In a grand celebration that blended religious devotion with cultural splendour and community pride, the Navjote of Areez Piruz Khambatta, grandson of the late Padma Shri Areez Pirojshaw Khambatta, was marked with a magnificent two-day event in Ahmedabad on 1st and 2nd December, 2025. Hosted by the Rasna Group, the Rasna Foundation and the Areez Khambatta Benevolent Trust, the ceremony brought together dignitaries, high priests, philanthropists, industrialists and hundreds of humdins from across India, transforming the occasion into a national gathering of the Parsi community.
The celebrations commenced on 1st December with a grand evening titled ‘Persepolis Pavilion’, held at the prestigious Karnavati Club. The expansive lawns were transformed into an immersive tribute to ancient Persian heritage, complete with artistic décor, thematic installations and lighting that evoked the glory of Persepolis. Hon’ble Gujarat Chief Minister – Shri Bhupendrabhai Patel graced the evening as Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, he praised the Parsi community’s philanthropy, values and outsized contribution to nation-building, calling them “exemplary nation builders whose dedication to service is unmatched.”
A dignified Felicitation Ceremony followed, honouring eminent high priests and religious figures who have dedicated decades to serving the community, including Vada Dasturji Khurshed Dastoor and Vada Dasturji Tehemton Mirza of Udvada’s Iranshah Atashbehram, and Vada Dasturji Cyrus Dastur of Surat’s DN Atashbehram, along with several priests from across Gujarat’s agiaries. During the ceremony, the Chief Minister was presented with a specially commissioned portrait depicting the historic meeting of Dastur Neryosang Dhaval and King Jadi Rana at Sanjan, symbolising the enduring covenant of assimilation and mutual respect – the famous ‘sugar in milk’ pact.
Speaking on this legacy, Piruz A. Khambatta, Chairman, Rasna Group, said, “As promised centuries ago, Parsis have sweetened the milk of Indian society and we will continue to do so with pride, responsibility and unity.” The evening concluded with a vibrant cultural programme featuring Parsi skits, musical segments and laughter-packed performances, including a riotous act by Cyrus Broacha and a special staging of ‘AI – Artificial Irani’ and ‘Bawa v Gujju’ by Silly Point Productions.
On the morning of 2nd December, young Areez’s Navjote ceremony was performed with solemn grace by his elder brother, Er. Arzad Piruz Khambatta, in the august presence of Vada Dasturjis and numerous priests. A portrait of the late Padma Shri Areez Khambatta was placed beside the carpet, symbolically blessing his grandson as he was initiated into the Zoroastrian faith.
The evening function, attended by Hon’ble Governor of Gujarat and Maharashtra, Shri Acharya Devvrat, included the conferment of the Parsi Ratna Awards honouring ten distinguished individuals for decades of exemplary service to the community and the nation. The awardees included Nadir Godrej – Chairman & MD, Godrej Industries; Dinshaw Tamboly – Chairman, WZO Trust Funds; Brig. (Retd.) Jehangir Anklesaria – President, Ahmedabad Parsi Panchayat (APP); Firoze Cambatta – noted philanthropist and environmentalist; Anahita Desai – Founder Trustee – WAPIZ and BPP Trustee; Percy Master – Global President, WZCC; Dinshaw Mehta – former BPP President, Meher Medora – founder, Ushta Te Foundation; Katy Daruwala – APP Trustee and noted educationist – Shireen Kanga.
A key highlight of the evening was the unveiling of a 3D architectural model of the upcoming Areez Khambatta Senior Citizen Home, to be built at a prime riverfront location in Ahmedabad in partnership with the Ahmedabad Parsi Panchayat. Emphasising the importance of elder care, Mrs. Binaisha P. Khambatta, Trustee, noted, “This centre reflects the dignity and care our elders deserve, and carries forward the vision and values of the late Padma Shri Areez Khambatta.” The Governor warmly praised the community, stating that “Parsis are small in number but immense in contribution – a shining example of dedication, philanthropy and patriotism.”
Addressing the audience, Piruz A. Khambatta reiterated the PM’s message of Viksit Bharat with Virasat, stressing the vital connection between national progress and cultural preservation. “Preserving our Virasat is vital. We must encourage young Parsi boys to take up priesthood to safeguard our centuries-old faith, like my two sons who are training as priests,” he shared. He also announced a scholarship scheme instituted by the Trust to support students pursuing religious studies, ensuring the sacred chain of learning remains strong.
A sumptuous dinner curated by Surat’s ‘A-One Parsi Food’, managed by Freny and Nozer Daruwala, delighted guests with traditional Parsi cuisine. Over both days, guests enjoyed themed stalls offering Parsi craft items, accessories and household products, alongside Rasna mocktail counters and entertainment kiosks. The event concluded with a moving tribute as Mrs. Persis Areez Khambatta stood by her family throughout, blessing young Areez at a ceremony that honoured not only a child’s initiation, but also a beloved legacy of leadership and service.
The two-day tribute was more than a grand celebration. It was a reaffirmation of pride, heritage and collective purpose. As Piruz Khambatta remarked, “This two-day tribute is not just a celebration of our Parsi identity but a reaffirmation of our community’s commitment to service, togetherness and progress. Rasna, the Areez Khambatta Benevolent Trust and our partner organisations remain deeply committed to strengthening our community and contributing meaningfully to society at large.” As distinguished Parsis from across the country united in Ahmedabad, the gathering stood as a powerful reminder that the strength of the community lies in faith, unity and active leadership.
[Courtesy: CA Jehangir Bisney]
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