The Zoroastrian Women’s Assembly of Surat (ZWAS), in association with Parsi Pragati Mandal (PPM), brought Surat’s Parsi community together through three vibrant days of religious, cultural and creative activities, on 1^st, 2^nd and 8^th August, 2026.

The celebrations opened at Anti Ni Dharamshala on 1^st August, with ZWAS President Mahzarin Variava welcoming the gathering. Chief Guest Vada Dasturji Er. Cyrus N. Dastur auspiciously led the Humbandagi. Prayer competitions, judged by Er. Meherzad Turel and Er. Harvesp Sanjana, were followed by a religious quiz for children conducted by Er. Sarosh Dastur. A special highlight was the felicitation of Er. Nosherwan Turel, Er. Burjore Aibara, Er. Zahan Turel, Er. Kersi Bhada, Er. Adil Sanjana and young Navariya Er. Uryaksh Mehta for their community service.

On 2^nd August, activities at Pari Nariman Girl’s Orphanage included finger and thumb painting, collage-making and Parsi-themed rangoli competitions. The evening at Anti Ni Dharamshala featured a Healthy Baby Competition, cooking contest, Dr. Ratan Marshall Poetry Recitation and Elocution Competitions and a Musical Housie. Dr. Homi Darabsha Doodhwala, President of Surat Parsi Panchayat, was Chief Guest, with Dr. Persis H. Mevawala as Guest of Honour.

Adding to the enthusiasm, participants across age groups competed for attractive cash prizes and encouragement gifts, with contests designed to celebrate everything from religious knowledge and oratory to creativity, culinary skills and performing talent. The diverse programme ensured that children, youngsters and adults all had opportunities to participate, while experienced judges from different fields lent credibility and encouragement to each competition.

PPM organised the concluding programme on 8^th August as part of its 80^th year of community service. President Daizy S. Patel welcomed attendees, while Prof. Persi Engineer graced the occasion as Chief Guest. Fancy Dress and Talent competitions showcased young participants, while Rati and Noshir Coachman and Bikhu and Malcom Vajifdar were felicitated for completing 50 to 55 years of married life. Educational scholarships were also distributed before a contributory dinner.

Sponsored by Justice Shahrukh J. Kathawalla (Retd.), the celebrations successfully blended faith, talent, learning and fellowship, creating cherished memories while strengthening the bonds that continue to keep Surat’s Parsi community ever vibrant.