My friend Prerana Manker and I visited the Framji Dadabhoy Alpaiwalla Museum in Khareghat Colony recently. The Museum is run by the Bombay Parsi Punchayet (BPP) and proved to be a hidden gem for a non Parsi (see "A magnificent obsession,” Parsiana, April 21-May 6, 2025).
We met Firoza Punthakey Mistree, advisor to the BPP on the Museum, and had a brief chat with her. It is evident that much effort has been expended by the team to preserve and present these pieces, some of which are exquisite, especially the Chinese porcelain from Canton.
Interior of the recently restored F. D. Alpaiwalla Museum
Of this visit Manker wrote: "The Parsis and their unique culture have always been fascinating to observe as part of the history of Bombay. The F. D. Alpaiwala Museum is an absolute treat in terms of providing a real time glimpse into their migration from Iran to India as well as their way of living and assimilation into the Indian landscape of that era.
"Not only do you learn about the arrival of the sacred fire on the shores of Sanjan in Gujarat but also about their strong trade practices with China and the beautiful ceramics that are proof of their success. But, most of all, it was fascinating to dive into their history thanks to Mistree who graciously shared the story of her people. She emphatically pointed out that even though Zoroastrians escaped to other lands they didn’t survive as well as they did in India and on their own terms. These words have left an indelible mark on me as a history buff… Preservation and conservation provide wonderful insights into the lives lived before we even came into being. The Museum’s efforts are commendable.”
The stories of struggle, migration, peaceful integration and growth are timeless and relevant, much more so in the present day. It was a very moving experience and I would recommend that everyone should visit this Museum.
HERSH ACHARYA
hersheys@gmail.com