A khushali nu jashan with social distancing and masking, and interaction with team members from the Jiyo Parsi (JP) project of Parzor marked the 112th salgirah of the Jal Phiroj Clubwala Dar-e-Meher (JPCD) in Madras on July 10, 2022, notes an email from the office of the president of the Madras Parsi Zarthosti Anjuman, Darius Bahadurji.
Top, jashan in progress to mark the salgirah of Jal Phiroj Clubwala Dar-e-Meher (top r);
above: enthusiastic community, Darius Bahadurji (seated 3rd from r)
From l: Gulnar Motishaw, Pearl Mistry, Bahadurji
"The flame burnt true and strong, offering the community its solace and protection for another year,” noted the email. A humbandagi followed, as did "the traditional sharing of the chashni.” Head priest Ervad Bamanshaw Vazifdar and agiary caretaker Zareer Daruwala and their families were ceremoniously thanked for their service to the consecrated fire.
"Everyone then trooped across to the Parsi Club hall, a few steps down the road... The large air-conditioned hall was gaily decorated with individual circular tables, floral decorations, and a handsome backdrop on stage, stated Bahadurji’s note. Gulnar Motishaw from Parzor had set up a stall displaying Parzor’s embroidery and print products, and members were immediately attracted to the beautiful objects. Welcomed by Roshan Poncha of the JPDC committee, JP counsellor Pearl Mistry "gave an informative and cheerful presentation” on JP’s outreach programs. "She shared the success they’ve had with the baby project, and received hearty applause.” Mistry met the community’s older and younger members who could be possible beneficiaries and encouraged them to avail of the options on offer.” She also visited gynecologists and fertility clinics to collect demographic information for JP’s database. Motishaw showcased Parzor products to friends of members over the next few days.
The celebrations closed across the courtyard at the community’s second, smaller, air-conditioned hall (used for banquets) with a sumptuous lunch hosted by Astad and Kaikhushru Clubwala and their families, "even though they themselves are across the world in the USA,” noted the write-up. Mahiar and Zavera Shroff put together a delicious spread, including catering to Bahman mah requirements.