The 15^th of February, 2020 marked a milestone in the history of Seth Edulji Rustomji Soonawalla Agiary, Mahim. After nearly 50 years, the Agiary underwent extensive renovation of its main and annexe buildings, which now have sophisticated interiors and a magnificent exterior – thanks to the magnanimous contributions from Chairmen and Directors of Shapoorji Pallonji and Company.

The façade was structurally strengthened and architected aesthetically. The restoration also covered the perimeter fencing, plumbing of the well and the beautiful garden along the compound walls. The majestic Ghodhas –  Sarosh and Burjis standing tall at the entrance add to its grandeur. The interiors were revamped with flooring and bright wall tiling. CCTV cameras have been installed for added security. More importantly, a self-driven, electronic stair-chair has been installed at the rear entrance to allow the elderly or differently-abled guests to ascend the stairs towards the Dadgah Saheb.

Having completed the extensive renovation project for the Agiary , the Trustees organized a Khushali nu Jashan which was performed by 14 Mobed Sahebs and attended by over 150 community members, followed by a felicitation ceremony. The young and dynamic Pallon Mistry, Director of Shapoorji Pallonji and Company Pvt. Ltd., presided as the Chief Guest for the evening, sharing the dais with Firoze Bhathena – Executive Director of Shapoorji Pallonji and Company Pvt. Ltd.; Panthaky Er. Kersasp Sidhva and Trustees – Vispi Dastur, Kersi Tavadia and Merwan Irani.

Trustee Vispi Dastur gave the welcome note, sharing memories of those who had selflessly served the Agiary. He later felicitated Pallon Mistry. Trustee Kersi Tavadia spoke on the challenges faced through the three years of the project’s completion. He proposed a few families come forward and pledge to donate monthly expenses every year as this would mitigate the crisis and build up a corpus for the Agiary. Trustees Burjor Antia and Kersi Tavadia set the ball rolling by pledging their contributions. Firoze Bhathena was also felicitated for his services rendered for this project. Pallon Mistry then presented a memento to all volunteers who played a key role in this project.

A plaque illustrating the history of the Agiary was unveiled by the Chief Guest and members of the dais. The evening concluded with refreshments.

Here’s hoping to see many more community members visiting the pious premises of the Soonawalla Agiary!

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Submitted by Urvaksh Tavadia