The Zoroastrian Women’s Assembly of Surat (ZWAS) recently celebrated Women’s Day 2024, at the International Folklore Dance Fest 2.0, organised by Surat’s Taal Group, a Dance troupe by Krutika Shah and friends.

The amphitheatre at Surat Science Centre came alive with vibrant gold and pink hues, commemorating friendship, femineity and festivity, celebrating Stree Shakti in traditional attires designed by Surat’s talented women. The teams from Poland, Romania, Sri Lanka, Thailand and India, ably led by the Taal Group, has toured many cities of India, from 8^th to 11^th March with their dance performances.

To encourage the artists, dignitaries including Padmashri and pride of Parsis – Yazdi Karanjia, Mayor of Surat – Daxesh Mavani, Municipal Commissioner – Shalini Agrawal and others graced the evening. The event was conducted with poise and grace by Maharukh Chichgar.

ZWAS President – Mahazarin Variava, Secretary – Daizy Patel, Trustees – Piloo Bhathena, Maharukh Chichgar and Dilnaz Besania along with ZWAS members – Keshmira Kharadi, Kashmira Palia, Behroz Karanjia, Nilufer Bavaadam, Vahishta Engineer, Nekshan Khandhadia presented a hilarious Parsi skit, posing in traditional gara on the song, ‘Parsi Amey Chhaiye’, sung by Dilnaz Besania, to much applause.

International Women’s Day, ZWAS was filled with thrice the pride as Founder Trustee – Maharukh Chichgar was honoured with three awards for her unwavering contribution in the field of Education, in the field of Art and Public Speaking, the ‘Rise and Shine Award’ for being a powerful Woman of the city by the Surat Municipal Corporation, and the Woman Entrepreneur Cell of Surat’s Chamber of Commerce. In addition to being an inspiration to the ZWAS family, Maharukh is greatly respected in Surat for her constant involvement and contribution towards the upliftment, encouragement and support towards all – children, the youth and seniors. Kudos to Maharukh and the ZWAS ladies!!

(Courtesy: Nilufer Bavaadam)