.A three-day summer camp organized by the Zoroastrian Women’s Assembly of Surat (ZWAS) from May 3-6, 2025 at Tamnani Dharamshala was enjoyed with fun, faith, and fellowship by over 40 children aged between four and 16 years.
ZWAS founder member Maharukh Chichgar helped the participants to understand their faith better with religious talks, while also participating in a variety of activities designed to educate and entertain. A field trip to the Sosyo factory, where the children got a behind-the-scenes look at how their favorite cold drinks are made, was followed by a visit to the Hajoori Ice Cream and Kulfi factory culminating in a kulfi tasting session. In her craft sessions Shiraz Gandhi guided them in making beautiful items. Mahazarine Variava taught new dance moves and prepared them for a performance. The camp was buzzing with games and group activities, fostering teamwork, friendship and fun, mentioned an email received from ZWAS director Nilufer Bavaadam.
At Surat summer camp (top): art and craft activity;
above: organizers and participants
The active involvement of ZWAS members ensured everything ran smoothly. The event concluded with a grand finale that showcased the children’s talent and enthusiasm, compered by Shanaira Variava, Aazmine Besania and Derrick Patel, followed by a feast hosted by Freny and Nozer Daruwala. ZWAS extended heartfelt thanks to Jamshed Dotivala and family for generously providing food packets, and to Merzad and Monaz Jamadar for their continuous monetary support. Special mention was made of Kainaz Variava for her witty lyrics for three Parsi songs that stole the show; Perin Karanjia for guiding children in skits and speeches, to enhance their public speaking skills; Vahishta Engineer for training children in preparing sev puri and Surti bhel; and to all ZWAS committee members — Chichgar, Piloo Bhathena, Behroze Karanjia, Dilnaz Besania, Bavaadam, Tanaz Coachman, Mahatab Bhatporia, Nekshan Khandhadia, Daizy Patel, Kashmira Palia, Afreen Ambapardiwala and Kashmira Cama — whose collective efforts made the event memorable. S.V