Nestled on a hillside and commanding a panoramic view of the South China Sea, the Amara Sanctuary Resort at Sentosa was selected as the venue for the Shahenshahi New Year celebration by the Parsi Zoroastrian Association of South East Asia, Singapore (PZAS) on August 17, 2024. Sentosa lying at a distance from the mainland, the Association had made special transportation arrangements for the seniors.
President Hormuz Avari (top row, far l) and committee members of
Parsi Zoroastrian Association of South East Asia, Singapore
Traditionally attired in their garas and daglis, community members happily joined in the evening celebrations that started with a humbandagi and singing of Chhaiyé Hamé Zarathoshti by the children. In his address PZAS president Hormuz Avari referred to the various initiatives introduced by the Association in preparation for the 13th World Zoroastrian Congress (WZC) they will be hosting in 2026.
A presentation by Bombay architect Jamshid Bhiwandiwalla familiarized the gathering of nearly 180 members with the journey of the Iranshah before the sacred fire was brought to Udvada, and of the development and conservation efforts in Udvada to showcase the pilgrim town to the outside world. Even though drinks and snacks were being served while the presentation was seen on two large screens, "the audience was attentive,” noted a brief report by Bhiwandiwalla.
Keeping the crowd engaged through the evening was master of ceremonies Burzeen Vakil. Besides the annual raffle, those present looked forward to the traditional bhonu with saria, gajar meva nu achaar, saas ni machhi, mutton pulao dal and other delights. This was made possible by chef Zubin Rupa who was flown in from Bombay to work with the kitchen staff of Amara Sanctuary Resort. Impressed by the Association’s organizational skills, Bhiwandiwalla commented, "The community can look forward to a very eventful WZC to be held at the Convention Centre of the impressive Marina Bay Sands.”