Dear Readers,
At a time when our community stands at a delicate crossroads, the past week offered something greatly reassuring – hope backed by action. First was the landmark seminar hosted by the National Commission for Minorities (NCM), and second – the grand launch of community stalwart – Piruz Khambatta’s inspiring book launch, ‘Ashoi: The Zoroastrian Art of Success and Immortality,’ where he also announced the major initiative aimed at mentoring and investing in the next generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders. These were not just prestigious events on Mumbai’s social calendar, they were powerful reminders that there are individuals within and outside our community, who are sincerely invested in safeguarding the future of Parsis in India.
For years, we have spoken anxiously about our declining numbers, ageing population, shrinking institutions and the growing disconnect among younger generations. Yet, what emerged strongly from both these events was a collective resolve to confront these realities with honesty, wisdom and courage.
The NCM seminar deserves heartfelt appreciation for bringing national attention to the demographic and socio-economic concerns of the Parsi community. The sincerity and seriousness with which leaders like Kiren Rijiju, George Kurian, Adv. Berjis Desai among senior govt. officials, engaged with these issues was encouraging. Equally significant were the deeply relevant interventions made by visionaries like Dinshaw Tamboly and Hormazd Godrej, whose words reflected concern and commitment. Addressing relevant issues like inclusivity, preserving our Agiaries, supporting vulnerable Parsis or reviving the Jiyo Parsi initiative, they spoke with the clarity and urgency this moment demands.
Piruz Khambatta’s stellar event was yet another loud call to rediscover the timeless Zoroastrian values that once made our tiny community a giant force in industry, philanthropy and nation-building. His announcement of a mentorship and entrepreneurial initiative for youth showed leadership in its truest form – creating real opportunities for the next generation.
But these efforts cannot remain the responsibility of a few individuals alone. Every Parsi family, every institution and every individual must ask: “What can I do for the continuity of my community?” Sometimes, it could mean supporting a struggling elder, encouraging young marriages, mentoring a student, volunteering at a community institution, preserving our heritage or simply participating more actively in community life.
Our ancestors survived because they stayed united in purpose and unwavering in values. Today, we are blessed to have committed leaders striving tirelessly for our welfare. The least we can do is reinforce their efforts with greater engagement and shared responsibility. Because the future of the Parsi community will not be secured by concern or conversation alone, but by rising together with purpose, participation and pride.
Have a good weekend!
– Anahita
- Mentoring Our Youth, Securing Our Future - 6 June2026
- Of Vacations And Veneration - 30 May2026
- Unity In Prayer, Dignity In Differences - 23 May2026
