Maah Fravardin YZ 1382(S) Zor & More Issue # 3, August 2012 A publication of the ZoroasTrian Association of Florida We really do believe that, if we work together as one, following the simple yet priceless tenets of our faith- Humata, Hukhta, Hvarshta, we can move mountains. ZAF is a non-profit organization; IRS code 501(c) (3); tax ID # EIN 65-0786849 and a member of FEZANA (The Federation of the Zoroastrian Associations of North America). Donations and Membership Fee are Tax-deductible. Presenting Zor & More With Saal Mubarak & Best Wishes For a Happy & Healthy New Year To Our Beloved Zoroastrian Community From Your fellow ZAF member and well-wisher Pg. In this Issue 5. Muktaad in South Florida 6. N. American Census & Opinions at XVI Congress 6. ZAF Saal Mubarak New Year Celebration 7. ZATAMBAY & Orlando News, by Ervad Soli Dastur 8. Z-Club Children s News, by Aban Kavasmaneck 8. ZAF Community News: 8. The Stork Arrives at Bharucha s 8. Relocation of F & P Sarkari Family 8. Appeal from Marathon Runner; Perry Unwalla 9. Our Condolences for Loved Ones of South Florida 9. A Message from ZAF to Sikh Community 9. N. Amer. Z. Religious Tele-Class, by Ervad Soli Dastur 10-15. BEYOND FLORIDA HIGHLIGHTS OF THE XVI NORTH AMERICAN ZARATHUSHTI CONGRESS, August 2-5, 2012, NY 16. ZAF Calendar of Events (Sept-Dec, 2012) Congratulations and Best Wishes to FEZANA (The Federation of Zoroastrian Associations of North America) on the 25 th Anniversary From the Zoroastrians of Florida Zor & More, Issue # 3, August, 2012. Page 1 of 16
Happy Golden Anniversary Nellie & Darab! On July 27th, 2012, Nellie and Darab Unwalla celebrated 50 years of love and marriage. We wish them 50 more years of beautiful family memories, love and laughter. Congratulations to you both on this cherished milestone! From your loving family...the Unwallas, the Deboos, and the Gees From the moment we start planning your African Safari or your journeys to India, South East Asia or South America, our professional expertise and destination travel knowledge will ensure that your experience is an unforgettable one. Visit our website for over 150 Safaris & Holidays around the Globe To the Zoroastrian Community of Florida: It will be my pleasure to personally look after your holiday needs. Firdosh Bulsara, General Manager Zor & More, Issue # 3, August, 2012. Page 2 of 16
The Physicians and Staff of Florida Cancer Care Wishes Everyone a Healthy & Prosperous New Year Breast & Ovarian Oncology Services: Genetic counseling and testing Screening and prevention Treatment of high risk women with pre-cancer Treatment of early stage and advanced breast and ovarian cancer State-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials Web: www.floridacancercare.com Two Convenient Locations Palm Beach County: 9980 N. Central Park Boulevard, Suite 114 Boca Raton, FL 33428 561.727.3800 Broward County: 201 NW 82nd Avenue, Suite 102 Plantation, FL 33324 954.582.1850 Zor & More, Issue # 3, August, 2012. Page 3 of 16
THERE ARE TWO LASTING BEQUESTS WE CAN GIVE OUR CHILDREN: ONE IS ROOTS, THE OTHER IS WINGS GOD BLESS ZANE, STÉFAN, SIMONE AND SASHA TODYWALA Zor & More, Issue # 3, August, 2012. Page 4 of 16
In Sweet and Loving Memory of Son, Husband, Father, Uncle, Brother, Late Squadron Leader: Ervad Manchi Maneckshaw Captain A year with his Maker, In our hearts, he lives forever. His presence, his guidance, we feel even today. His gentle loving memory here to stay. His soul rejoices to be by his Maker. He stands beside us just as strong as his Maker. Jaloo, Ashi, Mehernosh, Rehan, Phil and Rita MUKTAAD in S. FLORIDA Vases for 40 families; 25 dozen roses In prayer Devoted attendees Humbandagee with explanation The host Three Ervads in S. Florida Friends from Orlando The younger attendees gathering after prayers For the fourth year in a row, Ervad Soli Dastur, with help of his ever present dear wife Jo Ann kindly performed the Muktaad Jashan & prayers during the last five Gatha days (Monday through Friday) as well as the new-year Jashan on Saturday (Sept-18) to welcome the Shahenshahi new-year 1382. The community, anywhere from 22 to 50 in number, young & not so young, from ZAF as well as Orlando, Tampa and even Dubai, attended the daily prayers in the evenings. Each evening s prayers were preceded by an eloquent explanation of the calendar, significance of the Gatha days and the symbolism associated with the prayer implements, fruits, flowers, milk, water and their association amongst them and with the ultimate creation: the humans. These were followed by the Humbandagee and the traditional Hama- Zor-Hamaa-Ashobade exchange of greeting and goodwill wishes. The community owes the Dasturs a profound sense of gratitude for the sacrifices they continue to make; year-after-year, month-after-month and week-after-week. May Ahura Mazda bless you forever! While the above were the visible and participative parts of these holy days, there were also a set of Satum prayers performed by Ervad Dastur throughout the five days. The prayers are usually performed on 10 Muktad Gatha Days and on anniversaries of our dear departed souls. They represent our offerings of breakfast, lunch and dinner to the visiting souls and hence performed three times a day. In honor of the souls, the food items are prepared in homes and not bought from outside. After the prayers, the food is consumed by the family and friends. Zor & More, Issue # 3, August, 2012. Page 5 of 16
The special meals for the Satum were prepared by the hard working ladies dedicated to this task: Jo Ann Dastur, Arnavaz Irani and Hovi Shroff. The ceremonies, gatherings, and serving of meals in the comfort of home and amongst friends and family were only possible thanks to our gracious and generous hosts, Dr. Burjis & Hovi Shroff and their dear sons Dustyn and Kevyn of Boca Raton. The community owes them a deep debt of gratitude for opening their hearts and home for the third consecutive year. The beautiful marble tables for the ceremony have been generously fabricated and donated by a friend of the community, Dinyar Mehta of Orlando. Dinyar, and the ever-helpful and dedicated friends Perzid & Urvazi Ichhaporia of Orlando, have been so kind to bring the tables to Boca Raton and transport them back for the past four years. Our big vote of thanks is indeed due to them for being so considerate, the distance not-withstanding..year-after-year. The attendees enjoyed the superb Parsi food daily (~40 dishes over the six day period); prepared by our willing and gracious volunteers: Amy Irani, Casey Raja, Nellie Unwalla, Hootokshi Hansotia, Hovi Shroff, Nancy Daruwala, Shireen Shroff, Farida Major, Freny Deboo, JoAnn Dastur, Dolly Munshi, Khushnam Irani, Lyla Todywala, Daisy Mehta, Gulshan Dubash, Anahita Patel, Aban Kavasmaneck, Sheroo Vazir and Zenobia Hansotia. Thank you all! Last but never least, our sincere thanks are also due to many of the ZAF Board members and spouses for making the arrangements, set-up, logistics, registration, purchasing, transportation and communication. N. American CENSUS 2012 & other Audience Opinions at the Congress Population Growth in North America & Decline in Iran, India: Pg. 12 Zarathushti Identity Who is a Zarathushti? (live audience; instant-survey) Pg. 13 Age at which Navjote is/should be performed (live audience; instant-survey) Pg. 14 Happy 18th Birthday to Our darling son Kevyn with Love and God bless Dad Mum Dustyn Daddad & Homz ZAF celebrated the Shahenshahi New Year Y.Z.1382 in style at the Sawgrass Conference Center, Plantation, Florida. The welcoming rose-toran, smiling faces at the registration desk, decorations, gathering, a lot of socializing opportunity, absolutely delicious Parsi food and DJ entertainment with Fernando s melodies, were enjoyed by all. It was a very special treat when the hearty members from each table so smilingly volunteered to grace the candle-march with Ervad Dastur for the Humbandagee. The attendance was the highest (~ 126) in memory for ZAF. We were especially delighted to have visitors from the Tampa area, Dubai and Mumbai. Our thanks and profound sense of gratitude is due to the generous donors who make this all possible; a truly remarkable testament to the spirit of the community. A big vote of thanks is the least we can say to the hard-working team of our Board members, their spouses and Arnavaz Irani (on the food committee) for all the logistics to make it all happen. We are sure you will agree that our dear Dr. Burjisbhai Shroff kept us all on track and smiling with his ever present sense of humor as ZAF s beloved MC and the very special treat of the raffle-gifts organized by Khushnam & Furrokh Irani and Hovi Shroff. For the fourth consecutive year as per our tradition of encouraging education, we recognized and congratulated Mehrzaad Driver for his graduation from High School. Our efforts are rewarded if we, in some small way, made a difference in enriching the Zarathushti way of life in South Florida. Ushta te... and Saal Mubarak!! The rose- toran The candle-procession The cheerful bunch The MC & Raffle Team The younger generation Melodic Fernando The happy twins & mom The happy couples Smiles from all over the place..florida to Mumbai Zor & More, Issue # 3, August, 2012. Page 6 of 16
ZATAMBAY & Orlando News,by Ervad Soli Dastur Dasturji Khurshed Dastur Kaikobad Dastur s Visit; May 5-14, 2012 Dasturji Khurshed, his wife Havovi, their daughters Parinaz and Sanaya and their son Darayus from Udwada visited our own Jo Ann and Soli P. Dastur. They spent most of the time in Orlando at Disney World, for their children and yes, also for Havovi. Our Orlando Central FL Group held an informal Tea Party for Dasturji and his family at our own Dinyar Mehta s Wingate Hotel in Orlando on 5/12 at about 3 PM. Some 30 adults and children were present, including our own ZAF President Jahan and Nancy. Dasturji gave a short presentation and discussed Iranshah, the recent goings on for making Udwada a Heritage Village, etc. He was presented a special Clock Plaque by Jahan on behalf of ZAF and all South FL Zarathushtris which was extremely appreciated by Dasturji. In return, he presented lovely plaques of the seven Amesha Spentas and Zarathushtra to Dinyar Mehta and Jahan. It was a wonderful get together of the Orlando Group. Dasturji addressing the Orlando and Tampa area attendees The whole chai-party gathering Solibhai, Dasturji and Darayus in prayer ZAF s Goodwill clock-plaque to Dasturji Dasturji presenting a Seven Ameshaspenta plaque to Jahan Daruwala & Dinyar Mehta WZCC Orlando Chapter and Central FL Z Group Gahambar: WZCC (World Zoroastrian Chamber of Commerce) Orlando Chapter and Orlando Central FL Z Group held their second Gahambar on Sunday May 27, 2012 at the Orlando Sun Resort / Conference Center in Kissimmee, FL. About 130 South FL Zs participated from ZATAMBAY, Miami/Ft. Lauderdale/Boca Raton ZAF, and Central FL Orlando Group. The festivities started with the preliminary prep work at the expansive commercial kitchen facilities of the Resort, thanks to the generous offer by its General Manager, our own Percy Amaria. Our head Chefess, Urvazi Ichaporia and her many helpers prepared all the food for the Gahambar. Special Banana Leaves were kindly donated by a couple of ZAF friends for the feast. The Gahambar festivities started the next day with the Satum Prayers by Ervad Soli P. Dastur, followed by a sumptuous Parsi dinner of Ravo, Gor Keri nu Achar, Rotli, Sali Gosh, Parsi Veg-Stew, Parsi style Bhinda, Masala-na-Dal-Chawal, Colmi-na- Kabab, Veg-Kabab, Lagan-nu-Custard, tea, coffee and drinks. Special Guests were the family of Bombay Parsi Panchayat s Trustee Jimmy Mistri, his wife and their two daughters! Special thanks go to Percy Amaria and his family for his generous donation of the hall and kitchen facilities, Dinyar Mehta for all the various activities coordination, Urvazi & Perzid Ichaporia, and many many more Orlando members who worked so hard to create this wonderful get together the second time around. May we continue to have this event every year! The warm welcome Satum prayer In worship and devotion. Zor & More, Issue # 3, August, 2012. Page 7 of 16
. Some of the organizers....preparing Parsi food for 130 and finally.the Parsi Bhonu on Kera-na-paatra with some of us from eastern Florida.. The Z-Club (by Aban Kavasmaneck) As the hot and hazy days of summer are coming to a close, our industrious Z-Club children are getting ready for the challenge of a new school year, and another set of interesting, interactive and enjoyable Z-club classes. Our last Z-Club class of the summer vacation was at Sam and Lyla Todywala s house. As usual, our fabulous hosts catered to our precious Z- Club gems and their parents with exuberant generosity and enthusiasm. The children participated by interpretively analyzing and discussing an intriguing short story about Zarathushtra and the moral and ethical perspective of His philosophy of life and religion. As always, our brilliant Z- Club children were amazing in their comprehension and discussion of the challenging and relevant dimension of our Zoroastrian religion in their daily lives. Our next class will be held at Anahita and Nash Patel s house on Sunday, August 26. By popular demand, we will have a Sagan Nu cooking and tasting demonstration and instruction. Our kids are thriving intellectually, socially and spiritually because of our encouragement and faith in their efforts. With our continuing support we can be sure that our fabulous Z-Club kids will reach for the stars and be the masters of their universe. The Stork Arrives: ZAF Community News We are very happy to announce the birth of our grandson James (aka Jimmy) on Friday August 10, 2012. Jaclyn, Neville and baby are all doing well. Bapaiji and Bapawaji Roshan & Jimmy Bharucha are on Cloud Nine. Relocation from ZAF Area: Faramroze and Parivaz Sarkari & family have relocated to Dubai. Personally, we are sorry for the loss to the community but at the same time, we wish them all the best of health and happiness in their new home and the career opportunity. It is very encouraging to know that they would still like to remain connected with ZAF on the e-mail list. We shall do so accordingly. Marathon Runner Perry Unwalla for a Good Cause: I have always wanted to run a marathon and this is the year. November 4 th, I am off to compete in the New York City Marathon along with almost 47,000 runners. I figure, if you re going to challenge yourself, make it the BEST! Starting on the Verrazano Bridge on Staten Island and running through all 5 boroughs before ending in Central Park with approximately 2.5 million cheering spectators lining the route what a memorable run it will be! Here is where I need your help! I am raising money for a great NYC charity called Team for Kids. This charity makes a difference in the lives of over 100,000 underprivileged children by creating programs to combat childhood obesity, develop healthy lifestyles and link goalsetting with accomplishments. Raising funds is my ticket to the marathon as the normal lottery system entry is already closed. Contributing is easy! Simply go to the following link to make a secure online donation: http://www.runwithtfk.org/profile/publicpage/10943 (All contributions are tax-deductible and you will receive an acknowledgement e-mail from NYRR) OR You may mail a check (payable to TEAM FOR KIDS ) to my office: Perry D. Unwalla Agency, 3791 A1A South, Suite A, St. Augustine, FL 32080. There is no small donation; all are appreciated and I will keep you posted on the race. Thank you for your support and you ll see me in NYC on November 4th! Zor & More, Issue # 3, August, 2012. Page 8 of 16
Our Condolences: In the past 12 months, we in Florida have sadly lost many of our loved ones. We extend our condolences and heartfelt sympathy to the members, relatives and friends of the community. We pray that their souls may rest in eternal peace in Garo Demana (House of Songs). Jaloo Shahpur Pardivala, (76 yrs), loving mother of our ZATAMBAY member Niloufer Rohinton Hathiram, in Houston on September 9. Khorshed Kaikhushroo Merchant, (97 yrs), dear grandmother of Jennifer Khajautia, on August 11th in Mumbai. Sheroomai Pheroze Tamboli, (81 yrs) dear mother of our ZAF member and well-wisher Dr. Hoshedar Tamboli of Tampa, Florida on August 3rd. The Paaydust (Funeral Service) was conducted by our Ervads Khushroo Daruwalla and Dr. Zubin Panthaki on Sunday August 5th. As per the wishes of the Tamboli family, in lieu of flowers, if you wish, please donate to the FEZANA Pheroze Tamboli Endowment Fund, Critical Fund, or the TGH Foundation (can be done on-line). Dinyar Kaikhushroo Patel, (80 yrs), dear Mamaji (mother s brother) of our ZAF member Goher Danny Mobed, in Zofingen, Switzerland on July 15. Sheheriar Rustom Bamasi, (69 yrs), loving husband of our Orlando member Freny Sheheriar Bamasi, in Orlando on July 2. Bapsi Jimmy Master, (72 yrs), loving mother of our dear ZAF member Anahita Patel, in Mumbai on June 21. Piloo Noshir Guard, (75 yrs), dear Fuiji of our ZAF member Hovi Shroff, of Boca Raton, FL, in Navsari on June 16. Homai Dadi Mistry, (80 yrs), dear mother of our ZAF member Hovi Shroff, of Boca Raton, FL, in Pune on June 13. Franak Noshir Dhalla, (68 yrs), dear sister of our ZAF member Hootokshi Hansotia of Aventura, FL, in L.A. (CA) on June 12 Dosi Firoze Sethna, (91 yrs), loving mother of our ZAF member Gulshan Mina Dubash, in Vancouver, Canada on January 22. Putli Ratanshah Pardivala, (83 yrs), dear Fuiji (father s sister) of our ZATAMBAY Niloufer Rohinton Hathiram, in Karachi on November 3, last year. Roshan Nariman Pochee, (93 yrs), loving mother of our ZAF member Aban Percy Kavasmaneck, in Dadar, Mumbai on December 10, last year. Ervad Manchi Maneck Captain, loving son of our ZAF member Jaloo Aunty and brother of Rita & Pheroze Engineer, in Mumbai on August 15, last year. A Message Sent From ZAF to the Sikh Community: Respected members of Miami Gurudwara and Sikh Community: We, the people of the Zoroastrian Association of Florida (ZAF), join all to express our heartfelt condolences and sympathy to the victims and families of the tragedy at the Gurudwara in Oak Creek, Wisconsin. Our prayers and wishes are with you to continue to spread and live the path of peace and harmony. God Bless. Jahanbux Daruwala, Ph.D., President, ZAF (August 7, 2012) North American Zoroastrian Religious Tele-Class By Ervad Soli P. Dastur We are very pleased to announce the details of the next Religious Tele-Class by Ervad Dr. Soli Dastur, on the topic: Parsi & Irani Wedding Ceremonies Date & Time: Sunday, September 23, 2012, 11:00 am to 12-noon. Place: Quality Inn, Sawgrass Conference Center, 1711 N University Drive, Plantation, FL 33322. PowerPoint Slides: Please note that the class-slides are needed for home viewing only. They are not needed if you are attending the class at the Quality Inn on Sept-23. If you have not already previously registered with him to obtain the class PowerPoint slides in advance, please contact Dr. Dastur (dastur@comcast.net). He will place you on the mailing list for all classes in the future. Fee: There is no fee for the class. An optional Buffet lunch will be available at the discounted price of $5 per person at India House Restaurant located at the Quality Inn. You may pay this reduced rate at the class-meeting room provided you have informed us in advance by RSVP by September 22. RSVP: Please contact Kersi Munshi (kershasp@yahoo.com) by e-mail or phone (954-757-4570) if you are attending. This is very useful in planning for the room, seats and lunch head-count at the discounted price. Please help us. Attendance from Your Home: If you would like to attend the class by tele-bridge from home, you would need to have the PowerPoint slides in advance (see above) and join the tele-bridge by dialing toll free at 218-339-3600, and enter the participation code 370562# when prompted. After joining the call, please place your phone on mute and unmute it only when asking a question after the class. ZAF Board meeting: After the class and lunch, there will be a ZAF Board meeting starting at ~2 pm (Location TBD). Tea will be served. Our agenda is full as we plan for the rest of the year of our term in office. Any of you interested in attending as observers are cordially invited. Please let us know if you would like to attend. WebLink: Ervad Dastur s friend from Mumbai, Mr. Yazdi Tantra has graciously placed all previous tele-classes on Q&A in one place with all attachments. You may access them at the following web link in his website: www.zoroastrians.net as follows: http://zoroastrians.net/2012/04/30/north-american-zoroastrian-religious-tele-class/. Should you have any questions at all, please feel free to contact either Kersi Munshi or Ervad Dastur. Both of the e-mails appear above. Zor & More, Issue # 3, August, 2012. Page 9 of 16
>> Beyond Florida >> XVI North American Zarathushti Congress, August 2-5, 2012, Hilton, RyeBrook, NY Zarathushti Existence in the Contemporary World Editorial: The Congress was attended by about 575 persons; mostly from North America and some from abroad. We understand that about 100 Zarathushtis from Iran also were planning to attend but could not do so due to problems with some visa formalities. Five ZAF couples, including four members of the Board attended the Congress. It is important to mention that just being there was worth the experience; as it gave us a glimpse into and pulse of the Zoroastrian community of ~22,000 persons in North America; young & not-so-young, Iranians & Parsis, conservatives and not-so-conservatives, Mobeds and laity. Following are some of the highlights; including our congratulatory note to the President of ZAGNY (Zoroastrian Association of Greater New York) Mr. Gev Nentin and Ms. Shirin Khosravi, President of IZA (Iranian Zoroastrian Association) for such an exemplary collaboration amongst the Iranian and Parsi Zarathushti organizations. Dear Gev, Shirin: On behalf of the Zoroastrian Association of Florida (ZAF) please accept our hearty congratulations to ZAGNY and IZA for organizing an absolutely splendid, productive, enjoyable and fruitful North American Zoroastrian Congress earlier this month (August-2012). We, the delegation from ZAF came away with total admiration for the vision and its realization via the Congress theme of Zarathushti Existence in the Contemporary World. The choice of the topics, speakers, panels and Q&A formats were spot-on superb and timely; as well as the successfully executed logistics to support such an intricate and sometimes delicate endeavor. The instant electronic-audiencefeedback/survey mechanism and truly New York style entertainment were the refined touches; so characteristic of the energetic people in your organizations. We shall indeed look forward to sharing the proceedings of the Congress with ZAF, in print and electronic means, as and when they are available. We would appreciate if you would forward this message to the individuals and teams of people involved in making this event a sparkling success. Sincerely, Jahanbux Daruwala, Ph.D., President, ZAF. (August 11, 2012) [cc: ZAF & Presidents of FEZANA] While it is not within the scope of this newsletter to fully cover the Congress Proceedings, an attempt is made to present the speakers and the themes/topics addressed so as to give the readers an overview of the essence of the sessions which collectively, depict the nature and state of the Congress theme: Zarathushti Existence In The Contemporary World. & The North American Zoroastrian Community for The 25 th Year Silver Jubilee Celebration from The Zoroastrian Association of Florida Pateti Gathering Muktaad FEZANA Outstanding Navar sponsored Z-Club Children s Play ZAF Picnic Z-Award to Dr. Soli Dastur Coming to America Best Intercultural Booth Award Explaining Haft Sheen at Nowruz Sweet greetings under Toran at Nowruz. WZO Trust food project for poor Parsis in Gujarat Charity Religious Tele-Classes Social / Cultural Newsletter Good Governance Reproduction of ZAF s message in the N. Am Z. Congress Program Brochure; August 1-5, 2012 Zor & More, Issue # 3, August, 2012. Page 10 of 16
C o n g r e s s H i g h l i g h t s Selected Quotes From Messages of Goodwill and Congratulations: Hon. Robert Menendez, U.S. Senator, NJ: Since its inception the Zarathushti Congress has cultivated strong sense of identity, awareness and belonging for the small yet vibrant community. Hon. Charles E. Schumer, U.S. Senator, NY: I know that the Zarathushti community will continue to be a positive force in our state and our nation for many years to come. I thank you for your unwavering service and contributions. Hon. Salman Khursheed, Minister for Minority Affairs, National Advisory Council, Government of India: It is heartening to see the small and significant Parsi community of the world getting an opportunity to interact and collaborate in building a strong vision for the future of the community and generating awareness about the need to preserve the culture and spirit of the community.. I am sure the Congress will provide the right forum to address the enormous challenges being faced by the Parsi community globally and to search for optimal solutions. Hon. Dr. Esfandyar Ekhtiyari, Member & Zarathushti Representative, The Majlis of the Islamic Republic of Iran: ".. greetings from Iran the birthplace of Zarthushtra and from the Zarthushtis in Iran with Good Thoughts, Good Words, and Good Deeds.. 3,750 years of Zarthushti faith and conviction, the emphasis should be that we all are Zarthushti in first place and therefore, the religious teaching should include the timelessness and global teachings of Zarthushtra which will guide the next generation in a global and borderless world.. In contemporary world, that we Zarthushtis are spread all over the world, the only way that we could stay strong and maintain our well-known reputation is by maintaining harmony and unity between our different communities. We are one family with a considerable number of smart, creative, and talented people all over the world; we could flourish a lot better if we know each other better and deeper." Hon. Mrs. Sonia Gandhi, Chairperson, National Advisory Council, Government of India: The Parsis represent the best traditions of India s composite culture.. While their numbers are small, their achievements have been colossal. Parsis have distinguished themselves in every field, from politics, industry, science and the armed forces, to intellectual life, the performing arts and sports, bringing honour and glory to India. Hon. Michael R. Bloomberg, Mayor, New York: Together we look forward to the many further contributions that Zoroastrian New Yorkers will make to our City s cultural, economic, and civic life in the years to come. Hon. C. Scott Vanderhoef, County Executive, Rockland County, N.Y.: The Zarathushti Congress offers an opportunity for the Zarathushtis across the continent to collaborate in building a strong vision for the future and in facing important issues.. May your community continue to flourish. Following are some of the topics and speakers at the Congress: Keynote Address: Building a New World Order The Role of Zarathushti Values: Dr. Trita Parsi, Founder & President of the National Iranian American Council. He so eloquently made the case that the values espoused in the Zarathushti faith are not only universal, but also timeless. In these times of global shifts, with the values of the very structure of the global system elapsing, Zarathushtra s non-relative moral code can play a strong role and provide guidance. Khorshed F. Jungalwala Lecture Series: Thinking With Zoroastrianism In The 21 st Century: Dr. Yuhan Sohrab-Dinshaw Vevaina, Lecturer in the Department of Religious Studies at Stanford University. As a 3,500 year-old religious tradition, the Zarathushti religion is one of the oldest living faiths still practiced globally. While prestigious, this antiquity makes the maintenance of the age-old religious beliefs and practices especially challenging in the 21 st century. He masterfully addressed both, the remarkable conservatism and the profound changes that have been embraced by modern Zarathushtis in an attempt to pose a basic question: where do we go from here? He advised not to cherry pick historical facts or anecdotes to justify a position, but to have a much broader historical perspective to arrive at a position that can be justified in modern times. Zarathushti Core Beliefs: Ervad Dr. Soli P. Dastur, Retired Executive from Proctor & Gamble and recipient of the Rohinton Rivetna Outstanding Zarathushti Award in 2010; Dr. Anahita Dua, Surgery Resident, Medical College of Wisconsin and Dr. Khushroo Patel, Cardiothoracic & Vascular surgeon, Illinois. The session went into depth of what the core values are and how they can apply in daily lives. Dr. Dastur first defined what Zarathushtra says in his Gathas and the relationship of the seven Ameshaspentas with the tenets of Humata, Hukhta and Hvarashta. To make the session even more meaningful, there was a dialogue amongst a panel of young & old with the speaker, as to how the core beliefs can and should apply to our daily lives as Zarathushtis, with and beyond Humata, Hukhta, Hvarashta. Dr. Dua then related how the above daily guiding principles have enabled her to clearly see situations in her surgical profession as they arose and to make the right choices. Dr. Patel related the life story of his late wife Roda, who after surviving cancer, devoted the rest of her life to her mission to focus on correcting malnutrition amongst children in Gujarat through the founding of Gram Seva. His translation of Zarathushti core beliefs is Service to Humanity is Service to God and Work is Worship in real terms of making a difference, as he continues the pursuit of her legacy. Zarathushti Identity: Historical Review & Demographics of Zarathushtis in North Ametica; Roshan Rivetna, Ex-Editor of FEZANA Journal, author of many Zoroastrian books and articles, and Scientist at Tata Institute, Argonne National & AT&T research laboratories. She traced the growth of the community in North America from the very early days in the 1800s by citing episodes and stories of the traders, merchants, entrepreneurs and pioneer settlers, to the present day spread of the diaspora. Extensive and impressive work was presented to show the trend in worldwide numbers; strikingly rising in North America and dwindling in India and Iran. Some of the important statistics presented by Roshan are as follows: Zor & More, Issue # 3, August, 2012. Page 11 of 16
CENSUS: Zarathushti Population Iran India USA Canada 2004 2012 2004 2012 2004 2012 2004 2012 24,000 14,000 69,601 61,000 10,794 14,306 5,975 6,421 % of non-zarathushti spouses % of Inter-marriages in 2011 USA (2004 = 7.7%, 2012 = 9.5%), Canada (2004 = 4.7%, 5.6%) Mumbai =39%, N. America = 59% Zarathushti Identity (Panel Session): Dr. Ali Jafarey, Founder, Zarathushtrian Asembly, Past Director General, Iranian Anthropological Center, Ervad Cawas Desai, Ex-Officio Trustee & Akbar of the Navsari Bhagarsath Anjuman, Ferzin Patel, Finance Administrator Law & Insurance, Co-Chair of the XVI NAZCongress-2012, Ervad Dr. Jehan Bagli, Chair-Research & Preservation Committee-FEZANA, International Board Member-WZO, Author of many scholarly books on Zoroastrian faith & practices, Jimmy Kumana, Consultant, Industrial Energy Optimization, Ervad Kobad Zarolia, Founding President-NAMC & OZCF, Past President- ZSO, Past Board-member, India-Canada Chamber of Commerce, Mohseen Zandieh, Owner Arash Real Estate, Director-NY State & National Association of Realtors, Dr. Parastu Dubash, Past President-ZAGBA, past Faculty at many New England Colleges, Roshan Rivetna (see above), Dr. Keki Dadachanji, Moderator & Chair-Program Committee, NAZ Congress XVI - 2012. o This stimulating and thought provoking session examined: What is Zarathushti identity as defined in the Avesta? What are the attributes of a Zarathushti individual and community? What do we need to do to ensure that the teachings of Zarathushtra are understood and practiced by future generations? What role does the Navjote ceremony play? How important are the places of worship in strengthening our identity? o Some of the statements by the panelists are reproduced from the closing day Congress Retrospective presentation and are given below with permission from the speaker, Dr. Farrokh Mistree (L.A. Comp Chair & Director, School of Aerospace & Mechanical Engineering, University of Oklahoma): How can we change and not compromise our doctrine and core values? Keki Dadachanji Identity is defined as the distinctive character, feeling or trait that is shared by all members of a particular social category or group. Farzin Patel. Zoroastrian doctrine defines religious identity. I choose for myself. From all the religions that have been and will be, it is the best one for me. Prayers help communicate with Ahura Mazda. Ali Jafarey. Zoroastrians are but one of several faith groups. Spirituality has no borders. Zoroastrian identity must include spirituality. Jehan Bagli. The Navjote is our starting line to lifelong learning rather than the end of the road or the finish line. Parastu Dubash It is my belief that being born into a particular religion is not an accident of birth but part of God s divine plan. Therefore, an act of conversion is tantamount to implying that God made a mistake giving someone birth in another religion and the mistake will now be corrected! To me, that is the height of arrogance. However, if an individual of his own free will and volition, decides to adopt and follow the beliefs of Zarathushtra, he is entirely free to do so and I for one will respect his belief. Cawas Desai. We have wasted our resources on building banquet halls and not fire temples. As a result, our NA mobeds do not have the opportunity to teach the young NA mobeds their craft. Fire temples are critical for maintaining our religious identity in NA. Kobad Zarolia Critical Questions for us in N.A. Jimmy Kumana Is it worth maintaining a separate Community Identity, or should we simply assimilate and melt into our host society? Do we have to be Parsis to be Zarathushtis? Do we have to be Zarathushtis to be Parsis? What defines a Zarathushti? What defines a Parsi? What about fostering a larger Zarathushti Identity along with our Irani brethren, while retaining the social and cultural traditions from India/Pakistan? Challenges Jimmy Kumana Establishing the core religious doctrine, given that there is scant written documentation from the time of Zarathushtra Being Zarathushti - Right or Privilege? What are the Criteria? Who decides Criteria? Who passes judgment on Acceptance? How to deal with people claiming to be Zarathushtis, but who do not practice its teachings? Zor & More, Issue # 3, August, 2012. Page 12 of 16
Audience Instant electronic survey of the attendees (does not necessarily represent N. American population) Let us ask again In my opinion, Zarathushti is someone who has both Zarathushti parents: 32 = 13.85% who has a Zarathushti father: 5 = 2.16% who has at least one Zarathushti parent: 23 = 9.96% whose ancestors were Zarathushtis, and wants to live in accordance with its teachings: 14 = 6.06% who chooses for himself/herself the religion of Zarathushtra: 157 = 67.97% Totals 231 = 100% Intergenerational Dialogue (Panel Session from the younger generation: Motivation, Inspiration, Action): Behrose Taraporewalla, Lecturer as a Peter Lincoln Spencer Fellow at universities, Farzin Avari, Religious Class Teacher, Atlanta Z Association, Ervad Poruz Khambatta, Taught Religious Classes at ZAGNY & performs religious ceremonies in N. America & India, Trity Pourbahrami, Director, Communication, The California Institute of Technology, Division of Engineering & Applied Sciences & a Community Volunteer, Moderator - Navroz Gandhi, Investor & Consultant. The session focused on community involvement and Zarathushti identity at local & national levels. Behrose described the example of successful coordination of philanthropic endeavour per Zarathushti principles; namely the Zoroastrian Stepping Forward (ZSF) shoe drive by the young Zarathushtis throughout the USA. Farzin learned on her own how to start religious classes in a small association like Atlanta. She said it is difficult but doesn t have to be with support from the community. She said you can get involved, take action and make a difference. Young Poruz described his involvement with ZAGNY and the community and how working together as a community, we can make a difference. Trity, born in Iran, inspired the audience as she related her personal life of juggling her life as a wife, mother and managing a full-time job. Her motivations are to stay connected, interfaith relationship, and raising Zarathushti children in a multilingual and multicultural society. It can be done if we want it...they said. Combating Poverty In Our communities Abroad: (Panel Session): Armene Modi, Teacher & Founder of Ashta No Kai (For Better Tomorrow), Dinshaw Tamboly, Founder-WZO Trusts India, Ex-Trustee- BPP, Priyanka Sinha (via live video from India), Mobile Banking Social Venture-Hyderabad, Kaizad Cama-Moderator, Management Consultant in financial services. The session successfully illustrated the extent of poverty within our Zarathushti communities in India, as well as showed North American Zarathushtis how they can be a part of the solution. Our Florida initiative to help with the food distribution to the poor Parsis in Gujarat India, using the funds raised here and sent via WZO Trust was acknowledged as an example. Preserving Persian Heritage (Panel session): Shirin Khosravi Moderator; Director & Solution Architect, Merkle, Inc., (CRM Agency) narrated how the Persian Historical sites and Zarathushti pilgrimage sites will deteriorate unless we act to preserve them. Dr. Talinn Gregor, Associate Professor, Modern & Contemporary Architecture, Dept. of Fine Arts, Brandeis University, authoritatively traced the history of the use of pre-islamic sites in Iran during the 19 th and 20 th centuries. From 1930s, the use of the Persepolis motif in official buildings to the 1971 celebration of the 2,500 year Anniversary of the Founding of the Persian Empire by Cyrus the Great, Zarathushti artistic past and sites were deployed as essential to national might and prestige. After the establishment of the Islamic republic in 1980, the authorities have devised an ambivalent policy of both preservation and neglect towards these archaeological sites. Alayar Dabestani, Real Estate & business Entrepreneur & Zarathushti Philanthropist presented photos and an insight into the Zarathushti pilgrimage sites, their use, condition and challenges in their restoration and preservation. He also presented the Zarathushti architectural elements (or lack thereof) in these sites due to lack of time or expertise in Zarathushti & Persian architectural elements; sometimes resulting in improperly representing them. The Navjote/Sudreh Pushi Ceremony & The Kushti Ritual (Panel Session) : Dr. Lovji D. Cama-Moderator, Founding Member & Ex-President, ZAGNY, Chair-Education, Scholarship & Conference Committees-FEZANA, Recipient of Jamshed Pavri Humanitarian Service Award-2004, Ex-Trustee of Arbab Rustom Guiv Darbe Mehr, NY. Speakers: Ervad Dr. Jehan Bagli (see above), Ervad Karl Khambatta, Religious Class Teacher & young local Mobed ZAGNY, Professor K.D. Irani, Emeritus Professor of Philosophy, City College of New York, Visiting Professor - U. of Michigan & U. of Sydney, Nahid Dashtaki, Secretary-FEZANA & works at L.A. Airport. The session explained the ceremony and its significance in the life of a Zarathushti. It also looked at the Kushti Ritual and Sudreh-Pushi and its significance from a young Iranian Zarathushti s viewpoint. Kushti prayer in English, accompanied by the actual demonstration of the ritual was shown on stage to the audience by Ervad Khambatta. Given below is the audience instant-responseelectronic-survey taken during the presentation at the congress (The content is from the Congress Retrospective slide presented by Dr. Farrokh Mistree (see above): Zoroastrian Identity Age at which Navjote is performed: Navjote represents declaration of faith in, and commitment to, the Zarathushti religion. Most Navjotes are performed when a child is 11 years old or younger. Which of the following statements best reflects your view? (multiple choice) Responses: (percent) (count) The current age limit of Navjote is appropriate, and parents should make the commitment on behalf of the child 38.12% 77 One should be able to make a commitment to the Zarathushti religion for oneself, and have their Navjote performed at any age. 61.88% 125 Total.. 100% 202 Zor & More, Issue # 3, August, 2012. Page 13 of 16
Basic Course on the Zarathushti Religion: Sarosh J. Collector, Founding member of Z.A.Houston, Member-ZAH Board, ZAH Representative to FEZANA, Founding Director & past Treasurer-WZCC, Member of various FEZANA Committees. Sarosh introduced the short course in basic tenets of Zarathushti religion with particular emphasis on the Ameshaspentas as the core of the religion from which the Zarathushti trinity of Humata, Hukhta and Hvarashta emenates. The Zarathushti concepts of Heaven & Hell and the religion s influence on Abrahamic faith were discussed. His teaching methods and the use of The Good Life Manual at the youngsters classes in Houston were explained. Darius M. Bharucha, President, the Zoroastrian Society of Ontario (ZSO), History Teacher at York Regional District School Board. Darius, as a professional teacher, talked about the effectiveness of teaching methods so very useful, not only for the students but for the teachers as well! His hands-on workshop model led the participants to create lesson-plans on various assigned topics for children in different age groups. They then presented the lesson-plan and shared with other participants so that everyone had a set of class-room ready resources by the end of the workshop. Children s Program: Pearl Satarawala, Teacher at The Montessori Children s House, Verona, NJ, and Vehishta Kaikobad, Senior Docent- & Teaching Artist, Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, Master Teacher & School Curriculum Coordinator, Houston Montessori Center. While the adults attended the Congress sessions, these two dedicated teachers took on the task of Children s (5-13) workshop with age-appropriate topics; ranging from Reliving the Past, Ancient Marvels, Today s Pride, Zarathushti Identity: from Mentors to Models, based on the lives of famous Zarathushtis; Rituals & Traditions: with emphasis on Navjote and Preserving Persian Heritage. The topics were enriched with projects, visual aids, interactive group discussions, Zarathushti Monajats and age-appropriate visits to some of the adult sessions. Zarathushti Empires; Common Themes & Changing Circumstances: Daulat N. Kotwal, History Teacher, ZAGNY, Retired Banker, Board Member at The Guidance Center and Dr. Xerxes P. Kotval, Co-Teacher of History at ZAGNY and Researcher, Bell Laboratories. The duo eloquently presented to the standing room only audience, the discussion about the common themes and changing circumstances that shaped the Zarathushti empires and the world around them. UNESCO Parzor Project: Rosheen Kabraji, Manager- Asia Program, Royal Institute of International Affairs, London. Rosheen, drawing on the theme of intergenerational dialogue, community and identity, elaborated on the preservation of heritage through modules of research and projects in oral traditions, intercultural studies, religion & priesthood, performing arts, archives, health & demographics, public life and revival programs. The content was of particular interest to the youth audience with examples of how they can get more involved by contributing to and benefiting from Parzor projects. (www.unescoparzor.com) ZWIN (Zarathushti Women s International Network): Our Vision Going Forward: Dr. Dolly Dastur, Editor-In-Chief, The FAZANA Journal, International Chair - Status of Women Committee, Zonta International, Ex-President, Z Association of Quebec. Ushtavaity Davar, previously Genetic Counselor, Columbia University Medical Center, Dr. Zareen Karani-Araoz, President, Managing Across Cultures, Consultant & Coach to Global Leadership Executives in Corporations. Several Initiatives were identified and discussed on how to implement goals in: (i) Expanding ZWIN network in countries with low membership, (ii) How to go forward with elder Assistance Program, (iii) International Student Hospitality Program, (iv) Creating awareness of breast cancer and the role of genetic factors and life-style changes therein. Research on Genetics: Dr. Saroja Voruganti, Staff Scientist & Principal Investigator, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX. Dr, Voruganti took anthropometric measurements of volunteering participants at the congress. Statistical 7 genetic analyses will be conducted to determine the potential for utilizing this population for a larger project being developed which would propose to identify genes that are influencing heart disease and other related conditions in Parsis residing in the United States. WZCC (World Zarathushti Chamber of Commerce) Day, 2012 (Panel Session): Dr. Jamshed Bharucha, President, Cooper Union College for the Advance of Science, NY, & first Zarathushti to Serve as a President of a North American university, and Poruz Khambatta, President, Berkeley University Cognitive Science Student Association. The day included a tour of the New York Federal Reserve and Wall Street, a reception, symposium and dinner. Well known author, Nozer Buchia signed copies of his book Why Entrepreneurs Really Fail, The Road to Success..Always Under Construction. Social Events: Within the scope of this newsletter, one can only list the events and leave to your imagination the exciting social environment created by the ZAGNY/IZA host organizations: Youth Pre-Congress Mixer, FEZANA Anniversary Celebration & collective cake cutting by all of its past Presidents, Friday Night Dinner & Entertainment by K-Von comedy and the masterful music of Maestro Dr. Adi Tamboli, an Evening in NY City, Friday Youth Night, Saturday Gala Banquet Night (see below-entertainment). Entertainment: My-O-My: ZAGNY-IZA has got talent!! The charming MCs were Adil Mistry and Freya Motafram: hilarious Letterwala (a-la the Letterman show) comedy monologue, vocal solo - operatic numbers, instrumental solos by violinists, pianist, salsa dance duo, dandia raas, Bollywood dance, Persian dance. ZAGNY Philharmonic Orchestra played on the closing day with Monajat & Iranian songs still ringing in our ears with fond and indelible educational, emotional and inspiring memories that will surely linger in our minds as we answer some questions and raise more, about our Zarathushti Existence in the Contemporary World. Congress Retrospective: Dr. Farrokh Mistree, (see above). Dinsha Mistree, Ph.D. candidate at Princeton University. The comprehensive summary/retrospective of the congress was produced on PowerPoint by the dynamic team of Farrokh and Dinshaw and eloquently presented by Farrokh (see above); absolutely a superb job of encapsulating the essence of the congress in one hour!! The 2012 FEZANA Zarathushti Community Awards In keeping with the tradition of recognition and encouragement of excellence in our community, starting with the Congress of 1988 in Toronto, the following were judged as the FEZANA awardees from amongst many North American nominees in each category: Shirin Nariman Dastoor Award: Outstanding Young Zarathushti Student: Ervad Behrom F. Firozgary (Texas) Mehraban Zarthoshty Award: Outstanding Young Zarathushti: Narius K Dastur (Vancouver) North American Mobed Council Award: Community Service Award: Ervad Zerkxis Z. Bhandara (California) Dinshaw Framroze Joshi Award: Excellence in Performing Arts, Painting, or Literature: Rohinton Mistry (Canada) Jamshed & Shirin Guzdar Award: Excellence in Business or Profession: Dr. Firdaus S. Dhabhar (California) : Dr. Shahrokh Khanizadeh (Canada) Zor & More, Issue # 3, August, 2012. Page 14 of 16
Jamshed Pavri Award: Humanitarian Service: Rohinton Rivetna Award: Outstanding Zarathushti: Freyaz K. Shroff (Mumbai) Firdosh D. Mehta (Canada) Pictorial Glimpses Fond Memories & Lasting Legacy Opening Prayer The ZAF Delegation (Daruwala, Munshi, Dastur, Dubash, Engineer) FEZANA 25 th Anniv. Cake & 6 Presidents Singing Monajat & Khan Ashem Intergenerational Dialogue Panel Instant electronic survey Example Kushti Prayer in English Zarathushti Identity Panel Session Indian Dance Iranian Dance Passing of Torch: ZAGNY/IZA to ZACal N.America (USA, Canada) FEZANA Leadership AGM Summarizing all of the congress proceedings THANK YOU FOR GIVING US THE PRIVILEGE & OPPORTUNITY TO SERVE ON THE ZAF BOARD FOR THE LAST FOUR YEARS. Sincerely, Gulshan & Mina Dubash Zor & More, Issue # 3, August, 2012. Page 15 of 16
The Z.A.F. Inc. c/o Kersi Munshi, Secretary 9830 BayLeaf Ct. Parkland, FL 33076-4445 Mah Fravardin YZ 1382(S) Zor & More Issue #3, August - 2012 the ZoroasTrian Association of Florida Board of Directors President Jahanbux Daruwala V.P. Burjis Shroff Secretary Kersi Munshi Calendar of Events September 23: Sunday, 11am -12 noon, Religious Tele-Class by Ervad Soli Dastur, Quality Inn, 1711 N. University Drive, Plantation FL, followed by a discounted Buffet Lunch at India House at the Quality Inn. Class-Topic: Parsi/Irani Wedding Ceremonies. Please contact Ervad Dastur (Dastur@comcast.net) if you wish to receive the PowerPoint slides in advance and join the Tele-Class from your home on Sept-23. Please RSVP to Kersi Munshi, Secretary-ZAF (kershasp@yahoo.com) asap, if you are attending in person at Quality Inn. Treasurer Mina Dubash Members-at-Large Soli Dastur Behli Hansotia Katya Hansotia Khushnam Irani Jimmy Major October 7: October 14: November 4: Sunday, Invitations open for nominations for the 2013-14 term of the ZAF Board. Sunday, 12:30 pm. ZAF Educational DVD & Luncheon get-to-gether series. Arista Park Community Hall, Davie (Near Jimmy & Farida Major s home). Sunday, ZAF Maidhyoshem Ghambaar, AGM and Election of new ZAF Board for the term: 2013-2014. Zor & More, Issue # 3, August, 2012. Page 16 of 16