI); and dignitaries from the Azerbaijan Consulate.

The program commenced with a benediction and humbandagi led by Ers. Zarir and Zerkxis Bhandara. ZAC President, Rooky Fitter, then highlighted Congressional Resolution 234, recognizing the month of March as ‘Zoroastrian Month’, thanks to the painstaking efforts of Sam Billimoria. Janet Brown presented ZAC President Rooky Fitter with a Congressional Record acknowledging Zoroastrian contributions to global civilization and surprised Er. Zarir Bhandara by presenting him with a US Congressional Certificate of Special Recognition for his humanitarian contributions to mankind and for saving over a thousand lives by donating his platelets and plasma.

ZAC Youth Awards were presented to three young ladies – Daisy Pithawalla, Zara Commissariat and Kyra Pithawalla for their outstanding dedication to Zoroastrian culture. Everyone relished the culinary feast prepared by Chef Vistasp Contractor and ZAC volunteers. The evening concluding amidst much joy, camaraderie and gratitude for the ZAC committee and volunteers, for organising yet another memorable occasion.