Exotic floral decorations and much festive fervour marked the glorious 176^th salgreh of the popular Pak Aslaji Agiary, on 30^th July, 2025. Neither grey skies nor rains could keep devout Parsis away from paying homage to the Aslaji Bhikaji Dar-e-Meher, tucked away in Mumbai’s by-lanes on Lamington Road.

The religious celebrations commenced at the Agiary, which was packed to capacity, with a Hama Anjuman Machi offered to the Atash Padshah at 7:00 am followed by a Jashan at 9:00 am, performed sonorously by six mobeds led by Panthaky of Aslaji Agiary – Er. Farhad Bagli, alongside Ervads Yazad Bagli, Eruch Unwalla, Rehan Darbari, Kaizad Karanjia and Farzan Dastur. A second hama Anjuman Jashan was performed at 5:00 pm, which concluded with a Hambandagi recited collectively by all.

Spirits soared as devotees were welcomed by stunning floral decorations and the blazing holy fire, kept alive by generous offerings of sandalwood. The sense of devotion was matched only by the joy on every face as attendees left with a deep feeling of peace and fulfilment. Each devotee was also gifted a generous takeaway box with Malido, Dar-ni-Pori, bhakra, dry fruits, fruit, cake and chocolate.

The revered Pak Aslaji Agiary continues to draw devotees from across Mumbai, especially on Meher Roj of Meher Mahino, when its annual Salgreh celebrations see serpentine queues of worshippers, offering prayers and seeking blessings from the holy Atash Padshah, believed to respond miraculously to heartfelt petitions.

[Courtesy: Aazmeen Kasad]