The Parsis & Zoroastrianism

Interfaith Officer Shirley Murphy talks to her Indian friend Benaifer Buhariwala about his community and its rich cultural heritage.

Zoroastrianism is the religion followed by the Parsi community. It originated around 650 to 600 B.C. in Persia (modern-day Iran) and was founded by the Prophet Zarathustra (also known as Zoroaster). Zoroastrianism is one of the world's oldest religions and holds beliefs in the duality of good and evil, the importance of ethical conduct and the worship of Ahura Mazda as the supreme deity who is a single, invisible god. They worship light, which is represented by fire

There are an estimated 2.6 million Zoroastrians worldwide, with the Parsis ('Parsi' being Gujarati for Persian) in India being the largest single group.

Parsi New Year is primarily celebrated in the states of Gujarat and Maharashtra in India, where the Parsi community is concentrated. Parsis celebrate the occasion by cleaning their homes and adorning them with flowers and rangoli [pictured] to create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.

They dress in traditional attire and visit the Fire Temple after breakfast. Parsis in the city of Mumbai take part in Gujarati plays. Several restaurants in the city serve Parsi dishes such as farcha, egg pattice, mithu dahi, sali boti, jardaloo chicken, mithu dahi, berry pulav. They also perform a prayer called Jashan to express gratitude to the Lord, pray for prosperity, and seek forgiveness.

Individuals also offer milk, fruits, flowers, water and sandalwood to the sacred fire. People visit their friends and relatives and guests are greeted with rose water, offered Faluda to drink, exchange Navroz Mubarak wishes and, additionally, give donations to the charities for the poor.

Benaifer says: "Today, Zoroastrians and individuals from many different cultural backgrounds celebrate Navroz. a vibrant festival that celebrates the arrival of spring, the triumph of good over evil and the promise of a new beginning.

“Although regional customs may differ, the celebration's fundamental principles of harmony, hope, rebirth and renewal never change. It is a festival that encourages harmony, peace, and cross-cultural understanding while overcoming religious barriers.

“Its rich history, profound symbolism and cherished customs make Navroz a significant cultural and religious observance for Zoroastrians and many others around the world. As we celebrate Navroz, we ask people to embrace the spirit of renewal, cultivate hope for the future, and strive to create a more peaceful and harmonious world.”