[Courtesy: Aazmeen Kasad]

Today – Roj Gosh, Mah Ardibehesht (27^th September, 2025) marks the masiso of Late Nergish Nadarsha Aibara, lovingly referred to as ‘Nergishbanu’ or ‘aunty’. What made her truly special was the devotion she inspired within the community. Every Sunday, as early as 5:30 am, people would gather outside Karani Agiary (Cusrow Baug), waiting hours for the chance to meet her at 11:00 am.

While little is known about what led her to begin offering prayers and spiritual guidance, her late husband, Er. Nadarsha Navroji Aibara, a devout follower of Dasturji Jamshedji Sohrabji Kukadaru, guided countless Zoroastrians daily, at Sodawaterwalla Agiary (Marine Lines) and later Karani Agiary. On 10^th January, 1989, just two days before his passing, Er. Nadarsha experienced a premonition of his death. In the presence of his family, he told his wife that he would depart in two days, but emphasized it was the hukam (dictum) of Dasturji Kukadaru that the provision of prayers for those in need must continue. He also instructed that a prayer hall be established at Karani Agiary in Kukadaru Saheb’s memory and that the Kukadaru Trust be sustained. Remarkably, despite not being unwell, his words came true – he passed away exactly two days later.

In June 1989, less than six months after his passing, Nergishbanu Aunty began offering prayers and spiritual guidance to those in difficulty, carrying forward her husband’s sacred legacy, as foretold by him. Inspired by Kukadaru Saheb, her prayers gained renown for their power and efficacy, drawing people even beyond Mumbai. Devotees would arrive as early as 5:30 am, collecting tokens from her son, Er. Yezdi Aibara, Panthaky of Karani Agiary, to seek her counsel and blessings. Her arrival at the Agiary by 10:00 am brought relief to those waiting. After offering her prayers at the Kebla, she would sit devotedly from 11:00am to until evening, often without food, fulfilling her entrusted duty, with unwavering dedication and faith.

Gentle and maternal by nature, she welcomed people from all walks of life, young and old, listening patiently as they poured out their personal and professional struggles, seeking prayers to ease their burdens. Her compassion allowed many to break down before her in grief, unafraid to share the depth of their pain. She never rushed anyone. After hearing them out, she would gaze intently at the photograph of Dastur Kukadaru Saheb and then offer a prayer guided by his inspiration. At times, she would reveal insights into matters left unspoken, surprising the individual and strengthening their belief in the special grace bestowed upon her.

Along with spiritual guidance, she often gave practical advice on handling life’s challenges. Though soft-spoken, she was firm when it came to rituals and religious discipline – her eyes and words gently but clearly conveyed what was right and what was not. Her service was entirely selfless, without expectation of any return, even when prayers were answered and lives transformed.

From 1989 until 2023, she fulfilled her sacred duty as a clairvoyant of Dastur Kukadaru with steadfast devotion. On 28^th August, 2025, the pious soul and guiding light, Nergishbanu Aunty, passed away, breathed her last to commence her onwards journey towards Garothman, leaving behind a legacy of faith, strength and solace that touched countless Zoroastrian lives.

On behalf of all who sought and received her prayers, guidance and compassion, we offer a collective tribute to Late Nergish N. Aibara Aunty. May her noble soul attain Garothman Behesht, and may her legacy inspire us to keep the sacred flame of prayer alive in our hearts. Through the eternal chant of Kukadaru Saheb, may we continue to dispel the shadows of sorrow and find strength, solace and light in our lives: Ya Noor-e-Dastagir, Ya Dastagir-e-Noor, Karam Kar Kareema, Rehem Kar Ya Parvardegar, Madad Kar Ya Nabi, Zarthosht Tari Padshahi!