According to Parsi Prakash (Book No. 1, pg 899) there was one dakhma established in 1833 at Mahuva and it was known as Seth Manekji Jinaji Hansotia and Bai Dinbai Punjiyaji Manaji dakhma. Before 1833, there was one dakhma used by the Parsis and that was built around the year 1733. But the evidence for the same is not available. While visiting the dakhma land, one can see the old structure (remains) of the two dakhmas. The tana ceremony in connection with laying the foundation of a new Tower of Silence in Mahuva (district Surat) was performed in the presence of donor Dinshaw Petit, according to a report in The Times of India, December 24, 1885. The Petit dakhma established in 1885 is still in good condition but not in use for the last 25 years.
We have made an appeal for donations to enable us to use the dakhma land (15 acres) for planting baval trees (for kathi) and agricultural purposes.
Clockwise from top left: Slab near Petit dakhma; Hansotia dakhma; Petit dakhma;
18th century dakhma; sagdi near Petit dakhma
The land levelling is under process and for that we have already collected Rs 32 lakhs (USD 48,858). The drilling of bore wells, electrification and construction of a protective wall will be undertaken in stages. The total cost is more than one crore rupees (USD 152,683).
The majority of Parsis of Mahuva and surrounding villages have migrated to nearby cities like Navsari and Surat. The Parsi population of Mahuva is miniscule. Allowing for the high value of the land, the protection of this property is a must. Our attempt is to safeguard the property for the coming generations. We will neither sell nor use the land for any purpose other than plantation. We request charitable trusts and devout hamdins to contribute for this noble cause.
Cheques/DD may be drawn in favor of "Shri Mahuva Parsi Anjuman” and sent to Hosi G. Bajina, president, Shri Mahuva Parsi Anjuman, Post Mahuva, Dist Surat 394250. Mobile: +91 9924122122.
Dr H. F. MOGAL
Trustee, Mahuva Parsi Anjuman