The Vachaghandhy Agiary at Hughes Road, inaugurated in 1858, is undergoing a full restoration. As the priests are quick to stress, it is restoration, not renovation. The structure’s original skeleton of wood, brick and stone, arranged in a classic square formation, is being preserved. Even the process of beginning the work followed time-honored tradition. Before a single tool could touch the Agiary, the sacred fire was respectfully moved out of the sanctum sanctorum, and left undisturbed for three days before the restoration began.
Vachaghandhy Agiary
Photo: Global Directory of Zoroastrian Fire Temples
Funding came entirely from within the community, through word of mouth. Loyal Parsi families — some with ties to the Agiary going back generations — responded with generosity that was both swift and heartfelt. Within six months, the Agiary raised enough funding to cover the entire cost.
The restoration is being overseen by the resident priests of the Dadachanji family who have served the Agiary for decades. Speaking to Parsiana, Ervad Hormuz Dadachanji emphasized the importance of maintaining the sanctity of each stage of the process, noting that the restoration is not only about repairing a structure but also about reaffirming a legacy of devotion passed down through generations. Ariyanne Panthaki