"Progressive in their attitude, Parsis have played a key role in shaping Dahanu’s destiny. These refugees from Iran tilled the soil and turned this town green with their vegetable, fruit and flower gardens, and most of all their exuberant nature. Their culture and cuisine have added a unique Persian flavor to the land…The grandeur of lovely Parsi bungalows may just take your breath away,” notes an attractively presented information leaflet titled Dahanu: a cultural heritage guide. It is presented by the Heritage Education Communication Service, INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage) sponsored by the Department of Culture, Ministry of Tourism and Culture.
Shaping Dahanu’s destiny
With Phiroza Tafti serving as convenor of the project, the concept and design of the colorful leaflet was by Percy Jamshedwala and the content by Farzan Mazda. Offering an insight into the people, art and culture, architecture, nature, outdoors and economy through vivid images and descriptions as also a detailed map of the region, the leaflet entices the reader: "When you tune on to National Geographic Channel and happen to see clean sparkling beaches, heavenly mountains and clear blue skies, you feel you would never get a chance to explore these beautiful worlds. Let us take you on a journey that will change the way you think! It is a journey to Dahanu, a town which will transform what you saw on TV to reality! It will take you away from the hustle and bustle of city life and help you rediscover yourself!”
Another reference of interest to Zoroastrians is the nearby Bahrot mountain at a height of 1,760 feet. "Though there is no professional trekkers club, it would not be difficult for you to find a partner to go into the wilderness. Just ask for it and you will get it,” assures the INTACH team. Whilst detailing how "Dahanu shows ways to celebrate life,” the leaflet notes, "In the era of senseless industrialization, Dahanu also has its share of woes. Growing atmospheric and social pollution has woken up the town and its hinterlands to stand up and struggle to safeguard its economy, culture, environment and life.” For further information contact the convenor, INTACH Chapter Dahanu, P.O. Box No 7, Dahanu Road 401602, e-mail: ptafti@yahoo.com, mobile: 0989032- 9737 (contact Parivaz Irani).