The book Homage Unto Ahura Mazda by Dastur Maneckji N. Dhalla (pictured) has been a joy, having come into my life twice. The small bound 1945 edition of Part II was part of my childhood. My mother would read out the prayers and their meanings both in English and Gujarati. I would look forward to listening and would often ask questions which she would patiently and lovingly answer while my father watched with encouragement.
This part of the book, dedicated to Pirojsha Nusserwanji Mehta, was given to my mother when she was a child by her teacher in Batha School, Panchgani, with the Gujarati inscription: "Mari vahli dikri Jerou né Khorshed na hét van aashésho sathé (to my dear child Jerou with Khorshed’s love and best wishes).” Years later, the digital version of both Parts I and II were presented to me by my dearest friend.
Dhalla extracts relevant lines from the Khordeh Avesta. As he says, "Divine is ideal friendship.” Being able to read Part I gave me a more complete picture and happiness beyond measure. It set the concepts in my mind and served to complement Part II. In fact, reading the book online made me go back to the printed Part II, which took on new meaning.
Dhalla’s book covers important aspects of the Zarathushti Daena in a simple and easy to read style. It took on new relevance depending on the stage of life and the perspective with which I read it. It gives me inspiration on days I need it, while at other times empowering me to draw on the prayers for strength.
The simple manner in which these volumes are written are a delight at any age, providing food for the soul. As Dhalla writes, "Ahura Mazda art the eternal refuge.”
Homage Unto Ahura Mazda has been re-published by Pervin and Firdaus Dastoor of Poona.