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"We can implicitly trust Parsis,” asserted Justice B. N. Srikrishna, retired judge of the Supreme Court who was the chief guest at the gala evening function on the third day of the World Zarathushti Chamber of Commerce (WZCC) global conclave in Poona on January 6, 2024. Addressing members and invitees assembled at the Royal Western India Turf Club on "Why Zoroastrians make good businessmen” he referred to their "strict adherence to ethical principles with manashni, gavashni, kunashni, their insistence on néki na paisa (giving good value to customers),” their willingness to go beyond their call of duty; and refraining from doing unto others anything that is not in their best interest.                    

Earlier the jurist was described as "perhaps one of the most sought after legal minds in the country to whom the entire nation turns to time and again for the enforcement of fundamental rights enshrined in our constitution. Best known for the Srikrishna Commission Report (that investigated the Bombay Riots in 1992-93), post retirement he serves on various committees and arbitration bodies. Introducing him was WZCC India region director Zerick Dastur, an advocate practicing in the field of corporate and commercial litigation. The junior remembered consulting the respected judge on a community matter and receiving "a lesson in agility” when Srikrishna delivered his opinion the same day. 

The well-read jurist who speaks several languages and is knowledgeable on philosophy, religion, culture and music considered Parsis as "brilliant professionals” and appreciated that "most are well educated. Education does not mean the ability to gather a degree (but) to draw out the goodness inherent in any being… Education has taken them (the Parsis) to the forefront of business.”

Recalling his "long association with Parsis” from the time he was a student at law college and learnt to speak their version of Gujarati, he referred to his ties with Parsi jurists. When invited to the launch of then Supreme Court Justice Rohinton Nariman’s book The Inner Fire: Faith, Choice, and Modern-Day Living in Zoroastrianism in Delhi in 2016, Nariman convinced him to speak saying both of them being from priestly families they needed to share their learning. "Just as the Rig Veda refers to agni as symbolizing light/heat/truth, Parsis have the same reverence for fire,” commented Srikrishna.

After reciting Ashem Vohu, the 83-year-old former judge sought to explain the primary Avestan prayer that "extols righteousness is happiness. With belief in such ethical and moral principles there can’t be any deviousness. If a man has all these characteristics, if he applies them in his daily life, he’ll be a good professional,” Srikrishna was sanguine.

He viewed the Parsi lifestyle and residential colonies as reflective of "their ability to adapt to different cultures without forsaking their own. Parsis are closely knit having founded various charitable institutions to help persons in need, a proof of their philanthropy and largeness of heart and broadness of vision.”

The new network

The evening function had commenced with the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) by WZCC global president Capt Percy Master and the guest of honor  Dr G. D. Singh, founder and chairman of the Asian-African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (AACCI). 

"Signing the memorandum is the first step. There is a lot of work we all have to do. MOU will only give result when we wish to see result,” stated Singh. Impressed by the positive energy of the gathering, "unique people from different walks of life,” he impressed on them to "not just think, but initiate, plan and execute.” He further urged that the new network be well utilized assuring  "maximum support in the best possible way.” 

"Merely signing will not help. We have to interact, exchange views and develop programs. We are small in numbers but in performance beyond compare,” declared Master. When he told Singh that the WZCC membership is under 1,000, he was informed by Singh that AACCI has 30,000 members with chapters in 102 countries. 

Earlier Bombay High Court and Supreme Court lawyer Jamshed Mistry who spearheads WZCC’s networking with other chambers of commerce and is founder of internationallegalalliance.com, a global virtual network of lawyers, introduced Singh as "a fireball of passion, a human dynamo.” A global management consultant, brand maker and educationist, the guest of honor is founder of the World Peace and Diplomacy Organization and editor-in-chief of Passion Vista (a quarterly, hyper-lifestyle, luxury and business magazine).

Even as Master commended Singh for coming all the way from Ahmedabad by car after missing his train, WZCC global corporate secretary, and master of ceremonies for the evening Behroze Daruwalla, lauded Master for his guidance and leadership that has helped "WZCC reach new heights and boast of rich and varied projects all over the world. It is heartening to see the mutual respect and inclusiveness shown towards various chapters and this secular outlook of our Chamber has resulted in WZCC having a long and unbroken tradition of harmony.” 

Award worthy

"To recognize and acknowledge the excellent work done by our community members… who make us proud to be alive in this day and age” WZCC has instituted awards. Five Zarathushtis from across the globe were selected for the 2023 honors in different categories. As explained Daruwalla, any member of WZCC can nominate a suitable candidate. Judges are not aware of the others on the panel. They send their assessment to the WZCC head office where the points are calculated and winners declared. 

The criteria on which they are judged are: global presence of the awardee and his/her work; involvement with WZCC; contribution of time and effort; commitment to the cause; involvement in various trade and commerce organizations; and most importantly proven success in one’s profession and or business. To ensure nominees who have missed out narrowly get a fair chance, their names are retained in the nomination package for the next two years. Daruwalla and the joint master of ceremonies Behnaz Nanavatti introduced the 2023 award winners.

A pioneer in environmental sustainability, Dr Rashneh Pardiwala was conferred the Outstanding Zarathushti Social Entrepreneur of the Year. She established the Centre for Environmental Research and Education (CERE) with "minimal resources but boundless vision.” The thrust of the Centre is on  promotion of solar energy and reduction of carbon emission. Besides guiding corporate giants like HDFC and Tata Capital, her 28 published titles have reshaped environmental education. Pardiwala’s "multifaceted approach echoes harmony between activities and nature, inspiring global environmental stewardship,” noted the citation. 

Grateful for the recognition conferred by the community, Pardiwala recalled that 10 years ago at the WZCC conclave in Dubai she presented an idea to solar electrify charitable institutions that won the second prize with a handsome cheque of two lakh rupees (USD 2,412). The amount was used to create a prototype that in the last 10 years has been used for over 50 solar electrification projects. "The seed money came from WZCC,” she acknowledged.  "When I started the trust with Rs 1,000 the lawyer told me that the amount is not tenable. I am proud that today the projects that we execute translate to over Rs 10 crore each year (USD 1.2 million),” she mentioned.

"A racing phenomenon… 23-year-old Jehan Daruvala who embodies Indian motorsport’s zenith” was conferred the Outstanding Zarathushti Young Professional of the Year award. "He made history as the first Indian with multiple wins in Formula 3 (F3), progressing to F2 where too he became India’s sole race winner showcasing unparalleled talent. He has cemented his global status as a motorsport icon and inspires aspirants worldwide with his relentless pursuit of excellence,” mentioned the citation. Since he was busy preparing for the Formula E championship, his award was accepted by his mentor Rayomand Banajee.

Chief executive officer of the International Gemological Institute (IGI) Tehmasp Printer who stands as "a trailblazer in the gem and jewelry industry” was conferred the Outstanding Zarathushti Professional of the Year award. His journey at IGI began in 1999 "sparking a transformative shift in diamond grading practices. Under his stewardship, IGI has blossomed to a global powerhouse with a revenue of USD 70 million (Rs 583.33 crore), 700 employees and 19 offices worldwide. He influences international councils and government initiatives and shapes practices in the gem and jewelry sector,” stated the citation. His philanthropy extends to founding the Green School in Karjat.

"2024 has started very well for me,” revealed Printer for "I was elevated to the Hall of Fame by the diamond community of India.” Known for its "professionalism, integrity, honesty and commitment,” the Parsi community enjoys a unique reputation, he confirmed. He referred to his experience when he was new to IGI and a Gujarati businessman with a two carat diamond dagino (piece) insisted on being present beside the gemologist in the laboratory while his stone (initially it is considered a stone until it is graded and declared as diamond or gemstone) was being evaluated. Printer tried to explain that it was not permissible but since the man did not relent he told the businessman, "I am a Parsi.” The suspicious demeanor immediately softened but was replaced with a new attack criticizing him for speaking in English instead of Gujarati. "That is brand Parsi — full of integrity… In the world of commerce we are among the best industrialists… Ratan Tata is a source of inspiration to all of us to do business in an ethical manner.” He appealed to the youth to uphold these principles. 

Focussing on community transformation through architecture, Cyrus Rivetna was conferred the Outstanding Zarathushti Entrepreneur of the Year award. Founder of Rivetna Architects Inc in Chicago, "His steadfast dedication marks him as a visionary architect reshaping society through innovative design and community driven initiatives.” In community service he advocates modern yet traditional fire temples, the Bhandara Atash Kadeh in Houston being considered a testimony of his talent. Beyond conventional projects his work includes designing a mosque for the Bohri community in Chicago and revitalizing neglected areas in disadvantaged neighborhoods. 

"My parents (Roshan and Rohinton Rivetna, pivots of many Zoroastrian organizations in North America) always encouraged me to think big. They are my ultimate role models and fans. Their endless energy is exhausting and inspiring,” acknowledged Cyrus. "The Zoroastrian community guides me and my company to do things the right way, in an ethical way.” He commended WZCC for offering a "unique advantage and an instant worldwide network of people we can rely on and trust.” Having designed "appropriate buildings for the community reflecting architectural heritage and a contemporary look,” he assured the community of help in the future too.

Berjeesh Surty of Kenya, the founder of the Spenomatic Group of Companies that operates in renewable energy, water management and eco-friendly chemicals across 14 African countries, impacting industries sustainably, was conferred a citation of honor. "Spenomatic Kenya Ltd the flagship company revolutionized energy generation leading to a 95% shift from petroleum to biomass in East and Central Africa. They reduced CO2 emission by 90% and contributed to local economies significantly. Further initiatives in effluent treatment and pioneering solar power plants transformed industries in Kenya and beyond. Additionally his Xpressions Flora Group excels in producing roses, potatoes and blueberries for global markets while upholding superior standards in sustainability and community upliftment,” read the citation. 

"I always believe that success is not only your own but the work of a lot of people,” stated Surty, acknowledging the support of "Almighty God for helping me more than necessary. Starting with zero capital, today we have over 3,000 employees.” He mentioned that his parents Hilla and Dady Surty "gave me tools and taught me to face adversity with fortitude and independence of thought. Whenever the chips were down I could get up and run again.” He started as a trainee engineer with Thermax and is "deeply indebted to them for having taught me my craft.” Since not everybody can become entrepreneurs, Surty recommended they can become intrapreneurs (employees with entrepreneurial skills). 

He commended his wife Anu for shifting from a job to support an entrepreneur, especially one who didn’t have capital! "She has stood by me in tough and good times, and has been a moral compass.” His children, daughter Nikita and son Trishaad have imbibed Zoroastrian values, joined Spenomatic and "taken leadership roles, giving credence to my thoughts and beliefs.”

Astounded by what WZCC is doing, he mentioned that as suggested by immediate past WZCC global president Edul Daver he would try and form a chapter in Africa especially since Nikita has assured him that she would do the ground work.

Passing the torch

For the next WZCC conclave to be held in Toronto probably from April 28 to May 3, 2025, the Poona chapter chair Tehmasp Bharucha and his wife Dinaz handed over the torch and the WZCC flag to Toronto representatives Dilnavaz Shroff and her husband Vistasp. The simultaneous riot of color and sound from the confetti cannon caught those on the dais and the audience unawares. Inviting WZCC members to the 2025 meet, a spirited Dilnavaz announced, "Until you see  the Toronto conclave, you ain’t seen anything yet, baby.”

The conclave summary by WZCC Pune chapter committee member Yezdi Batliwala highlighted the salient points of each session. He described  the overall experience as being "exhaustive, educative and fruitful.” In his vote of thanks, Tehmasp acknowledged the large-hearted supporters: gold sponsors Villoo Poonawalla Trust, Yohan Poonawalla, Forbes Marshall; silver sponsor Meher and Pheroze Pudumjee of Thermax; bronze sponsors Master Group of Companies and Zal Eranee. There were  others too whose magnanimity was appreciated. "An event like this cannot happen overnight. The wheels start rolling months earlier. It requires planning and an eye for detail,” he said. Besides the Bharuchas, the core committee, coordinators and volunteers included Viraf and Farida Deboo, Gulnar Irani, Veera and Farrokh Bhathena, Hutoxi and Porusasp Dadachanji, Behnaz and Bezan Nanavatti, Yezdi and Poroochi Batliwala, Vistasp Dastur, Ervad Ardaviraf Sinor, Vistasp and Khushnum Marker.

The function ended with a lagan nu bhonu catered by Satish Shetty of Shree Cateers while music by Austin Fernandes saw the young and the old come together on the dance floor.                

Concluded