The Zoroastrian Association of California (ZAC) Dar-e-Meher managed by the father-son duo of Ervads Zarrir and Zerkxis Bhandara performed a jashan on Bahram roz asking for divine help from the benevolent Bahram Yazad who removes all obstacles. Incidentally, after the June jashan the Covid mortality rate declined.
As Zoom is a public platform it is possible that some non-Parsis viewed the ceremony, which is anathema to the traditionalists.
One reason why we may be practicing religion in secrecy is because we suffered persecution in Iran. Now, there is no such discrimination, yet we adhere to the practice. In the Ustavaiti Gatha Zarathushtra has proclaimed "the religion of good conscience is universal and for all.”
Yet another objection to the jashan over Zoom is that menstruating women may watch the ceremony! Respecting the customs and traditions, Parsi ladies do not attend religious ceremonies during monthly periods. Old and outdated customs which hinder progress should be weeded out. Gone are the days when women were treated as untouchables and dumped in the corner of a room. Now we consider menstruation as a normal, natural function. If a menstruating woman watches a jashan on Zoom, Ahura Mazda and Bahram Yazad will shower their blessings on her as they do for others.
Let us appreciate the efforts of the Bhandaras for rendering selfless service for the health and wellness of the community. Let us consider all others as our brothers and sisters and refrain from calling them juddins (pagans) or durvands (wicked). PIROJA HOMI JOKHI
piroja.jokhi@yahoo.com