Los Angeles-based Azerbaijani Consul General Vugar Gubanov and Nasim Shirinli, Economic and Public Affairs Officer, recently paid official visits to the California Zoroastrian Center in Westminster (CZC) and the Zoroastrian Association of California (ZAC). At CZC, the dignitaries were warmly welcomed by Trustees Bob Mehr and Rostam Shirmardian, who conducted a guided tour of the premises, including the Atashgah. They were briefed about the history of the Center and various aspects of the Zoroastrian faith. Trustees also shared compelling stories surrounding the emblems of the Achaemenid Empire and the statue of Cyrus the Great, alongside a replica of the historic Cyrus Cylinder.

At ZAC, the officials were graciously received by Rooky Fitter – ZAC President of FEZANA Treasurer, along with Er. Zarrir Bhandara and Xerxes Commissariat – VP, FEZANA. The visit featured an engaging discussion on several aspects of the Zoroastrian religion. Er. Bhandara outlined the core beliefs of the faith and provided a concise historical overview of the community’s evolution.

The Azerbaijani delegates expressed deep appreciation for the hospitality extended to them and for the opportunity to gain insight into the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of Zoroastrianism through their visits to CZC and ZAC.

“One of the highlights of our visit was a very insightful and engaging conversation with Priest Ervad Zarrir Bhandara. His depth of knowledge and dedication to the community left a lasting impression and added a meaningful context to our understanding of the Zoroastrian faith. As representatives of Azerbaijan, a country that has a historical connection to Zoroastrianism, it was meaningful to witness firsthand the Zoroastrian community in California,” shared Vugar Gubanov.