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Zor & More Issue # 1, 2011 1 of 16
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Mah Sheherevar –YZ 1380 Zor & More Issue # 1, February-2011 A publication of the Zoroastrian Association of Florida
We really do believe that, if we work together as one, following the simple yet priceless tenets of our faith-
Humata, Hecht, Hvarshta, we can move mountains.
ZAF is a non-profit organization under the IRS code 501(c) (3); tax ID # EIN 65-0786849. Donations are Tax-deductible.
We are a member of the FEZANA (Federation of the Zoroastrian Associations of North America)
Pg. In this issue
2. Have a Nice Day, Granny …..
3. Message From Your Board
4. Donations
4. Membership
4. Ervad Dr. Soli Dastur : Outstanding Zarathushti
5. ZAF Community News
Navjotes: Kyle, Brennan, Nicholai Hansotia
New Born Twins: Unwalla
Queen Tribute Concert
Casey Raja – Palace Restaurant
Operation Eye-Sight (Behli Hansotia)
ZAF Directory Changes
Alexis & Persis Bhadha
7. Z-Club Children’s Corner
8. ZATAMBAY & Orlando Community News
9. Gaara Raffle (ZAGNY) Congress Fund Raiser
10. Articles of Interest (pg. 10-12,15)
N.A. Zoroastrian Congress, Houston
Motivation At Mahuva: Exemplary Dedication
13. NavRoze Reservation Form
16. Calendar of Events
Congratulations to Soli & Jo Ann Dastur!
Our esteemed member of the Florida Community
and the ZAF-Board
Ervad (Dr.) Soli P. Dastur wins the 2010
Rohinton Rivetna Award for the
Outstanding Zarathushti
in North America
“When our history in North America is written, it will begin with the likes of Soli arriving on these shores in
the late fifties and early sixties.”
Rohinton & Roshan Rivetna (Founding Members of FEZANA)
In Loving Memory
On the First Anniversary of Passing of
Our Dear Mother, Grandmother,
and Great Grandmother
THEMINA BURJORJI GUNDEVIA
This issue of Zor & More is sponsored by
Children: Amy & Gustad Irani,
Sam, Minoo
Daughter-in-law: Pam
Grandchildren: Jhangir, Rustom,
Navroz, Cameron, Jason
Granddaughters-in-law: Zen, Jennifer
Great Grandchildren: Zachary, Sam, Meher,
Nicole, Hvovi
Mah Shehrevar, Roj Sarosh
Zor & More Issue # 1, 2011 2 of 16
Have a Nice Day, Granny! : )
“Have a Nice Day!” was one of my Granny’s favorite sayings. One year ago today, my Granny passed away in India where
she was born and raised her 3 children. Granny was a very special person and made a huge impact on me among others. She
was a “glass half full” person even though she probably didn’t know what that meant. She was always in a good mood and the
life of a party. I was blessed to have her attend our wedding and meet our kids. Every single person that had the privilege of
meeting her would always tell me how incredible she was and fed off of her positive energy. My friends would call her
“Granny” and always ask about her when we talked. In Gainesville, I would come back to the dorm with her famous
potato/meat patties and they would be gone in a day. We all have special people in our lives that have a positive influence on
us and, for me, my granny was one of those people.
Memories:
I have very fond memories of my Granny. She used to take a nap every day in the afternoon, sometimes I would lay next to
her on her bed and she would tell me stories about her childhood, my grandfather, (who passed away when I was very young)
and about my mom and her two brothers. Granny used to teach mentally challenged kids and she always talked about how
much she enjoyed teaching those kids and all of the things she taught them and they taught her. She also would tell me stories
about how my grandfather would stop off at the outdoor fish market or bakery on his way home and bring the family fresh
fish and bake goods for dinner. She always spoke very highly of all of the people in her life.
In Montreal, in my early years, I used to share a huge bed with Granny and my two brothers. Another funny thing I remember
is how she always wanted her food nice and hot, and she loved going to KFC and pizza. She would always ask for a 7-Up (her
favorite) even if we only had Sprite. (I guess branding works) Whenever she headed out with her friends for a little gambling,
my mom would give her a “gambling allowance,” but I would always sneak her extra $20 and she would be so happy. She
also loved playing the Florida Lottery Bingo scratch off which I tried to buy for her whenever I went out and I often times
found miss-scratched numbers on her scorecard and we laughed about it together. Her bedroom was always filled with
pictures of her family, grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Her Spirit Lives On:
Each and every day I try to live life to the fullest and always stay positive and remember how blessed I am to be alive and
healthy with great family and friends. I can honestly say that not a day goes by that I don’t think about my Granny and her
positive spirit and all of the ways she impacted me. She was a very special person and I miss her very much, but know that she
will always be with me in spirit. In fact, I believe she reads all of my blogs. : )
I miss you and love you very much Granny, thank you for all that you have instilled in me and our family.
Love, …………….. Your Grandson Rustam (February 01, 2011)
Zor & More Issue # 1, 2011 3 of 16
Message from your Board
Greetings to all from your new Board as it begins the two year term of office (2011-12). We extend a very special welcome to
the new Board members: Behli Hansotia, Katya Hansotia and Khushnam Irani, and look forward to a very productive team to
serve you – our ZAF community. Many activities and initiatives are underway or are being planned:
NavRoze will be celebrated at the Sunset Lakes Community Hall, 2801 SW
186th
Ave., Miramar, at 7pm, on Saturday, the 19th
of March, featuring a Z-
Club performance, a new DJ, and a Parsee-style Bhonoo, catered by Casey
Raja of the Palace Restaurant. Please mark your calendars. The reservation
form is enclosed with this newsletter. Please fill out and mail before the
deadline of March 12th for the advance reservation discount. See you there!!
Queen Tribute Concert: Two announcements have been sent out about a tribute concert to the legendary band, Queen
on Saturday, the 26th of February, followed by a pizza party at Burjis & Hovi Shroff. Please let Kersi Munshi know if you
are attending. (Please see details later in this newsletter in the Community News Section).
Picnic: We are planning for the ZAF annual picnic on Sunday, April 17th at Tree Tops Park, the Gumbo Limbo
Pavilion, in Davie. Please stay tuned for further details.
Muktaad, Pateti, Ghambaar, AGM: See write-up later in this newsletter.
A Letter from Ervad Soli Dastur, Offering Religious Classes by internet (teleconferencing) was forwarded to the
community. We are fortunate to have a member of such high esteem (see article below) in our midst and thank him and
his dear wife, Jo Ann, for the time and dedication to serve the community.
Several New Charity Initiatives are being considered to enhance one of our objectives of Charity:
o Operation Eye-Sight; involving collection of used eye-glasses at the NavRoze function and donating to the Lions
Club of India eye-glass campaign. You will hear more from our Board Member, Behli Hansotia, on this project.
o Our Board member Ervad Soli Dastur has been authorized to pursue sponsoring two deserving Zarathushti boys
to undergo Navar training leading to become ordained priests. He will advise us of progress in this regard.
o We have also authorized Ervad Soli Dastur to evaluate a program for Parsee homeless and poor (similar to the
Feed The Hungry program here in Miami Rescue Mission), in Mumbai and make a recommendation as to
whether ZAF may want to support it in some way.
o The Board also plans to evaluate some other charity programs locally. Funds are also reserved for need-based
critical assistance from a special fund established for this purpose.
North American Zoroastrian Congress in Houston: Four families from ZAF (including three Board members)
attended the North American Zoroastrian Congress in Houston. We returned thoroughly impressed with the teamwork and
organization of the Houston Board and the Association and learned a lot about the accomplishments and the issues
challenging the future of our community. A quick summary of this important congress and its implications is presented
later in this newsletter.
FEZANA Leadership AGM: The Board has decided to offer ZAF as the candidate official host of the next FEZANA-
AGM & Leadership Conference in April, 2012. If our bid is accepted, we will have an opportunity to comingle with and
get to know the persons in lead capacities from all over North America. The decision will be made in April and we shall
keep you posted in this regard.
Zor & More Issue # 1, 2011 4 of 16
Newsletter: We will continue publishing Zor & More four times a year and hope you are enjoying it. This is only
possible through your generous support via “ads”, messages of goodwill and sponsorships. We and the community are
sincerely appreciative.
Account Balances: Complete accounting and balance sheet were presented by our treasurer Mina Dubash at the last
Annual General Meeting/Ghambaar. However, some basic latest figures of the Current Assets are reported below: Checking-Congregation & Operating Fund #1 $6,602.96
Checking-Cultural & Educational fund #2 $749.00
Checking-Critical Assistance Fund #3 $1,700.00
Checking-Good Citizens Fund #4 $ 0.01
Checking-Land & Building Fund #5 $ 0.01
Certificate of Deposit $20,134.74
TOTAL Current Assets $29,186.72
DONATIONS In 2010, a total of $ 11,158 were collected throughout the year at various occasions including NavRoze, Muktaad, Pateti/New
Year, Ghambaar, Cook Book Project and several others. The Board has decided that starting with this tax season, a receipt for
donations of over $250 will be sent to the donors, consistent with the IRS guidelines. At this juncture, we sincerely thank all
of our well-wishers and donors for their generosity and kindness. God Bless.
MEMBERSHIP Our year for 2011 membership has begun. This note is to request your valued support of the association. We are pleased to
inform you that at its December meeting, the Board once again (like the last several years) voted not to increase the
membership fee in spite of rising costs. We have approximately 80 homes (addresses) in the ZAF directory and we urge that
all of you kindly consider becoming members. The fee schedule is as follows:
Household membership = $50 (includes all full time residents, below 70 yrs, in a house; not guests)
Senior household = $25 (Any household that has at least one person over 70)
Single person living alone = $25
Full time student living alone = $10
Please make your checks payable to “ZAF, Inc.” and mail to our treasurer, Mina Dubash, 1819 SE 17th Street, Unit # 712, Ft.
Lauderdale, FL 33316. Thank you for your help in advance.
Ervad Dr. Soli P. Dastur wins Annual FEZANA Outstanding Zarathushti Award
(Background: In September-2010, the ZAF Board, in collaboration with ZATAMBAY and Orlando-Central Florida Group, proudly
nominated one of our own, Ervad Dr. Soli P. Dastur for the award. An additional nine endorsements were obtained and included from
persons in leadership positions in North American communities, FEZANA, NAMC and the FEZANA Journal. The write-up below is
reproduced from the announcement hand-outs distributed at the awards ceremony in Houston)
With a thunderous applause and a standing ovation symbolic of admiration and respect by some 600 attendees, the award
was presented at the 2010 North American Zoroastrian Congress in Houston, December 2010.
Originally from Tarapur, India, Ervad (Dr.) Soli P. Dastur is a graduate of Bombay University and Northwestern University in
Chemical Engineering. Now retired, Soli worked in various senior level and executive positions at Procter & Gamble for 30
years. Today, he performs various community services including navjotes, weddings, jashans, muktaad prayers and obsequies,
lectures extensively on the Zoroastrian religion and scriptures, and is working to preserve Zoroastrian literary resources in
both printed and audiovisual formats. Soli serves on the Board of the Zoroastrian Association of Florida and is active within
various religious and community organizations including FEZANA, the North American Mobeds Council (NAMC) and the
Coming Together Roundtables. He travels all over North America and internationally in his desire to share his religious
knowledge.
When it comes to religious education, Soli is a much sought after speaker and teacher with both adults and youth alike. His
style of using technology, highly interactive sessions and easy-to-understand language, draws audiences into his presentations.
Zor & More Issue # 1, 2011 5 of 16
Soli & Jo Ann walking to the Award! Soli & Jo Ann receiving the Award! Soli demonstrating Mahruy & Barsom!
Some examples of this include his presentation at the NAMC seminar “Journey Through Our Scriptures” and a book of Hama
Anjuman Prayers that he edited and distributed in North America and India. Soli has also made our ancient Avestan texts and
prayers more accessible. He has scanned books such as Ervad Kangaji’s Khordeh Avesta Ba Maeni (with a word-by-word
translation in Gujarati and English) and Sanjana’s Pahlavi Grammar, and placed them on the Web site www.Avesta.Org. His
tremendous appetite to learn and share his knowledge with the community continues to endear him to all.
We, in the Florida community, offer our heartfelt congratulations to Solibhai and his dear wife, Jo Ann, for
this well-deserved honor. May Ahura Mazda bless you with a life full of happiness. We are proud and
fortunate to have you in our midst.
ZAF COMMUNITY NEWS
Navjotes of Kyle, Brennan and Nicholai Hansotia
Congratulations and best wishes to the three young Zoroastrian brothers: Kyle, Brennan and Nicholai, their proud parents
Katya and Kaizad, and grandparents Hootokshi and Dinshawji Hansotia, for their Navjotes on December 19th. The festivities
began with a gracious Jashan the day before, followed by the Navjotes under a beautiful white stage “mandap” in the home
garden, graced with delicately soft floral arrangements.
First time ever a Jashan in FL with 6 Mobeds! Hansotia Family! Ervad Gustad offering Rakhyaa (ashes)!
The ceremony of Nahaan (sacred Bath)! The 3 Navjotias after the Bath! The Navjotias, Parents and 6 Mobeds!
The navjotes were performed by six Mobeds: Ervads Soli Dastur and Zubin Panthaki of Florida, Kobad Zarolia, Nozer
Kotwal and Gustad Panthaki of Toronto, and Jamshed Antia of Chicago. The beauty and ambiance of the prayers and
Zor & More Issue # 1, 2011 6 of 16
blessings in the ceremony, enriched by the fragrance of sukhad/loban, were exceeded only by the smiles and pride of the
youngsters and their parents and grandparents.
Granma performing Achhoo Michhoo! Investiture of Sudreh (holy garment)! Mobeds helping Navjotias with the Kushti!
The gracious hosts then treated the community to an absolutely fabulous reception and lunch, followed by a gift of a pristine
watch and a Farohar engraved jewelry box, at the wonderful Texas-de-Brazil restaurant in Miami Beach. We extend our
sincere thanks and best wishes from all of us to the Hansotia family.
Welcome, Unwalla Twins: It is with pleasure that we announce the birth of two lovely daughters, Tatiana and
Rainia, to Sasha and Perry Unwalla on Thursday, the 30th of December, 2010 at 9:41 and 9:42 am. Congratulations to the
happy couple and the latest arrivals from all of us. We share in this joyous moment and welcome the twins.
Unwalla Twins – Tatiana and Rainia, two new additions to ZAF Community!
Queen Tribute Concert: ZAF would like to invite you to attend the Queen tribute band concert (called Absolute
Queen) at the Sunset Cove pavilion in the South County Park in Boca Raton (where we had the ZAF 2010 picnic) , and a
pizza party thereafter, courtesy, and at the home, of Burjis and Hovi Shroff and family. The concert is on Saturday, the
26th of February, 2011 at 8:00 pm. Please arrive early, around 6:00 pm, though, because these events fill up fast and
you may not get good parking. Also, since this is an outdoor concert, there is no seating available. Please bring your own
lawn chairs or other seating. If you are attending the pizza party thereafter, please let Kersi Munshi know at
[email protected] NOW so that arrangements may be made for you to enter the guard gate in Island Lakes, the
Shroffs’ residence. For more details, please refer to my email of the 23rd
of December, 2010.
Casey Raja: Palace Restaurant: We are very pleased to inform you that our entrepreneurial and always-helpful
member Casey Raja has now taken full ownership of The Palace Restaurant in Davie. Casey has also offered to work with
any ZAF families and ZAF Board for any parties or functions and gatherings of any sort that require a hall and dining
arrangements. Please join us in congratulating Casey and in wishing him all the success in this venture.
Operation Eye-Sight: As a part of our efforts to enhance charitable pursuits in ZAF, we are supporting an excellent
program (Operation Eyesight) initiated by FEZANA a few years ago, to collect eye glasses that one may have no use for,
due to number change. These are planned to be collected at the NavRoze function (March 19) and passed on to a
Zor & More Issue # 1, 2011 7 of 16
collection scheme set up by FEZANA. These are then donated to a chapter of the Lions Club – India, Eye care Center.
You will be hearing more about this initiative from our Board member, Behli Hansotia.
ZAF directory: Please note the following new /changed e-mail and address changes:
o Nariman Balsara (new email) [email protected]
o Jahanbux & Nancy Daruwala (new email) [email protected]
o Behli Hansotia (new email) [email protected]
o Rustam & Jennifer Irani (address correction): 18002 Cozumel Isle Drive, Tampa, FL 33647
o Add Perry & Sasha Unwalla’s daughters’ names: Rainia and Tatiana
o Change Sasha's email to: [email protected]
Alexis Bhadha won First Place in the Pioneer Middle School Science Fair for her Environmental Sciences project on
evaluation of common adsorbents, such as paper mache and cat litter, to clean up oil spills. Congratulations to Alexis! We
are proud of you.
Persis Bhadha won First Place in the Cooper City High School Science Fair for her Biochemistry project
on construction of nanocrystalline solar cells using anthocyanins from raspberries and blackberries. Persis' project, which
combined elements of thin film technology and nanotechnology with aspects of biochemistry, also won in the Best
Overall category. Congratulations to Persis! We are proud of you.
Gathas & Possible date to celebrate Pateti: The five Gathas start on Sunday, August 14th through the last
Gatha Vahishtoisht on Thursday, August 18th. The actual Pateti (Shahenshahi New Year; Navroz) is on Friday August
19th; however, the Board is TENTATIVELY considering Saturday, August 20
th for the actual function. Please stay tuned.
Annual Ghambaar & AGM: November 6th, 2011, Sunday is TENTATIVELY being considered for traditional
week end for the ZAF Ghambaar & AGM. This falls between the actual Shehenshahi Maidhyozarem Ghambaar
(Wednesday September 28th through Sunday October 2nd) and Maidhyoshahem Ghambar (Sunday November 27th
through Thursday December 1st). Please stay tuned. Thank you Solibhai for your guidance on the dates.
CHILDREN’S CORNER and Z-CLUB NEWS (from Aban Kavasmaneck)
Our resourceful and energetic Z-Club children have been busy practicing and living up to their Z-Club motto of Good
Thoughts, Good Words, and Good Deeds. They have been true ambassadors of our faith.
Zane & Stefan Todywala at His House
Zane Todywala and the Fundraising Committee of Sara Marino, Persis and Alexis Bhadha, and Jessica and Shanaya Patel,
organized a fund drive and collected over $900 for His House Children’s Home, which is a Miami-based charity dedicated to
serving abused, neglected, and drug-exposed children. Zane and his committee selected this charity, raised the money and
delivered it in person. The recipients were highly appreciative of the efforts which made such an impact on the lives of these
needy children. Thank you so much all of you, our wonderful ZAF community, who donated so generously for this cause.
Zor & More Issue # 1, 2011 8 of 16
On December 19, 2010, we celebrated the Navjote of Kyle, Brennan, and Nicholai Hansotia. Our three Zoroastrian
musketeers were unbelievably perfect and adorable in reciting their Navjote prayers. Congratulations on a job
well done Kyle, Brennan and Nicholai! (Please see photos in the community news section)
On January 30, 2011, the Z-Club meeting was held at Khushroo Daruwalla’s house. The kids are going to be busy on the
NavRoze play which they are actively organizing, directing, stage managing and acting. It is amazing to see them grow up to
be responsible, mature, and creative young Zoroastrians.
ZATAMBAY & Orlando Community News
Dr. Hoshedar Tamboli and son Sarosh embarked on a journey to Haiti for distributing clothes, toys, shoes
and food grain to the local needy. This article is reproduced by the kind permission of its editor and a very good friend of
ours, Dr. Dolly Dastoor from the upcoming Vol 25, No 1 Spring/March 2011 FEZANA JOURNAL. Editors want to thank
Dolly on behalf of the entire Florida Zoroastrian groups.
When we are at the FEZANA Journal, we like to whole heartedly recommend and encourage our ZAF, Orlando
CFG and ZATAMBAY members to subscribe to this wonderful magazine for an annual subscription of $25.
CHARITY by Dr Hoshedar Tamboli
The Ahunavar or Yatha Ahu Vairyo prayer is widely regarded to be the most important prayer of our religion. The prayer primarily exhorts us to be charitable in all possible ways. Charity therefore is one of the core tenets of our faith. Over the last three centuries both in Iran and India the history of our community is replete with leaders who have bequeathed their fortunes to good causes, be they within the community or outside. In British India a phrase was coined “Parsi thy name is Charity”. In cities all over India especially in Western India, and in some parts of Iran people benefit daily from the largesse and munificence of Zarthushtis whether it is with healthcare, education or other needs. Charity is usually thought of to be of material wealth but the charity of thought and words is just as important. One must also not forget that charity can also be done by donating your time for a cause. Charity is purest when it is done without any expectation of recognition and is of the highest form when it is done anonymously. It is a mockery if done with any ulterior motive of returns in the future. It has to be selfless, and preferably spontaneous without any second thoughts or remorse.
In my opinion charity is better directed, more useful, and
accountable if done during one’s lifetime. It is best done without any preconditions once a cause is identified. Leveraging charity with matching contributions in order to generate interest in other potential donors can be a very worthy goal when handled transparently. Children need to watch their adult family members make charity a part of their daily lives. They need to be taught that most of our community charities are for people of any faith. The act of giving has to become pleasurable from an early age.
Zor & More Issue # 1, 2011 9 of 16
My son Sarosh and I spent the week of Thanksgiving this year in Haiti distributing clothes, toys, over 700 pairs of shoes and slippers and more than 500 bags of beans, rice, sugar and flour to people living in one of the tent cities in Port Au Prince. It was a very moving experience and something Sarosh and I will not forget. Nothing compares to the smile on a child’s face as he holds a new toy in his hands or the gratitude in a woman’s eyes as she gets a bag of grain and beans. Seven years ago my wife Anahita and I decided to create an endowment to help with the critical care needs of Zoroastrians in North America. Our goal was to create a corpus which would generate a yearly income which then could be distributed out to those in need. The endowment is administered by the Critical Care and Welfare Committee of FEZANA to use as they see fit. Our goal is to substantially enhance the corpus in the next few years as our resources permit. Others in the community are obviously welcome to contribute to the fund as well.
Dr Hoshedar Tamboli is a cardiologist living in Tampa, Florida with his wife Anahita and their three children, Cyrus, Sarosh and Sanaya. The Tamboli family has created an endowment fund for Critical Assistance with FEZANA. Left to right: Sarosh, Anahita, Cyrus, Sanaya and Hoshedar.
Jennifer Khajautia-Irani: wanted to include photos of her dad's, Pourus R. Khajautia's, 70th birthday which was
celebrated October 2, 2010 along with his granddaughter's, Hvovi R. Irani's, 2nd birthday.
Attached are two photos of the event. Thank you, Jennifer!
Porus Khajautia celebrating his 70’s! Hvovi Irani (right) celebrating her 2
nd Birthday with sister Meher!
2012 North American Zoroastrian Congress: The Zoroastrian Association of Greater New York (ZAGNY)
will be the hosts for the 2012 North American Zoroastrian Congress. It is sponsoring a “gaara raffle” fundraiser to support the
congress, which is a huge undertaking. It is a beautiful black gaaro (pictured on next page) with multi-colored embroidery
from Khordad Creations. The winning ticket will be drawn at their NavRoze function on Sat., March 26th at the Darbe Mehr.
Ticket prices are 1 for $20, or 3 for $50. For tickets please contact Mahrukh Cama at [email protected] or Sheroo
Kanga at [email protected], or call 609-448-0192.
Zor & More Issue # 1, 2011 10 of 16
The two photos of the beautiful black gaara to be raffled off!
Articles of Interest North American Zoroastrian Congress, Houston – December 2010
Editorial: Four families from ZAF attended the congress and came away totally impressed with how well it was organized
and what was learned from it. Following are highlights and salient points of many of the presentations, which hopefully will
give just a glimpse of it all. Many sessions ran parallel and hence could not be attended. The excerpts below are a partial
representation of the Congress. Full proceedings will be available from the Houston Association in due course.
The above is a reproduction of the complimentary message of goodwill from ZAF, for inclusion in the program brochure,
representing a beautiful cross section of our community; the mobed, ladies, gentlemen and children.
Organization: Of particularly impressive note is the fact that out of ~700 in the Houston association, about 130 (20%)
participated in ten committees to make this event a grand success. Nearly half of these were young persons of
all ages working for 18 months to put the program together. We sent the following letter to the Congress Co-
chairs, which says it all about the Association, its dedicated Board and the ten organizing Committees.
“Dear Jasmine, Roshan: First of all, I wish to reflect on the congress. Please accept my personal congratulations on the job well done by you both, Sarosh, Nozer and the entire Houston organization. I do not have adequate words to express the admiration that we came away with, for your association in succeeding well beyond anyone’s expectation. It was an event that we shall remember for a long time....especially for its thought provoking impact on the future of our community. The combination of “professional” grade entertainment, hospitality and logistics were exemplary and a bonus to be cherished. Our Topees off to you and we wish you many such super-successes in the future.
Jahanbux Daruwala (President-ZAF)”
Opening Ceremony and Jashan: The Jashan, performed by 18 Mobeds (of ages ~ 8 to 74) on the stage, was a sight and
sound to behold, coupled with the scent of lobaan & sandalwood, and emotions of just being there to pray and introspect. The
narrated and acted “play” (pantomime) of the ancient SILK ROUTE trade that existed centuries ago and that connected the
Persian and Chinese empires via Northwest routes going through modern day India/Pakistan and Afghanistan brought to life
the influences of both cultures that intermingled with trade, politics and regional religions. The artistry and preparations of the
dozens of people (~50% youth) were awe inspiring.
Zor & More Issue # 1, 2011 11 of 16
The following are excerpts from some of the presentations written here in random order:
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Niaz Kasravi: (Senior Manager for Law Enforcement Accountability at the National Association
for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
Preserve, Protect, Perfect & Progress: She emphasized and elaborated upon four areas of urgent need in the
community. They are reproduced here directly from her presentation:
o Moving beyond intolerance, even mere tolerance to open acceptance
o Closing lingering divide between Parsis and Iranian Zarathushtis
o Seeking involvement and leadership from younger generation
o Defining Zoroastrianism in the 21st Century.
Mr. Sarosh Maneckshaw: (Teacher, Sunday School & Adult Classes; past Executive member of the Houston Association)
Parsi Identity … Lost? The presentation traced the development of Parsi identity in India after arrival from Iran. It
further describes the changes in it with time influenced by geopolitical and religious events and influences. (e.g., pre-
British, British Raaj, Independence, and migration to the West). A forecast of the future of the Identity is presented
based on the past record of change. The end-result is that most North American Parsis are gradually not referring to
themselves as Parsis but simply as Zarathushtis.
(Note: For the full Power Point show, please check the website at http://zoroastrians.net/2011/01/10/whither-
parsi-identity)
Chef Jehangir Mehta: (Owner of Metaphor & Graffiti restaurants in NY City and Iron Chef Runner-up.)
Past Influencing the Future: He compared and contrasted the “green revolution” in India with present trends in the
US. He expressed hope that the positive influences of the past (e.g., freshness, spices, veg/non-veg balance, yogurt)
will be remembered in the present and be instilled in the young.
Mr. Dinyar Patel: (Ph. D. candidate at Harvard University, History Department. Concentration on Parsi History)
Preserving Our Heritage & Community: The Zarathushti community is at a crisis point. First, as the diaspora
outside of India & Iran grows, it has struggled to maintain their heritage and identity while assimilating into new
societies. Secondly, a staggering demographic crisis, especially amongst the Parsis, threatens the very survival of the
community and religion. He outlined the nature and evolution of these twin crises and explored connections between
them, and suggested methods for their resolution. He emphasized the critical need for broad cooperation to ensure the
future for the Zarathushti community and religion.
Mr. Daniel Sheffield: (Ph. D. Candidate at Harvard University, Iranian & Persian Studies)
Contesting Calendars, Connecting Communities: Collective Memory In Early Modern Zoroastrianism: He
attempted to answer why there are three calendars for such a small community, based on his research on Persian and
Gujarati sources from the 18-19th centuries in order to trace the root of the discrepancies. He emphasized that the
calendars are the instruments of timing of religious commemoration and are intimately linked with the Zoroastrian
collective memory and can be symbolic of communal connection.
Dr. Saroja Voruganti: (Staff Scientist, Dept. of Genetics, Southwest Foundation for Biomed. Research, San Antonio, TX)
Genetic Studies in Texas Parsis: Recent studies have shown that the Parsi community has experienced increased
incidence of diabetes, stroke, hypertension and cardiac problems in the past years. However, it is not known whether
this increase is limited to Parsis living in India or whether the same trend exists in Parsis settled elsewhere. A major
family-based genetic-epidemiology study is needed to identify the influence of genetic factors, in conjunction with
lifestyle and demographics.
Dr. Rashna Writer: (Sr. Teaching Fellow, Dept. of Study of Religions, School of Oriental & African Studies, London
Univ.)
Zoroastrians In the Diaspora: The Challenge to Remain Distinct & Distinguishable (Be it in Lydia, India or US)
The challenge facing Zoroastrians today is complex: the need to maintain community cohesion across political and
geographical boundaries. How is this to be achieved? One answer is the need to establish community-wide governing
structures. This is arguably the need of the hour. “Zoroastrianness” is an identity now seen by some as value in itself.
Panel: Nextgen Now: (Panelists included a mix of two age groups; half were born here and the others in the “old” country)
(Panelists: R. Kevala, L. Cama, H. Mehta, N. Khosravi, C. Rivetna, K. Irani, J. Antia)
Zor & More Issue # 1, 2011 12 of 16
This was a dynamic session of interaction, respectful dialogue and Q&A. In the interest of space, some of the key
points of opinions expressed are presented here:
o A unified approach to Mobed training is needed; ideally the same in Iran-India-America, but at least in
America
o Religious instruction should be based on Zarathushtra’s teachings – not culturally influenced
o We may have differences but must collectively preserve the core values of the religion.
o Use available communication technologies and share valuable resources.
o Currently, our identity is heritage/culture based; but with time, it should and will change to religion based.
o As coalition of cultures amongst Zarathushtis happens, we have to find ways to come together in religion and
prayers, while retaining core values.
o Must make the faith relevant to next- generation; now. Need knowledge and application of it in current times.
o Time to act on the above is now! There is reason to be optimistic if we address a common “Model of
Education” and an effective plan to deliver it.
Ms. Meher Noshirwani: (Sociologist & Consultant on Gender & Development Issues)
The PARZOR Project: Tradition & Transmission: Parzor Project’s aim is to protect the Parsi-Zoroastrian heritage in
India and Pakistan and to ensure that it is preserved for the future generations so that the culture continues and its
contributions are recognized. Her presentation discussed how PARZOR plans to record and document the oral
tradition of the Parsis in India and Pakistan. (Ref: www.UnescoParzor.com)
Dr. Homi Dhalla: [Founder-President of the World Zarathushti Cultural Foundation (WZCF), winner of Mother Teresa
National Award for Interfaith Harmony]
Contributions to Zarathushti Culture & Interfaith Movement: He discussed the past, present and future
contributions to Zarathushti culture and interfaith movement. Projects included Sanjan Excavations, Conservation of
Bahrot Caves, Installation of Solar Concentrators and creation of The Zoroastrian Information Center at Udwada and
Sir J.J. Memorial Museum at Navsari.
Entertainment: The organizers kept the audiences fully entertained throughout the three days of the congress. The events
included classical music performance by the World Zarathushti Orchestra conducted by Farobag Cooper (Chicago
Symphony), a Parsi Naatak by the ever present Nozer Buchia & cast from Houston, dance performances, a Bollywood
keyboard extravaganza by Dr. Adi Tamboli, just to name a few. The audio-visuals and the choreography were equally superb!
Awards: At each congress, the North American community, through the FEZANA, recognizes outstanding
Zarathushtis in various categories. Following is a summary of the awards at this congress:
Rohinton Rivetna Outstanding Zarathushti: Ervad Dr. Soli P. Dastur (Florida)
Shirin Dastoor Outstanding Young Zarathushti Student: Dinyar Patel (Texas)
Dinshaw Joshi Excellence In Performing Arts,
Painting or Literature: Kayhan N. Irani (NY)
Excellence in Business of Profession: Dr. Noshir A. Langrana (NJ)
Jamshed Pavri Humanitarian Service: Farrokh Namdaran (Canada)
Passing of the Torch: The congress ended with a symbolic march by three angelic young ladies, slowly approaching the
stage to the strains of “Thus Sprach Zarathushtra” with a Deevo (flame) presented to Mr. Gev Nentin, the President of
ZAGNY, the host association of the next Congress in August 2012.
“Motivation at Mahuva,” Gujarat. Exemplary Dedication for Preservation of their Agiyari. Editorial: There is an article in Parsiana magazine (December 21, 2010) that is worth sharing with the readers. It
is not necessary or practical (due to space limitation) to reproduce all the pages, but the determination of this tiny
community is exemplary and worth the presentation here. (Thanks Nash & Anahita Patel for forwarding to us)
(Continued on page15)
Zor & More Issue # 1, 2011 13 of 16
NavRoze Reservation, Membership & Donation Form
March 19, 2011, 7 pm, Sunset Lakes Community Center, 2801 SW 186 Ave., Miramar
Entrance Fees Advance registration At the gate
Members for year 2011 (per person) $ 23 $ 32
Non-Members & Guests of Members $ 30 $ 35
Children (5-12) $ 10 $ 10
Full-time students, living alone $ 15 $ 15
Discount for Members & Advance Reservations: To get the reduced rates for members and for reserving in
advance, your 2011 membership (see below for rates) must be paid (unless you have already paid earlier) and your envelope is post-
marked on or before March 12. If you are paying by all in one check (e.g., the function entrance, membership fees, voluntary donation),
please explain/itemize the breakdown in the footnote of your check.
Membership: You are urged to support your Association. Please make the check payable to “ZAF, Inc.” and mail to: Mina
Dubash, Treasurer-ZAF, 1819 SE 17th
St., Unit #712, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316. Please disregard this note if you have already paid
your 2011 membership. The fees are:
Family in one Household = $ 50; Single living alone = $ 25; Full time student living alone = $ 10
Senior household = $25 (Any household that has at least one person over 70)
An Appeal: We ask for your assistance with the NavRoze gathering. To make it possible for one and all to attend in light of the shaky
economic times and with the sole intent to keep the cost down, we would appreciate any help in the form of cash donation. The proceeds
will go to the ZAF general operating fund to make up the deficits that will be incurred by keeping the entrance fees low compared to the
actual cost. The projected cost is about double the expected entrance fee receipts. The donations are tax-deductible. The dinner entrance
fee and membership dues are not. For donations, you may make a separate check payable to ZAF Inc., or a combined check as shown
below and mail to: Mina Dubash, Treasurer-ZAF, 1819 SE 17th
St., Unit #712, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316. (Please be sure to mark the
footnote as donation alone or other fees as instructed below.)
****** Advance Reservation: The payment envelope must be postmarked no later than March 12. ******
Name: ________________________________________________________________
Dinner/Program: Number of adults _______________ x fee $ ______ pp = total $ ______(for adults)
Dinner/Program: Number of children (5-12yrs) _____ x fee $ ______ pp = total $ ______(for children)
Membership: Wish to become ZAF member for 2011. Membership fee = $ ______
Donation: To ZAF General fund for function support: Donation = $ ______
Grand Total = $ _______
Please make check payable to ZAF Inc and mark on the footnote the $’s for donation, membership and dinner. Please mail to: Mina
Dubash, Treasurer-ZAF, 1819 SE 17th
St., Unit #712, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316
**** Please detach this Form and mail with your payment ****
Zor & More Issue # 1, 2011 14 of 16
Zor & More Issue # 1, 2011 15 of 16
Mahuva Agiyari Adi Patel unveiling plaque
Mahuva is a small town in the State of Gujarat, India. In the town itself, there used to be six Zarathushti homes but now there
remain only four. In Mahuva taluka (county) there are 35 homes, i.e., the whole county Anjuman (association) has 39 homes.
The century-old Dar-e-Meher named after its benefactor, Ardeshir Bhikhaji Patel (great grandfather of ZAF member, Nash
Patel), was in need of repair and renovation; especially when it was celebrating its centenary in October-2010. Money came in
from many sources, including some from the descendants and the Trust Fund of Seth Ardeshir Bhikhaji Patel, authorized by
Ardeshir Patel (father of our member Nash Patel), who is the current Chairman of the Andheri (Mumbai) Agiyari; the latter
was also built by Seth Ardeshir Bhikhaji Patel.
The remarkable and illustrious deeds of dedication are exemplified by the descendants of the original founder who helped and
were present (Nash’s parents Ardeshir & Arnavaz Patel & brother Maneck) to celebrate the event. There is no Mobed in town;
so the four resident families themselves attend to the fire and perform the caretaking tasks. As the county population dwindles
to 39 homes, compared to what it might have been a century ago, the Dar-e-meher has been attended to, against all odds, and
has even been renovated. The flame of hope and faith still burns in its rejuvenated home!
P L E A S E H E L P
ZAF is soliciting your “ads” or personal messages in the
newsletter for a small fee, to supplement the cost of printing and
postage. It can be for:
Your business
Professional practice
A message, for example, if you wish to publish a
small note of congratulations or best wishes
(birthday, wedding, graduation, etc.) to another
member in the community.
Please send your “ad” by email to Jahanbux Daruwala
([email protected]) in a Microsoft Word format so that it can
be cut and pasted in to the newsletter.
The rates are:
Full page: $75 (members), $80 (for all others)
Half page: $40 (members), $50 (for all others)
Quarter page or business card: $20 (members), $25
(for all others)
Note: If necessary, we may edit for content,
“fit”, format, and space
With Best Wishes
to the
ZAF Community
from
Jahanbux & Nancy
Daruwala
Zor & More Issue # 1, 2011 16 of 16
Mah Sheherevar –YZ 1380 Zor & More Issue # 1, February-2011
A publication of the Zoroastrian Association of Florida
Board of Directors
President
Jahanbux Daruwala
V.P.
Burjis Shroff
Secretary
Kersi Munshi
Treasurer
Mina Dubash
Members-at-Large
Soli Dastur
Behli Hansotia
Katya Hansotia
Khushnam Irani
Jimmy Major
Calendar of Events Z-Club
Feb-13: Franah Vazir-Marino’s home: NavRoze play practice + Sara's birthday
Feb-19: Lyla: Todywala’s home: NavRoze play practice + Simone's Birthday
Mar-6: Katya Hansotia’s home: Navroze play practice
Mar-13: Anahita Patel’s home: Navroze play practice
May-22: Khushnam Irani’s home: Meeting + Farah’s birthday
February 26: Queen Band Tribute Concert & Pizza Party thereafter at Burj & Hovi
Shroff’s home.
ZAF- Jamshedi NavRoze Celebration – Saturday, 7pm, March 19, 2011, Miramar Hall.
ZAF – Annual Picnic: April 17, (Sunday) Tree Tops Park, Gumbo Limbo Shelter, Davie.
5th
World Zoroastrian- Youth Congress: Vancouver, Canada, July 1 to July 4, 2011.
Registration details at www.fezana.org. (also more details at
http://www.zsbc.org/congress2011/). Theme: United We Stand
Building Bridges Across Oceans
The Z.A.F.
c/o Kersi Munshi, Secretary
9830 Bay Leaf Ct
Parkland, FL 33076-4445
