Zoroastrian valuesThe Jiyo Parsi scheme announced by the government and the subsequent advertisement campaign have given rise to many questions and controversies.
How many couples will really be able to take advantage of this scheme? Even if one assumes a gross figure of say 2,000, will that really make for a significant rise in our fast receding numbers which now stand at about 60,000?
An average Parsi couple does not want more than one or maximum two offspring in order to have a good quality of life. More than 30% of (Bombay) Parsis are over 60 years of age. Many choose to remain single. What is the solution?
Parsis must realize that what has made them respectable and outstanding in India and abroad is not their ethnicity but the Zoroastrian values taught by the religion. It is the core values of the religion which needs to be preserved and even spread. It is high time Parsis realize that there is no way by which their numbers can be stabilized, even at current level, if they adhere to ethnicity.
We need to shift the focus from saving the Parsis to saving Zoroastrian values. We claim to be Zarthoshtis and followers of Zarathushtra. Is it not our duty to share his vision and mission and ensure that the good religion of Ahura Mazda is spread to all mankind?
Is not the only way left to stem the rot taking in fresh blood? Can we not accept children of Parsi mothers married to non-Parsis and adopt children from the homes for destitute children (whose caste is not known, so we may not be blamed for converting)?
We do not need any government help as we are a prosperous community and have lots of funds and assets which can be used to keep the religion going. All we need is a change in focus.
KERSEE KABRAJI
Poona
kerseekabraji@gmail.com