Throughout history, our ancestors have safeguarded the sacred Shreeji Pak Iranshah, relocating it across various sites to protect its sanctity during times of crisis. The revered fire was housed first in Sanjan (669 years), followed by Bahrot Caves (12 years, 1393-1405), Vansda Forest (14 years, 1405-1418), Navsari (313 years, 1419-1732), Surat (3 years, 1733-1736), Navsari (5 years, 1736-1741), Valsad (1 year, 1741-1742), and finally Udvada (282 years, from 28-10-1742 and counting).

While many Parsi Irani Zoroastrians are familiar with these locations, few know that Shreeji Pak Iranshah was safeguarded for 14 years (1405-1418) in the caves atop Ajmalgadh, approximately two kilometres from the village of Godhmal in Vansda Forest. Thanks to the initiatives of the Vansda Parsi Jarthoshti Anjuman, in collaboration with Gujarat’s Eco-Tourism Department and the Valsad (North) Forest Division, a steep road accessible by jeeps and four-wheel-drive vehicles now leads to Ajmalgadh hill. A memorial column, constructed by The World Zoroastrian Organisation Trust, marks this sacred site, though the caves remain difficult to access due to dense vegetation.

In 2014, a historic Jashan was held at the commemorative column, drawing over 800 community members. To continue fostering awareness of our heritage, the Vansda Parsi Jarthoshti Anjuman and social worker Jimmy Gadiwalla will hold another Jashan on February 23, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Ajmalgadh in honor of our ancestors’ resilience and sacrifices.

Pilgrims attending the Jashan will be provided lunch at Vansda from 11:45 AM. The World Zoroastrian Organisation Trust, known for its efforts in rehabilitating underprivileged Zoroastrians in South Gujarat, proudly supports this noble initiative. Community members are welcome to join in commemorating this vital chapter of our history and paying tribute to the legacy of our forefathers.