Zoroastrians inclined to surround themselves with "soothing, holy Zoroastrian manthra” now have the convenience of a prayer box that can be plugged into an electric socket. The sonorous voice of Ervad Jamshed Kotwal and the late Ervad Jehanbux Tata brings to the devout a choice of short prayers and nirangs, enhanced with soft background music. Grouped into five sets of prayers are: Yatha, Ashem and Yenghe Hatam; Ya Noore Dastagir; Aa Airyema Ishyo; Ardibehest Yasht Nirang; Vanant Yasht Nirang. Each of these continues in a loop until the small change-track knob is pressed. A slightly bigger knob alongside controls the volume. The box is priced at Rs 500.
Ervad Jamshed Kotwal (r); soothing prayers from a box (l)
"At the Cama Baug sale last March, some humdins suggested that I bring out a prayer box,” stated the musically inclined Kotwal who has in the past released albums of Avestan prayers as also Parsi songs and garbas. Viewing Yatha-Ashem as the "basic manthra,” he added that Ya Noore Dastagir seeks the assistance of the saintly soul of Dastur Kookadaru. Aa Airyemo Ishyo is recited for "sukh-shanti (peace) and general well-being, Ardibehest Yasht Nirang helps the sick and ailing, the Vanant Yasht Nirang wards off evil,” he explained.
Kotwal who was ordained as a priest in Navsari undertakes priestly duties at the Mevawalla Agiary in Byculla during muktads. At the annual function of The Bombay Parsee Association in November 2018 his contribution to the field of music was recognized with an achievement award. Tata was affiliated to the Tata Agiary in Bandra.
Kotwal can be contacted on +91 9653199136.