FALL 2003, PAIZ 1372 YZ Meher-Avan-Adar 1372 VZ (Fasli) Mah Ardibehest-Khordad-Tir 1373 VZ (Shenshai) Mah Khordad-Tir-Amardad 1373 VZ (Kadmi) FEDERATION OF ZOROASTRIAN ASSOCIATIONS OF NORTH AMERICA (FEZANA) Registered Address: 5750 South Jackson Street, Hinsdale, IL 60521, USA. www.fezana.org

FEZANA OFFICERS Zoroastrian Association of Rocky Mountains Zoroastrian Society of Washington State President: Firdosh Mehta, 951 Jordan Cres­ (ZARM): Rumi Engineer, president, 22 Lin­ (ZSWS): Arman McCleary, president, cent, Edmonton, Alberta T6L 7A5. Tel: 780- denwood Dr., Littleton, CO 80120. Tel: 303- 14904 SE 64th St., Bellevue, WA 98006. Tel: 438-4371(H), 780-436-0004 (F-H), 780-468- 347-2356 (H), 303c781-4855 (W), 425-373-4605, [email protected]. 6862 (W), [email protected]. 303-789-5329 (F), [email protected]. FEZANA SMALL GROUPS Vice President: Mahrukh Motafram, 2390 Zoroastrian Association of Metropolitan Chanticleer, Brookfield, WI 53045. Tel: 262- Chicago (ZAC-Chicago): Ann Amavaz Atlanta Zarathushti Anjuman (AZA): Far­ 821-5296 (H,F), [email protected]. Elavia, president, 1314 Ivy Court, Westmont, rokh Mistree, 2846 Greenbrook Way, Atlanta, IL 60559. Tel: 630-852-6103 (H), GA 30345. Tel: 404-325-3300 (H), 404-894- Treasurer: Rashid Mellin, 583 Beverly Place, aelavia@ hotmail.com. 8412 (W), 404-325-1227 (F), farrokh.mis­ San Marcos, CA 92069. Tel: 760-891-0699 [email protected]. (H), 760-891-0277 (W), 760-891-0278 (F), Zoroastrian Association of Florida (ZAF): rmehin @yahoo.com. Klwshru Damwalla, president, 14431 Ardoch Zoroastrian Association ofAtlantic Canada Place, Miami Lakes, FL 33016. Tel: 305-819- (ZAAC): Jagosh, 118 Riverview Cres­ Secretary: Rita Engineer, 9141 Tivoli Place, 9099 (H), [email protected]. cent, Bedford, NS B4A 2X4. Tel: 902-835- Boca Raton, FL 33434. Tel: 561-487-4343 (H), 954-420-4686 (W), 954-363-4355 (F), Zoroastrian Association of Kansas (ZAK): 5221 (H), [email protected].. [email protected]. Dmyoush Jahanian, president, 1835 N. 78th Cleveland Zoroastrian Community: Place, Kansas City, KS 66112. Tel: 913-334- Kamal Mehta, 2817 Fowler Drive, Willoughby Assistant Secretary: Farrokh Mistree, 2846 4084 (H), email: [email protected]. Greenbrook Way, Atlanta, GA 30345. Tel: Hills, OH 44094. Tel: 440-944-1181 (H), 404-325-3300 (H), 404-894-8412 (W), 404- Zoroastrian Association of Greater New York [email protected]. 325-1227 (F), [email protected]. (ZAGNY), Homi Gandhi, president, 704 Central Florida Zoroastrian Community: Harristown Road, Glen Rock, NJ. 07452-2334. Mez R. Birdie, 3950 Villas Green Circle, Tel: 201-445-3917 (H), 212-656-5689 (W), FEZANA MEMBER AssociATIONS Longwood, FL 32779. Tel: 800-841-3011 Ext. homi_gandhi @usa.net. Zoroastrian Association ofAlberta (ZAA): 1150 (W), 407-650-3650 (H), Firdosh Mehta, president, 951, Jordan Cres­ Iranian Zoroastrian Association (IZA): Shirin mezbirdie @aol.com. Kiamanesh, president, 419 Wolf Hill Road, Dix cent NW, Edmonton, AB. T6L 7A5. Tel: 780- Cincinnati Zoroastrian Community: Aspi and Hills, NY 11746. 631-385-8471 (H) 631-293- 438-4371 (H), 780-436-0004 (F), Wadia, 10003 Morganstrace Drive, 6100 (W), [email protected]. firdosh.mehta@ primus.ca. Loveland, OH 45140. Tel: 513-984-3119 (H), Mehran Pooladi-Darvish, FEZANA represen­ Zoroastrian Society of Ontario (ZSO): Sam as pi. wadi a@ ae.ge.com. tative (Calgary), [email protected]. Vesuna, president, 46 Carlton Road, Unionville, ONT L3R 1Z5. Tel: 905-477- Zaratlmshti Association of Kentucky, Ohio Zoroastrian Association ofArizona (ZAAR): 3808 (H), [email protected]. and Indiana (ZAKOI): Ronny and Kashmira Cyrus , president, 403 West Knight Lane, Sadri, 805 Exmoor Avenue, Louisville, KY Tempe, AZ 85284. Tel: 480-456-0765 (H), Ontario Zoroastrian Community Foundation 40223. Tel: 502-244-4806 (H), iranic @pol.net. (OZCF): Ervad Kobad Zarolia, president, ronnykash@ aol.com. 4244 Taffey Crescent, Mississauga, ONT. L5L Zoroastrian Society of British Columbia 2J2. Tel: 905-542-9885 (H), 905-745-6499 (F), Zoroastrian Association of Manitoba, Hush­ (ZSBC): Homi Italia, president, 73 - 5950 kzarolia@ interlog.com. tasp Bhumgara, 5 Raber Road, Winnipeg, Oakdale Road, Burnaby, B.C V5H 4R5. Tel: Manitoba R2R 1G4. Tel: 204-694-1142 (H), 604-438-2076 (H), [email protected]. Zoroastrian Association of Pennsylvania hbhumgara@ hotmail.com. (ZAPA): Houtoxi F. Contractor, president, Zoroastrian Association of Greater Boston 2301 Colony Ct., Pittsburgh, PA 15237. Tel: Zarathushtis of Michigan: Jamshed R. Udva­ (ZAGBA): Sherazade Mehta, president, 1799 412-367-2948 (H- F), hfmc31 @aol.com. dia, 6018 Winterset Drive, Lansing, MI Centre St. #34, West Roxbury, MA 02132. 48911-4820. Tel: 517-393-1021 (H), 617-327-1253 (H), [email protected]. Zoroastrian Association of Pennsylvania & [email protected]. New Jersey (ZAPANJ): Cyrus Toorkey, pres­ Zoroastrian Association of California (ZAC): ident, 38 Cameo Drive, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003. Minnesota Zoroastrian Community: Jehangir Khushroo Lakdawalla, president, 28343 Patri­ Tel: 856-751-0633 (H), 215-273-7000, ext. E. Rudina, 15631 Highview Lane, Apple Val­ cia Hill Drive, Canyon Country, CA 91387. 2112 (W) 609-320-9562 (C), 856-751-6343 ley, MN 55124. Tel: 612-332-8905 (W). 661-298-8554, [email protected]. (F), [email protected]. Nebraska Zoroastrian Interest Group: California Zoroastrian Center (CZC), Zoroastrian Association of Quebec (ZAQ): Jehangir Bastani, 2730 Katy Circle, Lincoln, Sohrab Shahpour Salamatipow; FEZANA rep, Ness Lakdawala, president, P.O. Box 35 Sta­ NE 68506. Tel: 402-483-4717 (H). 8952 Hazard Avenue, Westminster, CA 92683. tion Beaconsfield, Beaconsfield, Quebec H9W Tel: 714-893-4737 (CZC), 949-725-9016 (H), Zarathushti Association of New Orleans: 5T6. Tel: 514-466-2616 (H), 714-522-3333 (W), [email protected]. Rohinton & Armin Tarapore, 3104 Roosevelt [email protected]. Blvd, Kenner, LA 70065. Tel: 504-443-1929, Traditional Mazdayasni Zoroastrian Anju­ Zoroastrian Association of North Texas [email protected]. man (TMZA), Ervad Jal N. Birdy, vice presi­ dent, 3371 Skyview Lane, Corona, CA 92882. (ZANT): Mehraban Roshanravan, P. 0. Box San Diego Zoroastrian Community: Tel: 909-279-1529 (H), 714-979-2055, 2987, Coppell, TX 75019. Tel: 972-462-1475 Hoshang Khambatta, 5054 Maynard Street, (H), [email protected]. jalnb@ attbi.com. San Diego, CA 92122. Tel: 858-450-0190 Zarthoshti Anjuman of Northem California Zoroastrian Association of Houston (ZAH): (H), [email protected]. Roshan Sethna, FEZANA Representative, (ZANC): Bomi Patel, president, 4296 Mount­ St. Louis Zoroastrian Community: Persis 5607 Penninsula Park, Houston, TX 77401. castle Way, San Jose, CA 95136. Tel: 408-264- and Minoa Mehta, 156 Camfield Square, St. Tel: 713-856-9359 (H,F), [email protected]. 4395 (H), 408-267-8391 (F), Louis, MO 63141. Tel: 314-569-1828 (H), [email protected]. Zoroastrian Association of Metropolitan Zorastmail@ aol.com. Washington, Inc. (ZAMWI): Beltram Pas­ Persian Zoroastrian Organization (PZO), Zoroastrian Center ofAustin, Texas: Ketty takia, president, 8715 Irvington Ave, Bethesda, Koroush Dinyari, president 35172 King Court, and Aspi Wadi a, Cliffedge Drive, Austin, TX Fremont, CA 94536. Tel: 510-796-3157 (H), MD 20817-3605. Tel: 301-493-9131, bpastakia@ aol.com. · 78733-0013. Tel: 512-263-3131 (H), kdinyari@ yahoo.com. [email protected]. • FEZANA JOURNAL- SUMMER 2003 FE ZAN A 2 Editorial: Supporting our Aging Community -Dolly Dastoor JJCOJliJffiNAIL 3 FEZANA Update, From the President - Firdosh Mehta PuBLICATION OF THE FEDERATION OF ZOROASTRIAN AGM, Boston 2003 ASSOCIATIONS OF NORTH AMERICA 11 On the North American Scene, neXus 2003-Toronto http://www.fezana.org 13 Interfaith - lnteralia; Coming Events PRESIDENT: Firdosh Mehta 951 Jordan Crescent, NW, 19 Around the World Edmonton, Alberta T6L 7AS 20 ZWIN: "Help a Dream Come True" firdosh.mehta @primus.ca 22 PARZOR: a UNESCO Assisted Project WEBSITE MANAGER: Farrokh Mistree [email protected] 24 Cover Story: Aging in North America CHAIRPERSON: Khorshed Jungalwala Guest Editor Dolly Dastoor 53 Firecut Lane, Sudbury, MA 01776 25 Is it Memory Loss or Alzheimer's ? - Dolly Dastoor (978) 443-6858, (978) 440-8370 (fax) 27 The Stately Cypress (Sarv) - Arya Zartosht Iranpour kayj@ ziplink.net 28 Ethics and the Elderly - Susan Karani EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, DESIGN AND LAYOUT Getting Healthier, but Living Better? - Yasmin Pavri Roshan Rivetna 30 5750 S. Jackson St. Hinsdale, IL 60521 32 Long Term Care: Avoiding Crisis - Jimmy M. Bharucha (630) 325-5383, (630) 734-1579 (fax) 34 Healthful Eating in Later Years - Nancy Bugwadia RRRivetna@ aol.com 37 Vibrant Health with Yoga and Ayurveda - Mehlli Bhagalia EDITORS: Adel Engineer, A Good Tooth in Your Pocket- Yasmin Ghadiali Dolly Malva, Jamshed Udvadia 39 41 Financial Independence - Kayomarsh P. Mehta YOUTHFULLY SPEAKING Nikan Khatibi 44 Estate Planning: a Roadmap - Jamshed B. Gandi (949) 349-9492, [email protected] 46 Retirement Planning Masterpiece -Ann Arnavaz Elavia Ushtavaity Davar 48 Eldercare: Challenges and a Plan - Soonamai Dessai U shta@ aol.com 52 Old Stars Shine the Brightest - Dinshaw Kaiki Tamboly BUSINESS MANAGER /ADVERTISEMENTS Rusi Gandhi 55 Proposal for a Retirement Community - Yasmin R. Kevala 56 Ridge Drive, Montville, NJ 07045 57 Nurturing Our Senior Zarathushtis - Dolly Dastoor (973) 263-9619, [email protected] 59 Perspectives on Aging - Lylah Alphonse, Trity Pour SUBSCRIPTION MANAGER bahrami and Peter Capak, Toxy Cowasjee, and Aban Rustomjee Kershaw Khumbatta 64 Personal Profiles: 9714 Deverell Drive, Sugar Land, TX 77478 64 Tehmina Mehli Mehta - Shahrokh Mehta (281) 564-8004, (281) 564-8036 (fax) kershawkhumb@ att.net 65 Coomi Bhathena - Roshan Rivetna MAILING DAY CREW 66 Roll Back the Years - Rusi Sorabji Dilshad Antia, Bachi Damkevala, 67 Lest We Forget - Dinaz Kutar Rogers Sunny Debao, Freya Dhunjishaw, Adel Engi- 67 Living Good Thoughts, Good Words and Good Deeds neer family, Rashna Ghadialy, Dilnavaz My Mother Used to Say - Parvin Damania Irani, Zarine Karanjia, Hosi Mehta, Roshan 69 Patel, Rivetna family, Farida Shroff, Edul 70 Sunday Stories - Shazneen Rabadi Gandhi Udvadia, Aban Vazifdar, Zarine Weil. .. 72 Prayer Corner: Science and Spirituality COVER DESIGN 73 Farsi Pages - Fereshteh Khatibi Zenobia Damania Youthfully Speaking - Nikan Khatibi & Ushtavaity Davar ON THE COVER 75 The 4000-year-old Cypress, "Sarv-e- 80 Laugh and be Merry - Jamshed Udvadia Abarkouh", a poweiful symbol of 79 Readers Forum; Errata strength and grace, despite its age 82 Students' papers - Fareesh Kanga & Anahita Amalsad {page 27} FROM A POST CARD SUBMITTED 84 at the Crossroads - Dinshaw Kaiki Tamboly BY ARYA ZARTOSHT IRANPOUR. 86 In the Press 89 Zarathushti Enterprise, Products & Services Fezana Journal, Vol.16, No. 3, ISSN 1068- 94 Encourage New Business! - Natalie Vania 2376, published quarterly by FEZANA, 99 Financial Corner - J. Kheradi 5750 S. Jackson St. Hinsdale, IL 60521- 102 Please Give From Your Heart 5109. Application for Periodicals Postage Rates is Pending at Oakbrook, IL 60523. 104 Healthy Living: Health in the Golden Years -Dr. Mehroo Patel Annual subscription $15(US); $20(Canada); 105 Matrimonials; Personals; Milestones $50(other countries); details on Subscrip- 111 Arts & Entertainment tion Form. POSTMASTER: send changes to Fezana Journal, 5750 South Jackson Street, 113 Events and Honors Hinsdale, IL 60521-5109. 115 Books and Such

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 PAIZ 1372YZ the structure of all societies including E. D I T 0 R I A 1.. the virtual Zarathushti nation. These pervasive and enduring changes pre­ sent enormous opportunities as well Supporting ana as enormous challenges for all soci­ eties. Is the Zarathushti community ready for these challenges? Do we sustaining our have social structures in place to deal with our aging community.? This timely issue of the FEZANA aging community Journal on Aging, helps us look at our community from a different Dolly Dastoor without parallel in the history of angle. It helps us prepare and plan Guest Editor humanity; and this trend is irre­ for our future both financially and versible due to the transition from en Gloria Steinem was told emotionally. It helps us to eat well high to low levels of fertility and and exercise well to keep healthy. It at her 50th birthday party ... mortality. "you look great for 50" she looks at what our Zarathushti com­ replied in her own inimitable style, Young populations of yesteryear are munities and associations from coast "this is what 50 looks like today." unlikely to occur again. The growth to coast on this continent are doing Despite the realities of aging, the rate of people 60+ is considerably to support and sustain our rapidly aches and pains, the forgetfulness, it faster than the population as a whole, aging community. • is true that the 50+ of today are much growing by 2% each year and more youthful looking with active expected to grow by 2.8% by 2025. lifestyles, physiologically younger The proportion of older persons was than their parents and grandparents 8% in 1950, 10% in 2000 and pro­ {:W: were when they were the same age. jected to rise to 21% in 2050. In addi­ When I got married my mother was tion, the older population itself is FEZANA aging. The oldest old, viz. those younger than what I am today, yet in JJ~ 1964 I considered her old! But do I over 80 are increasing at 3.8% per consider myself old? Heavens No! year and by 2050, one fifth of peo­ Winter 2003: ple over 60 will be 80 years or older. Special issue: 3000th Aged population growing. Aging is The Zarathushti community is way an inevitable process of living, we Anniversary of ahead of the statistics if the milestone Zarathushti Culture - age from the day we are born. Not column in Parsiana is any indication. only are we living better, we are liv­ as designated by UNESCO Opportunities and challenges. By ing longer and there are more of us Spring 2004: 2050 the number of people 60+ will around. With people living longer and Strategies to Perpetuate healthier, we will be spending more exceed the number of young for the first time in history. This will have a the Zarathushti religion time in the 'retirement' category than and communities in the 'employed' category, society direct bearing on intergenerational needs to give serious consideration to and intragenerational equity and sol­ Summer 2004: the aging population with its talent idarity, the foundations of society in Treasures from the - and expertise, as a potential pool of the economic, social and political and Nyaeshs untapped resources to be used pro­ areas. It will have an impact oneco­ Guest Editor: ductively. nomic growth, savings and invest­ J amsheed Choksy ment, labor markets, pensions, The world population doubled from taxation, health and health care, fam­ Fal/2004: three to six billion between 1960 and ily composition and living arrange­ Death and the Hereafter 1999. The UN projects the number ments, housing, migration, and can Guest Editor: to stabilize at 11 billion by 2020. influence voting patterns and repre­ Farrokh Mistree Globally we are all living at least 20 sentation. Co-Guest Editor: years more than what we did in the Khojeste Mistree last century with women living Unprecedented demographic changes longer than men. beginning in the 19th and 20th cen­ Future topics in the works: turies, and continuing on in the 21st • Daily rituals and customs The UN report on World Population century are transforming the world, • Good and Evil Aging 1950-2050, mentions that producing unprecedented changes in • Vegetation on Earth population aging is unprecedented, 2 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 not mean that the institutions need to be identical in their existence to those in other parts of the world. We From the President will have to incorporate requirements of the environment we face in North Zarathushti spirituality in America, and evolve these institu­ tions to reflect the structure of the the North American context society we live in, without sacrificing the fundamental ideology and essence of these institutions. ue to the practical and humanis­ awaited Saoshyants, the recognition tic ethical values propounded by of divine justice, the belief in a resur­ Evolving the tradition. We know Asho Zarathushtra m the rected state of being, the unfolding of well, that in our long course of his­ , it is commonly perceived that , the unshaken faith in tory and the multiple geographic the Mazdaean religion of day-to-day one supreme being - Mazda, locales that our ancestors faced, all living is by practice of the Law of and the relentless assurance that the the traditions that were transposed or . This creates a per­ Zarathushti Deen will continued, always underwent alter­ ations and osmosis. ception that the faith is always make the world a more down to earth and better place to be, are but This is why today we have many does not include any spiri­ a few avenues for 'different' traditions, customs and tual aspects until one Zarathushtis to develop practices; even to the point that some leaves this worldly abode their own spiritual con­ contradicting principles and philoso­ and faces the consequences sciousness. phies have evolved in the way Zarathushtis practice their faith. I am of one's actions on the Day Spirituality is a humbling of Judgment; thus giving a certain that if we keep our attention exercise. It is an occur- to the higher levels of religious con­ clear separation of the rence that makes one's material and spiritual sciousness, and constantly endeavor consciousness uplifted to increase our individual and collec­ planes. However, it is from the worldly material tive spirituality, we will easily look clearly indicated in the sense into the presence of beyond the minor differences that Gathas and other texts that the the divine. may lead to divisiveness. Zarathushtrian view incorporates Participation in religious ceremonies We have a highly developed religious ample opportunity to experience a with a serious commitment to uphold spirituality propounded in the spiritual connection in our daily lives. its meaningful benefits, is a good Gathas, as a consequence of being We give recognition to spiritual way to encourage and develop a deep one of the earliest revealed religions. aspects in performances of rituals sense of religiosity that could lead to So let us emphasize its importance to and rites that inculcate the belief of spiritual experiences. our next generation, by thought, the presence of the Asho Fravahars We need to inculcate not only ethical word and deed. of the departed souls of individuals values in the next generation, but May health and happiness be with dear and near to us. also ways and means available in our you all. R To define spirituality in a narrow tradition that will inspire religiosity, enabling the individual to be more Respectfully, sense is an exercise in futility, since Firdosh Mehta, president, FEZANA spirituality is a deeply personal state cognizant of one's own spirituality. of being for every individual. It is Presently, Zarathushtis of North surely something that needs to be America sorely lack consecrated reli­ Have you gious institutions, which does not experienced from within, and all one help in contributing to religiosity. visited the FEZANA can do to attain it is to bring oneself to a state of consciousness, which Institutions and infrastructure. To website lately? this end, we need to develop the nec­ enables the spiritual experience to be FEZANA officially communicates essary institutions and infrastructures achieved. with the community-at-large via to enable our future generations to its website, FEZANA Journal and Achieving spirituality. There are achieve this, along with the seven innumerable ways of achieving spiri­ step approach to understanding and periodic communications from the tuality in all religions. The Maz­ aspiring to live by the attributes of FEZANA president and executive dayasni faith certainly has a fair represented by the officers. To keep abreast of share of its own. The faith that ulti­ ameshaspands. FEZANA matters visit: mately Good will prevail over Evil, FEZANA can facilitate this through the practice of Ashoi, the eagerly www.fezana.org the member associations. This does FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 3 A view from within t is often said that the view from the driver's seat is different from Ithe passenger's side; and I_now find myself in the driver's seat. Being within the sanctuary of the FEZANA executive and its board of member associations, it is very evi­ dent that it's business as usual. Like any other business, this too comes with all its baggage, from the inside and out. Nevertheless, business it is, for these representatives who have volunteered for this job. Their level of commitment and involvement is to be commended. So, here I am, inside looking out and I see that we have lots to accomplish, achieve and fulfill. Will all of it ever be accomplished? Probably not; as there will be other goals and territories to follow. But issues will be considered, goals will be achieved and altered, achieve­ ments will be applauded, milestones will be set, changes will be thwarted and met, people dynamics will Clockwise, incoming secretary Rita Engineer; president Firdosh Mehta pre­ change, and above all, we will leave senting a plaque to outgoing secretary Arnavaz Sethna; assistant secretary Far­ behind a blazing trail. rokh Mistree; treasurer and representative of the California Zoroastrian History illustrates the rough journeys Center, Rashid Mehin; and vice president Mahrukh Motafram. of those that achieved milestones. Let's just then say, we are making history. FEZANAAGM, So, this is what I see. What do you see? Why don't you tell me? Email 16th Annual General Meeting ELECTIONS me or call me and let us open a door (AGM) of FEZANA was held on Results of the election: to visions. I know that an open door May 24 and 25, 2003, in Cam­ Vice President: Mahrukh may just bring more than we asked bridge, MA. The Zoroastrian Associ­ Motafram ation of Greater Boston Area, for, but we can try to deal with what­ Secretary: Rita Engineer although a small association, did a ever comes through that 'open' door. (elected unopposed) I would like to hear about your view commendable job of hosting the looking in. AGM at Radisson Hotel, attended by FEZANA OFFICERS' REPORTS over 40 people. Rita Engineer President Firdosh Mehta welcomed Secretary, FEZANA The meeting everyone present. Firdosh reported secretary@fezana. org commenced that FEZANA had raised a substan­ with a benedic­ tial amount towards medical assis­ tion by Ervad tance for baby Nazneen Kolah. He It is better to light one Farhad Pan­ thanked the daughters of Moobed tlzaki [left] a Faridoon Zardoshty for their sub­ candle than to curse the member of stantial donation to International darkness. -Christopher Society ZAGBA. Scholarship for Religion Education

4 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 and Research and also thanked the All associations have social events regularly in FEZANA Journal. Text Funds and Finance Committee for for the celebration of Iranian and and photos were provided for the their fund raising efforts. Shenshai Nouruz, Jashn-e-Sadeh, Zarathushti page of the 2003 NCCJ Referring to the world body meeting and other festivals. interfaith calendar. Rohinton also in Mumbai, Firdosh said it was cor­ Many associations indicated their continues to be a trustee of the Coun­ dial and advised that "we have participation in local interfaith activ­ cil for the Parliament of the World's moved in the right direction" towards ities and a variety of community pro­ Religions and reported that the next forming 'One World Body'. He jects. parliament will be held in Barcelona, Spain in July 2004. A Parliament thanked the Working Group who had COMMITTEE REPORTS event will also be held in New Delhi, worked long hours and enabled the [Complete reports may be India, December 7 - 10, 2003 when formation of the world body to con­ viewed at www.fezana.org] tinue in an articulate manner. 400 religious leaders will come Awards Committee. In the absence together to make a commitment to On behalf of FEZANA, Firdosh pre­ of chair Dinshaw Joshi, vice-chair work for religious tolerance and a sented a plaque to outgoing secretary Yasmin Pavri [photo page 31] gave a secular India. Arnavaz Sethna for her dedication report. The process for selection of World Zarathushti Chamber of and service to FEZANA. winners for the 2004 North American Commerce. President Rohinton Vice president Mahrukh Motafram Congress will start early 2004. The Rivetna reported that WZCC now reflected on her nine months in the committee recognizes the need to has chapters in India, , Middle office and stressed on communicat­ establish and adopt standards on all East, UK, Toronto, New York, Hous­ ing with the community for a better aspects of awards presentation. ton, Chicago and Los Angeles. In the understanding and respect for one Census and Survey. Chair Rashna past year WZCC recognized three another. Mahrukh also urged the Ghadialy [below], reported that in outstanding Zarathushti entrepre­ Small Groups to participate. the coming year neurs/professionals: Cyrus Mehta Treasurer Rashid Mehin presented the committee (Cytel Software Corp, MA), Arda-e­ the financial statement, which was will be conduct­ viraf Minocherhomjee (William approved. An Audit Committee, ing a series of Blair Capital Partners) and Hanoz consisting of Sarosh Collector, analyses to study Gandhi (Bose Corporation, MA). Amavaz Elavia and Sam Vesuna was the changes in the Funds and Finance. Chair Jerry appointed to review the financial Zarathushti popu­ Kheradi [photo page 99] reported report and approve as per the consti­ lation of North that 2002 was not such a good year. tutional requirements. America. Her As of May 10, only 668 points were plan is to mail approx. 7,000 ques­ Secretary Arnavaz Sethna reported collected and the aim is to get 1000! tionnaires. She recommended that that in her two 2-year terms, she He wished to record special thanks to such surveys should be conducted enjoyed working with everyone on Farangis, Iran, Homayoun and Pari every five years. the executive, as well as communi­ Zardoshty for their donation of cating with the members and com­ Coordination and Planning. Chair $25,000. The direct mailing to fami­ mittee chairs. She emphasized the Mahrukh Motafram reported the lies in Canada and United States need for timeliness of responses from calendar of events planned from June yielded $8000. Jerry thanked every­ member associations, and requested 2003 through Summer 2005. She one for helping him and in particular their cooperation in sending their said she would like to encourage he thanked Rustom and Yasmin membership list of 'primary mem­ Small Groups to host the AGMs, Kevala for all their help and support. bers' so that qualifying votes can be however these groups need financial Information Receiving and Dis­ allocated accurately. help and assistance. She would also seminating. Chair Khorshed Jun­ like the News Bulletin to carry some galwala, advised that the Legacy of ASSOCIATION ACTIVITIES of the Standing Committees' and Ad Zarathushtra book is almost sold out Delegates of member associations, Hoc Committees' goals and objec­ and there is a constant demand for it. who were present, made brief reports tives and their achievements. on the activities of their associations The committee was authorized to External Affairs. Chair Rohinton during the past year. Noteworthy was print 3000 more copies. Brochures Rivetna reported that the primary for wide scale distribution are also five major awards won by ZAGBA mission of interfaith work is to bring members during the past year. being produced this year. Some peace in the world through under­ members had retired and new com­ All the associations indicated having standing. The efforts of many asso­ mittee members had been appointed. religious classes for youngsters, and ciations and individuals working in The new ones are: Ushtavaity Davar some even having them for adults. the interfaith arena are highlighted (youth editor), Rusi Gandhi (busi-

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 5 ness manager), Kershaw Khumbatta (subscription manager), Farrokh Mistree (web manager). North American Congress. Chair Roshan Sethna advised the dates of the congress as December 29, 2004 to January 1, 2005. The theme is "Being Zarathushti: Looking at Issues, Searching for Answers. " For future congresses, it may be a good idea to combine all three events - the youth congress, adult congress and sports event at one time. Congress TOR Committee. Chair Rustom Kevala reported that the Congress Terms of Reference, passed in 1996 are being reviewed and a recommen­ dation based on member comments will be made at a later date. Small Groups. Hoshedar Tamboli [photo page 551 is the new chair of the committee. The Orlando/Sara­ sota/Tampa Bay, Central Florida area has about 20 families and are really a small group. In view of supporting the Adult Community Project pre­ sented by Yasmin Kevala, that could be developed in Sun City Center, FL, [page 551 he offered to host the 2004 AGM, so that the attendees can visit the facility and check it out. Academic Scholarships. Chair Dolly Dastoor [photo page 251 stated that during the academic year 2002-03, nine full-time Zarathushti students from North America applied for scholarship funds. Five scholar-

From top, association representa­ tives Arnavaz Elavia (ZAC-Chicago along with Rashna Ghadialy - photo page 5); Rashna Mehta (ZAA­ Alberta); Bomi Patel (ZANC - Cali­ fornia), Khushroo Lakdawalla (ZAC - California) and Homi Italia (ZSBC- Vancouver); Ardeshir Bakhtiani (ZAMWI, along with Rus­ tom Kevala- photo above), Jimmy Mistry (TMZA - California); Cyrus Toorkey (ZAPANJ- Pennsylvania).

6 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 ships of $1,000 each were awarded to the following students: Zarin Behramshah (University of Texas, Austin), ]ehangir Bhada (Univer­ sity of Florida, Gainesville), Vispy Bharucha (University of Okla­ homa), Naushad Edibam (Loyola University Medical Center, Illinois), and Ervad Zal Karkaria (Concordia University, Montreal). For the Academic Year 2003-2004, a total of $15,000 ($10,000 FEZANA Funds and$ 5,000 Mehraban Dorab Kheradi Endowment Fund) has been allocated. Religion Education Scholarship. Chair Kayomarsh Mehta submitted the results of the Moobed Faridoon Zardoshty Scholarship. Applications for the academic year 2003-04 were received from all over the world and four scholarships of $1,000 each were awarded to: Zardosht Atropatene, Mandana Moavenat, Bahman Moradian and Burzine Waghmar. Sports. Bijan Khosraviani reported that the guidelines for running suc­ cessful events have now been passed and these have been sent to all the members. For 2004, the Zarathushti Games will be held in Vancouver, BC. and the Sports Committee is looking for hosts for the 2006 Games. The third Unity Soccer Cup will be held in Southern California during Labor Day weekend of 2003. The committee was glad to announce that they are in the process of trans­ ferring funds to the local sports groups in Iran, India and Pakistan to help their youth in purchasing basic sports supplies.

From top, association represen­ tatives Ness Lakdawala (ZAQ­ Quebec) and Bijan Khosraviani (Sports and PZO- California); Sam Vesuna (ZSO - Ontario) and Homi Gandhi (ZAGNY­ New York); Afreed Mistry (Youth Congress - Ontario) and Kobad Zarolia ( OZCF - Ontario); Roshan Sethna (Congress and ZAH- Houston).

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 7 Right, FEZANA World Body Working Group, from left, Sarosh Collector, Gev Nentin, Khorshed Jungal­ wala (chair), Farrokh Mis­ tree and Rohinton Rivetna. Next page, "Traditional Nite" dinner in Boston for FEZANA delegates: clock­ wise, Boston area Zarathushtis; Dilnavaz Shroff and ZAGBA president Sherazade Mehta; baby Zinara Dubash, daughter of Parastu and Jamshed Dubash; Zareen Karani Araoz, Alberto Araoz and Farokh Karani Lam.

Retirement Community. Yasmin sored the registration, travel costs, and communication from WZO, the Kevala and Celeste Kheradi pre­ etc. of Ervad Mehernosh Bhada WG presented a model for 'One sented a plan of the retirement com­ (Pakistan), Ervad Darayus Bajan World Body'. It consists of one munity in Sun City, FL. [see photos (India) and Mobed Ardeshir Hor­ umbrella entity with two independent and article on page 55]. Sun City has mazyari (California) to NAYC with arms. One arm would represent indi­ low cost living, good climate and financial support from Farangis viduals and the other the federations. homes range between $80,000 to Zardoshty, Tahamtan Aresh, NAMC Chair Khorshed Jungalwala, $500,000. It has medical facilities andZYNA. explained the WG's position and and a hospital with 120 beds. There Next North American Congress. thanked FEZANA member associa­ are plenty of opportunities for full ZANC president Bomi Patel pre­ tions for supporting the WG. and part time jobs. Sun City is on sented plans for the Thirteenth North The WG will present their final 5000 acres between Tampa and Sara­ American Zoroastrian Congress to report that would include draft con­ sota, FL. They requested delegates to be held from December 29, 2004 to stitutions and by-laws for the three share this information with their January 1, 2005 in Santa Clara, CA. entities by June 30, 2003. The WG members. The theme is "Being Zarathushti: recommended that once it had filed Zoroastrian Youth of North Amer­ Looking At Issues, Searching For its report, further action would be ica (ZYNA). Co-chair Sherazade Answers." It will be held at the Santa undertaken by the elected leadership Mehta gave a report of ZYNA activ­ Clara Marriott at a special rate of $69 of FEZANA, FPZAI, WZO, ZTFE, ities. During 2002, they worked plus tax, a suite will be at $139.00 etc. and the WG would not require closely with the Chicago Congress plus tax. The congress registration any mandate from the FEZANA youth and recommended speakers. fee will be announced at a later date. Member Associations, to continue. For social events they had a Youth Directory. Henceforth the North Firdosh thanked Khorshed and her Camp at Yosemite, CA, and a Ski trip American FEZANA directory will be team for their hard work and effort to in Banff, Canada. She acknowledged published electronically in PDF for­ contribute towards the progress suppmt from ZANC and ZAA for the mat. No printed copies will be avail­ achieved so far. The dedication of events, and thanked all those who able. Individuals may access it in this committee must be recognized as participated. ZYNA is actively read-only format or may download a it was the only complete committee involved in the 9th Zoroastrian Youth hard copy. where all five of it's members were Congress, NeXus 2003. present at this AGM. FEZANA World Body Working NeXuS 2003. Afreed Mistry, youth Group. Members of the FEZANA UNESCO Project. At the request of representative from ZSO, detailed World Body Working Group (WG) Tajikistan, UNESCO has declared the upcoming youth congress and presented their detailed power point 2003 as the 3000th Anniversary of post-congress activities, including report. Based on the outcome of the Zoroastrian Culture. A sub-commit­ social events. FEZANA has spon- Mumbai Meeting in January 2003 tee under Dolly Dastoor has been set 8 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 up to formulate an action plan for the Karani Araoz [right, celebration [for further information below] thanked all those see www.fezana.org]. who helped create this North American Mobed Council, worldwide networking of NAMC. The important event was a Zarathushti women. one day seminar on "Zarathushti Rit­ ZWIN has no office bear­ uals, Past, Present and Future, " in ers, no meetings, no elec­ April in Toronto. Ervad Parvez tions, no membership Bajan (India), Mobed Kamran fees and their busiest Jamshidi (Sweden) and Prof. Almut members give the most Hintze (SOAS London) presented time to ZWIN. In their their papers. Taking advantage of his "Help a Dream Come presence in North America, many True" project, ZWIN is FEZANA Associations invited Ervad sponsoring six young Bajan to address their members. ladies from India to attend the youth congress Preparation for the book "Under­ in Toronto and thereafter standing and Practice of Obsequies" visit some cities of the is progressing. This book is one of United States and Canada. the series that will prepare ground­ stay with host families and Zareen work, of the explanation, mode of thanked all those who volunteered performance of the rituals, and for this project. prayers; to pass on to the future gen­ erations. Film project. Tenaz Dubash talked about her film on , and GENERAL how it is progressing. She projected a At this AGM, FEZANA decided to video trailer of the film project that include presentations from and about shows interviews with Dr. Jehan many other Zarathushti organizations Bagli, Bapsi Sidhwa, Zareen Hakim and individuals, to promote their to name a few. She requested finan­ activities and to give them due pub­ cial support from the community. licity with the member associations, Study of Dari language. Two Ira­ in their fund raising endeavors. nian linguistics students, Annahita Zoroastrian Women's Interna­ Farudi and Maziar Toosarvandi, tional Network (ZWIN). Zareen have taken up study of Dari Ian-

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 9 guage. This will be a field project in to construct a replica and then to sail Pil"e SabE 1'1&1 a ial the City of Yazd, Iran to study the her with 25 to 30 Zarathushti men, in Va"'1CCI.UE!I" endangered language of Dari. women and children from the Iranian For the seventh year, Vancouver area Restoration .of Historical port of Hormuzd to Sanjan, via Diu. Zarathushtis celebrated the Iranian Manuscripts. Malcolm Deboo, It is intended that the entire pro­ tradition of the annual pilgrimage to Information Officer and Librarian, ject/venture be recorded on audio Pir-e Sabz, the mountain shrine near Zoroastrian Trust and video. A CD explaining this pro­ Yazd, where it is believed the Sasa­ Funds of Europe, ject was distributed to everyone pre­ nian princess (Neek Banoo or Hayaat came from Lon­ sent with a request to respond Banoo) disappeared in the mountain don to present an directly to Capt. Contractor. to escape from Arab invaders. old manuscript • The Third World Zoroastrian The group went to Shannon Falls in that was brought Youth Congress will be held in Squamish, BC, on June 15th for a day for restoration Pune, India from 27 - 31st December of prayers in the mountain, songs, : from Dastoor 2003. A brochure was distributed. dances, games and of course cooking ; Meherji Rana • World Zarathushti Cultural of Sirog, a traditional bread. The pro­ Library in Navsari. He gave an excel­ Foundation of Dr. Homi Dhalla. A gram was organized by Jamshed lent slide presentation that showed brochure was distributed describing Gustavsp and Azadmehr Kaviani. II the deterioration of this particular the Sanjan/Bahrot Caves Excavation manuscript and also others that are in and Preservation Project and many Er. PaniiE!IE Bcicrls visit need of repair/restoration. FEZANA other community based projects. to USA ard Ca ada supports ZTFE in this endeavor. • WZO Youth Wing's Report. A Later, anyone interested was allowed brochure was distributed describing to view the manuscript closely. One "Project Udvada" and support for very interesting observation was that their community Center, dispensary the word 'Angre mainyu' was written and other activities in Udvada, upside down wherever it appeared. Navsari etc. Community Projects in India The next AGM. The 2004 AGM • Zoroastrian Exodus. A request will be held in Tampa Bay, FL over was received from Capt. S.J. Con­ the Memorial Day weekend. • Ervad Parvez Bajan and his wife tractor of Mumbai, India to donate Prepared jointly by: Bapsy [shown above, at the Chicago towards his project "Zoroastrian Rita Engineer darbe mehr] visited several cities in Exodus". The aim of this project is to Rashid Mehin USA and Canada this Spring. Er. focus on that first migratory voyage; Firdosh Mehta Bajan, assistant panthaky at the to establish, as closely as possible, Farrokh Mistree Mevawalla dar-e-mehr in Byculla, the design and construction of the Mahrukh Motafram Mumbai, presented talks on rituals Persian trading vessels of those days; Arnavaz Sethna and ceremonies, and regaled audi­ ences with his Shah Nameh recitals.G!i

NaNCZC Bead. The 13th elec­ tion of the board of directors was held at the Arbab Rustam Guiv dar-e mehr in Westminster, CA on May 18. Mobed Bahram Shahzadi [third from right] is shown with the newly elected board of the California Zoroastrian Center; from left, Mahvash Gohar Rizi, Roya Farsinejad, Keykavous Varjavand, Bijan Shahbahrami, Irandokht Anoushiravani Moubedshahi, Shahryar Afshari and Mehrdad Mondegari. Recently CZC purchased a new build­ ing in the Valley for the use of members in the north of Los Angeles, for Avesta classes and some events.

10 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 RCIXal a Irari speaks en eaty Zcralh.&Hi setllerta"ts at \1\bid Aid aclagcal Ca gess in \l\llstir9Jct1 Archeologist Dr. Roxana Irani of Pune, India, was invited to present a paper on "Archeological Traces of Early Zoroastrian Settlements on the Western Seaboard of India" at the 5th World Deed tr"ansfer in Hausta"l: Kersi Engineer, president of The Archeological Zarathushti Group, handing the deed to ZAH secretary Shaheen Kayani. Congress, held at the Catholic Uni­ Purvez Rustomji, secretary of the Group is at right. versity in Washington, DC, June 21st to 26th. The Congress was in partner­ ship with the Smithsonian Institute's Business and charitv mix - in a National Museum of Natural History and the National Museum of Ameri­ win-win tor Houston zarathushtis can Indian History, in collaboration n June 1, 2003 The Zarathushti The Group donated approx. 4.5 acres with the Getty Conservation Institute. O-Group of Houston sponsored a to ZAH for construction of a Roxana presented her findings on gahambar for members of the Zarathushti Heritage and Cultural Ajmalgadh, the only hill-top site in Zoroastrian Association of Houston. Center, which is now a beautiful real­ India, which she calls a "mini-Perse­ This gahambar and jashan led by Er. ity. They later sold 6 acres to a Jewish polis" [See FEZANA Journal, Spring Bomansha Sanjana, drew 300 peo­ group to build their community center. 2003]. She reported on structures, ple, and culminated 12 years of work Then in December 2002, it was rec­ "especially two rectangular struc­ by this group of 30 devoted families. ognized that the Group had com­ tures which were full of ash," a fire In the 1980's, ZAH members pleted its mission; we donated an altar where the ground plan is similar searched for a property they could additional 2.5 acres to ZAH for to fire-temples even today, a circular use as a community center. In 1991, future expansion and the remaining well for water, along with terracotta Kersi Engineer located a 20-acre 7.5 acres were sold to members. beads, and pieces of green goblets, property for an extremely low price­ probably used for rituals. Two iron centrally located with good access to We have now accomplished the nails under cup-shaped stones were highways, with potential for appreci­ goals, which we had set over 12 indicative of the consecration cere­ ation over time. years ago: we donated approx. 7.5 acres of land (with a market value of mony done before a is A group was formed in 1992 and constructed. Kersi F. Engineer and Purvez Rus­ $350,000) for the construction of our tomji have been its president and sec­ center and at the same time we made Roxana, who is a researcher at the retary since its inception and a substantial profit for our members Deccan College, Pune, writes: "The managed its affairs over the years. from the sale of the remaining 13 trip to the Congress was made possi­ The first meeting with ZAH members acres. ble by generous grants from was held at Homi Davier's office. The gahambar on June 1st was a cel­ FEZANA and ZAMWI in the US, and the Bai Alamai and Seth Soon, we had a group of 30 families ebration of these achievements of the Ardeshir Talati and Seth Sarosh B. who contributed funds for the pur­ Zarathushti Group. We have proved Mody Trusts in India. I also wish to chase of this property, and own 1% to that business and charity can work 10% of this company. The object of together, to the benefit of everyone. thank Dr. Behram Pastakia for his this group was unique; it combined hospitality during my stay in Wash­ Kersi F. Engineer ington." Roxana can be reached at business, profit and charity in a win­ President, The Zarathushti Group. win situation. iraniroxana@ yahoo.com. ill FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 11 NeuvCet-.er fer \l\llsh­ irvcr. DC area. ZAMWI Avesta class friends Faranak Shahryary and Vivian Cooper share a vision with an architect's model of the planned center and darbe mehr in the Washington, DC area. Building construction is a year away for the $3 million pro­ ject (of which $1.5 million have been collected to date in pledges and cash). The new Zoroastrian Center and Darb-e-Mehr of Metropolitan Washington (ZCDMW) will be located on the 7- acre property donated by Arbab Rustam Guiv in 1990 [also see page 86].

OZCF f1.rd"aiser- "TernJji Noo Til"''&&:abbe''. The Ontario Zoroastrian Community Foundation ,. (OZCF) and the Toronto Parsi Drama · .·· Group presented a full length gujarati natak "Temulji Noo Timetable" as their fundraiser event on Saturday, May 24. The natak was an overwhelming success with a sold-out crowd of 738. Directed by J al Panthaky and produced by Meher Panthaky, the natak was per­ formed by the talented Toronto Parsi Drama Group [photo right]. Temulji noo Timetable is two and a half hours of continuous hasahas (laughter) as the Parsi bawaji About OZCF. OZCF was formed in 2002 with the Casanova, played by J al Panthaky objective to purchase a parcel of land and build a flirts with 3 air hostesses, played house of worship and cultural center that will serve by Meher Panthaky, Khurshid the future needs of an increasing Zarathushti popula­ Engineer and Katy Mulla. Matters tion in the western Greater Toronto Area. This new are further complicated when the center will complement and enhance the existing well-meaning Iranian housekeeper, darbe mehr facility and services. played by Kerman Katrak, tries to With an overall target to raise $2,800,000 (Cdn) over keep track of the air hostesses' the next 3-5 years, of which over $630,000 has been schedules to keep his seth's raised in cash and pledges through December 2002. lifestyle in order. Garbar and got­ OZCF has held numerous fundraising events starting tala continues as Kakaji [photo above] played by Sam with an inaugural jashan in May 2002, followed by a Gazda.r enters the scene and everyone in the household is lamb roast picnic, Khordad Sal jashan, a Black Tie Gala, on their toes, (including the audience) wondering how Indian Music night, Nouruz dinner with patra noo the fiasco would unfold. bhonu. On September 27, OZCF will host a Black Tie The Group will be happy to do a repeat performance for Gala fundraiser. For information or to make a donation, any association for their fundraising. Contact Jal Pan­ contact Gulrukh Patel at 905-542-0237. thaky at 905-568-4946. - Reported by Roshan Davar

12 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 On the steps of the old premises of the Inteifaith Con­ ference of Washington, DC during the visit of Mr. Shaazim Minovarov, chair, Committee on Religious Affairs of the Cabinet Ministers, Uzbekistan. From left, Dr. Carole Miller (IFC president), Ms. Bahijah Abdus-Salaam, Dr. Rustom Kevala (ZAMWI-IFC board member), Dr. Diane Sherwood (IFC associate director), Rev. Dr. Phil Wagaman (IFC chair­ person), Mr. Minovarov, Mr. Behram Pastakia (ZAMWI­ IFC board member) and Ms.Elena Bell (interpreter).

Visit. of Uzbekistan rririster. Members of the varov promised to look into pursuing this concept on his Interfaith Conference of Washington, DC (IFC) includ­ return to Uzbekistan. In answer to a question, he ing two Zarathushti board members, Dr. Rustom Kevala acknowledged the Zarathushti heritage and history of the and ZAMWI president Behram Pastakia, met with Mr. people of Uzbekistan. At present, Islam is the dominant Shaazim Minovarov, chair, Committee on Religious religion in the country. Affairs of the Cabinet Ministers, Uzbekistan, during his Some interesting information about Zarathushti presence visit to Washington, DC in March. in Uzbekistan, may be viewed at www.fravahr.org, where After the break-up of the Soviet Union, a resurgence in mention is made [under "News"] of a class for religious affairs has occurred in the Central Asian coun­ Zarathushti children in Uzbekistan, run by Rostam tries. As part of its ongoing activities, the IFC shares with Abdukamilov. For photos and an article on the visitors from abroad the concept of inter-religious activ­ Zarathushti Anjuman in Uzbekistan by Mr. ities and urges them to start similar projects in their own Abdukamilov, see FEZANA Journal [Spring 1999]. II countries. Speaking through an interpreter, Mr. Mino- - Submitted by Behram Pastakia

Ei£t* ycUh in FEZANA CclrTrrl:lrMealth ~ Observa ICe in UK delerJ"'icn to UN ccr"6!ta ICe efi:)Ut.of five .children invited to participate .at the multi­ Nr~s an N~O in con~ultative status with th~ Econ?mic t,,::fYfmth service on Commonwealth Day, m March, at !H'tland Social Council of the UN, FEZANA IS sendmg a Westminster Abbey, three (Yezdiar Avari, Cyrus Khajotia delegation to the 56th annual DPIINGO conference on and Rustom Kapadia) were Zarathushtis. "Human Security and Dignity: Fulfilling the Promise of This was the first time Zarathushti children were invited the United Nations", September 8-10, 2003 in New York. to address questions to leaders of nine major interfaith Eight youth participants, Neville Antia (Michigan), Nina communities. ZTFE Young Zoroastrians chair Farmeen Billimoria (Indiana), Freyan Bilimoria (California), Sorab was also invited and met Her Majesty. Shanaya Mistry (Canada), Aysha Ghadiali (New York), ZTFE president, Dorab Mistry and his wife Shenaz, took Suzie Karani (Illinois/New York), Rohan Vilmus (Cali­ part at Westminster Abbey in the Royal Procession and fornia), Trita Parsi (Sweden/Washington DC) and three were presented to Her Majesty, Prince Philip and Prince adults, Homi Gandhi (New York), Roda Patel (Illinois) Charles. Later at the Commonwealth reception, Prince and Behram Pastakia (Maryland) form the delegation. Edward and Sophie remembered their visit to Zoroas­ Individuals interested in participating in this or future trian House last year. Sophie appreciated Shenaz and UN events, contact Homi Gandhi (Homi_Gandhi Farmeen's garas and said one day she would definitely @usa.net) or Behram Pastakia ([email protected]). wear such a gara! -By Paurushasp Jilla, www.zife.com FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 13 lrD!I"faith dalag IROQUOIS HEADWORK + SECULAR FETTERS 1!1 lin.~ .1 en rites d passage ;tJlf ~ ... - Firdosh Mehta presented the Zarathushti perspective at an "Inter­ VOICES faith Dialogue on Samskaaras" orga­ ACROSS BOUNDARIES 1 nized by the Hindu Society of n multifoith mngazine Alberta and the Edmonton Interfaith Centre for Education and Action on March 8. ' 'Samskaaras'are sacred sacraments of purificatory rites of passage. Fir­ dash presented the customs, tradi­ tions, rituals and festivals associated Killing for Our """~··-L- with milestones in the life cycle of a charter Taylor +- Tlmpten jinpa • Arvind Sharma Zarathushti. An interesting overview Mary Malone • Seyyed Hossein Nasr of these traditions (both Parsi as well leo1U1rd Levin + Louisa Blair + Ernie Regehr By Roshan Rivetna ]oyKogawa as Iranian) compiled for the presenta­ Volurnelfl-SummerzooJ ...... vnl

Sessions covering Zarathushti history neXL& 21003 te Elnl relet s: standing, Me her Bharucha (entertainment) and scriptures included: "When Per­ , Michelle Patel (post-congress activities), co-chairs Armaity Bamji and sians Ruled the World" (Freddy Afreed Mistry, Mantrah Atashband (marketing) and Delnavaz Mistry (educa­ Mirza) stories from the Shah Nameh; tion). Seated, Percy Mistry (finance) and Kevin Mancherjee (logistics). "Primeval Scriptures and Quantum Fluctuations" (Pervez Mistry) explor­ The Zoroastrian Society of Ontario belief in humata, hukhta and ing similarities between ancient teach­ I in association with ZYNA and huvareshta. Who could ask for a ings with cutting-edge science; FEZANA, proudly hosted the lOth stronger building block for future "Show Me Where It's Written" North American Zoroastrian Youth generations? The torch continues to (Freddy Mirza) illustrating sources in Congress in Toronto - another youth be passed on from one generation to the Avesta of Zarathushti practices; congress for the yearbook! the next and the ZSO is proud to "Zoroastrian Myths Legends" (Dar­ Delegates came from around the have played a part as a link to the ius Bharucha) with interpretations and globe and brought with them differ­ future congresses to come. relevance to our times; "Soul Propri­ ent experiences and viewpoints. On behalf of the neXus team, we etorship: the Business of Death" Despite these differences, a 'connec­ wish to thank everyone for making (Farrah Bhesania) describing tradi­ tion' was made between the dele­ this event such a success. We hope tional Zarathushti funeral ceremonies; gates. Even if we don't all speak the all delegates took away many pleas­ "The City that Parsees Built: Bom­ same language, follow the same rit­ ant memories to last a lifetime. bay" (Ketayun Bana and Nauzer Mis­ uals or believe in the same customs, Armaity Bamji and Afreed Mistry, try). A "Play on King Cyrus" was we are linked to each other through co-chairs, on behalf of ZSO and the presented by Shahnaz Sidhwa and the our Zarathushti heritage and our neXus 2003 Executive Committee youth of Houston. Other sessions covered topics deal­ ing with Zarathushti community, Congress photos, CDs & DVDs at www.nexus2003.com identity and relationships: "An Eval­ Visit the congress website www.nexus2003.com regularly for post­ uation of the Modern Parsi" (Diana congress information and pictures. Also available for sale at the website Engineer) presented results and con­ will be photo CDs in the form of a memorable 'yearbook' of the whole clusions of a survey; "A Community congress, video-CDs and DVDs of some lectures, and many other items. [Continued on page 98]

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 15 Fravardian Jashan \1\ECC AGM 21003 Mah Fravardin, Roz Fravardin Sat Aug 9 (K) The World Zarathushti Chamber of Mon Sep 8 (S) Commerce AGM will be held in Fall Maidyozarem Gahambar 2003. All interested business persons Mah Ardibehesht, Roj Khorshed - Daepmeher and professionals are welcome. For Sun Aug 31 - Thu Sep 4 (K) information, please contact Edul Tue Sep 30 - Sat Oct 4 (S) Daver at (732) 469-1866 [page 89]. Paitishem Gahambar lrcricn Stucies ccr-.e. • Mah Sheherevar, Roj Ashtad- Aneran a ICe in R~ Italy Fri Sep 12- Tue Sep 16 (F) The 5th European Conference of Ira­ Jashne Mehergan nian Studies will be held, Oct. 6-11, Mah Meher, Roj Meher Thu Oct 2 (F) 2003, in Ravenna, Italy. Contact Prof. Panaino, [email protected]. Ayathrem Gahambar Mah Meher, Roj Ashtad- Aneran Sun Oct 12 - Thu Oct 16 (F) Ca A:ialCe en lndo­ Jashne Avangan (Avan Ardivisur Parab) RCli'I'UICII'1 aJta.ns Mah A van, Roj A van Sun Oct 26 (F) The International Center for Cultural Maidyoshem Gahambar Studies, Pennsylvania, and the World Mah Tir, Roj Khorshed - Daepmeher Congress of Ethnic Religions, Thu Oct 30- Mon Nov 3 (K) Lithuania, are co-sponsoring a con­ ference "Indo Romuvan Cultures" Sat Nov 29- Wed Dec 3 (S) exploring common Indo-European Jashne Adargan (Atash nu Parab) history and roots, in Atlantic City, Mah Adar, Roj Adar Mon Nov 24 (F) October 10-12, 2003. $150 (includes Death Anniversary of Zarathushtra hotel and some meals). Contact Mah Daye, Roj Khorshed Fri Dec 26 (F) iccus @yahoo.com. Maidhyarem Gahambar VCJIIM'I ccr1f'aa ICe in Mah Dae, Roz Meher -Bahram Wed Dec 31- Sun Jan 4 (F) J ashne Daegan Mah Dae, Roz Daepdin Wed Jan 7 (F) trian Youth conference J ashne Bahmangan will be held in the sum­ Mah Bahman, Roz Bahman Friu Jan 16 (F) mer of 2003, in the his­ torical city of Kerman, Paitishem Gahambar Iran. For further infor­ Mah Sheherevar, Roz Ashtad - Aneran mation visit www.asha. Tue Jan 13- Sat Jan 17 (K) co.ir/hamayesh. Thu Feb 12- Mon Feb 16 (S) Jashne Sadeh lrdcn Patia~alt d Mah Bahman, Roz Meher Fri Jan 30 (F) Religic::ns in NaNDelti The president of India, Dr. Abdul Ayathrem Gahambar Kalam, will inaugurate the Parlia­ Mah Meher, Roz Ashtad- Aneran Thu Feb 12 - Mon Feb 16(K) ment of Religions, on the theme of Sat Mar 14 -Wed Mar 17 (S) "Reviving the Culture of Healing, Fravardegan!Panjeh/Hamaspathmedayem Gahambar Harmony and Peace", in New Delhi, Five Gatha days Tue Mar 16- Sat Mar 20 (F) December 7-10, 2003. The event is Char-Shanbe-Soori (Heralding the New Year) organized in partnership with the Tuesday prior to Nouruz Thu Mar 18 (F) Parliament of the World's Religions. Nouruz or Jamshedi Navroz (New Year) Contact Rohinton Rivetna at Mah Fravardin, Roz Hormazd Sun Mar 21 (F) rivetna@ aol.com. Fasli (F), Kadmi (K) and Shenshai (S) [Continued on page 19] 16 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 3000th Anniversary of Zoroastrian Culture a UNESCO-associated event Who is Celebrating and Why? During 2003, North American Zarathushti associations will be joining the nation of Tajikistan for a unique "3000th Anniversary of Zoroastrian Culture". The celebrations are associated with UNESCO, the UN's cultural organiza­ tion- as the first of 47 approved anniversaries suggested by member states. This is more a symbolic than historic celebration -because Zarathushti history may indeed span more than 3000 years. UNESCO PARIS, Bureau of Public Information has confirmed that "Executive Board and General Conference has voted in favor of celebrating the 3000th anniversary of Zoroastrian culture in the year 2003." This information was announced by UNESCO at the PARZOR premier and exhibition in New Delhi, in July. Tajikistan is planning celebrations during November 2003. While the small nation struggles with economic, govern­ mental, and religious issues, it has also seen a rising interest in the religion of Zarathushtra; the government and peo­ ple are eager to showcase and educate people about their ancestral religion and culture. Celebrations in North America FEZANA is supporting Tajikistan's efforts by coordinating celebrations with North American member associations­ a unique opportunity to create greater international visibility of our Zarathushti communities. FEZANA is preparing a special brochure and write-up, available soon by email and on www.fezana.org which can be used for distribution to the press and the local community. FEZANA will publish a special edition of FEZANA Journal in Winter 2003, celebrating Zarathushti culture. FEZANA is encouraging Zarathushti organizations across North America to: e Associate their upcoming events and outreach with the "3000th Anniversary" as much as possible. e Mention the celebration in all printed materials, especially for 2003 events. • Collaborate with university departments, inter-faith and cultural organizations, and public/ school libraries for Zarathushti book displays; seminars/lectures on Zarathushti influence on Western/non-Western cultures; talks by history, arts, and religion experts; and public readings by Zarathushti authors and performers. • Request interfaith and other organizations to include a paragraph on the celebrations in their newsletters. e Obtain a proclamation from the local mayor or other elected official. e Send event press releases to the local press; and suggest story ideas to journalists. e Organize and orchestrate celebrations of quality that foster interest in the Zarathushti religion, traditions, practice, culture and heritage. Share your plans and ideas with the sub-committee below. Other ideas include a commemorative pin, totebag, stamp or powerpoint presentation. Can you help? You can help make this international effort a success. Do you have ideas, expertise, skills (artistic, graphic, aca­ demic), or contacts which could help - locally or continentally? Please feel free to contact any member of the "3000th Anniversary celebration" subcommittee (local committees are also being formed) with ideas or suggestions: Chair Dolly Dastoor (dastoor@ total. net) co-chair Homi Gandhi ([email protected]) Tamina Davar ([email protected]) Aysha Ghadiali ([email protected]) Behram Pastakia ([email protected]) Aban Rustomji ([email protected]) For information Visit www.fezana.org

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 17 BEING XIII North American ZARATHUSHTI: Zoroastrian Congress looklng December 29,2004- January 1, 2005 at lssue.s~ Santa Clara Marriott Hotel - Silicon Valley Sean:hlng in the San Francisco Bay area for Answers Congress chair: Borni Patel Program chair: Brach Tarapore, [email protected] Publicity chair: Nazneen Spliedt, [email protected] Website: www.zanc.org/congress2004

Theme: "Being Zarathushti: Looking at Issues, Searching for Answers" Hosted by ZANC in association with FEZANA

The 3rd World Zoroastrian Youth Congress

The ZYA (Pune) and FOZYA (India), with the Bombay and Pune Parsi Punchayets are proud to host this mega event for youth (18 - 40 years) of the worldwide Zoroastrian community. ~'Rekindling the Spirit" An opportunity to voice opinions, interact with and get to know one another, and focus on "Rekindling the Spirit" for generations to come.

VENUE: The five-star Taj Blue Diamond Hotel, Pune, India PROGRAM: December 27- 3I, 2003 Main conference program at Taj Blue Diamond, Evening program and dinner at other venues. December 30- 3I, 2003 Home stays for overseas delegates. Sight-seeing and visits on the 31st. New Years' Eve dinner and dance. January I-3, 2004 Pilgrimage tour to Iranshah Atash Bahram, Udvada, Sanjan and Bahrot. ACCOMMODATION: Five-star (Taj Blue Diamond) or basic (Nagarwalla School Hostel) INFORMATION: Congress chair Sarosh Palkhiwala ([email protected], tel: 020-687-5456) WEBSITE: Visit www. wzyc.org or send email to [email protected]

18 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 Seccr d Pratasi Bl El :aliya Divas The Government of India and FICCI will celebrate the Second Pravasi Bharatiya Divas January 9-11, 2004, in New Delhi, aimed at networking of the Indian diaspora, NRis/PIOs and creating a framework for a sus­ tained and productive interaction. Visit www.indiaday.org, or send email to [email protected]. \1\btd Vc::a.ah Ca gess The Third World Zoroastrian Youth Congress, will be held in Pune, India, from December 27, 2003 to The $125 million Dariush Grand Jan3, 2004. [Seeadonpagel8]. Hotel on Kish Island in the Persian Gulf, celebrating Iran's NA Cagess 2004 ancient past. Right, preparations The XIII North American Zoroas­ for the grand opening last April. trian Congress will be held in the San Francisco Bay area December 29, 2004 to January 1, 2005. Contact Iran salutes pre-Islamic history Publicity chair Nazneen Spliedt, UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES ignated World Heritage Site. The rul­ [email protected] [see page 18]. KISH ISLAND, IRAN (AP) ing clerics particularly disdained It started small - a few babies Persepolis ... 2004 Zcralh.&.._ Genes named after the pre-Islamic heroes The government's initial rejection The next Zarathushti Games co­ Darius or Cyrus, a bit more govern­ of Iran's pre-Islamic past lessened sponsored by the Zoroastrian Sports ment money for preserving ancient with the realization that ancient mon­ Committee (ZSC), FEZANA and sites, advertisers using the image of uments could draw tourists and boost ZSBC, will be held at the University the ruins of Persepolis to sell salad the struggling economy. of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, dressing and motorbikes. The government allocated $5 mil­ July 1-4, 2004, [email protected]. Now comes modern Iran's most lion to Persepolis this year for audacious salute yet to a Persian past Patia'la"t:; d Religcns, restoration work, pollution protec­ tion, new facilities for visitors and Baroelona 2004 It's a $125 million hotel built in promotion of the ancient city as a .~apaihWaytojleace. the style of Persepolis, all graceful tourist destination. columns, statues of winged bulls In further evidence of changed atti­ . ~Al~ with human faces and bas reliefs tudes, the government has dropped showing envoys bearing gifts for its ban on parents registering such The 4th Parliament of the World's ancient Achaemenian kings ... deco­ pre-Islamic names for children as Religions will be held July 7-13, rations that violate Islam's ban on Darius or Cyrus. Images of Persepo­ 2004 in Barcelona, Spain. This fol­ graven images. lis and the tomb of Firdowsi, Iran's lows 5 years after the Parliament in "The glory of ancient Persia has ancient epic poet, turn up on T-shirts, Cape Town, S. Africa. Registration been revived. It is the rebirth of salad dressing and other products ... is $495 . Family/group rates avail­ Persepolis," said tourist Hasan Ezzati "We simply can't remove the names able. Visit www.cpwr.org or contact after visiting the new Dariush Grand of our ancestors because we don't Rohinton Rivetna, rivetna@ aol.com. Hotel on the Persian Gulf tourist like it," said Mohammad Alavi, who island of Kish. designed the hotel. Next \1\btd Cagess After the 1979 Islamic revolution, "It's part of our history. It's Iran's The 8th World Zoroastrian Congress hard-line clerics opposed any sym­ symbol, identity." 1!1 will be held in the UK, in the summer bols from Iran's pre-Islamic days. [Copyright 2003 The Associated of 2005. For information, contact Few resources were funneled to Press. Excerpted from http://edi­ ZTFE president Dorab Mistry at ancient sites, including the palaces tion.cnn.com 12003/WORLD/meast godrej@ globalnet.co. uk. r~ and citadels ofPersepolis, a UN-des- /06/09/iran.persia. ap/index. html].

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 19 Hal~ to life and wcrk d Dr. St-irir-ba 100 Ku:ar A memorial meeting was held on May 29th at Zoroastrian House in London, organized jointly by WZO and ZTFE, to commemorate the demise of Dr. Shirinbanoo Sohrabji Kutar. The hall was overflowing with people who had come to pay homage to the life and work of this First Lady of Zoroastrians in Europe. Shirinbanoo had served the ZTFE as president for over 7 years and as committee member for almost 36 years. She was also one of the founders of WZO and led it with great distinc- Dt: mnca aetna: four girls from India sponsored by ZWIN, [from left] tion as president for 11 years. Khursheed Mistry, Pearl Mistry, Sherry Irani and Kashmira Udachia, at the ZTFE president Dorab Mistry Toronto darbe mehr, with hosts Dara and Mehru Homavazir [2nd from right]. chaired the meeting. Keynote speaker Shahpur Captain paid rich ••Help a Dream Come True"'"' tribute to the qualities of head and heart that made Shirinbanoo the first ZWIN: zoroastrian Womens International Network lady. He also eulogized the work of the late Dr. Sohrabji Kutar, dastur of n July 22nd four carefully the youth in their communities and Europe, and the joint work of the selected candidates from India North America, strengthening the boarded a plane to Toronto as future of our young leaders. Kutar family to perpetuate Zarathushti worship in the UK. their first step to "Make a Dream When we were unable to get the US Come True"- a project organized by visas in time, Dr. Mahrukh Rostami Their manifold charities and Shirin­ ZWIN. These four girls (between 19 arranged for hosting them in Canada. banoo's own help and generosity to and 26) attended the North American all new arrivals were emphasized. Many ZWINers and supporters in Zoroastrian Youth Congress in The Kutars had spearheaded the North America and in India have Toronto and stayed with families in establishment of Zoroastrian House enabled this program, through their Canada for a month. and had personally funded and estab­ tireless efforts. Diverse people came This idea was initiated by Hovi together dedicatedly and in harmony lished the Prayer Hall. Shroff of Florida and expanded with to work toward a common cause (via Fitting tributes were paid by Profes­ sponsors from all over the US, by e-mail). These include all the US sor John Hinnells (read in his ZWINers, working with other associ­ sponsors (Hovi Shroff of Florida, absence by Dr. Almut Hintze); Soli ations and many diverse individuals Yasmin Pavri and ZAH of Houston, Master (poem read by his daughter in North America and India, coordi­ Yasmin Ghadiali and ZAGNY of Hilda Sethna); Bailey Irani recalled nated by Dr. Zareen Karani Araoz. New York, Dhun and Nari Deboo of her single-mindedness to establish a Kashmira Udachia (Pune ), Khur­ Connecticut and Bucky Amaria of world organization; Ruby Contrac­ sheed Mistry (Mumbai), Pearl Mistry Colorado), who continued to sponsor tor; Shirinbanoo' s grandchildren (Mumbai) and Sheherazade Irani the girls even though they were Zarin Patel (of New York) and (Pune) were chosen, based on their unable to come to the US. Thomas Parri Hughes (of London); long-standing involvement with the We also thank the intended US hosts WZO chairman Rumi Sethna; ZTFE Zarathushti community, their obvious and helpers - Roshan Sethna, Sarvar trustee Noshir Avari and WZO presi­ potential and talents, their endearing Irani, Soli Dastur and others. dent Rustam Dubash. All spoke of personalities, their vtswn and The Canada godfather, Sam Vesuna, her many human qualities which had promise for the future - to give them has gone all out to assist the girls. We endeared her to one and all. il the opportunity to be ambassadors of are deeply grateful to the generous our culture and of good-will between By Paurushasp B. lila [Continued on page 97] www.zife.com, [email protected] 20 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 ZUNI- Zauastricn Uriuersal IVIauern!r1t Prof. Meher Master Moos, president, Zoroastrian College, India, writes: "Arising out of the thousands of years old Zoroastrian tradition in Tajikistan and neighboring countries, the people who have Zoroastrian ancestry, are wanting to come back into their original faith. "The government of Tajikistan has sponsored three Avesta world confer­ ences in Dushanbe and last year President Rahmanov of Tajikistan A\leSta dass in Uzbekista'l. Rustam Abdukaminov [far right] writes requested UNESCO to declare 2003 "Here are our children of Uzbekistan Zarathushtis, learning the Gathas. The as the "3000th Anniversary of language of the learning is Russian because it is the most used intellectual Zoroastrian Culture". language in the ex-USSR. We use the Parsi language too." [PHOTO AND TEXT "The Tajik Technological University FROM POSTING BY RUSTAM ABDUKAMINOV (EMAIL [email protected] OR has sent Prof. Rustom Fuzalov to ARMATI@ JANUS.SILK.ORG) ON ZOROASTRIANS @YAHOOGROUPS.COM] Zoroastrian College for six months to write the in Tajik­ Uzbekistan: Zoroastrians and Cyrillic script, for school children. Old Believers without Registration "In Tashkent, Uzbekistan, there is a school of 400 children studying Avesta. They are requesting help to BY FELIX CORLEY they have some 150 adherents in the build a fire temple. KESTON NEWS SERVICE whole country and would "very "It is mainly such people that Sohrab While many religious communi­ much" like to establish a functioning Luth has in mind- those who wish to ties of a variety of faiths have been temple. They point out that there are revive and spread their ancestral reli­ denied registration in Uzbekistan - "many ancient Zoroastrian temples" gion - when he enthusiastically pro­ either because they do not have the in the country. motes the idea of a new organization required 100 adult citizens required Asked whether anyone from the Zoroastrian Universal Movement." by the restrictive 1998 religion law, communities had applied for regis­ or simply because the government tration with the authorities, one Broadly, the aims of ZUM are to does not like them - two faiths that Zoroastrian responded: "Not yet, spread knowledge and understanding have no registered communities are because it is necessary to pay some of the Mazdayasnie Zarathushtrian the Zoroastrians and the Uraltsy Old money for registration and we must Daena amongst all persons of Maz­ Believers. first find the money." dayasnie ancestry globally, and to develop a global platform to interact One Zoroastrian in the Uzbek cap­ However, he confirmed that the with governments and with interna­ ital Tashkent, highlighted the diffi­ community does meet in private tional organizations like UN, culty in raising the fee needed to homes. He added that there are a UNESCO, UNICEF, WHO, ECO­ register an individual community, set number of books about the faith that SOC and FAO. by the Cabinet of Ministers in June the community would like to see 1998 at 50 times the minimum published. Mr. Luth urges all "born and unborn, united Zoroastrians of the world" to monthly wage. Excerpted from a posting by support the movement and become The Zoroastrians' and Old Believ­ [email protected] on zoroastri­ members of ZUM. ers' lack of registration makes all [email protected], on February communal activity technically ille­ 11, 2002. Source:www.ripnet.org/ Donation checks, made out to "Shah gal, although Keston News Service lawluzaobwr.htm. Behram Baug Society" may be sent to Mr. Luth, Adi Manor, Kavi has not learned of any specific inci­ For further information with pictures Khabardar Road, Tin Batti, Daman, dents of harassment from the author­ see the article "Zarathushti Anjuman 396 210 (UT), India; tel: 91-260- ities. in Uzbekistan" by Rustom 2242989. Or contact Dr. Moos at Zoroastrian representatives in Abdukamilov, FEZANA Journal, mmastermoos @yahoo. com. m Tashkent told Keston in March that Spring 1999.

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 21 Dr. Shernaz Cama, M.Phil, PhD, Delhi University, has spearheaded the UNESCO-assisted PARZOR project. PARZOR: a UNESCO-assisted project Dr. Shernaz Cama spearheads program to preserve and promote Zarathushti culture and heritage

The PARZOR project. In 1999, and some binding work has been UNESCO, New Delhi invited Dr. done. An air-conditioned chamber, Shernaz Cama of Delhi University to with proper temperature and humid­ "set up a program to record and doc­ ity controls, has been set up and the ument various aspects of Zoroastrian microfilm reader and microfilms are contributions to the heritage of now maintained here. humanity." PARZOR Exhibition. Arts and Crafts: Embroidery and "Zoroastrianism, the world's oldest textiles, furniture, jewelry, silver and n July 8th, the Director General revealed religion has survived from traditional foods reflect the colorful Oof UNESCO, Mr. Matsura inau­ pre-history with its core beliefs still culture of the Zarathushtis. The pub­ gurated the PARZOR Exhibition at intact, a driving force that impels its lication "Threads of Continuity: a the Ashoka Hotel in New Delhi. followers to excel in all fields of Study of the Textiles used in Rituals This was part of the celebrations of human endeavor and contribute and Customs of the Zoroastrian the 3000th anniversary of vastly for the benefit of humankind," Community", by Ashdeen Lilaowala, Zarathushti culture. A special Parsi writes Cama, "Yet in India, the com­ explores the art of kushti-weaving. Food Festival was also organized at munity is declining so rapidly that Environment: The very unique The Coffee Shop of the Ashoka, they lose 10% of their population at "Tanka System of Water Harvesting" with discounts for being dressed in every decennial census." found in the homes of Zarathushtis in traditional Parsi style. UNESCO's concern was the loss of Bharuch, was researched. It is The prime minister of India, Shri Zarathushti heritage due to globaliza­ believed this concept of harvesting Atal Bihari Vajpayee, in his inaugu­ tion and diminishing numbers. Thus water was brought from Iran. ral address at the "Dialogue among "Project 302 IND 70 (PARZOR) was Linguistics, literature and the Parsi Civilizations" international confer­ initiated. Theater: This is an area where much ence the next day, remarked: Among the lofty aims of the project work needs to be done. "It is a fitting tribute to India's are to preserve and archive various Oral traditions (Reet-Rivaj), cus­ long standing tradition of toler­ aspects of Zarathushti heritage and toms and ceremonies: The recording ance that the Zoroastrians, a enable researchers to access this data, of oral traditions with a target group prominent minority community, and ultimately to build a permanent in Gujarat, and with the priesthood, are holding an exhibition to museum of international standards has generated valuable data. This herald the celebrations of the where both the researcher and the will be made available on the web. 3000th year of Zoroastrianism tourist can learn about this unique her­ to coincide with this conference. itage. All researched materials from Zarathushtis in public life: Biogra­ the past, present and future would be phies have been published of Field "They comprise less than 0.01% Marshal Sam Manekshaw, MC, and housed in its Archival Center. of our country's population. photographer Homai Vyarawala. Yet, they have made a major Ongoing projects. Work is currently Medical databank and research contribution to many walks of underway on the following modules: our national life. center will be a bank of medical Meherjirana Library Project: The information and research. "The world needs to recognize archival project was undertaken with Tangible heritage protection, will the greatness of the Zoroastrian assistance from the National include protection of sites and faith and culture, and help in its Archives, Govt. of India. Prelimi­ protection and resurgence. The nary preservation work on the books objects as well as preservation of visual materials. government of India has lent and manuscripts has been done. full support in organizing this 90,000 manuscript pages have been Museum. An international museum exhibition, which will be taken microfilmed. Their librarian, Mrs. is envisaged, with a living culture to other parts of the country." Bharati Gandhi, has supervised this component. [Contd. on page 72]

22 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 FPZAI ~~~ eti.rg Unearthing our past Representatives of 25 anjumans attended the meeting of the Federa­ WZCF continues archeological and historical tion of Parsi Zoroastrian Anjumans of India, in Mumbai on June 7th and investigations at Sanjan and Bahrot. 8th. (The Federation has 69 anju­ mans as members). A five rupee commemorative coin will be released by the Government of India on September 4th, the birth anniversary of Dadabhai Naoroji. This will be only the second coin for a Parsi (the first was of Vicajee and Pestonji Meherjee of Secunderabad, who minted their own coin as Pes­ tanshahi sikka). Rs. 1.2 crores has been allocated by the government for development of Udvada. The town is to be preserved as a heritage precinct. UNESCO has declared 2003 as the 3000th anniver­ sary of the celebration of Zoroastri­ anism. The Third World Zoroastrian View of excavation of "ring wells" at Sanjan. A total of seven layers were Youth Congress will be held in encountered, to a depth of 5.35 m. December. The World Zarathushti Chamber of Commerce, with head­ The Sanjan landing. After landing The dig at Sanjan's Varoli riverside quarters in Chicago, now has chap­ at Sanjan, sometime in the 7th to 8th site has yielded six whole skeletons ters in Mumbai and Delhi. centuries, the Parsis lived there and a few partial ones, found lying Presentations were made by youth peacefully for about 700 years. In with their hands crossed and legs tied. associations on their various pro­ 1393, they were defeated by Sultan They will be sent to Oxford Univer­ grams and activities. Mahmud Tughlaq's general Alaf sity for carbon dating and DNA test­ BPP led the presentations by anju­ Khan, and they fled, with the sacred ing to find out if they are of Parsis. mans. Topics covered included: popu­ Iranshah fire to the nearby Bahrot Prominent amonst the artifacts found lation figures; Mediclaim insurance; Caves, where they sought refuge for were 32 Indian and Persian coins, D. N aoroji in Guiness book (as first 12 years (1393 - 1405). five dating back to the 7th and 8th Indian in British Parliament); high Excavations. In 2002, the World centuries. The coin findings show divorce rates; funding engineering Zarathushti Cultural Foundation that Sanjan was a flourishing port and medical college students; Man­ (WZCF) under the leadership of Dr. from the 1st-2nd century CE. agement Institute; school counseling Homi Dhalla and Dr. Mani Kamerkar Almost 1200 artifacts have been service; housing and high cost of repairs; defunct anjumans and aram­ and other archeologists, embarked on recovered, including iron nails, frag­ gahs; non-Parsi spouses in Parsi archeological and historical investi­ ments of glass vessels, perfume bot- baugs; adoption; offspring of mixed gations of this region, to collect evi­ tles,. glass beads and pendants, marriages; inheritance rights of chil­ dence of early Zarathushti carnelian cobbles and chunks dren of mixed marriages; three calen­ settlement. of garnet, hinting at possible dars; proliferation of agiaries; dialog The excavations lasted for lapidary activities. A variety with high priests; distortions in his­ three months and reveal of pottery was unearthed - tory books; helping Tajiks; develop­ some very valuable data. porcelains, glazed and ments in the world body; old peoples' coarse ware, some with homes; encouraging sports; financing Fragment of silver elaborate designs. The entrepreneurs; annual awards ... Sasanian coin bearing turquoise glazed ware traces of a fire-altar (also known as Sasanian The next meeting will be in Bardoli on its reverse, tenta­ Islamic ware) has also on November 29-30. • tively dated to 7th - been found at sites in [Excerpted from notes by Marzban 8th century CE. [Continued on page 85] Giara]. FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 23 -

··Jrst generation Gue~t Editor Dolly Dastoor his issue of FEZANA Journal is dedicated T to the first genera­ tion of Zarathushtis in North Anterica, now facing the challenges of growing old in their adopted home­ land. It provides informa­ tion needed to enjoy the second half of one's life and prepare and plan for the future - physically, emo­ tionally and financially - with articles on health and ethics, long-ternt care and financial planning. We also take a look at what our Zarathushti communi­ tics and associations, front coast to coast on this conti­ nent are doing to support and sustain our rapidly aging contmunity; and how people, young and old, perceive the aging process. 24 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 With longevity on our side, the incidence of developing Alzheimer's disease is high for Zara­ thushtis. The community has to make a con­ certed plan to provide care and support. is it me loss or alzheimer's Deily Dastocr, PtD, is a clini­ cal psychologist specializing in the assessment of Dementia. She is cur­ diseaseil rently the clinical administrator of By Dolly Dastoor roles and loss of social esteem. the program for Dementia at Dou­ Montreal, Quebec However in spite of all the wear and glas Hospital, Montreal and assis­ tear, our brain, the most important tant professor, Department of t is a well known fact that the organ which defines us as humans, Psychiatry, and Centre for Studies world population is aging, we are maintains its potency and is far more in Aging, McGill University. She Iall living longer, and by UN esti­ resilient than previously thought. was past president of Alzheimer mates by 2050, 25% of the popula­ Language skills, abstract thinking, Society of Montreal and vice-presi­ tion will be over the age of 65, with verbal expression, all get better dent ofAlzheimer Society of women outnumbering men 2:1. It is except when the brain is attacked by Canada. necessary therefore that we know diseases like Parkinson's and Born in Mumbai, and living in Mon­ what changes we should expect in Alzheimer's; and wisdom is an treal since 1973, Dolly was presi­ our mental and physical health with attribute associated with aging- gen­ dent of the Zoroastrian Association the aging process. erally. The brain grows and changes of Quebec, and secretmy and then all the time. It feeds on stimulation president ( 1994-98) of FEZANA, The net effect of aging in varying and it is never too late to feed it. responsible for developing the degrees, is an accumulation of phys­ Learning a new skill every year Strategic Plan for the North Ameri­ ical and psychological losses. There keeps the brain healthy and active. is a progressive decline in overall can community; she received the physical health through normal wear However, in spite of all the positive Outstanding Zarathushti Award in and tear, the acquisition of chronic advances that have been made in our 1994. Dolly has presented papers degenerative diseases and often an knowledge of the aging brain, the at the World Parliament of Reli­ increased susceptibility to acute ill­ most common problem which peo­ gions in Chicago (1993) in Cape ness. ple are afraid of, as they age, are los­ Tmvn ( 1999 ), and at the 4th and ing their memory and subsequently 6th World Zoroastrian Congress in The psychological losses may be developing Alzheimer's disease. brought about by geographical sepa­ Mumbai and in Tehran ( 1996). She ration from and deaths of relatives Our lives are largely made up of was co-chair of the very successful and friends, by changes in social memories (our past) and hopes (our 7th World Zoroastrian Congress in future) with 'now' a grammatical 2000 in Houston. She is governor of District 2, Zonta International, a The views expressed in these articles are those of the authors, and do service organization, promoting the not necessarily reflect the views of FEZANA or FEZANA Journal. Per status ofwomen ·worldwide. Dolly is its editorial policy, FEZANA Journal does not endorse or espouse any married with three children and specific perspective. three grand-children.

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 25 thics ~t e e ,in the religion ol zarathushtra

While the elderly are often left at the margins of our society because they lack the voice that younger genertions have, it is important to note the particular regard for the elderly in Zarathushti thought.

By Susan Karani Farraxvart i Vahraman (or, The Book munity when a question of guardian­ New York, New York of A Thousand Judgments), include ship arises after the head of house­ discussions of the elderly that are hold dies: DEDICATED TO worth highlighting. Second, the Any adherent of the religion of THE MEMORY OF MY GRANDMOTHERS extensive discourse on ethics in the Zarathushtra in [any given] town who MARY C. HOLM AND Gathas and in the Young Avesta is elderly, well known, and with good reveal important insinuations about reputation, and his veneration for the BAPAI R. KARANI attitudes towards all fellow human soul and his wisdom are attested more (than the others'), to him the e rhetoric of Zarathushti law beings, inclusive of people of all creeds, social status and ages differ­ request (of the official declaration of and scripture place benevolence, the guardian) should be made [1]. beneficence and the trilogy say­ ent from our own. Thus as is evident in this translitera­ ing, 'humata, hukhta, huvareshta', as I. Religious family law tion of Dr. Safa-Isfehani, being paramount. The ethical perspective elderly (and also necessarily, rep­ reflected in Zarathushti thought is to In matters concerning guardianship utable or respected) is a prerequisite be applied in practice to all people, and inheritance, Zarathushti family quality that the judiciary must regardless of creed, community or law of the Sasanian period denotes observe in seeking good legal and religious affiliation. By the same the elderly as respected and crucial ethical advice to assist them in court. token, beneficence and benevolence advisors on legal matters. The per­ is to apply to old as well as young spective of the aged members of the Concerning inheritance, Zarathushti members of society. While the elderly community is considered venerated thought is indicative in Sasanian are often left at the margins of our due to the general religious belief Zarathushti law where the elder society because they lack the voice that sagacity comes with age. The members of the family are considered that younger generations have, it is Rivayat-i Hemit-i Asawahistan is a wiser and more capable than their less important to note the particular regard 9th century compilation of laws experienced, younger counterparts. for the elderly in Zarathushti thought. based on Zarathushti codes, which is In Farraxvart i Vahraman the prop­ grounded in laws and scrip­ erty of the deceased head of house­ First, religious family law, including ture. This collection of laws suggests hold passes down to the 'capable' the Rivayat-i Hemit-i Asawahistan that the religious judiciary looks to hands of the eldest child, often to the (or, The Religious Explanation of elder members of the religious com- son, or to the daughter in the case of Remit, the Son of Asawahist) and 28 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 no son [2]. Likewise in this extract of Imperishable will be the world that is SL&an Kcrarii is completing her the law, older children are considered of truth, being endowed with MAin Human -as wise in comparison with their strength; I deceit will be done away Rights Studies younger siblings. Here we see that with, I ... to the place whence it had at Columbia come I for making the truthful one the elder (sibling), and the elderly in University in perish, I himself, his progeny and his general, play an important supervi­ property, I in terror and destruction, New York City. sory, counseling role in family law. and the scoundrel will be done away She is active as Zarathushti law was founded upon as well [4]. a FEZANA-UN liaison and has religious ethics imbedded in These lines reveal a prophecy of the been involved Zarathushti scripture, such as the final judgment. One of the central in various Gathas and the Yashts. The creation purposes of this prophecy is to Human Rights efforts in India, the of Zarathushti laws on guardianship encourage a general goodwill among United States and France. and inheritance which include the all Zarathushtis, to treat other human elderly were strongly influenced by beings in goodness and respect, rec­ NoTES more basic, overarching beliefs about ognizing that each living being is a morality. These laws largely serve to creation of Ahura Mazda. [1] Answer 5, No. 13. Nezhat Safa-Isfe­ bind the adherent to Divine Law and hani, trans., Rivayat-i Hemit-i Asawahis­ While the 'elderly' are not explicitly solidify his or her obligations to tan. A Study in Zoroastrian Law, referenced in much of Zarathushti Ahura Mazda. Harvard Iranian Series, vol. 2, ed. scripture, no specific type of human Richard N. Frye (Cambridge, Mass.: The next section looks at obligations being really is. Rather, Zarathush­ Harvard University Printing Office, towards other human beings, for tra's words are generalized, at best 1980) 32. which Ahura Mazda, through the vague, and there is good reason. It [2] In the case of no son and more than words of Zarathushtra, finds all can be interpreted that our prophet one daughter, the property of the Zarathushtis responsible. and our ancestors recorded divine deceased head of household falls in the II. Religious ethics dialogue between the adherent and trust of the eldest daughter. Anahit Ahura Mazda in order to encourage a Perikhanian, Farraxvart I Vahraman. Both the Old and the Young Avesta Zarathushtrian ethical behavior The Book of A Thousand Judgments (A Sasanian Law-Book), trans. Nina Gar­ command a general moral discourse. toward all members of our society. In the Gathas, 33 discusses the 'soian (Costa Mesa, Calif.: Mazda Pub­ harmony of the adherent with other The same conclusion follows in lishers, 1997) 152 and 119. living beings. Ahura Mazda tells his Zarathushti laws. Drafters of Sasa­ [3] Stanley Insler, The Gathas of adherents that the triumph of good nian civil and family law instituted a Zarathushtra, in Acta Iranica 8, over evil in each individual act code based on the religious ideas and Troisieme Serie, vol. 1 (Liege: Biblio­ brings fulfillment to his request. The rhetoric prevalent in the Avesta. theque Pahlavi, 1979) Ys. 33.3. adherent replies to Ahura Mazda: Their purpose was to promote hon­ [4] Helmut Humbach and Pall an R. leba­ esty, virtue and generosity among The person who is very good to a poria, Zamyad . Yasht 19 of the truthful man, be he allied by family, or adherents, which must be applied to Younger Avesta: Text, Translation, Com­ a member of his community, or allied all people - toward your grand­ mentary (Wiesbaden: Harrassowitz Ver­ by clan, Lord, or be he someone who mother and mine. I&! lag, 1998) Yt. 19.24. continues to serve the cow with zeal, such a person shall be on the pasture of truth and good thinking [3]. Aged to Perfection The response of the adherent in this passage suggests that we must offer Age is a matter of mind; if you don't mind, it doesn't matter. our goodwill toward all people in The aging process is a lot like grapes, order to fulfill our duties to Ahura Some turn to vinegar, but the best to wine. Mazda, in his various forms (either The longer we live, the more we learn. as God the spirit, or to the cow as specified here). It is not who has the most, The Young Avesta contains language It is who makes the most of what he has. that suggests the eventual triumph of Age stiffens the joints but softens the heart. good over evil. This struggle is You are young at any age if you are planning for tomorrow. enhanced by our individual acts as adherents to the Divine Law, and our A man is not old until regret takes the place of dreams. acts must reflect this struggle. In the -By Khurshed Pastakia, Fed Newsletter 2002 Zamyad Yasht [Yt.19.24] it reads:

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 29 are get­ healthier, tare we gbeneril A look at the remarkable advances in health care that have occurred in the last 50 years, and the profound impacts of the resulting increase in life span on economics and society. By Yasmin Pavri Houston, Texas e editor invited me to write an from Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) Not all the news on the health front is article on aging from an actuarial have declined two to four percent good. The much reported epidemic perspective. Since I am a health every year in the last 30 years. These of obesity has resulted in greatly actuary working in the United States, significant decreases coincide with increased rates of diabetes. Incidence the information in this article IS reductions in the major risk factors of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary based on US health data. such as hypertension, smoking, high Disease(COPD), including emphy­ Depending on how you look at cholesterol for CHD as well as more sema, also increased from 1980 to things, there is good news and bad effective treatment of coronary events. 1997. The impressive progress in news. The goods news is that we are Overall, the rate of new cancers, heart disease and cancer treatments living longer and our health is which increased during the 1970s and have so far, trumped the growing improving. On the other hand, 1980s, were stable during the 1990s. problems with obesity, diabetes and increased longevity puts enormous The stabilization coincides with COPD. However, the metabolic syn­ strains on our pension systems. This improvements in prevention, screen­ drome that leads to obesity is afflu­ article takes a look at the truly ing and treatment of cancer. Cancer ence and life-style related and will remarkable advances in health care death rates have fallen by slightly continue to be the focus of medical that have occurred in the last 50 more than one percent per year for research and public policy. years. It then addresses the impact of every year between 1993 and 1999. Living longer. The pessimistic view the resulting increase in life spans. Although cancer death rates have is that people are living longer, only Advances in health care. During the declined over all age groups, the because we are keeping sick or dis­ twentieth century, as immunizations decrease in death rates was greater for abled people alive and delaying and antibiotics reduced the impact of those over 65. Of special note is the death, and not by improving the qual­ infectious diseases, heart disease and continuing decline in death rates for ity of their life. This view argues that cancer became the major health prob­ the four most common cancers: lung, as the number of acute, fatal diseases lems in developed countries. colorectal, breast and prostate, diminishes, more chronic, nonfatal, Although these two diseases continue although rates for these cancers con­ and currently untreatable disorders to be the leading causes of death for tinue to increase for certain ages and will emerge. They cite the increase those over fifty, the mortality for both populations. The rate for cancers such in Alzheimer's disease, osteo-arthri­ continues to decline. Mortality rates as lymphomas, has increased as well. tis, and problems with vision and 30 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 hearing, which have no effective grow at 6% per year compounded treatments and are common in the annually indefinitely. In terms of 80+ age group. The optimistic view percentages, this is the fastest grow­ suggests that medical science and ing age group. healthier lifestyles will mean shorter Impact on society. Longer lifetimes periods of disability compressed into will have a profound impact on eco­ the last few years or months of life. nomics and on society. It will be Recent studies support the optimistic harder and harder to tax working compression of disability theory. We adults to support ever increasing num­ all hope for medical breakthroughs to bers of retirees. Alternatively, prevent or better treat arthritis, improved health and longevity may Alzheimer's disease, macular mean that age 60 is a good time to degeneration, hearing loss and other start a second career - you could have scourges of old age. 40 years in this new career. At the Persepolis stailway frieze, c. 500 BCE One of the biggest fears for most very least it means that it is more people is that they will lose the abil­ important than ever to plan well ahead The much-revered cvoress ity to live independently. Surveys for retirement. Government retire­ uch, indeed, was the reverence generally define independence as the ment pensions (Social Security in the Sof the Airyanic/Gathic peoples ability to perform "Activities of US and CPP/QPP in Canada) are not for vegetation that they nurtured it Daily Living" (ADLs) such as eating, likely to provide more than a mini­ with affectionate care. Originated bathing, and dressing. Long Term mum floor of protection, and both in their homeland and carried to Care policies usually start coverage those systems are strained already. the classical world, the Cypress - deraakht-e-sarv is loved for its rich based on the inability of a person to How much should you plan to set perform a certain number of prede­ evergreen color, luxuriant foliage aside for retirement? The average and longevity (over 2000 years). termined ADLs. Recent studies indi­ rule of thumb has been that to main­ cate that a smaller portion of the tain your current life style you will In Yazd, Zarathushti villagers will elderly face significant limitations in need 70% of your current income. vouch their Cypress reflects a cer­ these activities. This assumes that you will have paid tain silent affection - "the tree Life expectancy. A study published up your mortgage and your expenses grows on us" - as it shares their in Science reports that during the last related to work, such as transporta­ life, hopes and aspirations. Their 160 years, the average human life tion, food and clothes would be deep affection for greenery reflect expectancy has grown at a rate of one greatly reduced. However, if you their naming trees after year of life every four years. plan to travel around the world or children/people and admiration of Researchers theorize that life dream of indulging in an expensive the color green. expectancy will continue to grow at hobby, you will need to factor those Yazamaide, naameni, aapo; this rate with no future cap in sight costs into your plans. lti Yazamaide, naameni, urvaro Reverence, by name, to the waters; (not counting wars, epidemics such [Source: excerpts from 'Americans are reverence, by name, to the trees. as AIDS, or natural disasters). At this Getting Healthier', Milliman USA.] rate, in another 60 years, average life [Fravardin Yasht, XIII79] expectancy should be 100 years! A Yasrrin S. It is symbolic that Ahura Mazda male aged 85 is currently expected to Pauri is a created plant life (urvara) ahead of live another 5.5 years and has a 3% Fellow of the animals and humans and desig­ probability of reaching age 100. An Society of nated ( - 85-year-old female has a life Actuaries and Immortality) as its protector. expectancy of 6.6 years (the gap a consulting The infamous cutting down of the between male and female life actuary in the 'Tree of Zaradust' (Sarv e Kashmar expectancy continues to narrow) and Houston in Khorasan by Caliph Ja'far al­ has a 6% probability of reaching age office of Mil­ Mutawaqqil in 861 CE prompted 100. The 100+ cohort is expected to liman USA. Zarathushti villages all over Iran to plant and nurture a Cypress "taller and greater than any other in the FEZANA JJ(Q)1IJIRsJ~fAJL depends on you ... land of Iran." -Sam Kerr The Journal depends solely on your subscriptions, advertisements, [see Jackson A. V. W, Zoroastrian sponsorships and donations to pay the high cost of printing and mailing. Studies, p. 255-266, AMS Press To subscribe, advertise or make a donation, use forms on p. 115-116. Inc., New York, 1928].

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 31 ing famiiV crisis The probability of needing Long Term Care is very real, and an issue that the majority of seniors may face in their golden years. No one can predict the future- but one can at least plan ahead.

By Jimmy M. Bharucha What is Long·Term Care? Care management services: a service in which a healthcare profes­ Ardmore, Pennsylvania Generally, individuals with pro­ sional arranges, monitors and coordi­ longed physical illness, a severe dis­ nates LTC needs. day, it is quite common for ability or a cognitive impairment many individuals to live 20 or (such as Alzheimer's disease) require Who pays for more years beyond the normal LTC. This type of care differs from LTC expenses? retirement age of 65. With advances traditional medical care, in that you People pay for long term care, in a in medicine, more and more people are not sick enough to visit a hospi­ variety of ways: · are surviving critical illnesses, previ­ tal, yet you are not well enough to ously thought terminal. And, function completely on your own. \!~il Personal resources (33% ): sav­ although all of us want to believe that Typical LTC services include: ings and accumulated assets. we will grow old gracefully and PersonaVcustodial care: assists 8 Private health insurance (5% ): maintain active lives, this is not individuals with the activities of personal, group or association poli­ always the case. Studies have shown daily living (i.e. bathing, dressing, cies. that nearly 50% of people over the transferring, toileting, eating and ~) Government programs: Medi­ age of 65 will spend at least one visit continence.) care (18%) and Medicaid (38%). in a nursing home before they die. !ill Home health care: includes The average cost of a nursing home It is important to note that currently occupational, physical, respiratory, stay (depending on your geographical Medicare pays 100% only for the and speech therapies. location) is $48,000 a year, and with first 20 days of skilled nursing care, inflation this cost increases each year. \ir Respite care: designed to offer a pays $101 per day for the next 80 few hours or days of help, to relieve days and nothing after that. On the Unfortunately, the probability of other family care givers. other hand, Medicaid currently pays needing long-term care (LTC) is very for all LTC expenses -if you qualify. Adult day care: care given to real, and an issue that the majority of To receive these benefits, you have to adults during the day, usually at seniors may face in their golden meet strict federal and state guide­ senior or community centers. years. According to a Life Associa­ lines for income and assets which tion News survey [1993], our zi:) Assisted living facilities: a resi­ tend to be near poverty level. There­ chances of being in a major house dential living arrangement that pro­ fore, it may not be prudent to rely on fire are only 1 in 1200 and in an auto vides individualized personal care Medicare and Medicaid alone to pay accident with the car totalled 1 in and health services to those who for your LTC needs. 240; however the chances of need­ need assistance with the activities of Family support (6%): some­ ing LTC in a nursing home are an daily living. times, this burden falls on your astronomical 1 in 3! immediate family member.

32 FEZANA JOURNAL - FALL 2003 Remember that this type of pro­ ease the burden of providing for LTC Women and couples longed care takes a tremendous phys­ expenses. Individuals may be able to have a greater risk ical, emotional and financial toll on deduct a portion of their policy pre­ the caregiver. miums, if their itemized medical • 75% of informal (non-paid) expenses exceed 7.5% of their caregivers are female. Why should you plan to adjusted gross income (subject to • Without LTC insurance, a cover the risk of LTC? age/income criteria). A financial couple can deplete their entire life Most of us plan for retirement advisor may be consulted to maxi­ savings in as little as 26 weeks. mize tax savings. through savings plans and invest­ • On the average, women out­ ment strategies. We buy Only you can determine whether live men by eight years. LTC insurance is appropriate in your medical/health insurance to guard • A woman can expect to spend particular situation. Circumstances against medical emergencies. We 17 years caring for a child and 18 have a way of changing in life. purchase life insurance to provide for years caring for a parent. our dependents. Yet, we tend to No one can predict the future- but • The average person receiving overlook an important aspect - that you can at least plan ahead. someone we love may need long care at home is: 71 year old male, term care, either at home or in an out­ For more information see www.medi­ married and suffering from side facility. LTC planning, is vital care.gov, www.naic.org, www.cms.hhs. Alzheimer's for 5 years. and should be an integral part of your gov, www. nahc.org, state insurance SouRCE: National Council on overall financial plan. Without departments, agencies on aging, and Aging, 1997. proper protection, you may easily state insurance assistance programs. deplete your lifetime savings and Jinny M Bt'B'u:::haMBA was hard-earned assets in just a few The high cost of waiting past president of the Zoroastrian years. Proper planning and coverage • If you wait 3 years to purchase Association of enables you to: LTC insurance, it will cost you Pennsylvania 24% more money every year for Protect your current assets and New Jer- the rest of your life. Avoid dependence on others sey. He is Guarantee yourself quality ser owner of • If you wait 5 years to purchase vice and care when you need it Bharucha & LTC insurance, it will cost you • Freedom to choose and select the Associates, a 68% more money every year for level and type of care you desire full-service the rest of your life. • Ensure that your estate passes life/health • If you wait 8 years to purchase intact to your designated heirs insurance LTC insurance, it will cost you e Avoid leaving a legacy of debt. agency located in Ardmore, Pennsyl­ 128% more money every year for vania. Jimmy has been in the insur­ the rest of your life. Why should you ance business since 1974 and has • If you wait too long you may consider LTC insurance? over 29 years of experience in risk not be able to purchase LTC insur­ management. For consultation or Since the bulk of the cost for LTC ance, even if you wanted to. information, he can be reached at expenses is often burdened upon you, Your money pays for 610-649-4552, fax: 610-649-1399, and indirectly on your family, it may LTC insurance - but your website: www.jbharucha.com. email: be prudent to consider purchasing a health buys it. LTC insurance policy to help provide jbharucha@ msn.com. for this unforeseen risk. Today, there are several A+ rated life insurance companies who market I'I'How to Stay Young"" - gems from George Carlin comprehensive tax-qualified LTC • Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and height. policies. A licensed insurance agent Let the doctor worry about them. That is why you pay him/her. should be consulted to design cover­ • Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down. age to meet your specific objectives • Keep learning. Learn about computers, crafts, gardening, whatever. and premium constraints. Insurance Never let the brain idle. An idle mind is the devil's (Alzheimer's) workshop. policies, besides providing the basic • Enjoy the simple things. level of protection, can offer many • Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath. optional rider benefits. In addition, • Tears do happen. Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person who is several tax incentives are now with us out entire life is ourselves. Be alive while you are alive. offered by the US government to [more on page 47] FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 33 althlul eating in later vears A look at the nutritional requirements of the elderly, with general guidelines and practical tips on healthy eating. A quiz is given to assess one's nutritional health.

By Nancy Bugwadia centage in males increases from San Jose, California about 15% when young to 25% at the age of 60 years. In women it ood and nutrients provide the increases from 18% to 23% when energy and building materials for young to 32% at the age of 60 years. Fthe countless substances that are This change in body fat is essential for the growth and survival attributable to less intense physical of living things. Good nutrition activity and to an alteration in hor­ becomes important in later years, to mone levels such as testosterone and maintain a good quality of life. The growth hormone that affect lean tis­ aging process can affect the physio­ sue growth. It is important to know logical, economic, psychosocial, and that increased body fatness, espe­ functional status of the older adult. cially around the waist, is associated These changes also influence the with increased risk for several nutritional status of older adults. chronic diseases. The older adult This article will touch upon: who maintains a high activity level can preserve muscle mass and • The nutritional requirements of requires a higher energy intake to the elderly including calorie, protein, maintain body weight. fat, vitamins and minerals. Appropriate weights in relation to • General guidelines to healthy height for adults aged 65 years and eating older are available [Chumlea W. \i:tl Practical tips on eating healthy Nutritional assessment of the elderly ~ A quiz on determining your nutri­ through anthropometry. Columbus, OH Ross Laboratories, 1984, p.lO]. ii: tional health (.) These recommendations illustrate the "' • Community Nutrition Programs li: wide ranges of weight associated "'::::> til Nutritional requirements with health and longevity in the m>- C/) elderly. (!)z of the elderly ~ {b) Protein. Dietary protein intake u. (a) Calories. Calorie needs decrease 0 becomes important to meet essential 0" with age due to a gradual reduction in 0 needs as people age, since there is Ill lean body mass as well as a decrease -"'(!) less protein stored away with a z in physical activity. Lean body mass ~ decline in lean body mass. There are <{ declines approximately 2% to 3% per some suggestions that a high-carbo­ I~ decade. The average body fat per- (L hydrate diet, when accompanied by

34 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 insufficient protein intake, may lead level multivitamin and mineral sup- General guidelines to poor attention and decreased alert­ plement may be helpful (such as to eating healthy ness in older people. Good sources of Centrum Silver). protein include chicken, fish, and Good food sources of vitamins and The Food Guide Pyramid [below] gives some practical hints on eating dried beans. minerals are given below: healthy: (c) Fat. Current recommendations are that no more than 30% of the Vitamin A: carrots, vegetable soups, e Eat regularly; small, frequent daily caloric intake comes from fats. greens, spinach, green salad, orange meals may be best. juice, sweet potatoes, beef stew, Emphasis should be placed on reduc­ mixed vegetables, cantaloupe. e Eat protein-rich foods like fish, ing intake of saturated fat (mainly skinless chicken, lean meats and eggs found in animal products) and Vitamin D: salmon, fortified cow's or egg substitutes. Eat high-fiber increasing the amount of monounsat­ milk, canned sardines, chicken liver. foods like raw/cooked green vegeta- urated fats (such as olive oil) and Vitamin K: broccoli, cabbage, turnip bles, fresh or canned fruits, and polyunsaturated fats (such as canola greens, dark lettuces. whole grain breads. oil). This recommendation supports Vitamin B6: liver, oatmeal, banana, Try new foods, new seasonings, the principles of weight control and chicken breast, mashed potatoes, and new ways of preparing foods. cancer prevention. avocados. Don't just use convenience foods. (d) Vitamins and minerals. Much Folic Acid: liver, mushrooms, ,..,..,-----'-::-____,______, !fifo Keep some easy-to-pre- needs to be learned about vitamin green leafy vegetables, lean pare foods and snacks, such requirements and efficiency of vita­ beef, potatoes, whole-wheat as canned fruit/vegetables min absorption in the elderly. It is bread, dried beans. and frozen yogurt. impossible to give justice to every single vitamin and mineral in this Vitamin B12: liver, kidney, @!; Eat in a well-lit or article. However, the most important milk, eggs, fish, cheese. sunny area; serve ones will be touched upon. Women, Vitamin C: orange Milk, cheese and Meat, poultry, eggs, meals aUrae- especially of postmenopausal age are juice, broccoli, yogurt. Eat 2-3 fish, dry beans, nuts. tively; use foods servings daily. Eat 2-3 servings. at risk of developing osteoporosis. papaya, cantaloupe. '-:-7:-----:;:;=~- with different fla- Osteoporosis can lead to increased Calcium: vors, colors, risk of fractures. Calcium and Vita­ milk, yogurt, shapes, textures, min D play an important role in the cheddar and smells. prevention of osteoporosis. Vitamin cheese, cot­ Make D is important for calcium absorp­ tage mealtimes tion. Exposure of the skin to sunlight cheese, pleasur­ appears to be an important factor in spinach, able. maintaining appropriate Vitamin D tofu. Eat status in the elderly. Vitamin D sup­ with plementation should be considered for housebound or institutionalized elderly people. The recommendations for calcium intake are 1200 mg per day for men and women aged 51 and older. It is recommended that the supplement The Food Guide Pyramid above, have both calcium and Vitamin D in gives guidelines on healthy eating. friends, relatives, or at a senior cen­ it for better absorption. A good natu­ ter when possible. Listen to music ral source of calcium is milk and while eating. Share cooking respon­ Iron: liver, oysters, seafood, lean milk products. If you are unable to sibilities with a neighbor. tolerate milk and milk products, soy meats, poultry, fish. products such as tofu are a good Potassium: fruits, milk, vegetables, e Use community resources for source of calcium. Other vitamins legumes. help in shopping and for other daily care needs. that have been studied include Vita­ Magnesium: seeds, nuts, legumes, min B6 and Vitamin B 12. dark green vegetables, milk. t~' Stay physically active and drink Although overt malnutrition is rela­ Zinc: meat, fish, poultry, milk and plenty of fluids, especially water. tively uncommon in the healthy milk products, oysters, shellfish, If possible, take a walk before elderly population, a maintenance- whole grain cereals, dry beans, nuts. eating to stimulate your appetite.

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 35 e When necessary, chop, grind, or a good idea to take a multivitamin throughout the US. Nutrition ser­ blend hard to chew foods. Softer, with minerals daily (such as Centrum vices, funded under various parts of protein-rich foods like beans, eggs, Silver). the Older Americans Act, are valu­ fish, can be substituted for meat 8 So, stay physically active, eat able services that assist older individ­ when poor dental function limits nor­ well and have fun! uals to remain independent and live mal food intake. at home in the community. The • Prepare soups, stews, cooked Community programs Elderly Nutrition Program autho­ whole-grain cereals, and casseroles. Community based nutrition pro­ rizes funds for congregate and home­ grams for the elderly are adminis­ delivered nutrition programs. One • The diets of many elderly people tered by governmental, private, meal that provides one third of the may be lacking in certain vitamins non-profit and volunteer agencies Recommended Daily Allowance for and minerals, and therefore it may be persons older than 50 years of age is served to senior citizens in congre­ gate meal settings or in the home. To be eligible participants must be 60 The warning signs of poor nutritional health can often be overlooked. Use the and over, or be the spouse or primary checklist below to find out if you or someone you know is at nutritional risk. caretaker of an eligible participant. Read the statements below. Circle the number alongside each statement that Other services include outreach applies to you. Total all the circled scores, to get your Nutritional Score. transportation, nutrition education and recreational activities. Many of the advantages of this program are I have an illness or condition that made me change the kind and/or related to the social interaction amount of food I eat. 2 encountered at the meal sites. I eat fewer than 2 meals a day. 3 Other community resources include I eat few fruits or vegetables, or milk products. 2 home health care agencies, hospice I have 3 or more drinks of beer, liquor or wine almost every day. 2 organizations, commodity food sources, food banks, food co-ops, I have tooth or mouth problems that make it hard for me to eat. 2 and home-delivered grocery ser­ I don't always have enough money to buy the food that I need. 4 vices. Chore services may be secured I eat alone most of the time. 1 for shopping and meal preparation I take three or more different prescribed or over-the-counter drugs for senior citizens who are unable to ad~. 1 shop or prepare their own meals. Internet websites relevant for the Without wanting to, I have lost or gained 10 or more pounds in the elderly include the Administration on last 6 months. 2 Aging at www.nih.gov/nia and www. I am not always physically able to shop, cook and/or feed myself. 2 fiu.edu/-nuteldr/AoAdoc.htm. II

Total Nutrition Score: Nancy lk.gwadi~ MS, RD, CNSD, is cur­ If your Nutrition Score is ... rently the clin­ 0-2 Good! Recheck your score in 6 months. ical manager 3-5 You are at moderate nutritional risk. See what can be done to of Nutrition improve your eating habits and lifestyle. Your office on aging, senior nutrition Services for program, senior citizens center or health department can help. Recheck your San Jose Med­ nutritional score in 3 months. ical Center in San Jose, Cal­ 6 or more You are at high nutritional risk. Bring this checklist the next ifornia. She time you see your doctor, dietitian, or other qualified health or social services has held dif­ professional. Talk with them about any problems you may have. Ask for help ferent posi­ to improve your nutritional health. tions in the nutrition field and has (Remember, that warning signs suggest risk, but do not represent diagnosis of over 10 years of dietetics experience. any condition). Nancy holds a master's degree in [Questionnaire developed and distributed by the Nutrition Screening Initia­ Clinical Nutrition. She is a registered tive, a project of' The American Academy of Family Physicians, The American dietitian with the American Dietetic Dietetic Association, and The National Council in the Aging Inc.] Association and holds certification as a Nutrition Support Dietitian. 36 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 with vou vurve a natural wavs to perfect health The sciences of Yoga and Ayurveda offer the best and least expensive solu­ tion to senior Zarathushtis for good health in their golden years.

By Mehlli Bhagalia Above, the Sacred Tree of Buddha. Tabriz, 1314. Courtesy "Persian Painting" by Basil Gray. Carlsbad, California

age our metabolism rate joints, bones and muscles so that ,. __ ~'--- ·;,·;<-_f:--,o-~~~~---~_'__ -- -~"":;,_ -_7 ~"'\, slows down, with reduction these are kept flexible and strong. f'tll~i~"EJG~H~T;~Q~D~PAt~,~¥~~i~i:,

in the digestion and assimila­ .;!~~~~~!~~:I~ o'' ~ T. ~--~,~;,: :-;~:-'~~_-_;-~~-~t~~~~-:-~-:~~~6i=~:~~-i~~~:~~,-:-?t&~~~i~j~;~:it tion of food, which cause a myriad of Yoga - a rejuvenating Yam a: Discipline other problems. There are two ways system for body, mind of dealing with this - we can moan, and spirit Niyama: Observance of groan, blame God and go to a dozen discipline Yoga is a complete rejuvenating sys­ doctors who will prescribe two dozen Asana: Physical exercise medications, giving a boost to the tem for the body, mind and spirit. It is the art of conscious living through Pranayama: Breathing pharmaceutical companies. Or- we the Eight-fold Path (the Asthanga) exercises can do something about it! [see table at right]. Pratyahara: Non-attachment The other alternative. The sciences These steps are practiced by the stu­ and mastery of the of Yoga and Ayurveda offer the best five senses and least expensive solution to senior dent in a daily sequence, which to an Zarathushtis for good health, in their observer appears, as meditation in Dharana: Concentration movement. golden years. They will learn to use Dhyan: Meditative state their bodies in the most efficient Yoga has hundreds of exercises to Samadhi: The experience of manner to avoid injuries. They will suit every person and every need, at bliss also learn to improve the functions of every age. There are many yoga

FEZANA JOURNAL - FALL 2003 37 exercises which can be modified to Ayurveda - science of life ~ The human body is the most per­ be safely and easily performed by Zarathushtis have to realize that sick­ fect self healing system in the world most seniors, so that they can gradu­ ness and ill-heath are expensive, and disorders are not produced by ally gain flexibility, mobility and uncomfortable, and very painful, germs and bacteria. strength for daily enjoyment of life. while prevention is much less expen­ e Germs and bacteria are always Yoga is a perfect science and has sive and much less painful, and better part of our living environment. They many levels of knowledge. than trying to cure a disorder, which are generally dormant and benign. For instance, we learn that disorders is a much longer process. They only awaken and turn virulent like Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis The proof is in the pudding. Every­ when our internal environment have their real cause in faulty thing in nature, including the human becomes toxic through our lifestyle. lifestyle, which causes excess or body, is made up of the combination Only in this toxic environment do insufficient calcium in the body. of the five elements: fire/air (pitta), germs, bacteria and viruses thrive to Only Yoga has specific physical and water/earth (kapha) and air/ether cause disease. breathing exercises for the two (vata). Every fruit, vegetable, herb, e Disorder could have a karmic grain and even meat has these quali­ glands in our body, which regulate origin. the metabolism and assimilation of ties. Ayurveda teaches us what to calcium, and naturally regulate the eat, when to eat, how to eat, with Conclusion glandular working to make for what to eat and what not to eat. This The twin path of Yoga and Ayurveda healthy bones and joints. is in order to prevent the excess of any one of these three elements - is a way of life. If we follow this path Precautions. Certain yoga exer­ vata, pitta, kapha - accumulating in from a young age, the process of cises, positions and movements our system. aging would be much smoother. should, however, be avoided by Everyone must age, that is a given, seniors. For instance, a senior person In effect, we have an entire pharmacy but that does not mean that we have right there, in our bodies and in our should not perform the inverted to have creaky bones, and grunt and kitchen cupboards, and if we follow 'head stand' position or other groan through later life. We can make this simple, natural, preventive inverted positions, without the per­ the process less painful, and our healthcare we will bring continued mission of their physician and the golden years truly golden. It is up to good health into our lives. If presence of a qualified teacher. us. LET FOOD BE OUR MEDI­ Zarathushtis can get this realization, CINE AND MEDICINE BE OUR These asanas have to be performed half the battle is won. There is no correctly, with practice and only after medicine to take and no pills to FOOD! • the whole body is sufficiently pre­ swallow! Some very simple, harm­ BI"E!!t:Jailla is a registered pared. If not performed correctly less, preventive healthcare, Master Yoga such positions could be very danger­ Ayurvedic practices, which will Teacher and a ous for persons with high/low blood bring continued good health are: native of India. pressure, heart problems, shoulder • Do not eat cold foods and drink He has a Bache­ problems, excess weight, blocked cold drinks in the morning and late lors degree in arteries and eye disorders. evening or last thing at night. economics and Pranayama Yoga for seniors. The law; was 8 Do not drink cold drinks with any deep-breathing yoga exercises, per­ regional man­ meal. If you must drink water, do so formed under supervision, will help ager - Bank of at least a half hour before the meal. in gradually strengthening the entire India; and general manager of two breathing apparatus, increase lung 8 Do not end any meal with a cold merchant banks in India. In the U.S. capacity and oxygenation, clear the food or drink. he was a bank examiner with New blood vessels and strengthen cardiac Zarathushtis faithfully following this York State. Having retired, he now muscles. practice will be pleasantly surprised to lives in Carlsbad, California with his The gentle breathing methods will find that they will no longer suffer wife Perin. Mehlli has studied Yoga, slow down the entire body and men­ from colds, coughs and other 'flu-like' Ayurveda, Vastu Shastra/FengShui respiratory disorders, as others do. tal system relieving both mental and and the Martial Arts with Masters in They will also no longer have to make physical stress. Specific meditation India and China. He has over 30 regular 'donations' to the pharmaceuti­ techniques, suitable for each person, years teaching experience in these cal companies. This method of keep­ will refresh the whole body. Anger, sciences in India and the US, and has ing well, is over 5,000 years old and strife, stress, impatience, waste of given talks on public Tv. A member known in every village in India. time in useless arguments and the of the American Ayurvedic Medical need to win them, slowly goes away. Contrary to popular thinking, Association. he can be reached at Ayurveda teaches that: 760-438-7596, [email protected].

38 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 a good tooth in vour socket is worth a diamond in vour pocket Normal effects of aging do not have to include tooth loss. Teeth are meant to last a lifetime and today's dental technology and health conscious public are making that come true.

By Vas min Ghadiali oridated water, regular visits to the out adequate saliva to lubricate your Baldwin, New York dentist, and oral cancer screening. mouth, wash away the food, and neu­ Oral changes with age. Is tooth loss tralize the acids produced by plaque, here is a quiet revolution going inevitable with age? No, older adults extensive cavities can form. Dentists on in dentistry. The number of are keeping their natural teeth longer can recommend various methods to older patients are increasing because of scientific developments restore moisture. Chewing sugar free steadily and treatments are getting and preventive emphasis in dentistry. candy or gum stimulates saliva flow more focused on their natural teeth. Is maintaining strict oral hygiene and moisture can be replaced by Some patients in this group require using artificial saliva and oral rinses. special consideration as their reduced necessary with age? Yes, thorough Do adults get cavities? Yes, tooth mobility and dexterity makes daily daily brushing and flossing of your decay is the same for everyone, oral hygiene difficult and thus com­ natural teeth are essential to keep regardless of age. The nature of the plicating treatments. Dental societies them in good condition-especially decay problem changes somewhat as have set up access programs to assist as you age because plaque can build people grow older. Adults are more older adults, individuals with physi­ up quickly on the teeth of older likely to have decay around older cal or mental disabilities, and indi­ adults and hence increase your risk fillings, decay of the tooth root is gent persons to receive care. for tooth decay and periodontal dis­ ease. also common-the gums recede, Dentists are aware of the special exposing the softer root surface, Secondly, reduced saliva flow that needs and the importance of dental which decays more easily than tooth results in dry mouth is a common health in older patients. These enamel. Tooth decay is also pro­ problem among older adults. It is patients are more health conscious as moted by dry mouth, xerostomia, caused by certain medical disorders a group than ever before and know which is common in older patients. and is often the side effect of medi­ that their oral health is an important Is periodontal disease a major fac­ part of their overall health. cations such as anti-histamines, anti­ hypertensives, anti-depressants, tor for tooth loss in adults? Yes, the Normal effects of aging do not have decongestants, painkillers, diuretics, longer the disease goes uncontrolled, to include tooth loss and several and radiation therapy to the head and the more damage it causes to gums options are available. Teeth are neck. Some common problems asso­ and other supporting tissues. Hence meant to last a lifetime and today's ciated with dry mouth, xerostomia, the importance of daily oral hygiene dental technology and health con­ are constant sore throat, burning sen­ and regular dental visits. scious public are making that come sation, problems speaking, difficulty Are regular oral examinations nec­ true. Improvements in seniors' oral swallowing, hoarseness or dry nasal essary for adults wearing prosthesis health can be attributed to a better passages. If left untreated, dry (dentures)? Yes, the mouth is oral hygiene, improved nutrition, flu- mouth can damage your teeth. With- checked for any changes with the FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 39 ridges, the tongue, and joints of the vitamin or mineral supplements. Use modate your needs. Advances in jaw as well as oral cancer. As the these supplements only after discus­ pain and anxiety control, including jawbone shrinks, so do the gums. sions with your physician. behavioral therapy techniques have When the prosthesis does not fit Are cosmetic techniques/implants made dental visits relatively easy. properly do not try to change the fit good for older adults? Yes, older What about fixed incomes and with do-it-yourself-kits available adults can benefit from the various dental costs? Older adults do not over the counter. This can damage options available today for improv­ need to go without treatment due to the dentures and make them un­ ing the smile. Part of older adult­ financial reasons. There are various repairable. hood is the acceptance of aging and dental society sponsored assistance Are medications an important fac­ the development of realistic expecta­ programs available. They vary from tor? Yes, provide the dentist with tions for appearance. Cosmetic den­ one community to another, so call complete up-to-date information on tal treatments for older adults along your local dental society for informa­ your health giving all the names, with good oral hygiene and regular tion, and they will guide you to the doses and frequency of any medica­ dental visits can help improve the nearest assistance programs and low­ tions you are taking as well as the appearance, which plays a critical cost dental care locations, such as name of the physician. This infor­ role in psychological development public health and dental school clin- mation will help the dentist to select and well being. Dental implants are a ~s. = the safest and most effective method solution for patients who cannot of treatment. function adquately with conventional Vasrrin Ghatlalli is a practicing dentures. However, not every patient dentist in New York City. She has Is nutrition important? Yes, many served on the executive committee of older adults do not eat balanced diets is a candidate for implants. The deci­ sion can be made only after a very the Indian Dental Association in var­ and avoid meats, raw vegetables, and ious positions and is a past president. fresh fruits because they have trouble careful examination and diagnostic tests. At present she is a trustee of IDA chewing or swallowing. Painful (USA). Yasmin has served on the teeth, ill-fitting dentures, dry mouth Should people fear dental visits? board of the Zoroastrian Association or changes in facial muscles can Anxiety over dental treatment is of Greater New York (ZAGNY) and is cause these problems. Sometimes experienced by people of any age. at present a trustee of the Darbe due to disease or medications there is Older adults may be less able to cope Mehr Zoroastrian Temple, New York. also a change in taste. But it is with stress. Communicate with the She has also spearheaded various imperative that older adults have a dentist and share your feelings so Zoroastrian projects in India and in balanced diet and may need a multi- adjustments can be made to accom- the US.

The stately Cypess (Sav) cU&ide Yard. This much revered Cypress with its gnarled trunks stands tall and evergreen, in the midst of dusty sand and rocky terrain, in a small village on the road to Yazd. Pilgrims are drawn to this stately tree, which they firmly believe was planted by Zarathushtra 4,000 to 5,000 years ago. Below, sign at the tree.

40 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 By Kayomarsh P. Mehta savings are. They are not interested money and invest it in the global Palos Hills, Illinois necessarily in our well being. They economy and earn much higher rates just want to sell their products. of return on our money and give us Write down your The solution is to concentrate on historically low rates of return. We Investing Goals what is the best solution for us. We must learn to bypass these traditional When we talk about investing, we need to get educated on how to han­ institutions and invest our money mean putting our long-term savings dle our finances. No one is better directly in the global economy. A to work for us. Long term is 5-10 qualified to handle our own money safer way to do this is by investing in years or longer. Investing is for major than ourselves. Let us learn the mutual funds as opposed to buying expenses down the road. The first basics of money and then apply it to individual stocks and bonds. step is to write down our investing take charge of our investments. After Compound Interest is the most pow­ goals. This may sound like a waste of attaining basic education about erful force in the universe -Einstein time, but, actually, there is no other money, let us prepare a written plan, topic that is as important to our With compound growth, the earlier our own Financial Needs Analysis to investing future. Our goals should we start saving, the less we'll have to establish the programs that can help have time frames associated with put away each month. It's a simple us achieve our goals and dreams. them and should be prioritized. fact that the longer our money is Do we have a written program invested and working for us, the bet­ Most people don't plan to fail, ter we will be able to weather the ups they fail to plan to get out of debt and retire financially secure? and downs of the economy, and the The problem. Traditional financial less risk we'll have to take on to institutions sell products. They don't Our written program must provide us the status of where we are and where achieve our goals. Then there are tax provide us a total solution. We must advantages with some investments, stop dealing with them to purchase and how we will achieve our finan­ cial goals. It should give us a Finan­ the longer we own them, the less individual products. Instead look for taxes we have to pay on them. a total solution provider and work cial Independence Number (FIN) with them. Each month, our money for our retirement. FIN is the amount Refinance with an accelerated goes out to various institutions for of money that we must accumulate to principle mortgage mortgage, credit cards, installment retire comfortably and live the Most conventional mortgages we pay loans, mutual funds, savings lifestyle that we want in our non­ the majority of the interest for the accounts, 401(k), life insurance, etc. earning years. Our financial plan first 20 years and then pay the princi­ What are the chances of all these must provide solutions in the areas of ple in the last 10 years. These are people that our money goes out to, investments, debt elimination, called deferred principle mortgages. coming together to make a plan for income protection, income manage­ We must seek out accelerated princi­ us to get us debt free and become ment and expense management. ple mortgages, which do a biweekly financially independent? Absolutely How money works direct principle buy down of our none. Why? Because our mortgage Traditionally we invest our money in principle and help us pay off our broker has no interest in what our life banks, credit unions and insurance loans faster by re-amortizing the loan insurance is. Our life insurance agent companies. They in turn take our every two weeks. This helps us pay has no interest in what our 401(k) off a 30 year loan in about 22 years.

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 41 The theory of decreasing Now, no matter which lane moves opportunities to bounce back from responsibility - life insurance faster, our investments will get hard times. In the early years, we have young ahead, since we are invested in each • Find the right risk comfort level. children, high debt and house mort­ lane. This is called Asset Allocation. Be clear about the risks associated gage. We have very little savings. It means dividing our portfolio up with your investments and whether Loss of income would be devastat­ among different investment cate­ you can live with them. Develop a ing. In the early years we may need a gories. personalized investment strategy that lot of life insurance coverage. How­ One key principle is to acquire a mix takes risk into account. ever, in the later years as children of asset classes whose price move­ • Have emergency savings on have grown, our debts are lower and ments don't mirror each other too hand. Ideally, have enough to live on mortgage is paid, we may not need closely. The goal is to lessen the neg­ for three to six months without life insurance. Retirement income is ative effects on our portfolio from a another penny coming in. Use it as a more needed. decline in one particular industry or backup for problems with invest­ Buy term and invest the another. Mutual funds can be an effi­ ments or a way to pay bills if your difference - life insurance cient way to do this. Remember, income is interrupted. select investments with an eye One of the biggest "investments" we • Skyrocketing health costs mean towards meeting our goals, staying make is in purchasing cash value life you'll probably need 100% of your within our timeline and our risk com­ insurance. For most of us it makes current income in retirement. sense to buy what is called 'term fort zone. Choose a mix that fits your overall strategy. • Your pension, plus social secu­ insurance', which is significantly rity, will not cover half of your cheaper and can afford the proper Dollar cost averaging. Although a expenses in retirement. You'll have amount of protection needed for a one-time investment or a few years to cover most of your monthly costs significantly lower premium. The of saving can make a difference in with your own savings. savings in the premium payments our financial nest egg, the real power can be invested separately outside of of compound growth comes when we Principle Protected Funds the insurance company to get a better make regular investments of fixed and Annuities return for ourselves. amount each month over many years. A new wave of funds and variable This is called 'dollar cost averag­ annuities offer what seems to be the The three D's of ing'. With retirement planning, or best of both worlds today. They let us successful investing any other financial goal, the sooner invest in stock and bond funds, while • Diversification we set up an automatic savings plan, protecting our principal at the same time. There's no free lunch when we 8 Dollar cost averaging the more money we'll have down the road. It is very important to start as get this kind of principal protection. 8 Discipline early as possible. By investing a Expect to pay extra annual fees for Diversification. Most investments fixed sum each month, we gain by the coverage. go up and down in value over time­ taking into account the fluctuations Here's how the principal protection but not necessarily at the same time. in the price of shares of mutual typically works. After 7-10 years, To weather the highs and the lows of funds. When the price is down, we the insurance company examines the the market, diversify. Make sure all accumulate more shares and vice value of our funds/annuity. If it is investment nest eggs aren't in the versa. Over a long time dollar cost less than our initial investment, it same basket. For example, we all averaging offers a higher return in an will kick in extra money. Say we have experienced sitting in a traffic unstable market condition than invest $50,000 and after 10 years, it's jam. Our lane is not moving, so we investing a chunk at one time. worth just $45,000. The insurance change from one lane to the other in Discipline. company will kick in $5,000 to bring the hope of getting ahead. Much to the value back to $50,000. How can our frustration, our new lane now • When building your portfolio, try an insurance company offer all this stops moving and our original lane to avoid 'timing the market' to antic­ protection? It sets up reserves to starts moving. So what can we do? I ipate when it will be at it's highest or meet any estimated claims it must am afraid there is no solution for get­ it's lowest, and avoid trying to pick pay. It also hedges reserves against ting ahead in the traffic jam situation, the next hot asset class. Instead, stock and bond market losses. An however, we can apply this analogy focus on your goals and remain insurance company's guarantee is to our investments. steady on your course. Remember only as good as the insurance com­ 'time' in the market is more impor­ pany behind it. So before investing in We divide our investments into vari­ tant than 'timing the market'. ous parts and put them (invest them) a fund or a variable annuity with any in the different lanes of the economy. • Invest for the long-term. This principal guarantee, it pays to evalu­ gives your portfolio additional ate the company's strength.

42 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 I hope that this brief outline will pro­ vide our community members some Oh! Where have the yesterdays gone? insight into successful investing to ccording to today's regulators and bureaucrats, those of us who were kids achieve financial independence. For Ain the 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s or even the early 80s, probably shouldn't my part, I will offer a complimentary, have survived. confidential Financial Needs Analy­ Our baby cribs were covered with bright colored lead-based paint. We had sis to provide a customized solution no childproof lids or locks on medicine bottles, doors, or cabinets, and when to help Zarathushti families achieve we rode our bikes, we had no helmets. their goals and dreams. The only thing that I ask in return is that they Not to mention the risks we took hitchhiking ... in turn donate generously to further As children, we would ride in cars with no seat belts or air bags. the cause of our community. Ill Riding in the back of a pickup truck on a warm day was always a special treat. We drank water from the garden hose and not from a bottle. Horrors! We ate cupcakes, bread and butter, and drank soda pop with sugar in it, but we were never overweight because we were always outside playing. We shared one soft drink with four friends, from one bottle, and no one actually died from this. We would spend hours building our go-carts out of scraps and then rode down the hill, only to find out we forgot the brakes. After running into the bushes a few times, we learned to solve the problem. We would leave home in the morning and play all day, as long as we were back when the street lights came on. No one was able to reach us all day. Kc:~cnash P. ~ is an No cell phones. Unthinkable! independent representative of Primerica Financial Services, a We did not have Playstations, Nintendo 64, X-Boxes, no video games at all, subsidiary of Citigroup, offering a no 99 channels on cable, video tape movies, surround sound, personal cell wide range offinancial solutions and phones, personal computers, or Internet chat rooms. services. He is past president of the We had friends! We went outside and found them. Zoroastrian Association of We played dodge ball, and sometimes, the ball would really hurt. We fell out Metropolitan Chicago (ZAC) and has of trees, got cut and broke bones and teeth, and there were no lawsuits from devoted over 30 years as an active these accidents . They were accidents. No one was to blame but us. Remem­ member of the Zarathushti commu­ ber accidents? nity in Chicago. He was awarded the FEZANA Outstanding Zarathushti We had fights and punched each other and got black and blue and learned to Award in 2002. Kayomarsh is chair get over it. of the Religion Education Committee We made up games with sticks and tennis balls and, although we were told for FEZANA and ZAC and is cur­ it would happen, we did not put out any eyes. rently working on plans to establish We rode bikes or walked to a friend's home and knocked on the door, or rang and manage a North American the bell or just walked in and talked to them. Zarathushti Learning Center. He can Little League had tryouts and not everyone made the team . Those who be reached at [email protected], didn't had to learn to deal with disappointment. tel: 877-558-7665 or 708-974-1238. Some students weren't as smart as others, so they failed a grade and were held back to repeat the same grade. Horrors! Five simple Tests were not adjusted for any reason. rules to be happy Our actions were our own. Consequences were expected. Imagine that! The idea of parents bailing us out if we got in trouble in school or broke a • Free your heart from hatred law was unheard of. They actually sided with the school or the law. • Free your mind from worries This generation has produced some of the best risk-takers, problem solvers, • Live simply and inventors, ever. • Give more We had freedom, failure, success, and responsibility --- and we learned how • Expect less. to deal with it. Congratulations! - Anonymous

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 43 A plan of action to help individuals and families adopt a charted course, enabling them to preserve their wealth and provide for their next of kin.

By Jamshed B. Gandi die in complete bliss having escaped Another benefit of living trusts is the San Francisco, California estate taxes. In a democracy, the com­ ease of transfer of the assets on death mon man has to put up with such as well as the titling of assets during Estate Taxes - a roadmap mockeries. However, I propose that one's lifetime. Joint ownership, ten­ few issues incite passion and individuals continue to plan and work ancy in common, community property debate as estate taxes do. Call it with what is offered. and other forms of ownership each wealth tax, death tax or inheri­ have very different outcomes on the tance tax, politics run deep depend­ One should use the exemptions, and consider lifetime gifts as an essential passing of property and may negate ing on your leanings and attitude to the provisions laid down in your will. government, and redistribution of estate plan to move any future appre­ ciation to the next generation. Keep A careful review of all titling of assets wealth. In this article, I intend to is always imperative, keeping in mind suggest a plan of action, thereby in mind that gifts continue to qualify for the annual exclusion of $11,000 your state of residency. helping individuals and families Map your journey with adopt a charted course, enabling to each individual. I think this them to preserve their wealth and remains the quintessential plan to the destination in sight provide for their next of kin. ' . keep your future estate tax exposure In my experience of advising clients to a minimum. Estate taxes are all in developing an estate plan, I sug­ The first step about control. To reduce your tax, gest first that they come to terms with In congress a battle looms over the you have to relinquish complete or their wishes. That takes time, but it elimination of estate taxes, and cur­ partial control. Therein lies the is essential to tailor the plan to fit rent predictions abound as to the final enigma of all planning and giving. one's criteria. Individuals with phi­ outcome. It is important to remain Document your plans lanthropic aims should consider set­ educated as to the evolution of this ting up trusts such as Charitable After a general line of action has been battle, and plan for all eventualities. Remainder Trusts, which provide determined, the next step is to put the In 2003, each individual is able to income during ones lifetime with plan in place. Some of the essentials either gift, or pass property on death, assets passing to charity on death. in this phase are to draw up a will, and to a limit of $1million without any Unlimited deductions are available possibly a living trust. Dying intes­ estate, or gift tax ramifications. This on death, on assets that pass to a tate could lead to unintended conse­ limit will progressively rise thru 2009, charity. to $3,500,000. Then comes the real quences, and in effect, relinquish partial control to the state. I seriously In a typical family situation, assets vagary of the law, which eliminates pass to the surviving spouse on the estate taxes in 2010, and brings in the suggest considering a living trust where warranted and professional first death and on the second death past lower exemptions ($675,000) in they move to the children. A plan 2011, unless Congress takes some help is a prerequisite to this. Wills keep you in control, not the state, and should make optimum use of mitigat­ future steps. One could defy destiny, ing the estate taxes on both deaths. and plan to die in 2010, and therefore living trusts avoid probate, which in certain instances can be costly. There is an unlimited marital deduc-

44 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 tion on the first death if assets pass to the surviving spouse. In this instance An Old Laays Poem ... there is usually no tax liability on the When an old lady died in the geriatric ward of a small hospital near Dundee, first death. On the second death the Scotland, it was felt that she had nothing left of any value. Later, when the combined assets are taxed. nurses were going through her meager possessions, they found this poem. Its However, it is essential that each quality and content so impressed the staff that copies were made and dis­ individual utilizes the $1million tributed to every nurse in the hospital ... exemption and not waste them. This This little old Scottish lady, with nothing left to give to the world, is now the is accomplished by setting up a author of this anonymous poem winging across the Internet. Goes to show Credit Shelter Trust (Bypass Trust) that we all/eave SOME footprints in the sands of time. to take effect on the first death and having the income pass to the surviv­ What do you see, nurses, what do you see? ing spouse during their lifetime, and What are you thinking when you're looking at me? the assets to the children, on the sec­ A crabby old woman, not very wise, ond death, keeping in mind the pro­ Uncertain of habit, with faraway eyes? gressive increase in credit exemption to $3,500,000 in the year 2009. Who dribbles her food and makes no reply When you say in a loud voice, I do wish you'd try! Some other planning devices that I Is that what you're thinking? Is that what you see? have found to work in family situa­ Then open your eyes, nurse; you're not looking at me. tions are the use of setting up Family Limited Partnerships, where fami­ I'm a small child of ten ... with a father and mother, lies gift interests to their children Brothers and sisters, who love one another. during their lifetime, but retain most A young girl of sixteen, with wings on her feet, of the control over the partnership Dreaming that soon now a lover she'll meet. assets. What this accomplishes is passing value of assets, with future A bride soon at twenty my heart gives a leap, appreciation to the children. Remembering the vows that I promised to keep. Since the children are gifted limited At twenty-five now, I have young of my own, interests in the partnership, these Who need me to guide, and a secure happy home. interests are discounted and provide a further benefit in reducing possible A woman of thirty, my young now grown fast, future estate taxes for the parents. Bound to each other with ties that should last. At forty, my young sons have grown and are gone, Life insurance is a vital component But my man's beside me to see I don't mourn. of any estate plan, and could be a funding mechanism for an eventual At fifty once more, babies play round my knee, estate tax liability. This enables the Again we know children, my loved one and me. assets to be retained by the beneficia­ Dark days are upon me, my husband is dead; ries and taxes to be paid from the I look at the future, I shudder with dread. proceeds of the policy. A stand alone irrevocable life insurance trust I'm now an old woman ... and nature is cruel; could be considered, where the pro­ 'Tis jest to make old age look like a fool. ceeds of the policy are not included The body, it crumbles, grace and vigor depart, as an asset of the estate. I have often There is now a stone where I once had a heart. found the set up of trusts to be profi­ cient tools for estate planning for But inside this old carcass a young girl still dwells, assets to be passed to beneficiaries at And now and again my battered heart swells. a later stage in life. Once again the I remember the joys, I remember the pain, thought being that assets are And I'm loving and living life over again. removed from the estate, with further appreciation being passed onto the I think of the years ... all too few, gone too fast, beneficiaries. And accept the stark fact that nothing can last. Grantor Retained Trusts may serve So open your eyes, nurses, open and see, this purpose where income needs to Not a crabby old woman; look closer ... see ME!! [Continued on page 106] Submitted by Rusi Sorabji FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 45 Your retirement masterpiece begins with your dream or vision of your retirement. We all hope that our golden years will be a time of wealth, prosperity and enjoyment. Our objec­ tive is to be financially independent, and be able to do what you want, when you want. Hence proper planning is very important. By Ann Arnavaz Elavia hope that our 'golden years' will we need to take. It is not uncommon Westmont, Illinois actually be a time of wealth, prosper­ for most individuals to put off retire­ ity and enjoyment. Hence good plan­ ment planning until the age of forty. th the aging of the ning is very important. It is at this point in our lives that Zarathushti population, we There are some bleak government retirement looks real. are facing the same concerns statistics about retirees: only 1 in 20 The key to a fulfilling retirement is to as the rest of the North American reaching retirement age is able to retire to something, not from some­ community. Today, we find that the support themselves financially. 95% thing. average North American is living of the population does not have ade­ longer due to advances in medicine. quate savings for their retirement It is not uncommon for people to live ' ' The key to a fulfill­ years; and out of those who reach at least 25 to 35 years in retirement. ing retirement is to retire retirement with adequate income, it With long life becoming increasingly is estimated that two-thirds become common, more Americans are now to something, not from impoverished during their retirement realizing that their retirement plans years due to medical expenses. It has must address needs which arise over something ' ' been proven that those who have the a longer life span. Living long also money to enjoy in retirement are The first important step in retirement means placing a financial burden on most in touch with their financial planning is dreaming and visualizing our families and on the tax payers. affairs. This does not mean that they your ideal retirement. Becoming financially dependent necessarily do their own investing, upon someone or on the social secu­ All masterpieces on canvas are cre­ but they were aware of their finances. rity system is a frightening develop­ ated with a dream and a vision. Your ment. To avoid this each person must retirement masterpiece begins with The first step in retire­ your dream or vision of your retire­ take responsibility for their financial ment planning - dream­ well-being and plan for their retire­ ment. Creating your ideal retirement ment years. ing and visualizing masterpiece is a necessity to ideal retirement planning. Your vision will It is never too early to plan for retire­ In retirement, our main objective is determine every aspect of your ment. There are some key steps that to be financially independent. We all retirement plan. 46 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 At this juncture it is important to For most investors the effort is cent wooden horse, nostrils flaring, understand that retirement is a point focused on accumulating and manag­ front hooves flying. The grandson in time in your life, when you have ing assets, but not enough thought is asked "How did the teacher know the financial freedom to do what you given to drawing out money in retire­ this horse was inside?" It was a sim­ want and when you want. Also keep ment. Retirement plans with tax ple question - but one we should all in mind, retirement does not neces­ advantages are great ways to accu­ ask ourselves. How do we know sarily mean end of work. Nor is mulate wealth, but these tax-advan­ what is inside the retirement master­ retirement age-related. Retirement is tage plans hold many people hostage piece we create, unless we allow our­ an opportunity to do what you enjoy. to their own success when withdraw­ selves to dream. It does not matter what you do, what ing. So learn the rules, and adopt a The moral of the story is: Dream, matters is that you pursue what you tax-smart withdrawal strategy. create and enjoy your retirement believe is worthwhile and what gives masterpiece! • you fulfillment and joy. Protecting your assets The next step in planning for a Arnavaz (Ani Elaui~ CPA, Assessing your secure financial future is ensuring MBA is a personal and business financial situation protection of your financial assets. financial advi­ Once you determine your financial Evaluate your risks, take calculated sor, a franchise goals for retirement, the next step is risks and transfer the risk that you owner ofAmer­ to assess your financial situation. The cannot afford. Protect and insure ican Express questions you need to ask yourself your assets such as your home, Financial Advi­ are: Where are you now, financially? health, income, and your life. Also sors Inc. (an What is your cash flow? What is your protect your control through estab­ American net worth? When do you want to lishing wills, durable power of attor­ Express Com­ retire? Determine your timeframe ney, a health care power of attorney pany). She is and determine costs to live the and a living will. registered with the National lifestyle you desire. Summary In order to project these costs for Association of Security Dealers and To successfully plan for retirement holds Series 7, 63, & 65 licenses, as your retirement years, you need to visualize your retirement, set goals examine your budget today. You also well as license in life, health insur­ and create your retirement plan. ance and annuities. She is a member need to assess your frame of mind Assess your financial situation and about money. This is called risk of the A/CPA and the Illinois CPA project your needs, protect your Society and a financial advisor/edu­ assessment. Your attitude about risk assets, evaluate your investments, cational seminar presenter for the will have a profound impact on your and minimize your risks and taxes. Village of Downers Grove. Arnavaz financial goals. Then ask yourself One client tells this story: She took is president of the Zoroastrian Asso­ what are you doing today to meet her 4-year-old grandson to her' art your goals of financial independence ciation of Metropolitan Chicago. class and in the class was a block of Married with three children, she is for tomorrow. wood the teacher was going to carve. involved in PTA; was past chairper­ Building a Some months later her grandson was son for partners in girl scouting and financial portfolio once again with her and there was a brownie troop leader. She can be this same chunk of wood and emerg­ reached at 630-852-6103, An important step in financial plan­ ing from this wood was a magnifi- aelavia@ hotmail. com. ning is investing in the right invest­ ment vehicles. There are so many choices, and one that may be appro­ priate for your friend may not be ~wow to Stay Young~~ appropriate for you. Invest under­ • more gems from George Carlin [from page 331 standing the types of risk, and create a portfolio that matches your risk and • Surround yourself with what you love - family, pets, keepsakes, music, your objectives. Chasing after rates, plants, bobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge. market timing, and random pur­ • Cherish your health. If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable, improve it. chases do not result in best portfolio If it is beyond what you can improve, get help. performance. Consider a portfolio • Dont take guilt trips. Instead, take a trip to the mall, to the next town, to a that diversifies risk and is balanced foreign country. But never to where the guilt is. to match your financial profile. • Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity. Implement tax saving strategies. [Submitted by Zarine Karanjia]

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 47 In North America, "retirement" is a multi-million dollar industry. Public and private retirement facil­ ities are mushrooming daily. Notwithstanding this fact, if Zarathushtis wish to "grow old" in an envi­ ronment in which we share a common religious faith, a common value system, and a common social/cultural background, then the community needs to put a plan of action into place for its "aging future". u...... u.,~.._JL,..... cotii-' .· :lll1ll1ity. ·•Toift~et; .. fll:e cltallenge 9f' proyidil1g a con~~ ·tinuun(of :::l '"" 0 continent have built good institu­ AGE GROUP (Male = left bar, Female = right bar) tions. We need to build on the infrastructures already in place, FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 49 adopt modern standards for the exist­ but go two to three times a week to housing services should be on help­ ing institutions, work in cooperation an ADHC center. The services an ing people to maximize their poten­ with gerontology professionals, and ADHC center can provide are: health tial to live as independently as take advantage of the strides made in monitoring, rehabilitation and ther­ possible. There are several options: the field of eldercare. By studying apy services, social activities and e Independent living retirement the strengths and weaknesses of both interaction with other seniors, thera­ community. These are usually pri­ the eastern and the western traditions peutic recreation, emotional support, vately owned communities that have of eldercare, and by incorporating the transportation and nutritious meals. privately owned detached homes, best of both, we can develop a sup­ ADHC services also provide much apartments and condominiums. portive system of care for our elders needed respite and support for the Some social activities, transportation, based on values cherished by the caregiver(s). and a cafeteria may be available. Zarathushti community. e Skilled nursing facilities. The 8 Senior independent apartment An outline plan of more complex medical needs of complexes and congregate living action for elder care seniors are usually provided in facilities. These are individual stu­ skilled nursing facilities. In the dio, one bedroom, or two bedroom Plan for health care. For health care Indian sub-continent we already have apartments, or a multi-unit building of the elderly, one needs to: in place nursing homes/infirmaries with individual apartments. All (1) Document, evaluate, and address and geriatric wards. These skilled apartments are equipped with their the physical and mental health prob­ nursing facilities can be upgraded to own small kitchens. The complex lems of the elderly. Studies should incorporate services that can enhance usually has a common reception area, be initiated to examine problems spe­ the quality of life of the elderly common activity rooms, common cific to the Zarathushti community (example: the 'Eden Alternative'). laundry facilities, housekeeping due to their hereditary and environ­ Skilled nursing facilities are expen­ assistance and optional provisions for meals. Social, recreational and mental circumstances. sive to run in North America, and are health services can be offered on a subject to strict government regula­ Depression and dementia are some of limited basis. There can be a cooper­ the most devastating age-related ill­ tions. It is best to consider partner­ ative ownership arrangement or a nesses. There is very little indication ships for this level of care. rental arrangement with a monthly that in-depth studies are done in the e Respite care. There should be a fee for services. field of mental health for the system in place (a part of a facility) e Assisted Living Facilities (ALF) Zarathushti community. It is impor­ that can provide short term, tempo­ are designed for individuals who do tant that we face up to the mental ail­ rary, or intermittent ongoing respite not require 24-hour nursing care, but ments of the elderly, and do not services that promote a dual purpose: need some form of supervision and sweep the issue under the carpet. provide care for individuals with can benefit from support services and (2) Explore the constellation/contin­ chronic illnesses/disabilities; and personal assistance with one or more uum of elder care options available, provide respite for the caregiver. activities of daily living. There are and support, improve, and enhance the In addressing the continuum of long various types of ALFs. They range from the 'board and care' models to quality of care provided by the hospi­ term care the hospice principles specialized dementia care models. tals and senior facilities already in should be applied. Hospice care pro­ existence [see www.eldercare. com]. vides for the management of pain Primarily, housing problems arise 8 Home and community-based and discomfort of terminally ill indi­ when the frail elderly cannot live care. 'Aging in place' is important to viduals, while creating an environ­ safely alone, or do not wish to live some seniors. Most elders wish to ment that encourages the individual alone. It is worth considering the stay in their own homes. Some sys­ and family members to remain phys­ variety of supportive living options tems are already in place and more ically and emotionally close until the that can be offered to members of the can be developed for delivery of in­ very end. community. In North America the feasibility of a home services for personal care, Plan for housing. The residential senior independent living complex monitoring of medications, provid­ care continuum: "Residential care is with an assisted living facility war­ ing therapies, developing strategies a global term covering a variety of rants some study. It is worth to compensate for physical limita­ facility types where the person lives researching the feasibility of a pilot tions, and assistance with meals. and receives care services." project in Houston, Texas, and/or • Adult day health care (ADHC). [www.eldercare.com]. A variety of other Zarathushti population cluster This is one of the most innovative eldercare options are available that areas of California, Ontario, British senior services. An ADHC center range from independent housing in a Columbia and the East Coast. offers care in a group setting. The communal setting to a nursing home. Planning is an essential step when elder can continue to stay at home, The emphasis while considering addressing eldercare issues. To avoid 50 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 Clockwise, elders in Chicago, Iran, Chicago, Iran and Houston. PHoTOs COURTESY: CYRUS RIVETNA (IRAN AND CHICAGO), FALl ENGI­ NEER (HOUSTON).

far-reaching negative consequences, changes; and (b) special prob­ both the individual and the commu­ lems and needs of the aging nity have to put a plan in place in Zarathushti community (social order to avoid decisions being made isolation, security and safety, in a crisis situation. age related diseases). Resource allocation and financial Create Committees on planning. Eldercare is an expensive Aging under the umbrella of proposition. With the increase in life existing community organiza­ expectancy there is a great need for tions to deal with aging issues pre-retirement financial education. It in their area. is important that both the individual Investigate our resources of and the community have a financial manpower and money for plan in place so that we are good stew­ eldercare. It is important to ards of our resources. The following stress that all strata of society checklist can be used as a first step: need planning and assistance () Evaluate and organize present with eldercare. It should not be financial and personnel resources to considered as simply a 'dole' create a sound economic and social proposition. support plan (money/manpower). Identify lifestyle factors and Be prepared on issues regarding health behaviors that directly influ­ wills/advance directives. ence the aging process (example: diet and exercise). Investigate Long Term Care Insurance or other financial plans. Create support services that assist the caregiver(s). Build on structures in place, and establish strong relationships with Be aware of elder abuse hospitals and skilled nursing facilities and neglect, and reduce their () Consider partnerships with other occurrence. long term care institutions. Consult with professionals Be aware of financial fraud. in the field of elder care. Explore available eldercare Recommendations facilities in the Indian subcon­ The following recommendations are tinent and North America. put forth with the hope that by acknowledging the challenge that Conclusion faces us, we can maintain and In the final analysis the improve the health and function of Zarathushti community has to the Zarathushti elders. adjust their mindset and per­ Conduct research and targeted ception toward eldercare. If surveys on: (a) demographic the family is in a position to

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 51 look after its elder family member(s) this is still the best situation. How­ ever, there has to be a recognition and acknowledgment that social structures have changed, and the demographic trends are alarming. The need is urgent to investigate alternate solutions for eldercare, so that our elders can maintain their quality of life, and retain as far possi­ ble, their valued societal roles. II! [Presented at the 5th World Zoroas­ trian Congress, Houston, 2000] INTERNET RESOURCES: www.elder- care.com, www.senioralternatives. com, www.aarp.com, www.global­ ideasbank.org, www.aoa.gov, www. ' fifty-plus.net, www.senior.com, www. dignityfoundation.com, www.nih. gov and www.aahsa. org. ' Soe~an:ii Dessai, MA, taught European history at Karachi Univer­ where old stars sity from 1973 - 1978. She emigrated to California with her family in 1984, and has worked at a Quaker multi­ shine the level retirement facility for the past 15 years. brightest Feasibility Survey on Housing feasibility survey on housing The Trust Funds Bai Maneckbai P. B. Jee­ Awas conducted by the FEZANA wzo Census and Survey Committee in ieebhoov Senior Citizen's Center in Navsari 2000-2001 on behalf of the Hous­ ton Parsi Partners to find out from the North American Zarathushti "Not even the most powerful army in the world community an interest in living in a can resist an idea whose time has cmne." Zarathushti housing community. - Victor Hugo We received completed surveys from 34 respondents. Of those who years - in a happy environment free responded, 15 were in the 50-59 By Dinshaw Kaiki Tamboly from stress and strain. age-category, six in the 70 and Mumbai, India older age-category, six in 40-49 age To have a philosophy is one thing; to group, four in the under 40, and remain faithful to it is quite another. e WZO Trust Funds, Bai three in the 60-69 age group. The We in the WZO Trust Funds have Maneckbai P. B. Jeejeebhoy majority expressed interest in living taken adequate care to adhere faith­ Centre for Senior Citizens at in a town house or apartment. (11 in fully to this philosophy. Our Centre Navsari, India, became functional in townhouses, 11 in apartments, 9 in has evolved into an institution full of January 1998, when it introduced a single family homes and 3 in activity, vitality and vigor, where our new concept of 'community living' residents pass quality time in peace, assisted living facilities.) Houston for senior citizens. (n=19) was the most mentioned happiness and tranquility. area of choice, followed by Cali­ The Centre is a very vibrant institu­ In addition to making the stay of our fornia (n=ll) and Chicago (n=4). tion whose underlying philosophy is residents comfortable and happy, the to ensure that our residents pass the WZO Trust Funds arranges for them By Rashna Ghadialy, chair evening of their lives - their golden FEZANA Census & Survey Comm. to attend Parsi 'nataks' on auspicious

52 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 Age is Opportunity For age is Opportunity no less Than youth itself, Though in another dressJ And as the evening twilight fades awayJ The sky is filled with Stars invisible by day. -Henry Wadsworth Longfellow Morituri Salutamus, 1875

From left, Laugh and the world laughs with you ... residents enjoy getting together for some entertainment; 'dance' by two seniors; Mrs. Peroja Patel, 84, from the USA, gives free rein to her creativity. days, and organizes picnics, as well Old stars surely shine the brightest, as annual outings spread over a few when we put life into days rather Flawless days to places of pilgrimage such as than days into life. Crow's feet around my eyes? Udvada and Sanjan. Well known per­ "Grow old along with me! sonalities are invited to visit the resi­ Now, how did a crow The best is yet to be, dents and share happy moments with manage to land on my face? them. The last of life, for which the first was made." Our residents are encouraged to give Bags underneath my eyes? vent to their inherent creative talents. - Robert Browning ------How many times Last September, a friendly contest Dirst&ntK. Ta1bclyis on the do I have to tell you was organized when the awesome International Board of WZO, Lon­ to throw away those tea bags talent lying latent in our residents don; chair of was manifest. Each of our residents in the flower beds? The WZO gave free rein to their creativity, from And Trust Funds, painting pictures to needlework to Stow baggage India; manag­ embroidery to stitching and so on. in the basement? And what better gratification than to ing trustee of the WZO Trust, realize that Mrs. Gaol C. Umrigar My eyes Navsari and (90 years) and Mrs. Piroja Patel (84 were meant years) [photo above] two of our the WZO Trust for Women & to look pretty, senior most residents canied the first be seductive, two prizes and the day. ~" Children, India; and trustee of the Bombay give come-hither looks Friendships, fellowship, fraternity, Parsi Punchayet, India as well as through contact lens are key words that guide and inspire numerous other welfare and cultural induced hue our residents and provide the synergy trusts/foundations in India. Profes­ that combine into a group living of blue. sionally, Mr. Tamboly has worked in together in harmony and goodwill, And not a graveyard senior management positions for each one caring for and loving for used, idle bags Bombay Dyeing, Reliance Industries another, all happy to be members of and cawing crows' claws. and Tata Textiles for 18 years. The the extended family of WZO. How many times main thrust of his public welfare With the Centre reverberating with activities is not to give doles, but to do I have to tell you pleasant and positive vibrations, our enable individuals to get back on I have no flaws. residents may not be getting younger their feet and live with self-respect -By Dinaz Rogers in age but in spirit they definitely are. and dignity. FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 53 l&)e \\l411Jbtgtott tJO!lt JULY 1, 2003 IIninigrants Grapple With Elderly Care More Retirement Homes Catering to Other Cultures Tuey Lim, 82, lives in a Maryland facility with other Chinese seniors and a Chinese-speaking staff.

(MICHAEL WILLIAMSON - THE POST)

BYPHUONGLY borhoods. "There's been a long tradition of if you're WASHINGTON POST STAFF WRITER going to leave your home and go to a strange place, you As a child in China, Tuey Lim heard the folk tales look for a common thread," Pong said. that ended not with a pair of young lovers, but with Asians make up only 2 percent of the U.S. popula­ children and their elderly parents living happily ever tion over age 65 nationally ... By 2050, projections after. As an 82-year-old immigrant in Montgomery show, the percentage of Asian seniors will triple ... County, she had to accept a different ending: her chil­ In Howard County, Korean-speaking residents live dren sent her to a senior home. in two small senior homes. Both have waiting lists. Long unknown in East Asia, where centuries of tra­ Grace House, the Burtonsville home for Chinese speak­ dition dictate that children care for their parents until ers, opened last year, with 20 people applying for seven death, retirement homes have become part of the Amer­ spaces ... The local facilities were developed by immi­ ican experience for a generation of aging immigrants. grants, who know firsthand the cultural shame against The cultural taboo, coupled at times with a language children who leave their parents with strangers. barrier, has made adjustment that much harder for some Grace Wong's parents came to Montgomery County seniors and compounded the guilt for their families. In eight years ago. "Parents, when they were young, they response, a new type of retirement home has emerged worked very hard for their children," said Wong, 44, that allows elderly Asian immigrants to hold on to whose parents live with her family. "So it is my respon­ some of their culture as they make their final adjust­ sibility to take care of them." But she said she firmly ment to Western society. believes exceptions to traditions need to be made when At the Burtonsville retirement home where Lim has an elderly parent is sick and needs 24-hour care. lived for three months, residents fill their time watch­ By federal law, most retirement facilities cannot ing soap operas - from Hong Kong and Taiwan. The advertise as being exclusive to any ethnic group. scent of steamed rice fills the kitchen, and vases of Nearly all homes have residents who receive Medicaid bamboo plants, for good luck, decorate the fireplace waivers from the federal government to help defray mantel. All six staff members speak Cantonese or Man­ expenses. darin Chinese. Namkee Choi, a University of Texas professor who When Lim's seven children first decided that she was studies ethnic seniors, said retirement homes are arriv­ too frail to live with them, she was silent for days. But ing in East Asia as well. now she concedes that the best compromise is to live in Bok Soo Chung, 80, cried when she first came to a home with other elderly Chinese. Emmanuel Care two years ago, but surprised her fam­ "Of course I have to go," said Lim, with the practi­ ily last year when she declined their offer to move back cal resignation of an immigrant who labored for two home to Columbia. decades in a D.C. Chinatown restaurant. "No one can In a sense, living in a retirement home has turned take care of me at home ... You can stay at home with into an American dream for Chung. your family, but your kids go to work all day. It's teTI"i­ ble; you don't have anybody with you." "I think the old tradition doesn't give people a lot of freedom," she said with a slight grin. "I can do what- As the senior population becomes more diverse, ever I want now." © 2003 The Washington Post Company housing experts say, retirement facilities targeting a specific culture will be a growing niche market. [Excerpts from this Washington Post article are Clayton Pong, executive director of the Seattle-based reprinted here due to their relevance to the similar sit­ National Asian Pacific Center on Aging, said the trend uation faced by Zarathushti immigrants in North Amer­ is similar to the way immigrants formed ethnic neigh- ica. Submitted by Rustom Kevala].

54 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 From left, Celeste Kheradi, Yasmin Kevala and Dr. Hoshedar Tamboli, giving a presentation on the active adult community, at the FEZANA AGM in May. The drawing shows the 5,000 home development at Sun City Center. Dr. Tamboli, who has a cardiology practice at Sun City Center, described the high standard of medical facilities available in the area, including assisted living, nurs­ ing homes and hospitals.

By Yasmin R. Kevala Potomac, Maryland prqposal tor an active he AARP Magazine of June 2003 explains how the "Baby retirement communitv Boomers are redefining retire- ment - and leading us all to a new Fellow Zarathushtis: Let us start working together now, generation of dream towns." It then focusing on the happy and comfortable lives ahead of us goes on to compile a list of 15 highly livable towns by looking at a range of criteria, such as affordable commu­ golf courses, and tennis courts small condominium villas of 1,100 nity life and job growth. aplenty. From then on things just fell square feet of heated area to single into proper perspective, as if propelled family homes of 2,500 sq. ft., and Grace Lichtenstein, former Denver by some hidden force. estate homes of over 3,000 sq. ft. bureau chief of the New York Times Currently there are four areas of new and author of the article, says: "Ulti­ Let me share three serendipitous homes on sale and more will be mately, of course, choices are as var­ events that occurred, so that you can ied as the people who make them. understand. opened up in the coming years. But this is a good place to start • The very name Sun City Center () "Keep it simple" is the lesson I dreaming." is synonymous with our belief. learnt by speaking to the Zarathushtis The majority of first generation • We found out that the next who had tried to build retirement Zarathushtis are 'baby boomers', or FEZANA AGM (in 2004) is sched­ communities in Houston, California around that age. The idea of living uled in Tampa. and New York. And simple it will be. comfortably in a community with The "planned affordable commu­ • We found out that we have nity" is already there ready to move friends for our retirement years fits friends already living in the area and right in for us. And I say: in- no forming corporations, buying there is a Zarathushti who has a car­ of land, hiring architects and builders "My fellow-Zarathushtis: Its time to diology practice in Sun City Center. or supervising construction. start working together and make the ow let me tell you what I mean dream come true." t'!'} Good climate - mild winters, Nwhen I say "Sun City Center has warm summers, ocean breezes. Sara­ Just by chance, last year my husband it all." sota used to be the home of the Rin­ Rustom and I found a community that • Sun City Center is a 5,000-acre gling Brothers, Barnum and Bailey meets our needs and dreams. It is development. It has been fully oper­ Circus. Tampa Bay metropolitan area called Sun City Center, located in the ational for the past 10 years, and is is the winter training ground of sev­ Sarasota-Tampa Bay area on Florida's 50% complete. High quality homes, Gulf Coast. AARP ranks Sarasota 4th eral major league sports teams and of among the top 15. It is a small, civi­ new and pre-owned, range in price course, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers lized city, with a temperate climate, from $ 80,000 to $500,000; from were last year's football champions. FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 55 • Low cost of living; fresh produce all year round and no State income tax. • The local economy is robust. Unemployment is a mere 2.8%, and it boasts a range of cultural activities. There are plenty of opportunities for full-time or part-time work or busi­ ness. • Good medical facilities. Three accredited assisted living facilities are located in the development and nationally recognized hospitals in the area. e Indoor and outdoor recreation and leisure activities for all ages. Right from tennis, swimming, golf, fitness centers, bridge clubs, pottery, stained glass, dance club, table ten­ nis, computer classes ... and the list goes on and on; with room enough The Clubhouse at Sun City Center: a community ready for us to move in. to add on any special interest. So, I say, again: preferred guest program at the Sun • It is only a one-hour drive to Walt "Let us work together and make City Inn, which costs only $109 Disney World and Orlando attrac­ things comfortable for ourselves." including use of all facilities. tions for the visiting family, grand­ children and friends. We have been giving importance to I really look forward to hearing from our youth; now let us go to the baby you. Together, we can make all our e There is easy access to travel and boomers so that we can be there for dreams come true. entertainment. They have a 10,000 them to show them what we mean by square foot, 800-seat theater with a a Zarathushti way of life. Vasrrin R. Kevall~ one of 5 chil­ stage, with Vegas and Broadway dren in a middle-class Parsifamily in style shows at a nominal fee of $20. I feel confident that after reading this Bombay was educated at Queen article, many more Zarathushtis with e There are three clubhouses with Mary High School as her parents their families will attend the halls and facilities that can be rented believed in good education. Being FEZANA 2004 AGM in Tampa. for meetings, navjotes and weddings. ambitious she went to work in Iran This will serve a dual purpose. First, All in tasteful settings amidst beauti­ for an American company, but after to get first-hand information as to ful lush greenery of Florida. making a successful career for her­ how FEZANA works. Second, to self she had to leave because of the ow comes the creative. part, of have an extended summer break with making use of our mamfold tal­ revolution. She then spent 17 years N Zarathushtis and enjoy all the diverse in Dubai where she built a thriving ents, and professional and business facilities available in Sun City Cen­ services. With all the above ameni­ financial consultancy practice based ter. The AGM is over the Memorial on integrity. Yasmin lives in ties and much more, we can go ahead Day weekend in 2004, followed by a and create our own Zarathushti sup­ Potomac, MD, and is planning to a visit to nearby Sun City Center. move to Florida. She can be reached port system, not out-sourcing any­ Those who wish to, can use the 3-day thing but in-sourcing most of our at [email protected]. needs and everyday services within our own community. Some may take this opportunity to jump-start a small business like tourism, catering, You know you"re getting old when ... garden and maintenance services, There is silver in your hair, gold in your teeth and lead in your feet. companion service and even accounting, consulting or medical You start turning off the lights for economy and not for romance. practice. Older retirees who need to You realize that youth is a blunder, supplement their savings can take up manhood a struggle and old age a regret. a part-time job. All of us can fill in and feel useful as we go along. -By Noshir Paghdiwalla, in Fed Newsletter, 2002

56 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 To prevent loneliness, frustrations and accidents the Healthy Zoroas­ trian Seniors have instituted a "buddy system" whereby daily con­ tact is maintained with seniors who are housebound. Assistance is pro­ vided of any kind as required, volun­ teer car-drivers provide the service of bringing seniors to various organized activities as well as to the regular monthly meeting of varied pro­ grams on items and issues of interest to seniors. The seniors also give back to the community and the association by volunteering their services during the Muktad ceremonies with cooking, setting up tables, and arranging the flowers for the various prayers. The annual Gourmet Fun and Food Fair Houston seniors, the "Golden Group" at an outing to Bayou Bend Gardens. organized by seniors is a fund raising Zarine Balsara [kneeling, far left] is coordinator of the group. event, which subsidizes their own activities as well as a donation to the Building Capital Campaign Fund. Another unique event of both the Ira­ how are we nurturing nian and Parsi Seniors is "Grandpar­ ent and grandchildren day." our senior zarathushtisll Zoroastrian Association of Metropolitan Chicago (ZAC) has a A compilation of programs, activities and senior citizen subcommittee chaired housing options for senior Zarathushtis living by Roshan Patel, which organizes a monthly "Senior's Day" at homes of in North America. different members. Car pools are By Dolly Dastoor arranged to pick up the seniors from their homes and bring them to the Montreal, Quebec home of the host family. The seniors ccording to the FEZANA 1998 Activities for elders enjoy and look forward to a day of census [Noshir Langrana, fun, food, jokes, games and stories of The Zoroastrian Society of 'EZANA Journal, Winter 1999} the old times. Sometimes the seniors Ontario (ZSO) has a sub-commit­ 1 in 10 Zarathushtis in North Amer­ are taken on outings. Another event tee called Healthy Zoroastrian ica is over the age of 60. Are we pre­ enjoyed by the seniors (as well as Seniors and its mission statement is pared to meet the challenge of their others) is the annual gathering at the "the overall improvement and well­ care? We get nourishment for our darbe mehr to make dar ni poris on being of our seniors and the wellbeing from socialization with Avan Roj and Avan Mah. enhancement of their life styles. " members of our communities where Their programs are developed to: Zoroastrian Association of Hous­ we live, where we work, where we ton (ZAH) has a group of about 20 pray. As we grow old, the source of (a) Give retired people and seniors an seniors known as the Golden Group socialization at work is no longer opportunity to meet socially and which meets at their Center every available, hence we turn to other share their interests, skills and talents. fourth Sunday of the month. They groups. One such group is our faith (b) Bring further awareness in mat­ organize car pools to visit interesting based communities and in our case ters of health and general well-being. places of interest viz. theatres, muse­ the Zarathushti community. (c) Encourage the development of ums and for special outings in and This is a summary of what we were creative leisure time activities. around the city. They invite speakers able to gather of activities for and by to advise the Golden Group on topics (d) Ensure self-sufficiency in all of interest to maintain a healthy seniors, from around the country. aspects of their lives. FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 57 I am in my 30s now, and I love it. I'm young enough to Zarathushtis this has do what I want, but old enough to appreciate it, young special significance enough to relate to children, but old enough to be taken because we are taught seriously as an adult. Over the past few years, my respon­ that we have the right sibilities have stayed the same - work, mortgage, bills, and the responsibility family commitments- while my ability to deal with my to use our responsibilities grew. With that ability came freedom, (Good Mind) and and in some ways, I am less serious now than I was as a choose the better of the younger adult (though the older I get, the more I think I paths we encounter in have a lot left to learn). life. Age can be relative. In recent years, while my friends Before we further were lamenting their upcoming 30th birthdays, I was · explore our proposed looking forward to mine, in part because most of the definition of aging, lets touch on popular media's defini­ people I work with were reminiscing fondly about theirs. tion. The media feeds us a continuous stream of pro­ Surrounded by people who wished they could be 40 gramming on products to cover grey hair, reduce again, 30 didn't seem bad at all. wrinkles, and maintain a 'youthful' appearance. The Outside of the office, a different reality prevails. The pressure seems to be so great that large numbers of 'youth' that society so prizes looks younger and younger people are choosing to inject deadly poison under their to me. A child asks me if 30 is "older than God." I am skin to reduce wrinkles or have major surgery to regain a reminded that when my grandmother was my age, she 'youthful' appearance. Why is our society so focused on already had a 6-year-old son and a 13-year-old daughter. the physical aspects of aging? Why do we value youth Blessed with good genes and a mother who taught me and devalue age? With the exception of reproduction early to use moisturizer, I am pleased now when a sales­ and the late stages of chronic diseases, the physical person asks me for my identification when I'm buying aspects of aging should have little impact on our lives. wine. I bless the bartenders or bouncers who ask me if Balancing getting grey hair, wrinkles, and new aches and I'm over 21. pains against the advantages of aging/maturing such as And when my 4-year-old stepson announced on my 30th wisdom, stronger relationships, and a better sense of our­ birthday that he was now older than I, I agreed with him. selves and our goals reveals that the physical changes are He had recently learned that, in addition, a zero adds quite minor. nothing; I had just added a zero to my age, he thought, so It shouldn't come as a surprise that our attitude towards therefore I had just turned 3. aging has a great effect on the process. An older person Who could argue with logic like that? once told us "Youth is given, age is earned." Research has shown that those who have a positive view of aging TRITY POURBAHRAMI and PETER CAPAK are healthier and happier. As well as those who have have been married just over a year and are still on their strong social networks are more likely to have more ful­ honeymoon. They are graduate students and researchers filling lives as they age. In other words, when tested, at the University of Hawaii. Trity's interests are in social they have better mental and emotional health scores than justice and public administration; her current focus is on those who have weak social networks. the impact of incarceration on children and families. We are not born with predisposed attitudes towards Peter is an astrophysicist on a mission to understand the aging. Therefore, how we perceive aging and old age is oldest and least known galaxies in the dark sections of strongly dependent on what we learn from our environ­ the big dipper. They can be reached at trityandpeter@ ment. It seems that those who have the strongest preju­ shiraz.ija.hawaii.edu. dices or pre-judgments about aging have less interaction The process of aging is a personal one. No two people with older adults which are mostly negative. Many of us I have the same experience or perspective on their own have made choices, career and otherwise, that have taken aging process. An example of this is the advice we have us away from our extended family. Neither do we see received as a newly married couple. We have heard our grandparents on a regular basis, nor do we take the everything from "make sure you spend as much time time to sit and learn their stories. All we seem to have together as possible" to "make sure you spend as little time for is a quick phone call to ask about their latest time with each other as possible." One reason for this physical health issues. Furthermore, we only sense the range of opinions is the range of personal experiences we urgency to contact them when "something is wrong," so have as we age. The accumulation of our experiences naturally we only focus on the difficulties and challenges such as the relationships we form with others is the act of of aging. We begin to equate aging and old age with a aging. Thus every choice we make will impact our expe­ painful and often lonely existence away from our loved riences which in turn define our aging process. As ones, to whom we are somewhat of an inconvenience.

60 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 Another life stage that younger adults seem to dread is TOXY COWASJEE, born in Karachi and educated in middle age; believed to be initiated with a 'midlife cri­ England, is presently the editor of "Hamazor", quarterly sis'. As our population ages and stays active into later publication of the World Zoroastrian Organization. Toxy years, it is becoming harder and harder to define when was president of the Karachi Zartoshti Banu Mandai for we are supposed to experience this crisis. Men are sup­ seven years and prior to that, secretary for 15 years, and posed to experience it by a great need to re-live their before that Child Welfare chairman for six years, which youth. For instance they are expected to buy sports cars she enjoyed the most. Toxy compiled and edited KZBM's and chase after much younger women. Women are sup­ first publication, "Manna of the Angels", a Parsi tradi­ posed to experience the crisis when their children leave tional cookery book, which had two editions, and raised home and they are faced with an 'empty nest' and no a large corpus for the institution. clear direction or purpose for the future. Dolly Dastoor Contrary to popular myth, we believe there is no midlife requested me to crisis, but rather that at one or more stages in our lives we contribute to the go through transition(s) when we re-evaluate our past FEZANA issue focused paths and choose our future ones. The key is that we need on aging, I was taken to take this time to stop or slow down our busy lives and aback. I thought, "Who, experience the transitions. Many of us do not seem to do me? Am I now one of this. Is it because we are afraid of discovering that we the senior citizens of our made wrong choices? Can one ever make a wrong ' community?" Right choice? What are these wrong choices? Did the doctors, through my life I have lawyers, or CEOs who dedicated all their time and energy reckoned anyone who is to building their career at the expense of strengthening or older to me by 20 years maintaining their family bonds make a 'wrong' choice? to be old, and still do. Admittedly, the bones do creak Did the homemakers who dedicated all their time and sometimes, the wrinkles have come for sure, and the energy to nurturing a family at the expense of furthering occasional age spots are visible if one looks closely, but their careers make a 'wrong' choice? Are these wrong thankfully I still have plenty of energy, a productive choices or striking a balance? It is our belief that aging is mind and a profound pleasure in my newfound freedom a continual process of balancing, through which we of having time on my hands to do what I enjoy. evolve our capacity for empathy and connections. If after Gone are the days of worrying about children's home­ re-evaluating our past paths we discover alternative paths, work and school reports, making them understand their that we had not considered in the past, then we have the responsibilities, wanting to spoil them but knowing it is right and responsibility to choose or modify our path. Do best to be firm, and all other little obligations of full-time we hesitate to do this because of fear? Do we fear change parenthood. Now I have a special privilege - the delight because it involves the unknown? of having grandchildren to love and enjoy along with the As Zarathushtis this has special meaning. It is difficult to knowledge that at the end of the day they will go home follow the path of Asha if you are bitter about your aging to their parents! (Perhaps this new appreciation of peace process. If you are living in the past you cannot renovate and quiet is a sign that I am indeed aging). I was fortu­ and renew the world, because you haven't taken the time nate to have my first grandchild just before I turned 50 to see what needs renovating. When you are stuck trav­ and today he is a tall teenager who bends down to hug his eling in one direction it is difficult to change. However, nani. Soon he will be telling me what to do, just as my it is our duty as Zarathushtis to think about every choice children try, a cycle of life we all go through. we make. When so doing we must be careful to act in the But this newfound freedom has its price. I find myself present and future - not in the past. What was a good wondering what it will be like if I survive my husband as choice several years or hundreds of years ago isn't neces­ he is so much a part of me. Manage I will, but how well sarily a good choice today. This is true both of people and is the question. I also think about illness and infirmity. societies. As our religion ages we have a larger and larger Longevity seems to be our destiny today, what with the collective memory and momentum. As with all societies, advancement of science, but is it worth it, if it comes our history is important, but the future is more important. without dignity? I, for one, would like to go out striding. It is our right and responsibility to question both our I also look at the other seniors around me. More than choices and society's choices. Only in this way will we 48% of Karachi Zarathushtis are over 60 years old, and, renovate and renew our world. Ia sadly, many live alone without family support. Our Parsi Colony, which at one time was bustling with activity, is like a ghost town as most of its residents are seniors. Count your age, not by years, Thankfully, we are a close-knit community, and there is but by friends -Anonymous always a good Samaritan to help the elderly in emergen-

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 61 cies, but there is no doubt they suffer from loneliness and So it's time to be proactive. What do I do best? Research. lack of TLC. In a country where facilities for the handi­ My first step is to read up on it. Courses and books about capped do not exist, many of the aged are practically memory improvement abound; and though some may imprisoned in their flats, never going out due to lack of help slightly, many only waste your time and money. transport and/or the lack of confidence in managing on Next, is to investigate the natural remedies and the phar­ their own. If only there was a 'home' where persons who maceutical industry that is working assiduously to find are unable to manage on their own could live out the agents that will enhance memory. Are Ginkgo Biloba, evening of their lives with dignity and companionship. vitamin E and other memory boosters for me? Well, all Joseph Joubert, an eighteenth century writer said, "The of these have possible other symptoms like excessive evening of a well spent life brings its lamps with it." I bleeding, heartburn, nausea, dizziness, and clots. I cer­ wish there could be light for all our seniors. fu:J tainly don't want to experience any of these symptoms. Memory enhancing techniques. So what does work? Graham McDougall of University of Texas proposes that ABAN RUSTOMJI, a school library media special­ using four techniques together can increase memory. ist, is an active member of the Zoroastrian Association of Looking around me I recognize four of my friends who Houston. Her current interests are setting up a library at exemplify his findings. All of these are a couple of years the Zarathushti Heritage and Cultural Center, working ahead of me, and all are very productive and happy. as a member of the CreatingAwareness team and pro­ moting the educational needs ofAfghan refugee children ~# The first is a strategy training, in which you do what with her summer visits to Quetta. seems like common sense; writing lists, putting things out so you'll remember in the morning. I remember it... um ... well. My friend Nawab whose forte is in list making "Hey, gorgeous, can you schedule me for a fits the bill. Dates, times, budgets, whatever mythology assignment next week?" is important he writes it down as a reminder "Yes," I said as I walked straight back to for himself and others till the job is com­ the library to schedule a class for my 9th pleted. He has discipline. grade Language Arts teacher. And even The second technique is a kind of confi­ though there was spring in my step, as I dence training. My friend Bapsi comes to still like a little appreciation, I had to do it mind, whose successes just accumulate right away or else ... I may just forget the over time. Her novels, her short stories, and requested dates. her plays have all had resounding success. The Is this diminishing memory normal for my age? literary world has claimed her and she is active What constitutes a normal memory? It turns out nor- and the older she gets, the more recognition and mal memory is extremely vatiable. Part of the cause is, I fame she receives. She thrives on her creativity. am told, genetic. A comforting thought for when I do for­ The third strategy is to have joie de vivre. There is get where I put my keys or when I can't remember names my friend Gooloo who never leaves her house without a that easily. beautiful piece of jewelry. Her glamour is not in her So I have journeyed into the patt of life where I am clas­ choice of clothes, although her style is both personal and sified as a 'senior'. A senior? When did I make this tran­ elegant. It is rather in the pleasure she takes in her life. sition from maidentime to mothettime to eveningtime? I She loves movies, follows the Oscars, she entertains, and flourished. I created. I felt no goal was beyond me. Is the is always interested in the community and neighborhood magic only in the past? around her. Her glamour lies in her spirit. I revel in the knowledge that I experience daily. Each (ill The fourth strategy is what Samuel Johnson defined day as I draw on my accumulated knowledge to make "the true att of memory is the art of attention". The late connections of which I was previously unaware, I realize Jerbai Patel comes to my mind. Each year on my annual that the knowledge has been there all along. I heard it or visit to Quetta she would pick from the exact spot and read it or puzzled over it at some point and stored it in the story where we left the year before. How did she remem­ deepest recesses to use later. It terrifies me that through ber what my children's sport scores were or what their the passage of time I may loose the ability to recall my grades were the previous years? She cared. She listened. memory. So, there is hope. With the passage of time, perhaps, I How cruel, I think to myself as I write. As I move closer cannot jump out of bed at quite the same nimble level, to an age where the brain begins to let go of information and I need proper light to read that fine print, and I can't and forgetfulness comes to bear, I am learning how vast party with friends with the same gusto. Yet, despite the the stores of knowledge are buried within. Not fair, my unfairness of the changes of the stages of life, I know I inner self screams. Not fair at all. I don't want to realize will continue to experience the same enthusiasm for a my depth only to lose it through the passing of time. new day and a new trip. !!~

62 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 BELLA TATA immigrated to Canada in 1981 and fuses and agitates them. You do not match whack for later joined the federal government where she is Execu­ whack, or be mean. tive Assistance Officer, Pacific Region, Industry Canada. Caring for someone for that person's benefit- and not In 1993, she was awarded a "Canada 125 Commemora­ the caregiver's convenience - is to give them your time, tive Medal" and in 2002, she was a recipient of the love and patience. If they don't sleep all night, it means Queens Golden Jubilee Commemorative Award. Bella that the caregiver does not either. This of all things can chaired the Eighth North American Zoroastrian be dangerous, and I send a warning out on it. I have Congress in Vancouver (1992); was FEZANA Congress almost fallen asleep at the wheel of my car, and could chair ( 1994-1998); and was the first president of ZSBC have had terrible accidents, but for His grace. I have ( 1998-2000), which was incorporated in 1968. Bella fallen asleep at meetings, but was understood and for­ lives in Vancouver with her mother, Shirin. given. The caregiver must take care of herself. hat would life be without G Monitor the aged person's condition each day. its surprises or challenges? Give bodily warmth to the person - hugs and kisses Totally unexciting. As we e in abundance, if possible. reach middle age, we perhaps start thinking about our next G Give the patient good food, clean water and fresh air. stage of being - old age. Will e Hygiene is very important even if they cannot be we be alone? Will we have bathed each day. They should be washed thoroughly. good health? Will we have e Listen to them if they can talk - otherwise look into enough to be comfortable on? their eyes to find out what they are suffering. And so on ... e Don't move them from one place to another if they All thoughts of one's self fade tend to be disoriented. into oblivion, however, when Try natural remedies as much as possible. we find ourselves not only aging, but taking care of the e aged. My sister's and my views are framed by very real e Build up a circle of support to enable you to take a experience. Aging in itself is not a fear if there is rea­ break from the strain of looking after a loved one. Even sonable mental or physical health. It is an uncharted a few hours of change from caregiving enables you to course of mostly 'downs' if there is rapid deterioration of charge your energy and enter the real world outside. one or both states of well-being. Each person's perspective is just that - an individual Our parents were both in excellent health. Our father experience. Caring for the aged is like caring for a baby, died, mentally sharp, but extremely weak, 10 years ago with some major differences. Expect opposition, insults after an agonizing three weeks in hospital. A couple of and disobedience, but remember that the person is not years before that, we noticed that our brilliant mother going to improve. There is not much for them or the was getting forgetful - put it down to getting old. Over caregiver to look forward to, unlike in the case of a baby, the years we discovered that every day would be a 'dis­ where childhood is a wonderful period. covery', as her mental faculties changed because of As a caregiver for our precious mother, my sister, Zarine dementia. How did we cope when we got 20 calls a day, Dastur, and I have learned to be proactive. We have a one after the other, in the office; mother disappearing wonderful doctor who has always entertained our some­ from the house or almost burning the place down; violent times frivolous attempts at finding solutions. Together fits, unusual language; crying, depression? How does we have tried to do the best we can. The burden of one cope when drugs have the opposite effect to what responsibility rests with the family - not the medical pro­ they are supposed to do? fession - as living with an aging parent or family mem­ As a caregiver, start learning something about the afflic­ ber has taught me some of the best lessons in life - the tion your loved one is suffering from. Have patience and meaning of true humility. understanding, and always be there for that person. Give The word 'sacrifice' should never enter the picture, or them lots and lots of physical warmth. Be vigilant, and 'service'. We help those in need, and no one can be stop a medication if you see it is doing more harm than needier than our aged. Only they know what they suffer. good, rather than waiting to find a doctor. As caregivers, my sister and I have suffered great pangs Our mother did not know what was happening to her, just of remorse at not being able to stop the degeneration, but as we did not. We never used that dreaded word the real pain lies with the sufferer. Alzheimers - we avoided it. My sister went to classes Look after the aged with all your heart and soul. • that talked about it, and learnt much from it - I stayed with my mother most of the time. A caregiver should not question a mentally incapacitated person - it only con- It is magnificent to grow old~ if One keepS YOUng. -FED Newsletter FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 63 • ;".~ ·· ·~jf· ..c!~~·ff~~c:,g;t:f!~:~·;·;!~ft:R:~I~~s~i~!~~"~~·:. ~;,;.(:. '·Jl~lj\i47112;:

FEZANA Journal takes pride in presenting two remark~ble. n~nage­ narian matriarchs, whose life's achievements are a true 1nsp1rat1on. Tehmina Mehli Mehta a portrait of strength and grace By Shahrokh Mehta

ing on a musical career, both socially and professionally. played the violin. After seven Then, in the mid-sixties, Los Angeles years of courtship, they were became the place they would finally married in 1935. Supporting call home. her husband's musical In Los Angeles, Tehmina immedi­ endeavors and raising their ately became active with her hus­ sons Zubin and Zarin while band's American Youth Symphony. maintaining family, social, She continues today as a member of and community ties became the advisory board of the orchestra her life's work. Early on in and supports the newly established, her marriage, Tehmina real­ Mehli Mehta Endowment Fund. ized how important music Tehmina accompanied her husband was to her husband and that on concert tours all over the world music took precedence over always behind the scenes, providing everything else. Tehmina and the important cues to her conductor Mehli formed a unique partnership in husband. She is as charming with ehind the two famous Mehta which she encouraged her husband's conductors is an extraordinary world famous musicians and Holly­ musical creativity and he in turn wood celebrities, as she is with her wife and mother whose behind­ reached out to her for her wisdom, the-scenes gentle conducting has fellow community members, always counsel, and her deep faith in the with a genuine affection and interest. gone largely unnoticed. Tehmina Almighty. Mehta [above] spent a lifetime Her graceful manner makes any con­ encouraging and supporting the musi­ A major turning point for Tehmina's versation with her easy and pleasur­ cal careers of her famous husband life was leaving India with Mehli in able and her gourmet Parsi cooking and sons and excelling in the role of 1955. Their sons were already study­ is renowned with friends and celebri­ matriarch of the Mehta family. ing abroad in Vienna and London, so ties. She derives great strength and the decision to leave and begin a new happiness from her two children, Tehmina was born in 1908 in Pune, life became easier. It was also obvi­ India. Daughter of Dhunmai and four grandchildren, and five great­ ous to her that the real appreciation grand children. Rustomji Daroowalla, she grew up in of the western classical music and Tehmina's unrecorded and unpubli­ Bombay along with her brothers the opportunity of success of Mehta cized achievements as a wife of the Tehmurasp and Maneck. She men lay in the western world. attended the Gitton High School and community's musical legend for 67 learned to play the piano at an early Moving from a comfortable upper years (her husband Mehli passed age. This love of music would be middle-class Parsi home in Bombay away on October 19, 2002 at the age instrumental in her chance meeting with five servants to a cold and of 94) and mother of two illustrious with her future husband and also her dreary house in Manchester, England sons who are constantly in the lime­ lifelong interest in the musical arts was hard for Tehmina. For a sari­ light of the western classical music that was to be the passion of the clad wife of an Indian assistant con­ world, have been a journey of pride, males in her family. certmaster of an all white prestigious fulfillment and unselfish dedication. Halle Orchestra, this was a signifi­ Tehmina first met Mehli Mehta in cant social change. Their next move • 1927, at a musical recital where she [Shahrokh Mehta, of Syracuse, New was to Philadelphia, USA, which York, is a nephew ofTehmina Mehta] played the piano and Mehli embark- comparatively was an improvement,

54 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 Coomi Bhathena on the wav to a centurv By Roshan Rivetna

II t 93, Coomi ("Coomi Aunty") alone in a one bed-room apartment on She got a diploma in handicrafts, and HBhathena of Toronto [photo right, the 25th floor of a hi-rise building in worked for 20 ensuing years as a at a ZSO reception in her honor last downtown Toronto - the same one handicrafts teacher. Fali, meanwhile year] is a very busy lady. that she moved into when she first had an automobile workshop at Lam­ These days she keeps busy with her came to Toronto over 35 years ago. ington Road. tailoring orders - dress-making, While she cannot get a driving license In 1959, her daughter (Dinaz Keki alterations, wedding/navjote outfits, at her age, she gets around (to the gro­ Irani, now living in New Kensington, daglis (to-date she has sewn over cery, bank, doctor's office, shopping, PA) got an opportunity to come to 150) sadras, blouses and more. She etc.) on a three-wheeled, battery­ Edmonton, Alberta to work as a also makes old-fashioned glass bead operated 'scooter'. Living in Canada, teacher. Thereafter, her other chil­ 'torans'. [See her advertisement in dren - Perviz Contractor (now living every issue of FEZANA Journal]. in Prescott, Ontario), son Aspy Bha­ But her greatest pleasure is in mak­ thena (now in Vancouver), son Dar­ ing matrimonial introductions. "Last ius Bhathena (now in Caledon East, year I even matched up a young man, Ontario), and daughter Bapsy Guard as well as his divorced father," she (now in Oakville, Ontario) also beamed. immigrated to Canada. Her son, Hoshi Bhathena has settled in Lon­ Charity and volunteer work are a don, UK, since 1951. large part of her life. Over the years she has given generously for the Then, in 1964, Coomi immigrated to Mehraban Guiv Darbe Mehr in Canada and lived for a year in St. Toronto, and for the new ZSO and Johns, NB, before moving to OCZF building projects, as well as Toronto. Subsequently, her husband to needy Zarathushtis in India - to closed up his automobile workshop atash behrams, agiaries, for perfor­ and immigrated in 1974. He passed mance of navar-martab ceremonies away in 1982. Coomi worked at sev­ and for relief to widows. This eral dress-making, tailoring and August she will stay for 6 days at the bridal shops in Toronto until she darbe mehr, as she has done every retired at 70. year for decades, cleaning and cook­ When I happened to ask about her ing for the Muktad ceremonies. health, Coomi Aunty laughed: Her philanthropy and volunteerism "Arrey, health-ni to vat-e) na pooch extends liberally to the larger ... Last time I went for a check-up, Toronto community as well. Last they tested and x-rayed every single year she was among the recipients of she does avail of OHIP benefits for part of my body, and EVERYTHING the 2002 Ontario Volunteer Service senior citizens - old-age pension, IS NORMAL!" Award, by the Minister of Citizen­ subsidized rent, and medical services. "My heart, blood-pressure, choles­ ship of Ontario. As the oldest of the But it has not always been smooth terol, sugar, even my mind and my awardees, she was interviewed on sailing for the remarkable Coomi memory EVERYTHING IS Canadian national TV. This award Aunty. Born in Jhansi, India in 1910, FINE!" takes a place of honor among her she was one of 12 children. (Her "Even the doctor asked me 'What is several other awards and recogni­ mother was one of 22!) When her your secret?"' she proudly added. tions of which she is very proud. father lost his job as a railway guard, Daughter Dinaz thinks it is her love Matriarch of a family of three sons the family moved to Bombay, where of scrabble games and crossword and three daughters, ten grand-chil­ an uncle brought them up. She was puzzles that keeps her mind so alert. dren and ten great-grand-children, 14 then. At 17, she manied Fali Bha­ mostly settled in Canada and USA, thena and raised a family of six. With her cheerful attitude and zest 93-years-young Coomi aunty, is a When the youngest was three, Coomi for life, Coomi Aunty is sure to make fiercely independent lady. She lives went back to complete her education. a century. • FEZANA JOURNAL - FALL 2003 65 • Stick to it. Your body adapts to it; change it and you confuse your Roll back the years metabolism. as you sail through the Fall season of your lives • Exercise. Walk a mile or more every evening. By Rusi Sorabji on. We thought she might be going • Drink a lot of water. Abstain Campbell, California out. "No" she said, "I always have from alcohol. my make-up on, I want to look nice • Get rid of any anger or frustra­ when my time come to go!" 'I"' t is my pleasure to share with you tions. Practice forgiveness. ~~these real life stories about s?~e Mary attributes the secret of her stay­ An intrepid couple. This is a differ­ ltreally remarkable people, transttmg ing powers to, in her words: with grace through the Fall season of ent story, about a comparatively "At first it was hard work with cab­ their lives. I hope their experiences younger though equally remarkable bage and potatoes for lunch, pota­ and advice will be useful and encour­ and intrepid Zarathushti couple. It's toes, cabbage and broth for supper. aging, as you sail on your destined about their sheer will-power, deter­ Now-a-days I indulge myself with voyages. mination and courage in following a things I love and a sip of Baileys dream, despite their debilitating It is about two ageless 90-plus people Irish Creme. afflictions. - a friend and mentor, and an intrepid The remarkable Colonel Eric J, Zarathushti couple on an odyssey. They appear to be exuberant healthy The other remarkable person I knew seniors; but these are folks with more The grand old lady, Mary M. The was Colonel Eric J, 91, my former doctor appointments on the calendar, first was this grand old lady, Mary M, finance director. A typical army offi­ than the month has holidays. Yet 95. She was Irish, with blue eyes, cer from Her Britannic Majesty's when they are away on long journeys pigtails neatly tied over her head and Armed forces, with a little scimitar to the far corners of the earth discov­ mischief written all over her face. We moustache thickly nicotined. ering the wondrous creations of met Mary in 1997 at the Aqua Arthri­ When I retired in 1996, he was 84, Ahura Mazda and soaking in images tis exercise classes - a merry widow director of a large business in the of complete serenity and harmony, of 89 who kept the whole class UAE- a thorough gentleman and a they hardly find it necessary to seek entertained with her Gaelic jokes. soldier. I met him again in 2002 medical attention. Is it excitement, You might mistake her for someone when he was 90 years old. There was enthusiasm, or the lure of the new in their 60s. no change in him. He walked straight discovery that influences your state When our late Dastur Jimmy Maku­ and still looked like his picture in a of mind to block off pain and give a jina first shook hands with her 5 1953 yearbook. sense of wellness? years ago, her firm handshake almost He was never sick or absent from When asked what they do if a medi­ crushed his hands. Hiding his work. A stickler for time, he would cal emergency arises when away on amazement he tells my wife in dis­ arrive 30 minutes early every day and an extended trip, they said: belief, "A won nayvoo varas na would leave exactly on the dot at the nahee hoi sakay" (she cannot possi­ "When we live in a stressed out soci­ close of day. He too had a fantastic bly be 90 years old!) Jimmy also ety with increasingly complicated memory. At board meetings he could noticed that her teeth looked natural. demands on life, we need a doctor. remember what decisions were taken He asked. She responded, "Would But, when you stand on a pristine ice in the past and who said what and you like to use your fingers to find field experiencing the complete when. He never used a calculator or a out?" They were real. sound of silence; when you inhale computer, yet he could find mistakes the heavenly fragrance of a million At 95, she has a fantastic memory. in the calculations of those that did. hyacinths and tulips at Keukenhof She walked into the shower cubicle His office was on the 21st floor of the Gardens; when you drive 3,000 miles at the YMCA, next to where my wife company's building, and to our through New England in the Fall ... was having a shower and excitedly amazement, in the event of a power who needs a doctor? exclaimed, "Ah, I smell Pears soap." outage he would climb the stairs all The last time she had used Pears was "We firmly believe that travel and the way up. in Ireland over 70 years ago. friends enrich our souls and put What makes them ageless? Is it will adventure and wellness back into our It is a joy to have friends like her, for power; is it something in their genes lives regardless of age." • their positive attitude is infectious. that makes these people ageless? One morning un-announced we RL&i Sc::ral:ii is a "twenty-some­ The colonel's secret was: dropped in on her. There she sat all thing" who has been writing for prim and proper with her make up • Have a schedule. pleasure for some five decades.

66 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 ne hot and muggy Bombay evening, we were busy shop­ 1 ping at the local bazaar for fresh ___ j~--t---.-=-~-)...···...... l...... ··.· ..-.-t 1\.•-·.'_·.. L...... vegetables for the next day's meals.

- Shoppers, merchants, hawkers, beg­ - gars and waifs were all packed in the ~: We'--· ·-~-- ! ·-·-'·' J - nanow open-air market street. Most vendors sat cross-legged on the ground or on their haunches with their produce spread out before them, Forg,_"__.et y piled high in large baskets or on thick By Dinaz Kutar Rogers jute cloth. A few small, permanent shops and spoke-wheeled handcarts Do you remember any stories or sayings? were laden with fresh tomatoes, brin­ jals, chilis, potatoes, onions, apples, "Lest We Forget" is hosted by Dinaz Kutar Rogers, a high-school biology bananas, mangoes, cherries and teacher and published writer. Readers are invited to contribute their stories, chickoos. It was a colorful collec­ lores, legends and memories related to our faith, community, Iran, India, that tion, from the exotic to the mundane. we grew up with as young children. Jot down those sayings your mother used to say, and send them in, with your version of the meanings, to Dinaz at My Bombay had changed so much in 1240 Takena SW, Albany, Oregon 97321, tel: (541) 967-1911, email: droger­ the years that I had been away. Nox­ [email protected]. ious, acrid fumes from the exhaust pipes of auto-rickshaws mixed with black smoke from city buses, made it Lessons from my daughters... difficult to breath. The overcrowded streets gave a new meaning to popu­ lation explosion. The constant Living Gooa ThoughtsJ cacophony of blaring horns from the traffic, housewives and merchants Gooa Woras ana Gooa Deeas haggling and vendors hawking their wares, added to the hustle and bustle. In every aspect of mortal life The crowded market street was lit­ Be it small or full of strife tered with garbage. A couple of stray dogs and a cow wandered freely Our struggle 'twixt forces of light and darkness through the rubbish. Filth, flies, Help us, only the good to harness. ragged children begging - all of it Given a free will to choose was in violent contrast to our small­ town America. My daughters were Each n1an for himself, win or lose. overwhelmed and so was I. A special task to us is given - The banana peel. It was past our Our lives, by these commands are driven: dinner time, and my younger, eleven­ Good Thoughts, Good Words and Good Deeds year old daughter was feeling hun­ Much wisdom in these simple seeds. gry. Not acclimatized to foreign foods and water, we paid close atten­ Grant us the courage to live up to those creeds, tion to what we ate; so I decided to May it be for bigger, or much smaller needs; buy her a banana, as there would be Such is the element of Zarathushtra's message, no need to wash it. After consuming the fruit, she looked around for a To help us, as before, to get through life's passage. trash bin, but none was to be found. This tenet, simple but profound My aunt, at whose house we were Be with us till we are heaven bound. staying on our visit to India, pointed For the cosn1ic battle of good and evil to the side of the street. "Just dump Within every Zarathushti is driven. it anywhere by the rain gutter." "Throw it on the ... ground?!" My AMEN, AMEN, AMEN! daughter's eyes widened in horror, - By Dinaz Rogers and her palm tightened around that banana peel. FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 67 "What's one banana skin? Maybe older daughter at one of those of silk and brocade shawls with tas­ one of these animals will eat it," my enchanted places of my childhood, seled borders was housed. While aunt rationalized. "Poor things, Kala Niketan, a sari shop, across from everyone looked around, my eyes they're always looking for something the Marine Lines railway station. zeroed in on an unusual red color - a to eat." This shop was brimming with a spec­ vibrant mix between a deep rasp­ But this little girl of mine was tacular collection of saris of the soft­ berry and plum. "I must have this ... adamant. "Sorry, but I won't," she est silks, dazzling brocades, gorgeous it's gorgeous!" I exclaimed. The informed everyone in a polite but loud georgettes, and thousands upon thou­ sales lady, eager for more sales, voice so as to be heard over the inces­ sands yards of fabulous fabrics. spread out quite a few others, but that sant noise. "I can't throw garbage on Sparkling sequins, bright beads, unbelievable red one was going to be the streets. My mom, dad, and my golds, silvers, and radiant pearlized mine. My daughters, brightly decked teachers taught me not to." pastels adorned every available wall in their own selections drifted back and draped every shelf. It seemed to to see what had caught their mother's To the total amazement of my aunt me that a million stars, suns, and eye. Their eyes grew wide when they and cousins, she proceeded to tell us moons had overrun the shop. saw the design, in gold threads, that about going on 'litter patrols' in her adorned my gorgeous shawl. neighborhood, just a couple of years I told my daughters that as a child, I ago as a third grader. True to her would go with my mother and my "Mom... you can't buy this ... convictions, she carried that banana aunts to buy saris for weddings, they're swastikas!" My older daugh­ peel in her sweaty palm through all navjotes or other auspicious occa­ ter whispered. Others around us did our marketing and the long walk sions, like my first sari. In India, not understand our hesitation. back to the house. amongst us Parsis, a girl's first sari "Isn't it beautiful, madam?" The per­ was an outward expression of her Upon entering the kitchen, she threw plexed saleslady pressed on. coming of age; and this shop, held a the peel in the garbage pail with an special place in my heart. I whispered to my daughter. "Oh, exaggerated, ceremonial flourish. don't worry. It's a holy symbol of the We were all a little embarrassed but After going through several Hindu faith. I grew up seeing these pleased. "If every one did what I did, saris in dazzling pinks, sun­ symbols on Hindu temples and Bombay wouldn't be so dirty," she set corals, bright greens homes. I'll make sure and explain to stated. and flaming oranges, everyone at home in America." unfurled before us by an Later she reminded me, in front of "Don't worry." I repeated, eager saleslady, we all everyone, "You're the one, Mom, more to appease my con­ decided on one for who tells us that Parsis believe in science than my daugh­ my daughter - a keeping things clean. Isn't it 'Good ter's objections. ruby-red and Thoughts, Good Words, and espe­ indigo-blue sari My daughter, was cially Good Deeds?"' My preco­ with paisley adamant. "This will cious young daughter pointed to the patterns. As my hurt feelings, Mom. garbage pail. aunt and a cousin This shawl will reflect Everyone complimented her for wrapped her in badly on you. I know it will." standing up for her beliefs. Her chal­ that sari, my hus­ In that moment, I understood lenge reminded me of a pet phrase I band took pic­ her bewilderment. At home, she used to quote as a child to erring tures, and other had heard me proudly tell others adults - practice what you preach. patrons and that Parsis were called the 'Jews Bombay was cleaner that evening by employees 'oohed' of India' by the British. She had one banana peel and once again the over my daughter. heard me enlightening others message of Zarathushtra rang out Next, we wandered about the Zarathushti religion by loud and clear in the land that gave us up to the mezzanine, citing the interactions of the Per­ sanctuary and safety. where a spectac­ sians with the Jews in the Old Testament [1]. Visit to the sari shop. On another ular col­ day we went sari shopping for my lection "Aren't you the one who always brags that it was Cyrus the Great who liber­ Drawing by Diane Armaity (when she was ated the Jews from their 10 years old) about "Dadaji"; her view of Babylonian captivity?" what we Zarathushtis are all about, and She questioned me as her what we should live up to - Good fingers traced the pattern Thoughts, Good Words and Good Deeds. 68 woven in gold thread that was pure yet profane. "Come on, Mom. Good My mother used to say... Thoughts, Good Words and Good "The old forget. The young don't know."- Japanese proverb Deeds. Remember, Mommy? Do your Good Deed. Don't buy that "Bhalai karta bhala nay vagay" shawl." In the process of doing a good deed, the good doer can be hurt. This reminds My aunt, touched by her passion and me of a humorous incident between my sister and my dad. One day my dad proud of the wisdom of her late sis­ did a good deed for his sister, my aunt. But because of my aunt's ingratitude, ter's granddaughter, whispered in my the good deed was not appreciated and to top it all, it backfired on him. So he ear. "She feels it's hypocritical and was feeling sad and moping a bit over it. That is when my mother told him insensitive of you to buy that shawl. "Serves you right! Joyu? Bhalai karta bhala nay vagay." In other words, even Ma-ray moo-voe Hitler." She cursed good intentions can be misunderstood or even a good deed can go wrong for 'death' on the dictator. the good samaritan. Suddenly the beauty of the color "Num-tah suraj nay kaun pagay paray" paled in comparison with what Who will bow down to a setting sun? My father-in-law used to use this. Once swastikas meant to my young daugh­ he was in the process of selling off one of his loss-making businesses, and on ter and to all of us in our Western one of the last days he discovered that some of his employees were avoiding society [2]. Without regrets, I left him, that is when he confronted one of them and said "Num-tah suraj nay kaun that beautiful, shining, red silk mate­ pagay paray. " The setting sun in this case was himself as the retiring owner - rial behind. the employees were now interested in cozying up to the new bosses. So in this symbolic rite of passage, "Horaji ni dadhi barey ne padosi noo tapnu thai" my daughter's first sari, the sparkle Horaji's beard is on fire and the neighbor gets the heat from it. This is used and bright colors shone brighter in when some frivolous doings of one person has a serious adverse effect on the light of her maturity and sensitiv­ another. A Horaji is an elderly member of the Borah community, a sect of Islam. ity; and that day, the flames in all our There is a Borah Bazaar very close to the Parsi Bazaar Gate quarter in Mumbai. fire temples leaped a little higher and There one can still find some hardware shops owned by Bohras or the Horajis. burned a little brighter. a Until about 20 years ago it was very common to see Bohra women completely [1] When invited to talk about the reli­ covered from head to foot in a burkha in the Bhindi Bazaar area of Mumbai. The gion of Zarathushtra to church and other Bohras and Parsis of Mumbai always had a love-hate relationship. groups, I would take one of my daugh­ "Thailoo thaijaye, nay rahiloo raijaye" ters with me. They were paying attention What is done gets done, and what remains does not get done. This is used - for they cherished and internalized the principles of our faith. when one is dilly-dallying and procrastinating over some decision or action. When I used to delay taking a decision about a purchase of a book or a small [2] This symbol is to be found in other trinket my mother would encourage me to action by saying this. It means if religions and civilizations too, as a posi­ tive force and not in this distorted, nega­ you take courage in your hands and do something it will de done and over tive and hateful form. with; but if you postpone it, it may never be done. "Marai, pikhai, nay kutlay haam" Fight, get pecked at, and get beheaded. This is one of the more popular ones when two people, with equal strength, are fighting each other. It actually refers to Grandpa"s secret for a cock-fight, where two fighting birds go at each other and peck each other's a long and happy life feathers off till they are bloodied. However, this saying is used when there is no randpa was celebrating his 1OOth clear winner or loser. Just a brutal fight (could be just verbal or a legal/court fight) Gbirthday, and everyone was com­ where both sides get destroyed in the battle. plimenting him on how well he "Afln khai nay duffln pariya" looked. Having opium and laying down in a stupor. This is used (a) when somebody "I'll tell you the secret," he said, "My is unsuccessful in his or her devious designs, or (b) just relaxing after some wife and I were married 7 5 years hectic activity. • ago. On our wedding night we made a pledge that whenever we had a Pa'Vin Da I& iais administrative assistant to the associate vice provost­ fight, the one who was proved wrong International Programs & director-International Alumni and Visitors Pro­ would go out and take a walk. gram of the University of California at Davis. She has a BA in English Literature and French from the University of Bombay and a diploma in Secre­ "I've been out in the open air for the tarial Practice from Davar's College in Bombay. Contact her at padama­ past 75 years." -FED Newsletter [email protected]. FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 69 eraydun was a good and glorious Fking. The people of Iran desig­ nated the day of his ascent to the throne as a festival, which to this day is celebrated as the festival of Mehergan. The first thing Feraydun did when he came to the throne was to open the doors of Zohak's palace and give back to the people all the wealth that Zohak had stolen from them. During his reign, there were many more reasons to rejoice. The adventure of a lifetime By Shazneen Rabadi Gandhi Feraydun had three sons. A poet said Feraydun divided his kingdom into three parts. To of the princes that they were: As stately as cypresses, Salm, Feraydun gave Rum and the lands of the West. Fair as the spring, China and Turkestan he bestowed upon Tur; and Iran The image of their father and king. When they were young men, Feray­ and Arabia were given to the youngest son, Iraj. dun called upon his wise councilor Jandal, and said to him: dynasty. After several months of and worthy to inherit the throne of "Jandal, the time has come for my searching the earth, Jandal heard that Iran. I ask for the hand of your beau­ sons to embark upon the adventure of the king of Yemen had three beauti­ tiful daughters in marriage for my a lifetime: marriage. My sons must ful, wise daughters. He made sons for the future kings of this world be married to worthy women with inquiries of all he met on the road to must have noble queens. Arrange beautiful souls, kind hearts, strong Yemen and was convinced by the with me for their marriages to be cel­ minds and noble linage. I ask you to time he reached Yemen that these ebrated with all pomp and circum­ travel the earth to find three were the brides for the three princes. stance!'" such women for The king of Yemen loved his three my three sons." The king of Yemen and his daughters daughters very much. He knew if J andal was hon­ they married these three princes, they Being an emissary of Feraydun, Jan­ ored that the king would move far away from Yemen to dal was immediately granted an audi- had entrusted him ·. Iran. "How can I let my daughters be ence with the king of Yemen. with such an important married to princes who live in such Making a low bow matter. He set off faraway lands?", he thought sadly, to the king, Jandal immediately in "My daughters are the light of my said: "Greetings search of three eyes. Without them my days will be your young women as dark as night ... and yet, how can Majesty, who were destined I refuse the great Feraydun ?" to become queens from Feray­ of the Kayanid dun, king of Iran! Smiling to J andal, the king said, Feraydun says to "Jandal, King Feraydun's proposal you, great king: 'In honors my house and my daughters; all the world, there is but young women have minds of nothing more their own, and I must speak to my dear to a father daughters before I speak for them." So saying the king of Yemen bought have three sons himself some time to consider Feray­ dun's proposal. precious to me After much consideration, the king One of Feraydun s three sons [PHoTo: than my own asked J andal to carry a message back "THE LION AND THE THRONE", BY EHSAN YAR­ life. Each of to Feraydun: SHATER, DICK DAVIS AND STUART GARY WELCH.] them is wise, learned

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 Feraydun, disguised as a dragon, tests his three sons, Salm, Tur and !raj. [PHoTo: "A KINa's BooK oF KINas, THE SHAH-NAMEH OF SHAH TAMASP" BY STUART GARY WELCH.]

"Tell the king", he said, "that I am Yemen. There, the king of Yemen Looking up into the face of the beast, his obedient servant and my house is put them through several tests to Tur shouted: honored by his proposal. It would make sure they were worthy of his If combat's needed I can fight, have been easier for me to give him daughters' hands in marriage. The A roaring lion my kingdom, crown and throne, had princes survived each challenge with or an armored knight! he asked for it, than it is to give him courage and grace. Comforted by Feraydun thought his second son was my daughters; but since I shall do this, the king of Yemen arranged for brave but not tactful. whatever he wishes, ask him, Janda!, the marriage of his daughters to Fer­ to grant me one wish. aydun's sons. Turning to challenge his youngest son, Iraj, Feraydun found the young "I wish his sons to come to Yemen so Feraydun tests his sons man looking at the dragon with a that I may see them with my own quiet confidence. Firmly, Iraj said to eyes and know for myself that they Feraydun was pleased to hear that his the dragon: are worthy of my daughters and shall sons were coming home with the provide for their happiness. Sons three princesses. "Soon" he thought, Out of our path, may be dear to a father, but daugh­ "they shall inherit my kingdom. I fell monster, step aside, ters . . . a daughter is the light in her must test them to see how they will If you have heard of father's eyes." deal with life's challenges." Feraydun then know So saying the king sent Janda! back Feraydun decided to disguise himself That we're his valiant, lionlike sons - now go, to Feraydun, hoping that when he as a dragon and meet them on the saw the three princes he may have way back to Iran. Upon seeing the Or I'll give you a crown some just reason to reject Feraydun's dragon, Feraydun's oldest son, Salm, that you'll regret! proposal. fled in terror. He felt it was best to Knowing the courage of all three flee from dangers than face them. When Feraydun heard the king's sons, the dragon disappeared and message, he dispatched his sons to His second son, Tur, heedlessly bent Feraydun came forward to greet his back his bow and stood his ground. sons and their brides.

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 71 Feraydun divides his kingdom among his three sons Soon after the wedding celebrations had ended, Feraydun, called upon the astrologers to foretell the fate of his Science and Spiritualitv sons. The astrologers foretold great The broader definition of 'science' would have to war and dissension in Iraj 's future. include the 'science of the spirit' as well as the 'sci­ To avoid such strife between his sons, Feraydun divided his kingdom ence of matter'. into three parts. To Salm, Feraydun gave Rum and the lands of the west. e phenomenal growth of sci­ Do these, then fall outside the bounds China and Turkestan he bestowed ence in the last few decades has of science? upon Tur; and Iran and Arabia were _ been considered by many as a If we are talking about science and given to the youngest son Iraj. panacea for all economic and social philosophy then, truly the goals of Soon the three princes became kings ills in society. Armed with the pow­ science are not far different from the of their provinces and set about to erful tools of the internet, and instru­ goals of spirituality, that is, in their make their people happy. • ments like laser beams, electron search for ultimate verities or truths. microscopes, computers and what Next time: Manoucher's story. The broader definition of 'science' have you,· the whole phenomena of would therefore have to include the nature and existence are being 'science of the spirit' as well as the lives in New York City. She writes as explained in terms of various scien­ 'science of matter'. tific laws. Is this sense of satisfac­ a hobby. The table below, considered outside tion justified? the purview of science as it is under­ On the other hand, we see that pre­ stood in its present context by the sent-day sciences do not really grap­ majority, but which may be extended PARZOR Prqect. ple with human and individual to include 'science of the spirit' high­ problems, as they should. Probably, [Continued from page 22] lights some differences between sci­ it is not considered within the scope ence and spirituality. Archives. Materials are to be col­ of present-day sciences, to bring to lated and preserved to create a the laboratory, such human experi­ [From Journal of Inter-religious National Archives. A bibliography of ences as pain, joy, hatred, love, jeal­ Meetings, July 2001 I books and manuscripts is planned. ousy, etc. This module will also collect, collate and reprint important works. A com­ plete written, audiovisual and digital -sCIENCE archival record for a worldwide audi­ ence, will fulfill the ultimate aim of Its search for truth Its search for truth is the project. • is objective. • subjective. Funding. Support for this project has come from various sources . It is based on logic It is based on Donations from individuals showing • and reasoning. • intuition and their personal support are as valuable direct perception. as large institutional funds. The pro­ ject invites inputs and financial assis­ It is ever-expanding, It is all-embracing, tance for this long term project. • breaking down • all encompassing, Contact Dr. Shernaz Cama, shernaz­ barriers, crossing and universal. [email protected], or visit www. new frontiers. unescoparzor.com. • [By Roshan Rivetna based on materi­ • It seeks realization It seeks oneness in als from Dr. Shernaz Cama and Gen. for various entities • all phenomena. Adi Sethna (retd.) of New Delhi] and various phenomena.

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{tlie moutlipiece for tlie ne~ generation'

I i ..• the w~y lpray has changed .over the. ye~s. My ~ain p~ayer now is awarelles~'C>FGoWs presence ..··1 • :Wli,en fh~~e that, ~ther~gs>taKe• care.· of themselves~· When I· ~ray for o~ers, I hold ~eminthe ~g~t an4.•~·~

I love of SprnL Iuse·affirmanons;for myself and for. others. I belic~ve there IS one Presence, onePower, one .1 ~- . I God:l want to stay coruiected ·~th this feeling and see everytmng .throught;his lens/Thatis how ana why I I • .-- . --... -.... . - . - . - . - . - . - . - . - . - . - . - . - "• ·- .. - The issue on Sports is superb and against the visiting Oxford University team) and others had some very good will, no doubt become a historical at the Bombay Gymkhana in 1902. players (Piloo Gimmi and Dolly issue - having information of our The Parsis were the first to take to the Tarapore) who were considered illustrious men and women of sports game and were pioneers of cricket in even for the Melbourne Olympic in one publication. WELL DONE! India. Kanga's younger brother Hor­ Games in 1956. My wife Najoo Toxy Cowasjee masji Kanga made a name for himself Mehta was just edged out. Karachi, Pakistan as a batsman and scored the first dou­ There was also no mention of the ble century on Indian soil, in 1905. strong men who later trained in Phys­ Cricketers Dinshaw ical Culture Gymnasiums, in body­ Gulu Ezekiel ana Hormasji Kanga building and weightlifting. Prof. Mumbai, India The world has failed to highlight a Tehmuras Sarkari and Prof. Din­ historic landmark which occurred in Missea sports figures shaw Mistry performed feats of November 2002- the lOOth anniver­ My wife (nee Najoo Mehta of the strength in public halls and also sary of the maiden first-class century Dadar Colony Hockey Team) and I trained bodybuilders and recorded by an Indian batsman on were disappointed to see no mention weightlifters in their gymnasiums. home soil. The distinction belongs to of Parsi Ladies Hockey or of the Parsi youth have become "Mr. Bom­ wicket-keeper and left-hand batsman Parsi (Mens) Hockey Teams in your bay", "Mr. Nagpur", and "Mr. Dinshaw Dorabji Kanga who scored Sports issue [Spring 2003]. The Poona". Homi ]esia, Homi Patel a match-winning 116 for the Parsis "Panchgani Pansies" (Dadar Colony and ]ehan Tata come to mind. Laugh and be Merry By )amshea uavaaia

everal men are in the locker room of a golf club. When a cell phone on a bench rings. A man engages the hands­ Sfree speaker-function and begins to talk. Man: "Hello." Woman: "Honey, it's me. Are you at the club?" Man: "Yes." Woman: "I am at the mall and found a beautiful leather coat. It's $1,000. Can I buy it?" Man: "Go ahead if you like it that much." Woman: "I also stopped by the Mercedes dealership and saw the 2004 models. I saw one I really liked." Man: "How much?" Woman: "$60,000." Man: "If he throws in all the options, it might be worth it." Woman: "Great! One more thing .... The house we wanted last year is back on the market. They're only asking $450,000." Man: "Don't offer more than $420,000- he's bound to give in." Woman: "OK. I'll see you later! I love you!" Man: "Bye, I love you too." The man hangs up. The other men look at him in astonishment. Then he asks: "Anyone know who this phone belongs to?" [Submitted by Rusi Sorabji, CA]

he commercial advertisers had assembled for their annual function. Chief Guest William Miller had just made a con­ Tgratulatory speech, recognizing the winners of the best slogan awards- William's Deodorant Stick, Snoween Lini­ ment and Goodgrip Tires. Mrs. Miller, pregnant with her fifth child, was requested to distribute the prizes, which turned out to be an unfortunate choice. Here are the winning slogans in the order they were announced: Third Prize: William's Stick did the trick. Second Prize: Snoween's Liniment would have reduced the swelling. Winner: Goodgrip Rubber would have prevented the accident. • 80 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 I (Maneck Daroowalla) was a weight after some recitations in the Vanant most unimaginable inhumanities. lifter, and was undefeated among Par­ Yasht? For Iranians, fleeing to this country, sis in my class during 1948-1953. I Exposition of the reasons behind it is the 'first diaspora', whereas for was an All India judge for weightlift­ these and many other similar ques­ Parsis, it is the 'second diaspora'. ing, later having judged at the First tions, would enhance the value and In order for the present generation to Asian Games in Delhi. understanding of the daily prayers understand how lucky and blessed My first open competition was in for lay Zarathushtis. they are to live in this country, I urge 1948 at the Selection Games at Parsi Dinshaw Joshi them to read the Millennium Issue Gymkhana, for the 1948 London Chevy Chase, Maryland [Winter 20001 of FEZANA Journal, which traces the saga of the Games, after the war. I did not win, Congratulations on this edition but remember having dropped a Zarathushti empires from pre-history, [Spring 20031. A young man here has heavy barbell, only a few inches through the Persian dynasties, with a asked his wife to read it from cover from the feet of J. R. D. Tata, sitting population in the millions, to the pre­ to cover - so well impressed is he sent day. in the front row! with it. Also thanks to guest editor Maneck Daroowalla Sarosh Manekshaw for all the time Today a mere 200,000 of us are scat­ New Hyde Park, New York and effort on such a lovely "preserve tered around the globe, with no coun­ forever" publication. try of our own - no Zarathushti On the Avesta Issue homeland with a visionary leader. May we request an edition where you The issue on "Treasures from the invite scholars to write articles Zarathushtis living in the West have Avesta: Our Daily Prayers." [Spring extolling the tenets of the religion, as become less religious. Many do not 20031 was a really good one. well as why they believe conversion wear the sudreh and kushti; and FEZANA and the guest editor, would ring the death-knell of the reli­ many do not go to the darbe mehrs. Sarosh Manekshaw, need to be com­ gion itself, and not just the Parsis. Parents find excuses- it won't make plimented on it. They have said so elsewhere, let's a difference; busy schedules; kids are Cyrus Bulsara have it all in one volume. busy with school; it is too far; it is a Plano, Texas waste of time; there is too much Shirin Mistry bickering in the community ... Even My compliments on the excellent Melbourne, Australia the children have their own excuses. issue [Summer 20031 guest edited by Sarosh Manekshaw. Matrimonial ads What a tragedy it is that our forefa­ However, I had expected it to be pri­ I congratulate FEZANA Journal for thers went through so many hard­ marily addressed to lay Zarathushtis, their free matrimonial ads; you ships and persecution to safeguard to educate them in the significance of should persuade Jame Jamshed to do their faith, and pass it on to us ... and individual daily prayers in Khordeh likewise. However, I feel the dwin­ we take it for granted! Avesta. Instead, some of the articles dling population is because, post- How can we expect our children to are more oriented towards scholars. 1947, we have forgotten our roots carry the torch, when we parents do Articles like the two by Pallan Icha­ and traditions. not take them to our gahambars, poria on Yatha Ahu Vairyo and The way to increase our population jashans, navjotes, Sunday schools? Kemna Mazda would have achieved is: through early marriages and This is the last frontier. Here there is more in enhancing the knowledge of parental support; parental responsi­ Zarathushtis in general, about the freedom of speech, press and above bility - it is the responsibility of the daily prayers. all, religion. We should promote and parents and relatives to facilitate Further, during my recitation of daily spread Asho Zarathushtra's message. marriages; and peer pressure and Of course all parents want their chil­ prayers, several questions come to community feeling. mind. A few sample questions are: dren to marry within the community. Mehernosh Wadia-Shroff However, we should not shun those What is the significance of 12th Master ship builder repeating some prayers more than who don't. We should stick together Mumbai and Surat, India once, e.g. Yatha Ahu Vairyo five and solve our different points of view times and three times in through dialog in a civil manner. Sarosh Baj. The last frontier If I may borrow from the words of After the fall of the Zarathushti Why must some parts of prayers President Kennedy, "Ask not what dynasty in Iran, at the hands of be recited in 'baj' (in an undertone). your community can do for you, but Arabs, 1400 years ago, both the Ira­ ask what you can do for your com­ 8 Why do some prayers have to be nian Zarathushtis as well as earlier recited facing south? munity." Next time there is a com­ Parsi generations have endured many munity gathering, please make your What is the significance of clapping hardships to preserve their faith. Ira­ best attempt to attend. Get involved. once, twice and thrice, as required nians in particular, have suffered the FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 81 It does make a difference! Dr. Rustam fum Mehdiabadi Two stuaents"' write research Lubbock, Texas papers on Zarathushtis Trust in our anjumans Your Journal carries many appeals Fa eesh Ka ~ a student at stood that in order to survive, for help by individuals outside the Vanderbilt University was curious to Zarathushtis have been left to their country. It is better that they refer learn about the differing perspectives own devices. their cause to the anjuman of the and beliefs of Zarathushtis. She "Thus, their beliefs today, though place where they live, who know bet­ emailed a number of probing ques­ different from each other, and per­ ter the condition and career of the tions "to every Zarathushti we haps even detached from the religion person. Then, all of us Zarathushtis knew", collected the responses, and they claim as their own, are their anywhere in the world will have trust wrote an insightful paper entitled attempt at salvaging what is left and in our anjumans and become better "Zarathushtis" for her English class. passing it on before it is forgotten. united; every Zarathushti trying to In the Foreword, Fareesh writes: "I help his anjuman, punchayet and "Even diluted Zoroastrianism is bet­ began my research foolishly asking center. ter than none at all. Yet, this assimi­ too many questions; but then again, I lation into new lifestyles and Rostam Rostami wanted an answer to everything ... cultures, bound to encourage a shar­ Centerville, Ohio For the final paper, however, I found ing of ideals, hopes, and beliefs is not that I had to narrow my focus to a likely far from the original vision of Rouna ana about the few points that could be analyzed the prophet himself. concisely and still represent my fel­ Zarathushti aeen "Zoroastrianism, then . . . is not sim­ low Zarathushtis: As a very common man and hamkish ply a faith into which one is initiated of the behdin-e-Zarathusthi observ­ "What do the Zarathushtis of today and which one practices as a life long ing and sitting on the fence, please believe about certain aspects of their duty. It is, rather, a personality trait allow me to forward a few stray religion, namely predestination, which all good people, not just thoughts and points of observation. afterlife, reincarnation, customs Zarathushtis, possess. The influence Like the ensuing tug-of-war between and ceremonies, and the history of of the good prophet lives on in every­ the ultra-modern reformists (USA) the prophet, the religion, and the one, whether or not we survive as a and orthodox traditionalists (India) world? What themes are common to collective group of Zarathushtis; so has led me to believe that one is their practices, and which ones are long as there are pure, decent people interested in sheer quantity and the different? In the end, what does it on Earth, the spirit, the legacy, and other in pure quality. mean to be a Zarathushti ?" the flame of Zarathushtra will never Like both the groups easily forget In the conclusion, Fareesh writes: die." one main point that in this life it is "That Zarathushtis vary so widely on "Unfortunately," laments Fareesh, easy enough to be friendly to one's their views . . . is hardly astonishing. "the narrower focus of my research friends. But to befriend the one who Naturally, these results beg the ques­ left out my personal favorite topics - regards himself as your enemy is the tion, "who is right?" In contempo­ why do Zarathushtis pray and how quintessence of true religion. rary society with so many variables do Zarathushtis feel about conver­ Like both the groups forget that the and so little hard evidence pointing sion, interracial/religious marriage, world is changing fast and as the in any one direction, that question and people of other faiths/races in world progresses, every religion, may be nearly impossible to answer. general. Prayers, I realized midway every belief, gets encrusted over a A more pertinent question beckons, through my research, are too per­ period of time and sometimes the then, with a seemingly more complex sonal and would essentially be a crust is mistaken for the kernel. answer: are all these Zarathushtis research project of their own. with such different beliefs really fol­ Twenty surveys could not ever cover Like both the groups easily forget lowers of the same faith? the depth of meaning behind prayer that religion is like the banana peel in Zarathushtis. and spirituality the banana. They "Given the difficulty in accurately both are holding on to the peel hop­ deciphering Zarathushtra's original "As for the topic of other races and ing and praying that Ahura Mazda words, and less encouragingly, religions, this is the 'hot topic' con­ and Zarathushtra would be smiling knowing how much of the religion's cerning all Zarathushtis at this on to them. But if we do rise above texts are lost to ancient history, books moment. Not too many are con­ which may have included passages cerned with how the world began or [Continued on page 83] about such issues, it is well under- why they pray every night, but every

82 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 respondent has an opinion about con­ "The religion was founded and Re w.., s' Fon.rn version into the faith and so on. taught in eastern Iran in about 1800 [Continued from page 821 Again, twenty surveys is hardly a to 1200 BCE. It spread all over the snowflake on the iceberg that is this Persian Empire by the 6th century religion and attain the essence of topic." Fareesh does attempt to BCE. The religion flourished during spirituality our actions cannot but be address these, on a more personal the Achaemenian, Parthian and Sasa­ compassionate. level, in the Afterword. D nian empires. Zarathushti kings, such Like both the groups forget that the as Cyrus the Great, were known for [For the full text contact fareesh.j. whole religion of Zarathushtra, their tolerance and kindness towards kanga @vanderbilt. edu. 1 which was conceived and so divinely other religions and races. inspired, needs to be revived today in Zarathushtra, the founder of this reli­ Anatita Arnalsad is an honor this internet era in the spirit of toler­ gion, preached his main philosophy ance. roll student at Cornelia Connelly of good thoughts, good words and Like if the prophet himself, with his High School in Anaheim, California. good deeds. The holy book of the inspired divine message could be so She was Zarathushtis is called the Avesta; and humble and never said, "Accept what selected by their psalms are called the Gathas. I am telling you," who are we, his her freshman Zarathushtis are taught to respect followers after 3000 plus years, to other religions and choose the path of peers to rep­ think that what we believe is right righteousness. resent her and nothing else can ever be right. class at the Zarathushtis follow certain customs Literally, the truth is difficult to come Connelly and rituals to show love and respect by and in fact healthy discussion has Integrity for their religion. In most of their rit­ never resulted in the death of truth. uals, fire is used as a symbol of Committee. Like the particles of dust and dirt cleanliness and purity. Therefore, Anahita covering our clothes have to be when they pray, they face the sun or wrote a washed in water and soap so like­ a source of light. The most signifi­ paper on "The History, Philosophy wise our minds and souls get covered cant ritual in this religion is the and Culture of Zoroastrianism" with noise and din that must be Navjote, or the initiation ceremony, which was appreciated by the removed by silence and meditation. through which a child is officially school's Religion teacher. Lighting a candle can only assist but accepted into the Zarathushti faith. In a succinct three pages, Anahita cursing the darkness is to no avail. "Most people have either not heard presents an excellent introduction to Hoping truly that truthful and com­ about this religion or have miscon­ the religion and its followers. She passionate feelings may arise in seri­ ceived concepts about its philosophy. concludes with a good summary: ous meditation and open discussion I hope that my research paper on the amongst us to keep alive this great "In the last few pages, I have history, philosophy and culture of the faith till the end of the world. I pray researched the history, philosophy Zarathushti religion, has clarified we release that rigid rope pulling and and culture of the Zarathushti reli­ some misconceptions and brought rupturing the very core of the reli­ gion. Most people do not know very more knowledge and understanding gion of our forefathers. • much about this religion - the oldest about this religion." • monotheistic religion in the world. Sohrab Irani [The full text of this paper may be Most of the vital books and informa­ Anaheim, California requested from Anahita Amalsad, or tion about the religion were burned from her father Meher Amalsad at during the attack by Alexander, and Erraa babameher@ prodigy. net. 1 later destroyed by the Arab invasion. FEZANA Journal regrets the follow­ ing omissions and errors: Be informed • Be inspired • Be educated 8 The death announcement of Minoo Behramsha Daroowala Read [Spring 20031 failed to mention that he was the elder brother of Maneck FEZANAJJ~ Daroowala of New York and Nano Daroowala of Houston. Send a gift subscription to friends and fan1ily, e The date when Alexander met especially those 'back home' in India and Iran. Darius III [Summer 20031 should be 331 BCE and not 331 CE. •

FEZANA JOURNAL - FALL 2003 83 Zoroastrian Community'. Required is an approach that is in harmony Parsis at the Crossroads with the elements of the changing global scenario. Practical decisions Excerpted from "Parsees at the Crossroads; What Direction Do We Take" by that would propel the community Dins haw Kaiki Tamboly [see profile on page 53]. The complete article may forward are of prime importance. be requested from Mr. Tamboly at [email protected]. Increase in numbers and economic strength, are both equally important glorious past blended with a dis­ The overwhelming cause of death is for our survival. tinguished present, should gen­ old age, which is unique to our com­ Aerally portend a brilliant future. munity as none other in India. ' ' Our people must be However, in the case of our commu­ These figures tell their own dismal convinced to shed the nity can it be really so? ... story about how long we as a com­ Our Zoroastrian community is an munity may be around. How does one mantle of being seekers of aging as well as an ailing commu­ address, rationally and objectively, humble employment, and nity; perhaps the only community this issue of depleting numbers? that is plagued by a zero growth rate, Aging community. In North Amer­ propel themselves making it all the more imperative, ica and the western world the per­ towards a resurgence and that it not only retains but substan­ centage of people over 60 is less than tially enhances its economic health. 13%. For the whole oflndia it is 3%. redevelopment as a com­ The standing of our ancestors, as Compare these percentages with leaders of society, motivators of men those of Pars is - 28%! Are we ready munity of professionals, and matters, acknowledged nation to read the writing on the wall and do merchants, entrepreneurs builders, all stemmed from the fact something about the problem, or do that they had an excellent combina­ we continue to sweep the problem and industrialists ' ' tion of heads and hearts firmly fixed under the carpet and pray that noth­ in the right places. This resulted in ing will happen? If the community is to survive and economic stability and financial flourish, the community trusts will Offsetting the numerical disadvan­ strength for the community. need to shift their focus from dispen­ tage with quality. The community, sation of doles to providing support, The harsh realities. It is however needs to offset its numerical disad­ which would encourage individuals essential that reality must be recog­ vantage by being significant in qual­ to get back on their feet. Our people nized for what it is, especially in rela­ ity and content. This is easier said tion to our falling numbers. In India, must be convinced to shed the mantle than done, more so for a community of being seekers of humble employ­ 48,000 children are born every day. that has been traditionally pampered, Compare this to around 105 births ment, and instead to propel them­ literally from the cradle to the grave. selves towards a resurgence and every year at Parsee General Hospital We will need to re-inculcate values at Mumbai. Multiply this number by redevelopment as a community of that will develop and strengthen our professionals, merchants, entre­ 5 or 6, accounting for births at other mental frame that looks beyond the hospitals and we arrive at a figure of preneurs and industrialists. relief of doles, that so many of our approx. 500 to 600 births a year. On community members traditionally The time has indeed arrived for com­ the other hand, around 1,100 deaths expect and depend on. munity leaders to provide new direc­ are recorded at the Doongerwadi at tion. Wisdom and vision, capacity to Mumbai every year. We thus lose Except for the economically weak, foresee the future, restructuring old about 500 to 600 heads every year. aged, infirm, and physically chal­ policies and keeping in tune with the lenged, dispensation of doles is a To these deaths, add the loss on times, is what one expects from its cure that is worse than the disease, account of migration to other coun­ leaders. for it not only deprives human beings tries, and we find the issue of our Price of literacy and education. of their self-respect and dignity, but diminishing numbers being further Education is the foundation upon also encourages laziness and instills aggravated. It is estimated that India which a nation is built. Education is in them a negative attitude. has around 80,000 Zarathushtis at never an expense; it is always an present, out of which around 56,000 It is for the leaders of our community investment, an investment in the are in Mumbai City alone. If our to redefine their agenda for helping future. Without a sound education, numbers are depleting by 600 heads the rank and file of Zoroastrians. no country or community can in Mumbai every year, one can per­ Resurgence and redevelopment. progress. It can only regress. In a haps peg the annual reduction to 850 Called for, by our leaders, is an country such as India, education is of on an all India level. objective analysis of the 'State of the prime importance. 84 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 However, history bears testimony to Cultivating tolerance. A depressing Sajcn e1ll:afCII:iCJI"'S the fact that every community that feature that has recently emerged is [Continued from page 23] achieves a high level of literacy, also that our levels of tolerance have Western Asia, China and Japan, prov­ achieves high levels of incomes and begun to dip sharply. There is a sharp ing a flourishing trade between India high levels of aspirations, which in division amongst individuals pro­ and Iran during the 6th-8th centuries. turn leads to a sharp decline in the fessing views that are either com­ One vessel is an exact match for one growth of its population. pletely outdated, or absolutely found at Nishapur and another at Our depleting numbers indeed futuristic. Intolerance if not checked Sus a. will create a sharp division with the appear to be the price that we are Preliminary conclusions. This possibility, God forbid, of tearing paying for being literate, educated, archeological evidence is supported apart the very fabric of our commu­ affluent and career driven. by epigraphical evidence, pointing to nity. Qualities for survival. When we are the importance of the port of Sanjan. constantly losing out on the numbers As a community we are indeed at the Preliminary conclusions suggest a game, the two qualities most required crossroads. thriving site, economically strong, in our youth for our survival are a On leadership. To our present day involved in both local and foreign positive attitude and the pursuit of leaders I would urge them to remem­ trade. The ringwells indicate a hith­ excellence. In order to get the win­ ber that as leaders they are expected erto unknown urban milieu in Gujarat ning edge we need to strive for excel­ to lead as far as they can and then between the 7th and 13th centuries. lence, not perfection. Striving for vanish. Their ashes should not choke During Sasanian times, strong mari­ perfection is irrational, whereas striv­ the fires that they have themselves time relations existed between Iran ing for excellence is progress, lit. and India. These findings add impor­ because we all know that there is A leader's hardest task is not to do tant data about the landing of the Par­ nothing that cannot be done better or what is right, but to know what is sis at Sanjan. It now becomes clear improved upon. right. A leader is one who must have that Zarathushti traders from Iran, If we are to survive and thrive as a not only the ability to dream but also during the Sasanian period had trad­ community we now need to think not the capacity and courage to trans­ ing activities with towns on the as individuals but as a community ... form dream into reality. An effective Gujarat coast; they had understanding We have to pool our resources and leader is one who believes and prac­ of each others' language, customs and our talents for the greater good. tices that extremism in the defense of traditions. The findings lend credence what is right, is no vice; moderation to the tradition that Zarathushtis flee­ The youth. We have been blessed in the pursuit of justice is no virtue. ing Iran after the Arab invasion in the with a youth that is second to none. 7th century and later, chose to land in Posterity belongs to the youth and it Our leaders need to be reminded that the real function of a true leader is to Sanjan, and there found a ready wel­ is our duty to provide them a future come as friends. that holds as much hope and opportu­ produce more leaders, not more fol­ This year, the Archeological Survey of nity as we received from our elders. I lowers. At times, leaders, if they wish India has given a grant of only 1 lakh see in our youth, the potential to to remain leaders, must also be pre­ ($2000), which is grossly inadequate. develop into great leaders and if pared to become followers. Archeological investigations are properly nurtured, to sustain and We Zarathushtis, are achievers, our planned over the next five years, along enhance the reputation of goal has always been to influence the Gujarat coast, such as Nargol, Zarathushtis as the most civilized, history, not to merely observe it Davier and Saronda. These need to be benevolent and successful people being made. Our success has been on archeologically investigated to fill in that have ever walked the face of this account of the vision and foresight the lacunae in our history. A minimum earth. that our worthy forefathers dis­ played, and their generosity of giving ofRs. 22.65lakhs ($45,000) is needed. Consider change. If we are to sur­ freely, not only of their money but WCZF looks to the generosity of the vive as a community we shall need to more importantly of their time and international community to come consider change in many diverse talent that they gave in the service of forth with funding to preserve our directions. Change is the only thing the community. already endangered heritage. • that remains constant in life. Change not for the sake of change, but when We will have to realize that if we are [By Roshan Rivetna based on mater­ thrust upon us by nature has to be to survive we shall need to live in ials from Dr. Homi Dhalla]. accepted. If we avoid changes that unity, with peace, harmony, under­ nature wishes to impose, we can only standing and appreciating diverse A page of history is worth viewpoints, with mutual respect for consign ourselves to the dustbin of a volume of logic. history. one another. • - Oliver Wendell Holmes. FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 85 For Zoroastrians, A Luminous Home

The main idea in Zoroastrianism is that "if you follow the path of truth, you really achieve all the attributes of God," said Jamshid Goshtasbi, a lifelong Zoroastrian and a native of Iran ... Zoroastrians adhere to principles that seem surprisingly modem for a religion many historians believe is 3,700 years old: stewardship of nature, the equality of men and women, an emphasis on reason as well as faith, morality based on indi­ vidual choice rather than doctrine, flexible worship practices and the salvation of each person who does more good than evil in life ... A permanent sanctuary will help Priest Behram Panthaki officiates at the ordination of Jamshid Mistry. Veils pro­ remove such differences, as Zoroas­ tect the fire, a symbol of God and the divine spark in each person, from impurities. trians from varied cultures come N. Va. Temple to Unite Followers of together in a way they haven't been able to do before. "Apart from being Faith in Which Fire Plays Sacred Role a place of worship, it will act as a home, a meeting place for all of us," BY BILL BROADWAY for him and his family," said associa­ Panthaki said. Washington Post Staff Writer tion president Behram Pastakia ... The local Zoroastrian community Washington's small but growing He added that he would like the tem­ is growing through immigration from Zoroastrian community will add to ple to be the first in North America or the Middle East and South Asia and the area's array of international reli­ Europe to have an eternal flame rep­ through births. Unlike many priests in gious buildings with a Persian-style resenting the ultimate victory of India and Iran, North American good over evil ... temple located beyond an alley of priests do not require that a person be cedar trees just off Hunter Mill Road Fire is a central symbol of born to Zoroastrian parents to be con­ in Vienna. Zoroastrianism, a monotheistic reli­ sidered a Zoroastrian, the priest said. gion founded in Persia centuries The benefactor who purchased and before the Christian era ... Zoroastrians do not evangelize, donated the property for temple use but they will welcome to member­ "We don't worship fire," several said the entrance reminded him of ship anyone "who believes in the insisted, correcting a misconception cypress trees leading to an ancient teachings of our prophet Zarathustra that still pops up in news accounts of fire temple in Shiraz, Iran, said and follows and studies them," he Farhad Shahryary, who will oversee their faith. s~d 8 construction of the $3 million facility. "Fire ... represents 'the spark in [Excerpted from THE WASHING­ "My hope is that one day, we will every human being,' said Ervad TON POST, RELIGION section, SAT­ build not only the temple but be able Behram Panthaki, the association's URDAY, MAY I 0, 2003]. to hire a priest and build a bungalow priest ... 86 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 ,t,5<'< cj· ~. • j,;;xiN :lsi.. t:~:;itrfiJ~.~~fitf~~ · 0 ~ffR~.S:S···· [Excerpted from MAITREYA DOSHI's column in Sugar in the milk the TIMES OF INDIA, MUMBAI, 2002. Submitted by Erich Bajina]

f you browse through the classified section of any sands of Mumbaiites learnt art or got cured, the extent of newspaper looking to buy a used car, you will, more Parsi endowment to this city is unmatched by any other I than likely come across the phrase, 'Single, Parsi resident group ... owner'- a well understood term implying the excellent So what is it that makes this community so special? Is it maintenance and condition of the vehicle. This single the famous 'sugar in the milk' story, when they landed as description would permit it to command a premium on refugees in India seeking sanctuary, embedded in their the usually prevailing market price for a similar model. genes over the centuries, that makes them strive to excel; In a country racked with communal strife, factionalism, to always be an asset to the society? regional hegemonies and parochial myopia, the Parsi Is it their consummate passion for life, be it cars, food or community, as embodied in this brilliant metaphor, sports that gives them that special credibility? Or is it stands as a shining example of the values the rest of us their transparent sincerity coupled with the ability to seem to have forgotten. laugh at themselves that has always endeared them to the Eccentric and clubby as they may sometimes be, no other rest of us? ethnic group in India has excelled in virtually every field At a time in our nation's history when the Hindus and of life like they have. From the Tatas and Godrejs in Muslims are continually tearing at each other ... industry, Zubin Mehta in music, Homi Bhabha in sci­ perhaps all Indians should pause in this fraternal rav­ ence, medicine, law, accountancy, the list is endless ... It aging to draw inspiration and example from this tiny is not just the leaders that matter. Even in our everyday microcosm of excellence and integration within our very lives, these people, be it our class teachers, sports own country. coaches or even the piano teacher seemed to have made Despite being severely constrained from the day they set an impact in their own unique way. foot on this land, they have abided by the rules without In fact, there is no dispute that Mumbai is the wonderful protest or grudge. Whenever they prospered, which they city it is, so vastly different from India's other metros, consistently did especially under the British, they gener­ due to the significant presence, contributions and influ­ ously gave back to their city or town for everyone's ben­ ence of this diminutive yet, sadly diminishing tribe. efit. No doubt, they more than took care of their own. Whether it was Pherozeshah Mehta who started our That is very natural but never at the cost of the other cit- municipal corporation or Sir JJ thanks to whom thou- izens at large . . . B

[Excerpted from ALL THINGS CONSIDERED, NPR RADIO, MAY 21, 2000, pro­ duced by DAVAR ARDALAN. WWW.NPR.ORG/PROGRAMS/WATC/FEATURES/2000/000521 .ZARATHUSTRA.HTML

Jacki Lyden travels to Yazd, Iran, the spiritual capital 'Towers of Silence', and the songs and prayers of a of the Zoroastrians. The Prophet Zarathustra had mil­ fragile group of people, the remaining Zoroastrians. lions of adherents in Central Asia. The religion he Zarathustra preached three commandments of uni­ inspired spread from there west to Turkey and east to versal harmony: good thinking, good speaking, and China ... The Prophet Zarathustra may have been the good deeds. But in the Zoroastrian villages which first person ever to preach of one God, but relatively encircle Yazd, a combination of religious discrimina­ little is known about him today. tion in Iran and the movement of young people into Until its Arab conquest in 636 CE, all of Persia was the cities has meant that only the elderly remain. Zoroastrian ... the legacy of Zoroastrians is fused with "When we are gone," one older woman says, "then Persian identity - the country's ancient and most the village will be abandoned." famous kings at Persepolis, Darius and Cyrus, and even today, Iran's very calendar and most important With them will go the last vestiges of a way of village civil holidays are historically Zoroastrian. Yet, in a coun­ life that existed for many millennia, and though try of 60 million Muslims, 30,000 Zoroastrians remain. Zoroastrianism may live around the world, this story tells of the last keepers of the flame trying to keep The legacy of Zarathustra is remembered in the fire the religion alive. • shrines of Yazd, its eerie funeral towers called the

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 87 Overcome all your tailoring problems

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88 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 ZARATHUSHTI ENTERPRISE OPPORTUNITIES WANTED • PRODUCTS AND SERVIGES~· e Freelance translator French/ English, English/French, textual, wzcc Business Digest commercial, technical. Contact Parichehr at 214-275-6504. The WZCC (World Zarathushti Cham­ due to the geo-political situation in 11? MBA from University of San ber of Commerce) family and sphere that region. Francisco, with accounting back­ of influence is steadily growing. The Business Advisory Board ground, seeks appropriate position. Chapters. The Chicago chapter (BAB) of the WZCC, established by Contact via his relative Dolly Das­ (chair Hoshang Karani, the Chicago Chapter, staffed with toor at [email protected]. [email protected]) has been experienced business persons especially busy organizing and professionals, is avail­ Seekirg res d~exd age the "Encourage New Busi­ able for consultation and ness" conference [page PCJ91&11~ty advice to new and exist­ Dr. Firdos T. Shroff, deputy director 94], and, along with the ing businesses. Contact (Academics-Faculty) liB, Mumbai, Toronto Chapter (chair yaz@ bilimoria.com. Kobad Zarolia, kzaro­ PhD (Information Technology), MA, lia @interlog.com) plan­ WZCC Recognitions. LLB, pursuing MBA (Banking and ning the "Energizing the Nominations are invited Finance), fellow of the Institute of Zara-thushti Entrepreneurial for the annual WZCC recog- Bankers, is interested in a good open­ Spirit" session at ·the Youth nitions [at right]. Please send in ing overseas. Persons with informa­ Congress in Toronto [page 92]. Both nominations of qualified business per­ tion regarding an opportunity or events were outstanding successes. sons and professionals in your area. about institutions/universities offer­ The New York chapter (chair Rusi WZCC Annual General Meeting ing scholarships or an exchange pro­ Gandhi, Rusi@ garden. net) and the will be held in late 2003 (place and gram for research, please contact Houston Chapter (chair Kaemerz date to be announced). All WZCC [email protected]. Ill Dotiwala, kaemerzd@ houston.rr. directors, chapter chairs and mem­ com) have organized interesting pre­ bers are encouraged to attend. Please support our sentations for their members [page WZCC directory. Homi Davier, 91]. The Los Angeles chapter (chair through services provided by Avesta Zarathushti businesses Cowas Patel, [email protected]) Computing, is urging all business held an inaugural meeting with ana entrepreneurs. persons and professionals to visit Dhanmai Dalal as guest speaker. www. wzcc.net and enter their busi­ Regional chapters: Iran (chair ness/professional profiles. Please WZCC RECOGNITIONS Khodayar Attaie, khodayarattaie@ avail of this networking opportunity. hotmail.com), UK (chair Karan Bil­ Call for Nominations limoria), and especially the Middle The e-group, zchamber@yahoo WZCC invites nominations from East group (chair Me her Bhesania, groups.com, coordinated by Zareen the worldwide Zarathushti commu­ meher_bhesania@hotmail .com) and Karani Araoz provides networking nity for its annual recognitions: India (Delhi chair Farokh Rustomji, opportunities free of charge. To sub­ e Outstanding Zarathushti f.rustomji@vsnl. com; Mumbai scribe, send email to: zchamber-sub­ Entrepreneur of the Year chair Kersi Limathwalla, kersi@ scribe@ yahoo groups.com. 8 Outstanding Zarathushti bom3.vsnl.net.in) are progressing at a Contact WZCC corporate secretary Professional of the Year rapid pace [page 93]. We are contin­ Edul Daver at (732) 469-1866, uing our search for persons to spear­ 8 Outstanding Young Zara­ [email protected] or visit thushti Entrepreneur/Profes head new chapters in Australasia and www. wzcc.net ii Pakistan. sional of the Year ( 35 yrs) Rohinton Rivetna, president, WZCC Economic Cultural Delegation to Candidates must have achieved an [email protected], (630) 325-5383. Iran has been postponed indefinitely outstanding standard in their field of business or profession. Visit the Business Directory at the WZCC website: Nomination forms may be down­ loaded from www.wzcc.net (click www. wzcc.net on "update") or requested from (Website designed, maintained and hosted by Avesta Computing Service of New Jersey) Edul Daver at daver@acupowder. To join the Zarathushti business email group, send an email to: com. Nominations must be received by October 31, 2003. zchamber-subscribe @yahoogroups.com

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90 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 HONORS WECC (NaNVak) community based awareness pro­ Spcli"'SCC'S b.&iness gram for HIVI AIDS. Sta1Lp V\D'kshcp The Tata Iron and Steel Company, Four successful entrepreneurs gave TISCO, since its inception, has main­ their insights at a well-attended tained an ethic of caring for its workshop, "New Business Start Up" employees and reaching out to the on May 18, organized by the New wider community where it conducts York chapter ofWZCC. business. Educational scholarships, Ruyintan Mehta, president of Pre­ health care, construction of roads, mium Moulding, Inc. explained the parks, leasing land for constructing importance of developing a well­ places of worship, crisis management researched business plan. (floods, earthquakes) are just a few Framroze Patel, CPA and CVA elab­ examples of its charitable work. ml orated on cash flow analysis, and [From a posting by Behram Pastakia emphasized that a simple yet credi­ on creatingawareness@yahoogroups ble, factual and accurate plan is "Top Dog", Farokh Billimoria, pos­ . com. The full article, by Roxanne bound to impress venture capitalists . sibly the first and only Indian to Roberts is at www. washingtonpost. Michael Rowland, attorney at law, make the Bloomberg list. comlwp-dynlarticles/A478612003 addressed the legal point of view - Fadch Billina'ia Jun12.html.1 liability and statutory aspects. en Blocnbelg list Dr. German Bustos, president of Bus­ Ha1111E Vcria .2003 tos Marketing Communications, Inc. n its third annual ranking of the Top lk.&inessrnn d the Veer shared time-tested sales and market­ I300 Wealth Managers ("Top Dogs") Hormaz Vania of Springfield, IL ing techniques. His trick is in finding in the country, the Bloomberg Wealth [photo page 941 was recognized as that one unique quality that makes Manager magazine has listed Bil­ "2003 Businessman of the Year" by you different from competitors. limoria Wealth Management, Inc. the National Republican Congres­ at number 269. The ranking was sional Committee's Business Advi­ The workshop garnered very positive based not just on performance, but sory Council. This honor is conferred comments from all attendees. IZA also various other criteria such as ser­ on "top Business Leaders in the US, member Manin Kushesh thought it vice, tenure in the business, and com­ for integrating successful business was "very informative and produc­ mitment to serving clients. practices with the unfailing support of tive." ZAGNY member Fali Shroff Billimoria Wealth Management is a Republican ideals such as tax relief commented "Time well spent". fee-based retirement planning and and reduction of the federal debt." ~~ Kudos are in order for chapter chair investment management firm located Rusi Gandhi, for inviting the speak­ in Schaumburg, IL, owned and oper­ Distil"9-ished service ers; and to all the speakers for shar­ ated by Farokh Billimoria, CPA/PFS anad fer EcU Dcuer ing their experiences and knowledge (Personal Finance Specialist) and The Metal Powder Industries federa­ with an appreciative audience. CFP. Prior to starting his business 21 tion recognized and honored Edul M. The attendees are sure to benefit both years ago, Farokh was a management Daver [below1 with the Distinguished professionally and personally. consultant with Ernst and Young and Service to Powder Metallurgy Award, As Mr. Mehta so rightly put it, "No A. T. Kearney. for his contri­ matter what it is you plan to do, find Farokh is possibly, the first and only butions to the strength in your religious faith and Indian to have made it on industry and your family." Bloomberg's list. technology of Upcoming meetings are: [Farokh Billimoria can be reached at powder met­ 847-925-1800, [email protected] allurgy. The • "SBA Loans to Finance Small award was Businesses" on September 14. TISCO hcrtota::l presented Speaker to be announced. n Washington DC, at a Kennedy during the • "Health Care Issues in the Busi­ Center celebration of the Global 2003 Interna­ I ness Environment" by Dr. Yas­ Business Coalition on HIV/AIDS, on tional Con­ min Ghadiali on November 16. June 11, the Tata Iron and Steel Com­ ference on Powder Metallurgy and pany (TISCO) was honored for its Particulate Materials, on June 9, 2003 Contact Rusi Gandhi at (973) 263- 9619, [email protected].

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 91 "Energizing the Zarathushti Entrepreneurial Spirit" Youth entrepreneurs session at the Toronto Youth Congress

ne afternoon session at the Toronto ognized, when the president of Midas per­ youth congress (July 26th) was a prece­ sonally presentedAaresh with the company's dent-setting "business" session show­ "Future of Midas Award", an honor pre­ casing successful young entrepreneurs and sented only twice a decade. giving helpful "how to's" about starting a Aflatoon Aflatooni [photo, middle] founded business. Stations were set up for informa­ his business, Yasna Inc. with a consulting tion on: IT orE-commerce, professional ser­ focus in mind, and quickly proved that it was vices, and small business franchise. capable of advanced technology and robust WZCC director Sarosh Collecter opened the solutions. Currently, Yasna, Inc. sells server session with an overview of WZCC. application software packages. Chicago chapter chair Hoshang Karani gave Perry D. Unwalla [photo bottom] is some practical tips and 'how-to's' about owner/agent of a State Farm insurance entrepreneurship opportunities. agency. Many have seen him featured by Three young entrepreneurs spoke about their name in State Farm's Long Term Care com­ businesses -what motivated them, and the mercials which aired on national TV. obstacles they met and overcame. Kudos to Mahrukh Motafram and her team Three years ago, with a grant from the mayor from WZCC (Chicago) for conceiving and of Houston and a federal small business loan, planning the session, with able support from Aaresh ]amshedji [photo top], followed his WZCC, Toronto chapter (chair Kobad Zaro­ dream to start his own business. At 21, lia) and the Youth Congress team, especially Aaresh became Midas' youngest franchisee co-chairs Afreed Mistry and Armaity Bamji. ever. Two years later, he was nationally rec- - By Roshan Rivetna

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92 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 like charitv, entrepreneurshiP is in our blood Speakers inspire Zarathushtis to become entrepreneurs again, at the WZCC (India) inaugural celebration in Mumbai on June 8.

At the inaugural, from left, Dinshaw Tamboly, speaker Cyrus Guzder, Mumbai chapter president Kersi Limathwala, Jamshed Guzder, Minoa Shroff, speaker Areez Khambata, Dadi Mistry and core working group mem­ ber and emcee Zarine Commissariat. Right, a section of the packed hall.

e Mumbai Chapter of World He gave examples of successful busi­ of Pioma Industries, Ahmedabad, Zarathusthi Chamber of Com­ nesses started by individuals on a who created Rasna. Mr. Khambata merce, India (WZCCI) was inau­ small scale: catering, making choco­ said, "Like charity, entrepreneurship gurated on Sunday, 8th June in the lates, starting karate or dancing is in our blood." Entrepreneurs cre­ hall of Banaji Atash Bahram. classes, taking one or more cars on a ate opportunities, not just for them­ bank loan and hiring them out, orga­ selves, but also for members of Kersi Limathwala. president of the nizing a housekeeping service, look­ society. They dare to take a risk, be Mumbai chapter motivated members ing after computer software, etc. the first, and be different from others. to feel a sense of indebtedness to per­ Entrepreneurs create enterprises with form well in life: "Unless and until With the arrival of the internet, so leadership and teamwork. you feel a sense of indebtedness and many opportunities are now avail­ He said that today it is not enough to need for payback to our community, able for budding entrepreneurs. For just excel as an individual, but one to society, to the nation, to humanity an entrepreneur in today's world, the must also have excellent organiza­ in general and to Ahura Mazda for all size of the business has no relevance, tional support. One must excel, be the bounties, you will never perform e.g. Sabeer Bhatia single handedly innovative, and do a lot of thinking. more than you are required to - developed Hotmail. Industrialists He urged members to identify oppor­ which means mediocrity and being today want to reduce their head count tunities and get started. restricted to self-preservation. and look for areas where they can outsource. He summed up by saying: The next speaker was WZCC inter­ BPP president Minoo Shroff, who "It's best to start with an idea, find a national board member Dadi Mistry. presided over the meeting, traced the niche, educate yourself, test the mar­ Himself an entrepreneur based in foundation of the Chamber to the ket, and use the internet to grow your Delhi, Dadi is actively helping the Houston Congress. He said we must skills. Delhi chapter. inspire our youth to re-kindle the spirit of entrepreneurship that our Zarine read a message of good The function, sponsored by Zarir forefathers had. wishes from WZCC president Bhathena of Hilla Builders, ended Rohinton Rivetna, who has been a The first keynote speaker Cyrus with a superb dinner catered by great source of encouragement to the Tanaz Godiwala. Guzder, delivered a powerful address core committee since his visit to on "Why Zarathushtis must become Mumbai in January 2003. [Excerpted from a report by Zarine entrepreneurs again - turning your Commissariat, email: zcommissariat passion into a profitable business." The second keynote speaker was @hotmail.com] Areez Khambata, founder chairman FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 93 "Encourage New Businessl" an inaugural conference Chicago, July 12, 2003

Co-chairs Hormaz Vania and Hoshang Karani, organizer Natalie Vania, and the Chicago Chapter of WZCC are to be applauded for actualizing the mission of WZCC, which is to "energize the entrepreneurial spirit", in the form of this confer­ ence, at the Darbe Mehr in Chicago, on July 12. Packed into one long day, starting with breakfast (by Chicago's Kavina Katerers) at 7:15am, were a range ofpresentations, from inspi­ rational to practical and informative 'how-to ~v, giving the atten­ dees, a flavor of the pitfalls and rewards of owning one's business. Other WZCC chapters could do well to draw upon the experi­ ence from this conference to organize a similar one in their areas. Some of the informational material presented at the con­ ference, plus much more on business basics is available in the excellent program book of over 120 pages. For further infor­ mation about the conference or to order the program book, con­ tact Natalie Vania at [email protected]. - By Rohinton Rivetna, president, WZCC

By Natalie Vania prime case. How do questions on Zarathushtra's vision shape them­ long with a skilled team of ded­ selves in the context of business ini­ icated volunteers, it was a great tiative and business endeavor? privilege to assist in organizing Encourage New Business! An Inau­ Encourage New Business! offers as gural Conference. The wellspring its mission the entrepreneurial initia­ for my enthusiasm derives from tion of new business and an invitation Zarathushtra's vision and its employ­ to everyone to take inspiration from ment in an active sphere of life - the record, success, and future com­ business. merce of Zarathushti people. I think Zarathushtra's vision and business my prototype of the future endeavor. In these pages [FEZANA Zarathushti is of one whose integrity Natalie Vaiais the founder of is manifest for mutually advanta­ Arshiya Ventures, assisting Journal, Winter 2002] I inquired ear­ lier as to defining a 'value proposi­ geous exchange of goods and ser­ investors and entrepreneurs in Sili­ vices. The Zarathushtrian value of con Valley, Illinois and beyond. tion', or an explication of Zarathushtra's singular vision, for the the future business person of 2053 Arshiya provides executive summary Zarathushti people. We were urged to will demonstrate virtues such as ini­ editing, investor sen,ices, introduc­ think about the 'future Zarathushti'­ tiative, the good mind, creativity, and tion to venture investors, post­ who may that person be? What pro­ execution so necessary for good busi­ September 11 analysis and cultural totype may emerge, what values may ness endeavor. Thinking of the future insight. Natalie works with venture the future prototype bear? And what gives meaning now to our activities. capitalists and investors, is today's benefit from considering Our best compliment for the confer­ entrepreneurs and organizations, to tomorrow's value? ence came when a distinguished locate, assess and assist develop­ Zarathushti youth remarked that our ment of highly innovative technolo­ Such a series of questions can be aims were "noble". Can we be noble gies and start-ups. posed for active, not just contempla­ tive, spheres of life. Business is a through business? 94 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 Clockwise from top, conference co-chair Hormaz M. Vania, founder and principal of Vania Engi­ neering, Inc. Springfield, IL; and speakers: Xerxes Wania, president of inSilicon Canada, Toronto, and his wife Charis; Manou Mobedshahi of the Mobedshahi Hotel Group, California; and Ferzeen Chhapgar, venture support manager at the Enterprise Network of Silicon Valley.

If a future Spithrodates adheres to the four touch-points of Zarathushtra' s vision: light, truth, right, and frashokereti, I believe there is much play for nobility in business effort. In 2053, the world will be different than what we know it as today; with new political boundaries, new physical energies, new reproduction and bio-engineering and so many ways quite beyond what we imagine. Even light, which separates matters into clarity and obscurity will have a differing role. Optical technologies run through an 'always-on' internet, bio-fluorescence offers new insight, the advance with technologies of light is just begun. Truth will always be at the core of merchant trade. It will continue as the currency of our business repute, just as it was when Herodotus records of the Persians, "The most disgraceful thing in the world, they think, is to tell a lie." Truth as vital in history's unfolding will proceed with new science and its epistemology commercialized through eager businesses which advance human life. Most vital, the process of making the world fresh and new will be the task of enlightened businesses bringing to us new products and services, new value, beyond today's imagination. The conference. Apart from theories, the conference gave us much evidence of Zarathushtra's vision in play. Co-chair Hormaz M. Vania opened with reflection from forty years entrepreneurship in founding an engineering FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 95 firm) moderated a panel showcasing several local successful Zarathushti businesses. Panelists: Yezdi Godi­ walla (professor and chair, Manage­ ment department, University of Wisconsin, Whitewater); Ken Hathi (of 30 major business aquisitions and ventures); Nilufer Darukhanawalla (franchise owner, Kumon Math and Reading Center in Plainfield, IL), Hosi Mehta (Mehta Motors auto repair business in Elmhurst, IL)

At the business conference: from left, Rohinton Rivetna, Chicago chapter chair Hoshang Karani, Yaz Bilimoria, Prof. Yezdi Godiwalla, Ken Hathi, Nilufer Darukhanawalla, Hosi Mehta and Zubin Tantra.

practice, Vania Engineering, Inc. in sors) was unable to attend, Dr. the great American frontier, Abe Lin­ Natalie Vania conducted a lively coln's territory. workshop on Business Visions. Manou Mobedshahi of The Mobed­ Dr. Debra Malewicki, director, the shahi Hotel Group, owner of a chain Wisconsin Service Innovation Center, of hotels and winner of the Mayor of gave insight into assessing the viabil­ San Jose's award for business excel­ ity of new products and market lence, revealed an inspired view, key opportunities. points, of the Zarathushti ethos guid­ During lunch (a box lunch of Parsi ing his success. He emphasized the delicacies, by Kavina Katerers) exhalted nature of our religion, how Rohinton Rivetna spoke about the it provides a glorious way of life now vision of WZCC, and reminded us of Zubin and Zeno­ as we seek Truth and gain knowledge a heritage of integrity and industry so bia Tantra (who for betterment. important to build into the future; founded Lake Xerxes Wania's semiconductor and Dr. Yaz Bilimoria founder of County Physical design technology company, Xentec QStar Foods which owns two Therapy LLC in was acquired in 2000 for $16 million Quiznos franchises in Indiana 1999, providing by inSilicon, which in turn was described the services offered by the outpatient physi­ acquired by Synopsis for $69 million. Business Advisory Board, recently cal therapy, now The young business leader from created by WZCC (Chicago). grown to four facilities) - all Toronto, gave us brilliant clear think­ After lunch, Prof William Dougan, showed us "doing right" in action. ing for using entrepreneurial risk to professor of management in the Col­ make active choices for excelling. lege of Business and Economics, at For frashokereti, the best moments We can choose (and train ourselves the University of Wisconsin, White­ occurred when Zarathushti youth dis­ to choose) risk, which Xerxes sees as water; John Cieslik director of Eco­ cussed possibilities and their willful choice of attitude in an envi­ nomic Development for Illinois State entrepreneurial prospects. No era for ronment we control, and plan to win. Treasurer (giving $50+ million to business initiative is as vital as ours Ferzeen Chhapgar, manager, Ven­ new high-tech venture business); and and great opportunity abounds. ture Support of The Enterprise Net­ Steven Konkel, director, Small Busi­ Special thanks are due to the co­ work of Silicon Valley instilled us ness Administration, Chicago gave chairs, sponsors, organizers, the with fervor for bringing new NASA valuable insights into starting a new Rivetnas' gracious hosting of a pre­ science into our lives through the business venture and funding sources. conference dinner and discussion, entrepreneurial path. Dr. Yaz Bilimoria conducted a work­ hospitality chairs, and the dear Dr. Though Arnavaz Elavia (a financial shop on starting a business; and Paul and his children who did mas­ planner and business advisor with Hoshang Karani, (Karani Value ter-duty on video-recording our gala American Express Financial Advi- Technology Strategies) consulting event. •

96 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 Dl 5 EII1CCIIB tn.e ••• [Continued from page 20] Mehroo and Dara Homavazir, who hosted all the girls. To all who helped in Canada - Nilufer Mama, Dr. Dolly Dastoor, Pheroze Austin and many others, we are truly grateful. Some very special people worked behind the scenes - Pheroza Godrej who supported the project each step of the way and gave freely of her good offices and staff, including Mr. Majoo, an extraordinarily efficient and dedicated person. Were it not for the final tremendous help from Gen­ eral Adi Sethna, the girls could not have come! Maharoukh Forbes helped in the selection of the girls from Pune with Dr. Zarine Cooper and Farida Master Strengthening the ties: BPP president Minoa and Villoo Shroff [left] with (the late Mrs. Tehmi Grant, a ZWINer, Meher Bhesania, chair, WZCC Middle East Group, and her husband Kersy. was going to coordinate the process in Pune), while Dinshaw Tamboly (a supporter in many ways) lent us the Dubai-lndia ties are strengthened very efficient offices of Homi Mullan of BPP to help gather applicants from BPP president Minoa Shroff visit Dubai Mumbai. t was an exciting evening for all jewellery, interior design and food About ZWIN. ZWIN (that has over businesspersons and professionals processing. He added that BPP had 200 members in 16 countries) also Iof WZCC at AI Bustan Hotel in set up a center to encourage young plans to assist in the participation of Dubai, on April lOth when Bombay entrepreneurs kick-off businesses. young Zarathushtis at the Youth Parsi Punchayet (BPP) president Mr. Congress in India, staying with host Mr. Shroff said that from the first families. We also continue with the Minoa Shroff and his wife Villoo vis­ lakh JRD Tata earned, he put aside ZWIN Zoroastrian International ited the Zarathushti community in Rs.lO,OOO for creating a trust for Student Network; and hospitality for Dubai. This was the first time a higher education. Similarly each of students away from home for which senior member from BPP visited that us should try and donate some por­ we now have reps in 28 cities (con­ country; it was especially appreci­ tion of our earnings to charitable tact zareen@managing cultures.com ated, at a time when the whole mid­ organisations, so that the corpus for inclusion). We will soon be start­ dle eastern region and the world were keeps growing, and funds could be ing a youth mentoring program. going through moments of extraordi­ utilized for projects to benefit the To join ZWIN send an e-mail to nary challenges and history was community. ZWIN3-subscribe@yahoogroups. changing in Iraq. On behalf of WZCC Middle East com and send your name, city and Mr. Shroff spoke vibrantly on the group, Meher Bhesania launched the your professional status to zareen@ socio economic challenges facing the "Vision India 2003 - 2004" program, managingcultures.com. Selena Jijina ([email protected]) and Bucky Zarathushti community ... which aims at building closer ties Amaria ([email protected]) are Stressing entrepreneurship, the eco­ between businesspersons and profes­ also helping with membership nomic engine that keeps the commu­ sionals from India and the Middle administration. nity going, he said our youth need to East. Attempts will be made to pass be inspired to nurture a culture of on business leads to each other so We welcome suggestions, contribu­ entrepreneurship. Some businesses that business ties flourish between tions directly to projects only (ZWIN has no funds and charges no fees), worth considering were events man­ members of the Zarathushti commu­ and welcome your mentorship, hos­ agement, beauty parlors, hotel and nity, and the eonomic wealth remains pitality and support to our young motel management, travel and within the community. r~l people in our Student Project. !li tourism, warehousing, insurance, [Excerpted from a report by Meher manufacturing of garments, costume Dr. Zareen Karani Araoz Bhesania, Dubai]. zareen@ managingcultures. com FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 97 Right, Youth mobeds at the neXus closing jashan: from left, Ervads Zavaihere Bal- sara, Adil Minocherhomjee, Mehernosh Bhada, Darayus Bajan, Farhad Balsara (lead mobed), Cyrus Panthakee and Fir­ dosh Balsara (helping his son Farhad). Below, buffet barbecue and games at Ontario Place.

[Continued from page 15] on Life Support: Political Activism" (Feroze Sidhwa); "Plunging into our Gene Pool" (Roxanna Mirza) dis­ cussed health conditions affecting Parsis; "First Generation Zoroastri­ ans" (Behram Jam and Rashna Wadia) explored what it means to be a Zarathushti born in the western world; "Zoroastrian Relationships" (Sharookh Sid Sidhwa) about pres­ sures to find a Zarathushti partner and coping with ups and downs of relationships (also see his website www.tigersid.com); and a popular "Match-Making Session" (Afreed Mistry), which gave participants an opportunity to mix and mingle. A buffet barbecue at Ontario Place, a This was the first youth congress for Youth Mobeds Ervads Darayus formal Masquerade Ball, and pre­ Suzie Karani, a student in Human Bajan, Mehernosh Bhada, Ardeshir and post-congress activities gave Rights Studies at Columbia. She Hormozyari and Cyrus Khory spoke ample opportunity for "connecting". found the workshops "informational about their roles in society as they While most participants commented and encouraging, all geared toward entered the priesthood. that "it was the best congress yet" finding common Zarathushti identifi­ The "FEZANA and the UN NGO with a "perfect balance of educa­ cations, spreading awareness about Conference" session (Susan Karani, tional and social activities", there our heritage, and rooting inspiration Aysha Ghadiali and Jehan Rivetna) were some who felt the balance was to participate in various religiously­ spoke of participation at UN confer­ tipped more towards social activities, led pursuits." ences and promoted humanitarian with "not enough substance" in the "I particularly enjoyed meeting so causes such as the children's pro­ workshops and presentations. many youth who were interested in gram at Gram Seva Trust in Gujarat. Mistry, who was also on the educa­ creating religious awareness and pro­ A Game-a-Thon "Breast cancer tion committee felt that the success of moting humanitarian ideals and prac­ fundraiser" was organized by Rox­ the congress was in part due to the tice," said Suzie. "I left with a feeling anna Mirza. One session, co-spon­ fact that "we took out all controver­ of accomplishment, having learned so sored by WZCC was devoted to sial topics, and kept discussion ses­ much and met so many friends in just "Energizing the Entrepreneurial sions to a minimum"; some however, four days. Like all the other attendees, Spirit" [see page 92]. viewed that in a negative light. I look forward to the next one." • 98 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 Fit'EIIICial PrcglEss Repcrt reetings from FEZANA! When faced with a difficult economy, one of the first things people cut back on is charitable giving. This is quite understandable. After all, charity does begin at home. But, while we might be faced with an uncertain economy for the foreseeable future, it is important to remember that the need for funding at organizations like FEZANA does not distinguish between good economic times and bad. The need is always great. It could be a neighbor or a family member, but FEZANA has been there, providing vital services to help in times of need. Without the help and generosity of people like you, we could not have helped so many. This year we had a very exciting AGM. There are so many new programs to better the community. Funds were approved by the representatives of the FEZANA associations to support the following projects: (1) North American Mobed Council's request for the book, "Understanding and Practice of Obsequies" (Ritual performance of funeral rites). (2) Ms. Bachi Karkaria's multimedia project, "The Parsi Cultural1dentity". (3) Additional funds were approved to set up academic education scholarships A lifetime worthwhile of $10,000, besides the $5,000 from the Kheradi Endowment Fund, for the 2003-2004 academic year. his existence of ours is as (4) Updating of the North American Zarathushti Directory. transient as autumn clouds. To watch the birth and death of Additional requests were made for other projects: beings is like watching the (1) Restoration of historical manuscripts - manuscripts from Navsari in des­ movements of a dance. perate need of restoration, presented at the AGM by Malcolm Debao. A Lifetime is like a (lash of (2) Film production on Zarathushtis in North America by Tenaz Dubash. lightning in the sky, rushing by (3) Capt. S. J. Contractor's project to construct a replica of the original ships like a torrent down a steep and re-enact the exodus of the early Zarathushti settlers to India from Iran. mountain. (4) The upcoming 3rd World Zoroastrian Youth Congress in Pune, India. We have stopped (or a moment (5) The Sanjan/Bahrot caves excavation and preservation project, by the to encounter each other, to World Zarathushti Cultural Foundation (WZCF) of Dr. Homi Dhalla. meet to love, to share. (6) WZO Youth Wing's "Project Udvada" and support for their community This is a precious moment but center, dispensary and other activities. it is transient. It is like a little parenthesis in eternity. All these exciting projects and the good work being done by so many people all over the world to improve and enrich our Zarathushti culture and heritage, If we share with caring, light need your help. heartedness, and love, we will Making a difference. Therefore, let's not forget to continue to support the create abundance and joy (or FEZANA Thousand Points of Light Campaign by sending a donation to the each other. General, Welfare, Ctitical Assistance, Scholarship, Religious Education and/or And then, this moment will have Journal Funds. Your generous tax-deductible gift will help to fund these exciting been worthwhile. programs, as well as the ongoing activities and programs already established. - Gautama Buddha These programs and services have aided people all over the world. With your help, we can continue to make a positive difference in the Zarathushti commu­ "1000 pcins d Ligr' nity. Thank you for considering a generous gift to FEZANA. After all, the per­ donors are shown on the next page. son you are helping could be someone you know. Please send your check Each $100 counts as 1 Point of payable to FEZANA; indicate the fund you wish to support and mail to Rashid Light. Help us reach our goal of Mehin, Treasurer, 583 Beverly Place, San Marcos, CA 92069. 1000 points. Do natations received Jerry Kheradi, MD, chairperson from April 19th through July 15, Committee: Rashid Mehin (treasurer), Rustam Kevala, PhD, Mitra Rashidi, 2003 are shown in bold. Esq., and Celeste Kheradi.

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 99 Thousand Points of Light 2001-2 2003 Total 2001-2 2003 Total Anonymous, FL 5 5 Noshir L Hansotia, MO 1 1 Anonymous, NY Gen 1 1 Piloo E. Ilavia, TX Cr 1 1 Anonymous Rei 1 1 Behram K & Farieda Irani, TX 4 Wel/Cr 9 13 A Wellwisher, MI 1 1 Hormuz & Shahdookht Irani, GA 6 6 Dr Babak Abadi, PA 1 1 Mervan and Katayoun Irani, MD 1 1 Parviz & Simin Ardeshirpour, NC 1 Sch 1 2 Minoo S. Italia Gen 1 1 Dr. Cyrus F Austin, AZ 13 Gen 1 14 Rohinton Boman Irani, NY Gen 1 1 Porus Austin, CA 2 2 Rustam H. Irani, MA 1 1 Zubin & Silvia Balsara, AR Gen 1 1 Jim & Homai Jagus, PA 5 5 Edul & Tehnaz Bamji, NJ Wei 1 1 Iraj Jahanian, MD, MO 1 Gen 3 4 Dolly & Pesi Bevadam Wel/Cr 2 2 Khurshid & J.J. Jamadar, TX 2 2 Thritee, Soozan & Trista Baxter, NY (e) 1 1 Rumi & Kashmira Jamsetjee, IL 1 1 Beach Cigar Group, FL 20 Wel/Cr 8 28 Dinshaw & Goolcher Joshi, MD 2 Cr 2 4 Zazu & Tinaaz Bhandara, CA 1 Gen 1 2 Khorshed & Dr Firoze Jungalwala,MA (d) 1 1 Firdaus & Jasmin Bhathena, MA 1 1 J amshed & Rita Kapadia, MA 1 1 Rustom & Sheroo Bhathena, OH 1 1 Homi & Shireen Kapadia, PA 5 5 Homi & Ellen Byramji, NJ 1 1 Dr Natasha Karanjia, PA Cr 2 2 Dr. Lovji D. Cama, NJ 7 7 Dolly Kerawalla, CA 1 1 Kamal E. Campbell, GA Wel/Cr 1 1 Mr & Mrs K.S. Kermani, NY (a) 5 5 Dr. Nadir Camay, CA 1 1 Dr Rustom & Yasmin Kevala, MD (f) 2 2 Sohrab D. Chama Cr 1 1 Delara Kheradi, NY Sch (f) 1 1 Homiyar Choksi, VA 1 1 Celeste Kheradi, RI Sch (f) 15 15 Cyra & Lyla Contractor, PA 1 1 Dr Jerry Kheradi, RI Sch (f) 65 Sch (f) 5 70 Hutoxi & Dr Farhad Contractor, PA 1 (g) (h) 2 3 Kershaw & Nazneen Khumbatta, TX 1 1 Mr. & Mrs. Farokh Contractor Cr 1 1 Jasmin & Maneck Kotwal, NJ 2 2 Katy & Farrokh Cooper, CA 2 2 Kaizad Kotwal, OH Gen 1 1 Phil F. Cooper, CA Wei 1 1 Zenobia & Shahrookh Lala, MI 1 1 Tommy and Nairika Cornett, GA 1 1 Mathew Lungen, NY Sch (f) 1 1 Tammy & Behram Dalal, NC 1 Gen 1 2 Jinobya Machhi, WI Cr 1 1 Phiroze H. Dalal, CA Cr 5 5 Borzoo Kushesh & Mahindokht (b) 1 1 Dr Ardeshir & Parvin Damania, CA 2 2 Dolly Malva, CA 1 1 Diana Darnkevala, CA 1 1 Mehran & Dr. Mitra Mazdyasni, CA 1 1 Maneck Daroowalla, NY 1 Gen 1 2 Noshir & Yasmin Medhora, TX 2 2 Adil Daruwala, CA 1 1 Farahnaz Mehdiabadi, TX 1 1 Farrokh N Dastur, CA 1 1 Hosi & Kim Mehta, IL 1 1 Meher N. Dastur, CA 2 2 Merwan and Rukshana Mehta, MO 1 1 Nari & Dinoo Dastur, CT 1 1 Shahrokh & Gool Mehta, NY 2 2 Er. Soli & JoAnn Dastur, FL 2 2 Hoshi & Nawaz Merchant, NJ 2 2 Edul & Niloufer Daver, NJ 1 1 Mehraban & Mahbanoo Mehr Gen 1 1 Homi & Nargish Davier, TX 1 1 Manon Mobedshahi, CA (i) Jr 25 25 Jimmy & Freny Deboo family, MI 1 1 Pesi Mistry, NY 1 1 Ross Dinyari Gen 1 1 Tehmton & Aloo Mistry, MO 1 1 Yezdi N Dordi, CA 5 5 Jehangir and Olive Mobed, IL 1 1 Jimmy Dubash, VA 1 1 Rumy Mohta, VA 1 1 Manek R. Dustoor, MI 2 2 Nesh Inc. 1 1 A.D. & G.A. Dutia, AL 3 3 Minoo Netervala, CA 2 2 Tony & Swati Elavia, MA 1 1 Percy K Nikorawalla, NJ 1 1 Freddy Engineer, CA 1 1 Jamshed & Farzana Palsetia, MA 1 1 Rumi Engineer, CO Sch!Wel/Cr 3 3 Farhad & Firoza Panthaki, MA 11 11 Adil Feroz,GA 1 1 Drs. Khushru & Roda Patel, IL 1 1 Rusi D Gandhi, NJ 1 1 Mr & Mrs Randolph Paulling, GA (d) 1 1 Sorab Gandhi, CA 5 5 Yasmin & Shapur Pavri, TX 1 Sch 2 3 Eugene Gauger, MI 1 1 Dr Parvez Pohowalla, OR 1 1 Jamshed & Yasmin Ghadiali, NJ 2 2 Godrej & Piloo Randeria, TX Gen 1 1 Rashna Ghadialy, IL 1 1 Dr. Minocher Reporter, OR 1 1 Mr. & Mrs. Sorab K. Ghadiali 3 3 Jamshed & Tamara Rivetna, TX 1 1 Soonu & Jal Godiwalla, TX 1 1 Rohinton & Roshan Rivetna, IL 2 2 [Continued on next page] 100 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 Thousand Points of Light [Contd] 2001-2 2003 Total 2001-2 2003 Total Dinaz & Dan Rogers, OR 2 2 Parviz & Parvin Yeganegi, BC 4 4 Villoo & Solee Rudina, TX 1 1 ZAPANJ, DE, PA & NJ 2 2 Purvez & Aban Rustomji, TX (d)2 2 Farangis Zardoshty & family, AZ (c) 260 260 Neville Sarkari, WY 1 1 Mehraban Zartoshty, B.C 25 25 N argesh & As pi Sethna, TX 1 1 Z Assoc of Alberta, Canada 3 3 Prochy Sethna, CA 10 10 Atlanta Z Anjuman, GA 1 1 Behram Shroff, VA Cr 1 1 Z Assoc of N Calif, CA 2 2 Dr Burjis & Hovi Shroff, FL 5 5 Z Assoc of N Texas 2 2 Dr N ariman & Parrin Shroff, FL 2 2 Total Points 615 97 712 Zubeen Shroff, NY 1 1 Feroze & Anahita Sidhwa, TX (Sch!Wel/Cr) 10 10 (a) In memory of Dr. Keikhosrow and Morvarid Harvesf Yezdi N. Soonavala, MI Gen 1 1 (b) In memory of Irandokht Ezzati Nazneen & Ehler Spliedt, CA 1 1 (c) In memory of Mobed Faridoon Zartoshty Cyrus Subawalla, IL Cr 2 2 (d) In memory of Nargesh Mistree Bella Tata, BC 1 1 (e) In honor of the 70th birthday of Dr Jehangir Kotwal Khurshed M Tengra, ID 1 Gen 1 2 (f) For Mehraban Dorab Kheradi Scholarships Jamshed Udvadia, MI 5 5 (g) In memory of Mrs. Mitha Monis Peny Unwalla, FL 1 1 (h) For Mr. & Mrs. Dinshaw Nariman Rayomand J Unwalla, PA 1 1 (i) For reprint of "Legacy of Zarathushtra" Dick & Sheroo Vazir, FL 2 2 Funds: Cr=Critical Assistance, Gen=General, Jr=Joumal, Jer Vijan, AZ 1 1 Rel=Religious Education; Sch=Scholarship, Wel=Welfare . Dr. M. Darius Vohman, GA Gen 1 1 • Are you ready to retire?

e thought of early retirement of the major psychological issues to ficult under normal retirement cir­ probably sounds wonderful, consider before taking the plunge. cumstances, but early retirement doesn't it? How do endless Boredom is perhaps the number one exace~bates the problem. sunny days of golf, travel, gardening, complaint in retirement. Daily Differing retirement dates. It's com­ reading, visiting the kids and grand­ rounds of golf can get old quickly, mon with early retirement for only kids sound? Early retirement, how­ particularly if all your regular golfing one person in a marriage to be retir­ ever, may not be all that it's cracked buddies still hold jobs. Boredom can ing early. The other may not have up to be, caution many financial be a problem in retirement at any age, that luxury, or may not want to. That planners. And it's not the money but it is especially a challenge in early can cause friction. The working they're talking about; it's the whole retirement because you're looking at spouse may expect the retired spouse psychology of early retirement. potentially many more years to fill to keep house, or may resent watch­ Let's assume, for the moment, that with something meaningful. A good ing the spouse sleep in while he or you have sufficient and reasonably indication that this might be a prob­ she trudges off to work. The retired dependable financial resources to see lem is if you don't currently have out­ spouse may be anxious to travel or you through an early retirement. side interests, if work is your life. move, but the working spouse can­ (Roughly half of all workers retire by Lack ofjob stress sounds like a ben­ not. The friction is most common age 62, according to the Social Secu­ efit of retirement, and for many it is. when the husband retires before the rity Administration). Building suffi­ While someone age 65 or 70 might wife retires, according to a Cornell cient financial resources to retire be ready for a less hectic life, that's University study. early is no easy task, but properly not necessarily the case for someone Forced early retirement. In a slug­ planned, many people can do it. who's 50 or 55 and at the peak of gish economy, many people are An equally challenging question - their career. being laid off, and some are taking one that's often overlooked - is Lack of social contact. Work is a early retirement packages. The prob­ whether you are psychologically major source of social contact. Los­ lem here is, up to this point they may ready to retire early. Here are some ing touch with co-workers can be dif- not have thought about or planned

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 101 for retiring early. The early retire­ ment package may sound good, but it takes time to adjust to the idea. Worries about money. Ideally, you've determined, perhaps with the help of a financial planner, that you have enough money for early retire­ IEl/IN/1 DDNIITIDNS liND APPEALS ment. Still, it's not uncommon to Donations. Unless specified otherwise, all donations should be sent to: worry financially at times, particu­ Rashid Mehin, FEZANA Treasurer, 583 Beverly Place San Marcos Cal- larly if there are unexpected ifornia 92069, tel: (760) 891-0699, Email: [email protected]. ' expenses or a bear market. The Please make donation checks payable to "FEZANA", specifying the fund worry can be worse for early retirees na~e (General, Welfare, Critical Assistance, Religious Education, Scholar­ because they're funding a longer ~htp and Fezana Journal). For specific earmarked donations, please also retirement period - perhaps 10 or 15 mclude the recipient's name, in the memo section on the check. All charita­ years longer. It can be emotionally ble donations to FEZANA are tax deductible in USA. Donors of $250 or deflating to be forced back to work. more will receive a confirmation letter for their tax records. For donations How do you avoid or minimize these under $250, please use your canceled check as a receipt. psychological hurdles of early retire­ ment? Here are several ideas from Appeals. All appeals for community welfare, medical, social and critical Certified Financial Planner profes­ assistance should be sent to the FEZANA Welfare Committee: chair - sionals: Houtoxi F. Contractor, 2301 Colony Court, Pittsburgh, PA 15237, tel: (412) 367-2948; [email protected]. • Be certain you are in good finan­ For more information, visit the FEZANA website: www.fezana.org cial shape. • Prepare for early retirement start­ Framjee ($1,000); Afried Farrokh ing now, regardless of your age. GraleAJ Tl aMi! Kamdin, NY ($200); Jamshid R. Envision what you truly want to do FEZANA gratefully acknowledges Kapadia and Rita, MA ($51+$51); and how you'll handle these psycho­ donations received from April 19th Prochy P. Sethna, CA ($500); Dr. logical hurdles. You'll need to start through July 15, 2003. This does not Behram Shroff, VA ($101); Zoroas­ planning as soon as possible to make include donations acknowledged trian Association of Metr. Chicago, it work financially. under the "1000 Points of Light" pro­ gram [see page 100]. for refugee assistance ($101). • Don't retire from work, retire to Religious Education: something. Simply quitting work General fund: North American Mobeds Council may not necessarily create a fulfill­ Nina J. Deboo ($50); Jimmy K. and (NAMC) has donated $1,000 for ing, enjoyable retirement. For exam­ Mary Dubash, VA ($100). sponsoring a young mobed to the ple, a Zarathushti planning to retire Welfare Fund: youth congress. can look into volunteering on one of Porus F. Austin and Khar, CA ($200); the FEZANA committees. Nina J. Deboo ($51); Jimmy K. and Paridokht, Farangis, Iran and Homayoun Zardoshty have donated • 'Practice' your retirement before Mary Dubash, VA ($250); Sami R. [Continued on next page] you retire - hobbies, vacation spots and the other aspects of your vision. Be flexible before settling on long­ amenities and hobbies anyone could term commitments such as buying a stressful. This provides a great psy­ possibly think of. This retirement home in a new location. Find a place chological transition into full retire­ community is composed of new sin­ to rent (not buy) for several months ment, as well as financial benefits. gle family homes and villas sur­ and spend your vacation and week­ [The above is printed with permission rounded by beautiful golf courses, ends there to get a feeling of that of Arthur Everly of Wealth Manage­ tennis courts, indoor and outdoor location before planning to retire per­ ment Resources, Inc.] heated swimming pools, clubhouses manently in that area. Sun City Retirement Community. for arts, music, computers, etc. The • Talk it over carefully with your Yasmin Kevala is investigating Sun center also has it's own 800 seat the­ spouse, so you both agree on expec­ City Center [see page 55] as an ideal ater for Broadway and Las Vegas tations such as travel and housework. community for the Zarathushti com­ shows besides other weekly enter­ munity to retire in. Located in sunny • Consider semi-retirement. Work tainment. Kindly email Yasmin at Florida on the Gulf coast, close to [email protected] for more infor- part time or only a few months of the Tampa and Sarasota, it has all the year in a job you like but that is less mation. • 102 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 $6,000 for the Religion Scholarship so well deserve. Its meagre resources Tra:lticnal Zaralh.&tllricn fund for the year 2003. are so strained that even the basics of Tn.&t, ln:la The Zardoshty sisters have also decent living are now becoming a rar­ The "Traditional Zarathushtrian donated $500 for mobedyar expenses ity. Orphanage superintendent ~r. Trust" (TZT) has been set up in at the youth congress. Additional Barjis K. Bamji has made a fervent ~umbai, with multifarious objects: funds for this purpose were also appeal for help. Send your donation to promoting and safeguarding the reli­ donated by Tahamtan and Gordafrid FEZANA [see previous page] marked gion, educational help, medical Aresh and ZYNA ($1050). "Navsari Orphanage". relief, help to seniors, housing, relief FEZANA Journal Fund: to the poor, encouragement of ReA.gee assistance ~anou ~obedshahi (The ~obed­ entrepreneurship, promotion of shahi Foundation) has donated The Zarthushti Association of Ken­ sportspersons, etc. Its benefits shall $2,500 as a partial sponsorship for tucky, Ohio and Indiana (ZAKOI) is flow solely to deserving Parsi reprinting of the FEZANA publica­ appealing for financial assistance for Zoroastrians (born of both Parsi tion, "The Legacy of Zarathushtra ". a family of six. Originally from Iran, Zoroastrian parents). Contact Filly they fled to Pakistan, and India and FEZANA wishes to acknowledge all ~aravala at [email protected]. are currently in Cincinnati, OH. the contributions made by donors Their government aid as refugees OppcrtLrities to gi\18. .. towards various projects and appeals expired in June, and with only one Besides the above, other worthy pro­ and we thank them for their contin­ earning member, who has a janitorial jects seeking funding, as described ued support. t1l job at a local motel, the family is elsewhere in this issue of FEZANA ZAC Natcr FU'd unable to make ends meet. ZAKOI Journal, are summarized below. Ervad Tishtar Dadachanji is the first have raised some funds to perform benefactor of the Zoroastrian Associ­ the 12-year old son's navjote (on July • Ontario Zoroastrian Community ation of~etr. Chicago's Navar Fund 13th in Cincinnati). For information, Foundation (OZCF) is seeking created by Dr. Kersey Antia. After he contact ZAKOI secretary Kashmira funds for a center in the western becomes a martab, Er. Dadachanji Sadri at (502) 244-4806, ron­ Greater Toronto area [see page 12]. will be appointed panthaki at the [email protected]. Send your dona­ • Zoroastrian Society of Ontario agiary in Kalyan. Donations are tion to FEZANA [see previous page] (ZSO) is raising funds for building sought to enable more athornans to marked "refugee assistance". larger premises on the site of the pre­ become navar and martab. Please send your check made to "ZAC Hospital fi..rd'ciiser sent darbe mehr [see ad last page]. Navar Fund" to ZAC, 8615 ~eadow­ The 16th annual Parsi General Hos­ e Fighting AIDS and TB in Africa pital fundraising Dinner, was held on brook Dr, Bunidge, IL 60527. and Asia [see page14]. August 30. Donations for this very Aill~ e als fran the • E e ely worthy cause of providing ~edicare • ZWIN student exchange projects Among the appeals for financial and improved medical equipment in [see page 20]. assistance received by FEZANA are: PGH, ~umbai, will be gratefully ~ Family from Vishakhapatnam, accepted. Contact Dr. Homai Kasad • Assisting people of Zarathushti urgently needs financial assistance at (650) 591-2813, hkasad@yahoo ancestry in Tajikistan/Uzbekistan for medical expenses and their 3 chil­ .com. Send your donation to [see page 21] . dren's education. The husband, a FEZANA [see previous page] e PARZOR - a UNESCO-assisted marked "Parsi General Hospital". marine surveyor, has been diagnosed project to perpetuate Zarathushti cul­ with cancer of the small intestine, ture and heritage [see page 22]. and the wife also has medical prob­ WEOOn:ict lems. They have sold their family s'll..dE!ra. assistance • World Zarathushti Cultural Foun­ jewelry to meet expenses. Send your WZO (India) is seeking donations (a) dation, WZCF, chair Dr. Homi donation to FEZANA [see previous for specialized coaching classes for Dhalla, archeological excavations at page] marked "Family from Vishak". students seeking admission to highly heritage sites in Bahrot Caves and competitive medical, engineering Sanjan [see page 23]. Bc:J.ys a pi a E19Bt Nauscri and other colleges; and (b) to help The financial condition of the Bai worthy students pursue their stud­ • Sponsoring reprint of "The Dosabai Kotwal Parsi Boys Orphan­ ies/careers in India and abroad. Send Legacy of Zarathushtra" [page 79]. age in N avsari is very poor. Despite your donation to FEZANA [see pre­ • "Portrait of a Community" the best of efforts, paucity of funds is vious page] marked "WZO (India) video film project [see page 116]. ~51 making it increasingly difficult to mn student assistance". this fine institution which provides our less privileged boys the support they In charity there can be no excess -Bacon FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 103 Scholarships Available

Below is a list of miscellaneous scholarships available to Zara­ This column on living a healthy and balanced thushti students: Zarathushti life, is brought to you by IVIelw'DD M Patel, MD, FRCS(Ed.), FAAFP. Questions and sug­ FEZANA Scholarships and gestions for future topics are welcome. Dr. Patel has Mehraban Dorab Kheradi Endow­ a family practice in Chicago since 1978 and prac­ ment Scholarships for Zarathushti ticed as a cardiothoracic surgeon in Mumbai and students at institutions of higher UK. A fellow of the American Academy of Family learning in USA or Canada. One Physicians, she was nominated twice as Illinois Fam­ year residency required. Forms are ily Physician of the Year. at www.fezana.org, or contact Dolly Dastoor, PhD, at dastoor@ total.net, tel: (450) 656-2036. Health in the Golden Years Moobed Faridoon Zardoshty [We pre-empt the previously diabetes, gangrene, kidney failure, Religion Education Scholarships announced topic of Designer Diets to eye problems and more - morbidity awarded to Zarathushtis for higher bring you this theme-relevant topic.] and high cost of growing old. studies/research in Zarathushti reli­ have come a long way, and Two to three medications to control gion at a recognized institution of have a longer way to go - if you each of these soon add up to a dozen higher education anywhere in the live healthy. Health at fifty­ pills a day. Dietary constraints make world. Visit www.fezana.org, or something is the mirror image of life vitamins, antioxidants and nutritional contact K. P. Mehta at kayomehta lived thus far. supplements necessary. Add to @aol.com, tel: (708) 974-1238. these, off-the-shelf remedies per sug­ The biological clock ticks at a pace gestions of well-meaning friends - {') Fali Chothia Charitable Trust different from the physical clock, and soon an explosive chemical fac­ scholarships for Zarathushti stu­ which adds an interesting dimension tory is at work within the body. dents in North American universi­ to the aging phenomenon. An Behold, the down-spiral has already ties. WZO (US chapter) is joining eighty-something may look and live begun and add-ons are not far away. in the 2003-2004 scholarship pro­ younger than a sixty-something, and gram. Forms are at www.zamwi. the reverse is also true. Diseases Brittle bones and fractures org/about /2001FCCT. pdf. Contact associated with aging, some inciden­ Bone loss and 'thinning' beginning at ferozafitch@ lexicongraphics.net, tal to maturity, others life-style maturity is only accelerated by tel: (301) 564-3726. dependent, add another dimension. decreasing mobility due to unsteadi­ Several aspects of aging humans ness, weakness (side-effects of medi­ ZAC (Chicago) student loans/ have been discussed elsewhere in cations) and failing vision - a perfect scholarships for Zarathushti stu­ this Journal, hence we will limit our­ recipe for falls and hip, spine, wrist dents at institutions of higher learn­ selves to some of these diseases, and other fractures, attributed to ing in North America. Visit prevalent in the fifty-plus population. osteoporosis due to Vitamin D and www.zac-chicago, email: Metabolic syndrome calcium deficiencies. Fractures add ZACscholarships @yahoo.com. their own burden of complications Atherosclerosis, obesity and diabetes and morbidity. The auto-dependent ttl Paul and Daisy Soros Fellow­ sneak in gradually and imperceptibly. now becomes homebound and bed ships support graduate education Together, they are the manifestations and chair dependent, turning the for immigrants and children of of Metabolic Syndrome, also known 'golden years' into 'dreaded years'. immigrants. Visit www.pdsoros. as Syndrome X, Dysmetabolic Syn­ org. • drome, or Raven Syndrome. The last straw "I could be 30 lbs lighter, but I am Diminished activity, lack of social Performing Arts Scholarship healthy except for just a little high interaction, perception of useless blood pressure; cholesterol is a little purposeless living translates into ZYNA (Zoroastrian Youth of North bit high, and I have a high sugar," depression, and then dementia - vas­ America) announced at NeXus declares a 40-year-old automobile­ cular and Alzheimer's type. At this 2003 in Toronto, that they will pro­ dependent couch-potato. This smells point, the burden shifts from the per­ vide $5,000 as a startup amount for of trouble down the road. Sooner or son to the family and children. Now, a FEZANA/ZYNA performing arts later, these will escalate into heart the 'dreaded years' become 'years of scholarship. Further details will be disease, coronary artery disease, misery', dependence upon care­ forthcoming. heart attack, stroke, complications of givers, custodial care, frequent hos-

104 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 pitalization and 'revolving door' between hospital and nursing home, and eventual depersonalization. FEZANA will coordinate initial contacts between interested parties; we do not Prevention formula assume any responsibility for verifying credentials. Contact Roshan Rivetna [see All of the above is preventable and inside cover page]. postponable. What sounds like gloom and doom need not be so, if only we take responsibility in our growing-up years, and live a healthy lifestyle - ~·~~~~·~ learning and knowing what is good ~W"- ~ .., "' .. ~ -,."«"W)l (right) for our health and longevity, and living what we learn. J ~Cupid Strikes Again~ G Fezana Journal is delighted to announce the engagement In past issues of this Journal, we have discussed some of these, and intend ofM02-18 and F02-34 who were introduced through to continue to do so. Balanced eating J.... ·~ this column. The wedding is planned~ { and drinking, activity, involvement ~"'}.::; for December. ~ J and mobility, optimizing stress-man­ agement and 'harboring no evil' are •A~)n,,._ ~\A~ -A~~~ essential steps of primary prevention. Wt7"~J~·~,~.. '-'~ Secondary prevention involves awareness of slowly sneaking dis­ Seeking suitable Parsi match (living eases, timely health evaluations at and working outside India) for regular intervals to catch them early young and pretty Parsi girl, 31, Attractive and slim and taking care of small problems wholly educated and brought up in Parsi female, 22, before they become big ones. UK; BA (Hons), MBA, well-versed in culinary art, outgoing, friendly and B.S. Business, It really is up to us, each and every­ sociable. Contact darakapadia@hot­ one of us, for our own sake, to take currently mail.com. [FOJ-10] charge of our health. Young man, 29, well-settled in air­ pursuing MBA. The silver streak lines job in UAE. Originally from Seeks well-educated Our children, growing up in the 21st Mumbai. Willing to relocate. century are going to be a lot healthier [email protected]. [MOJ-13} gentleman with a than us. They will live and learn caring nature, good healthy eating habits (thanks to their Well-educated, fair, Parsi boy, 26, informed parents). They will be active 6' tall, well settled in Australia hav­ personality and ing own business, seeking correspon­ and energetic (if their parents limit sense of humor. their TV time and present healthy dence from young Parsi women snacks). This improved lifestyle will willing to settle in Australia. Contact [email protected]. [MOJ-14} put them at 100% benefit. Please contact: Benefits are estimated to decrease by Male, fair complexion, 28, 5' 8", MyFairLldy@ aol.com pharmacy manager, born and raised 10% per decade. Today's toddlers [F02-28] have 100% potential to be healthy in in USA (East Coast), strong family their golden years; twenty-some­ values. (908) 788-5378, [M03-15] things have 80% and adults in their Fun-loving, witty, highly educated 30s have 70% if they improve their professional male, 42, spontaneous, lifestyle. All is not lost for those in fit and attractive and a warm, caring their fifth and sixth decades either - • PERSONALS• person. Enjoys travel, jazz and exotic their potential translates into 50% cuisine. Looking for an honest, fun­ and 40% respectively. Folks in their loving, intelligent person who would I am trying to locate my first cousin, 80s and 90s have only 20% and 10% enjoy similar things and share intel­ Darius Antia and his wife Celia, who to gain. But take heart, you are lectual conversations as well. (617) may be living in San Diego. They are already on the right track, which is 621-6989, zoroguy2003@hotmail. originally from Karachi. Please con­ the reason you are reading this. • com. [MOJ-16] tact [email protected]. Next issue: Designer diets.

FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 105 Estate Pla'W irg [Continued from page 45] be retained by the grantor, with the Please send all submissions for "Milestones" to Mahrukh Motafram, 2390 Chanticleer Drive, Broolifield, WI 53045. (262)821-5296, mmotafram@msn. assets being dispensed on death to com. NOTE: If no year is specified, it implies "within the past 12 months." the beneficiaries. Such a long journey BIRTHS Grosse Pointe Woods, MI and Aban and Estate tax planning is an evolution, Aspy Daboo of Chicago, on June 8. not a finality. It is essential that the Myah Balaporia, a girl, to Zahir and Tatyana Golwala, a girl, to Rooshad and plan be monitored on an ongoing Mehernaz Balaporia, sister to Zarvaan, Zhaleh Golwalla, granddaughter to Anita basis for changes in family dynamics granddaughter to Vispi and Russ Balapo­ and Homi Commissariat of Toronto and ria of Mumbai, and Adil and Roshan and the ever changing tax law. I Sarfaraz and Feroze Golwalla of Karachi, Vadoliwala of Mumbai, in Green Bay, in Mississauga, ONT, on June 15. strongly suggest that a professional WI on April 3. be engaged at the outset. As I have Riana Ailyn Irani, a girl, to Jal and Shi­ Poras Bhesania, a boy, to Niloufer and mentioned, saving estate taxes for the raz Irani of Tampa, FL, sister to Jasmyn Fredy Bhesania, grandson to Soli and and Zain, granddaughter to Dr. Behman most part involves giving up title, Nargish Bhesania, and to Meherji and ownership and therefore control. A and Dolly Irani of Hounslow, UK and Roshan Frenchman, and great grandson Hoshi and Arnavaz Daruwalla of key component of the planning is to Piroja Nariman Frenchman, nephew Cheshire, UK. retaining enough assets for yourself to Cyrus Frenchman, in Toronto, on at the same time. March 18. Shahaab Oshidary, a boy, to Parvin and Babak Oshidary of BC, on October 26, A much esteemed US Supreme Court Rhea Dotivala, a girl, to Tannaz and 2002. Kaiomarz Dotivala of Wake Forest, NC, Judge Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes Darin Tavadia, a boy, to Erich and stated, "Taxes are the cost we pay for a grand-daughter to Brach and Freny Mis­ try and Godrej and Havovi Dotivala of Havovi Tavadia of West Bloomfield, MI, civilized society." However, your Mumbai, on June 12. grandson to Rusi and Villoo Tavadia of hard earned assets need to be protected Novi, MI, on June 13. and dispensed with according to your Sarosh Firoz Gandhi, a boy, to Shireen and Firoz Gandhi, ofNovi, MI, grandson Zain Patel, a boy, to Armaity and Viraf wishes, and not the government's. to Dr. Baji and Behroze Gandhi of Patel of San Francisco, on April 28.

Janshed B. Gcrd, CPA, CVA, MS (Tax), has over thirty years expe­ Gra.p sed el1 p.&ti in Va"'ICC1LUE!r. On the occasion of the birth rience in estate and retirement plan­ anniversary of Arbab Rustam Guiv, a group sedreh pushi ceremony was per­ ning, wealth preservation and formed of ten people, at the Arbab Rustam Guiv Darbe Mehr, in Vancouver on business valuation services. Since May 10. The new initiates were: Bijan Bastani, Mahnaz Bastani, Nima Bas­ 1995, he has been a partner in the tani, Pouya Bastani, Dr. Jamshed Boulandian, Parvaneh Demehri, Shawhin San Francisco accounting firm of Kanai, Shahpour Mehrabani, Pedram Oshidary, and Dr. Pourandokht Ros­ Bertorelli, Gandi, Won & Behti. tamian. [PHOTO COURTESY FERAYDOON DEMEHRI, WWW.OSHIHAN.ORG] Jamshed is a member of the Ameri­ can Institute of CPAs, the California Society of CPAs and the National Association of Certified Valuation Analysts. He is past president of the South Asia Professionals Club of San Francisco; on the Board of the San Francisco chapter of the California Society of CPAs; member of the Estate Planning Council of Diablo Valley; was business manager of FEZANA Journal; and the San Fran­ ~ · ..·· ... l'...... _ ---·· ·, cisco Bay Area chapter chair of the World Zoroastrian Chamber of Com­ merce. He can be reached at 415- 905-0330, 415-354-3361 (fax) email: [email protected]. ~J

106 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 Left, Pareen Dholoo, daughter of Jimmy and Shahdokht Dholoo of Gaithersburg, MD, and Jeffrey Mechlinski, son of Sue and Mark Mechlinski of Baltimore, MD, were married at the Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas, on July 6. The couple will live in Baltimore, MD, where Jeff is an industrial engineer and Pare en is finishing dental school. Right, Dr. Zubin Damania, son of Drs. Rustom and Shireen Damania, was married to Dr. Margaret Lin, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Tu Lin of South Carolina, in San Jose, on May 11. Dastur Kobad Jamshed officiated. Zubin and Margaret are both physicians at Stanford Medical Center.

Ziana Sarkari, a girl, to Monaaz and Michele and Joel Balsara, in Houston, Bhryan Abadan Kasnavia, son of Zarir Sarkari, sister to Zenaz, of San on June 21. Armin and Abadan Kasnavia, in Hous­ Jose, on May 23. Xerxes Billimoria, son of Soonoo and ton, on May 25. Mason Zubin Shroff, a boy, to Zubin Daraious Billimoria, in Mississauga, Eric and Neville Tarapore, children of and Courtenay Shroff, grandson to ONT on June 14. Deelnavaz and Daraius Tarapore, grand­ Farida and Ronnie Shroff of Chicago, on Darius and Carishma Chinoy, children children of Soonoo and Fali Kanga, at August 3. of Carl and Marissa Chinoy, in Atlanta the California Zoroastrian Center, West­ on June 7. Er. Soli Dastoor officiated. minster, CA, on June 21. The navjotes NAVJOTES, SEDREH-PUSHI were done by their grandfather Mobed I Yazad Dastur, son of Godafrin and Fali Kanga and Mobed Zarir Bhandara, Jehangir Dastur, at the residence of the on June 21. and Varon Bhadha, children of grandparents, Naju and Furrokh Dastur Bakhtawar and Rayomand Bhadha, at in Los Angeles, CA, on July 5. The cere­ ENGAGEMENT the California Zoroastrian Center, West­ mony was performed by Yazad's father, minster, CA, on June 28. The navjotes assisted by Mobed Zarir Bhandara, Jehan Rivetna, daughter of Dara and were performed by Mobed Zarir Bhan­ cousins Ervads Rustom and Nariman Dinsoo Rivetna of Chicago, is engaged dara and Mobed Jehangir Dastur, Dastur, and Ervads Rayomand and to Christopher Bell, son of Mary and assisted by the children's grandfather Jehanbux Bharda. Patrick Bell of Chicago. Chris will be and uncle. studying law at University of California, Hastings, CA.

FEZANA JOURNAL - FALL 2003 107 ing a motorcycle with husband Kekie, in WEDDINGS Be... CKe Chatteljee Ottawa, on June 22. [See obituary]. MULTI-TALENTED ARTISTE Mehrdad Ashooian to Shideh Kho­ Shahzad F. Dorabshaw, 34, husband of rasheh, in Burnaby, BC, on April19. Pouroochisti, father of Daryus and elody queen Rohan, son of Firoze and late Freny Edulji Bharucha of New York, son of from India, Goal and Rustom Bharucha of Lahore, Dorabshaw, brother ofFerzad, son-in-law of Shirin and Dara Wadia, brother-in-law Behroze Chat­ Pakistan, to Kyriaki Carrie Panagakis, terjee, 57 [photo in New York, on May 11, of Kaiomarz and Lily Suntoke and uncle ofVahishta Suntoke, in New Albany, OH, left, at North Roxana Mehta, daughter of Kayomarsh on June 13. [See obituary]. American and Nergesh Mehta of Chicago, to Nevin Congress in San Dubash, son of Jeroo and Nozer Dubash Irandokht Farhangi (Sassani), grand­ Francisco, of Dubai, in Chicago, on August 1. mother of Shideh Hafezi of North Texas, Ervads Neriosang Karanjia and Pesi Vaz­ in Tehran, on June 17. 1996] who has ifdar officiated. The couple will reside in Aspi Minocher Gazder, brother of regaled music lovers all over the US, Naperville, IL. Borni Gazder of Houston, in Mumbai, on Canada and around the world, passed Captain Cainaz Vakharia, daughter of June 20. away on July 14 in Pennsylvania after Adi and Arnavaz Vakharia of Dallas, to Mary Holm, 76, mother of Bonnie suffering a stroke, five weeks after Captain Michael Heaton, son of Terry (Hoshang) Karani, of Chicago, grand­ receiving a liver transplant. Heaton of Oak Harbor, WA, in Dallas on mother of Susan and Sabrina Karani, in Behroze who hailed from Nagpur, July 12. The couple will reside in Wash­ Chicago, on June 16. has been visiting the States almost ington, DC. Meherwan Cavasji Irani, 86, of Pitts­ every year to sing and delight her Borzu Jangi to Niloufar Ezzati, in burgh, father of Fred, Shireen and Philip; fans since the 1980s. A multi tal­ North Vancouver, onApril17. founder and first president of the Zoroas­ ented artist, she excelled in ghazals, Zarvan Neville Karanjia, son of trian Association of Pennsylvania in bhajans, and film songs and was 1982, in MD, on May 2 [see obituary]. Neville and Zarin Karanjia of Chicago, playback singer in Hindi films, a TV to Melissa Lee, daughter of Deborah Rustom Aspandiar Irani (Mubarakeh), and radio artist and has performed Jones and Cesar Delgado, in Chicago, 99, husband (of 64 years) of Shireen, with artists such as Gulam Ali, Nitin on May 25. father of Armaity Irani and Gordafrid Mukesh, Asha Bhonsle and Kishore Kairas Mehta, son of Dolly and Soli (Tahamtan) Aresh of California, grandfa­ ther of Rohinton, and Zaal, Kumar. Behroze was bestowed the Mehta, to Delna Anary, daughter of prestigious National Shiromani Beroze and Adi Anary, in Vaughan, greatgrandfather of Salm and Aria, in Award in1992. ONT, on June 7. Pune, India, on March 27. [See obituary]. Anamika Ghista of Houston to Parol Dolly Minocher Khambatta, 91, Behroze is survived by her sisters Patel, on April 20. mother of Sarosh (Farida) Khambatta of Binaifer (Pennsylvania) and Dolly Chicago, in Secunderabad. (Nagpur), her husband Sapan Kumar Kooroosh Kaikhosrow Shahrokh to Nazanin Ezzati, in Los Angeles, on Sohrabji Kharwanwala (Kodia), hus­ (Nagpur), daughter Babeena and son April26. band of Perin, father of Yazdi, Phiroz, Anupam and their families. !I Rohinton, and Roshan, in Canada, on Persis Khambatta of Washington, DC June 6. to Kapil Sharma of NJ, on July 5. The Minocher Udvadia, brother of Edul couple will settle in Alexandria, VA.' Shirinbanoo Kutar, 89, wife ofDastoor Sohrabji Kutar of UK, first chairperson (Goal) Udvadia of Chicago, in Mumbai. ANNIVERSARIES of WZO and a past president of ZTFE, in Noshir Sorabji Viccajee, father of London, on April 30 [see page 20]. Rohinton and Jasmine of Toronto, in Soonoo and Daraious Billimoria of Mumbai, on March 15. Toronto celebrated their silver wedding Kawus M. Nanavati, 81, in Burlington, anniversary on June 14. ONT, on June 15. He is survived by his Zareen Farrokh Wania, mother of Dar­ wife, three children and six grandchil­ ius Wania, and Meher Anklesaria of Kety and Piloos Patel of Houston cele­ dren (all of Toronto), 2 sisters and a Houston, and sister of Sanober Baria, in brated their 50th (golden) anniversary, brother. Kawus was president, since its Karachi, on June 13. • on February 2. inception of the Rustom Guiv Founda­ DEATHS tion Ontario, and very instrumental in securing the gift of the darbe mehr for Fill not your hearts Freny Kekie Bulsara, 63, daughter of ZSO from Arbab Rustam Guiv. On with pain and sorrow late Jahangir and late Naju Austin, wife of March 21st, ZSO honored him with a But remember me Kekie Bulsara, mother of Adi (Joanne) of plaque recognizing his services to the in every tomorrow. Coburg, ONT, Suman (Bhanu) of Guelph, Zarathushti community in Ontario. Remember the joy, ONT, Jehaangir (Rukshan) of Ottawa, Cawas Todiwala, 65, father of Pearl Bul­ and Havove (Aspy) Tarapore of Portland, sara of Northern Texas on June 24. the laughter the smiles - ONT, grandmother of eight; of head I've only gone to rest awhile. injuries, following an accident while rid- 108 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 Rust.arnAspanciar lrari (1Vkbarakel1) IVIeheruvan Cavasji I rari A HUMANITARIAN WITH LOVE FOR HIS PARSI-ZARATHUSHTI HERITAGE FOUNDING PRESIDENT OF ZAPA

Rustom Aspandiar Irani, whom Zarathushtis to donate money, land Meherwan Cavasji Irani, 86, was many of us fondly called Rustomji, and businesses to help maintain the born in Poona, India in 1916 and was also known as Rustom 13 schools under his jurisdiction and raised in Bombay. His family origi-­ Mubarakeh after the village in Iran to build new ones. He also raised nated in Yazd, Iran and his grandfa­ where he came from; however, he money to perform navjotes, to main­ ther carried fire to the temples. preferred to be called Rustom. tain the gahambar festivals and the After graduating from the Indian Born in Iran in 1904, Rus­ dokhmas of Sharifabad School of Mines he came to the US tom had an extremely dif­ and Allahabad. in 1936 on a Tata scholarship to the ficult childhood as his Rustom donated a large Colorado School of Mines in Golden, family was living in abject part of their family prop­ CO and earned a masters in mining poverty. When he was 11, erty adjoining the dokhma engineering. He then completed a Rustom and his mother, in Pune to the community. masters in political economy at Den­ Kaizer, walked behind car­ This donation was pivotal ver University. He was invited to avans from Yazd to the in the birth of the Poona join the first class of Johns Hopkins port of Bandar Abbas, Parsi Panchayat. Rustom School of Advanced International about 350 miles, where went door to door collect­ Studies in Washington, DC. they boarded a dhow bound for ing signatures to form the Panchayat, While working in Denver as a roller Mumbai and a better life in Pune. of which he was one of the founding figure skating instructor, he met his After arriving in India, Rustom grad­ members. He was also instrumental wife, Shirley, of 23 years and they uated with a bachelor's degree from in starting religious classes in Pune. married in 194 7. the Agricultural College in Pune. Rustom traveled the whole world He moved to Pittsburgh, PA to Subsequently he joined his father's with his wife, Shireen, before settling become vice president of Research liquor and real estate business and down in Los Angeles in 1965. He and Development at Salem Brocious acquired several large tracts of land. received many awards and accolades where he developed jet fuel for navy When in his late twenties, Rustom for the outstanding work he did for aircraft fighter jets. From 1961 was elected vice-chairman of the his community. FEZANA felicitated through 1981, he worked for the US Pune Municipal Corporation. Dur­ Rustom with their Humanitarian goverment as a supervisory mining ing this time, he found that he had a Service Award in 1992; and the engineer at the Bureau of Mines. real love for community service, Zoroastrian Youth of Pune, in 2001. During this time he developed over which came naturally to him. Many of us who knew Rustom were five US patents in steel and paint During a visit to Iran in 1930, Rus­ struck by his religious fervor, the manufacturing. tom took along a load of medical love for his Parsi-Zoroastrian her­ In the early 1980s, after the fall of the supplies and farming implements to itage and the keenness of his mind Shah of Iran, Meherwan made it pos­ help his fellow Zarathushtis improve even in his advancing age. He sible for several Iranian teenagers to their health and living standards. amazed us by rattling off obtain an education in the US. As a Wordsworth, Tennyson and Kabir Recognizing his zeal for community devoted father, his hobbies included without the slightest bit of hesitation. service Rustom was appointed in ice skating, overseas travel, studying He particularly liked to entertain vis­ 1937 as the representative of the Per­ the Russian language and reciting itors with anecdotes in his life, which sian Zoroastrian Amelioration Soci­ the Shah Nameh. Ill he remembered with crystal clarity. ety of Bombay. He traveled to Iran -Phillip, Frederick & Shireen Irani with his new bride, Shireen, to help Rustom was always keen to die in Pune, where he yearned to receive his people and administer the charita­ The first time I met Meherwan Irani ble funds of the Society. the benefit of the dokhma. He passed away just a year short of scoring a I was when he walked into my law Rustom made education a top priority century, having lived a full and office and asked me to do the legal in the villages around Yazd. He trav­ exemplary life. work necessary to form the Zoroas­ eled the villages on his bicycle to trian Association of Pennsylvania bring home the importance of educa­ It is a pity that we think of recounting (ZAPA). He had a deep love for his tion to the villagers and provided the greatness of a person only after Zarathushti religion and heritage. funds to ensure that their children he has passed away. We will always remember Rustomji with fondness.rtl Meherwan was a unique and delight­ went to school. He also raised funds ful person. He had a great (and mis­ - by Jal. N. Birdy locally by encouraging Iranian chievous!) sense of humor and a high FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 109 found large family that was an excel­ I lent source of hope, strength, and lrhe Search that Never Ends ... support in our hour of distress. Our Shahzad F. Dorabshaw, 34, a lov­ and a great husband but he was also a fa~ily would like to take this oppor­ ing family man passed from this doting father to both his children. tumty to personally thank all those earth toLoraAfillfaMazoa:' s realm ------f- -- - - _ _d _ _ ___individual§ wh_Q_~v~ generous assis- Just b3 weekSsh ahterdour sed~on sond tance to us in our times of dire need.- on Friday, June 13, 2003. Born in was orn, a za was 1agnose Bombay, India in 1968, Shahzad was with a dreadful illness, Acute Months went by as we struggled to a brilliant young mind, who acquired Myeloid Leukemia (AML). We con­ keep the candle burning at both ends, his bachelor's from Bombay Univer­ sulted doctors all over the US, and the search continued ... sity and followed his dreams as he Canada and India, and they all were Our son turned a year old, and we eel- successfully completed his master's of the same opinion. The only true ebrated and thanked God for this time in computer science from Mississippi cure for him would be a bone marrow he had given us together. Shahzad's State University. Having received transplant, and that the best chance health was slowly but surely deterio­ various business offers, Shahzad for a match was from his own ethnic rating and we watched helplessly as decided to stay back and indulge in background. he fought bravely, months in hospital, the 'corporate American lifestyle'. We immediately contacted SAMAR­ chemotherapy and even a trial drug In 1996, we were married and God (South Asian Marrow Association of on a compassionate basis for him blessed us with our firstborn a year Recruiters) and organized several from the National Cancer Institute. later. Then in March of 2002, our drives to recruit potential donors He finally decided that home was the second son was born. Shahzad was onto the National Bone Marrow Reg­ place to be for him as he waited for not only an epitome of a good son istry and thus give Shahzad his only the bone marrow match that could chance for life! have saved his life! IVIehervuan Irani ••• Shahzad was regarded as a genuine, With the courage of a true trooper, Shahzad fought till the last few [Continued from previous page] decent and charitable man. He was a moments of his life, this illness that degree of intelligence. A curious gentleman in the truest sense, had a was now conquering him. He con­ and open mind (there is a big differ­ noble bearing and cultured tastes stantly advised us to never give up ence between an open mind and a guided by a gentle spirit. conducting drives to help our vacant one! His was definitely not He loved others selflessly and was brethren in future generations to vacant, but delightfully open). A loved in return. Being the friend he come. We are a close-knit commu­ warm and kind heart, and abounding had been to several in his good times, nity and the best chance of finding energy, to get into all sorts of inter­ it created a friends and family sup­ that life-saving match is within us. esting projects. port system that offered us much Shahzad valiantly struggled to I never met anyone as optimistic and needed help in our times of crisis. recover from this dreadful illness, energetic as he was. I really enjoyed Our lives were filled with the pains leukemia, for over 15 months until his company. When we would meet of this excruciating disease as it ate finally he succombed with dignity in at Zarathushti functions, I loved to sit away at our family. But the pleasures the arms of his loving family. at his table, and hear all his stories of our new baby boy and the support about his many younger-day adven­ of our friends kept us going. In the spirit of celebration they say tures. Within minutes, he had the As I jog down Memory Lane ... I table roaring with laughter. May Health, Wealth remember the undying support of and Happiness His memory is one I treasure. The bone marrow drives and donor Come your way. way one treasures something beauti­ recruitments, organized by friends For our family, ful and rare. I am glad that I knew and family all over North America. The saying slightly bends, him. - Dina G. Mcintyre With the help of our dedicated Dr. We continue to say, Yasmin Ghadially, we placed our The search that never ends ... appeal at a drive last year at the North Written by: Gone from our sight American Congress in Chicago. We Pouroochisti Shahzad Dorabshaw were just amazed at the response we But never our memories got from our fellow Zarathustis. Peo­ If Tears could build a Ladder Gone from our touch ple of all ages came forward to help And Memories a Lane in their own possible ways. I'd Walk right into Heaven But never our hearts. And bring you Home Again! Ill -anonymous At the end of the drive we had the feeling that we belonged to this new 110 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 Freny Kekie B'-'sara A TRUE AND DEVOUT ZARATHUSHTI TO THE CORE OF HER BEING fltlllloving moms are extremely spe- wishes of his birth parents. That is 10'icial to their children. However, the measure of the Zarathushti that mom was. person to all who knew her. She had ent, professional as well as She, along with dad's help, served as amateur-musicians, dancers, a certain quality of character that was caregiver for several people includ­ unassailable, a very good and honest ing our grandmother. artists, photographers, per­ person, an advanced soul. Freny was Freny was waiting to get on with her formers, authors, restaura­ a true and devout Zarathushti to the teurs, actors and more ... core of her being. retirement, but life kept throwing obstacles in her path. She We chided Freny about it, stepped up to the challenge but her favorite color was every time. This time, the white. My sister, Havove, obstacle in her path was one says that is because mom that took her away from us. saw everything in black and · 1 white. There was no grey in Even in the small things in between. There was no such life, her effort was always thing as a white lie for her. big and big hearted. Never No shades of grey in truth. No well off, and often struggling shades of grey in devotion to her reli­ financially, our parents, would open gion and God, or in her thoughts, their house to guests and visitors reg­ words and actions. Even her soul ularly, without hesitation. must be equally pure and perfectly The extent of Kekie and Freny's hos­ white with no shades of grey. pitality was immeasurable. What they lacked financially, they made up My mom truly practiced humata, for tenfold in heart. Once described hukhta, huvareshta. She really did! She was always thinking of how to as "grandma dynamite", the name ~ stuck - she seemed to go off in all 0 bring happiness and betterment to :r: directions at the same time. Q. her husband, her family, friends and community. Her greatest concern "Love all, trust a few, always paddle Upcoming actress Perizaad Zorabian was happiness of others. your own canoe." That was one of Freny's favorite expressions. Freny Perizaad Zcrabian is from Married at a month shy of 16, she never hated, disliked or spoke Bandra (Mumbai) where her father worked all her life for the betterment harshly about anyone. She loved owns a poultry farm, Zorabian of family and friends. There were them all. She put her trust in a few - Chicken, and a Chinese-cum-sizzler many that mom and dad helped in her family, her friends. Perhaps she joint. Planning to help her father and business. For example, she spent two was even too trusting - a common become an entrepreneur, she got her years running my roofing business mark of a trustworthy person. She MBA from New York, then decided given only one week's notice when I certainly always paddled her own to learn acting at the Lee Strasberg had to go overseas. She did so while canoe - but not alone. She did so Academy for a year and a half. my parents were running their own with the love, support and admiration campground business! She started with a modeling job in a of her husband, family and friends. Fair and Lovely ad; then a role in a With dad's help, Freny helped over Children, grandchildren, relatives TV serial Hum Pardesi Ho Gaye, two dozen new immigrants and visi­ and friends - we are all going to miss and movie roles in Bollywood Call­ tors to Canada settle into their new Freny immensely. My love, admira­ ing, Namaste, Bandung Sonata, and environments, often letting them stay tion and adoration for my mother Jogger's Park in which she plays the sheltered and fed in her own humble cannot be expressed in words. And if role of a Parsi girl Jenny. She is also home without charge for months or some of you find it odd that I should signed up for the movie Mumbai years. She gave birth to 3 children refer to my wonderful mother as Matinee and another one produced whom she raised lovingly, and if tha~ "Freny" or "Frena" it is because she by Mahesh Dattani, with actress Sha- wasn't enough, my parents adopted a was more than a mom to us, she was banaAzmi. II fourth, and raised him in his own a real friend. • [From India West, July 11, 2003, Hindu religion according to the -by Jehaangir Bulsara submitted by Maneck Bhujwala] FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 111 Oscar nomination tor Heeraz Marlatia's "Biriu"

a little boy from Ajmer, India, is acclaimed at international film festivals

t is a "dream come true" for bud­ The film was produced "with abso­ Iding film-maker 27-year-old lutely no budget", recalls Marfatia, Heeraz Marfatia, cunently pursuing "All I had was a script, a film crew of a Master of Fine Arts Film Direction friends, and an assurance from my at San Francisco State parents to accommodate University. the crew in our house in His maiden 14-minute Ajmer". Impressed with Mahrukh Tarapor: short film, Birju, by his script, Kodak India "Atash Arts", won a gave him 10 cans of film lace ot the Met nomination in the 2002 Oscars' stu­ stock free, Adlabs processed it free of dent category for best alternative charge, and friends from the advertis­ Mahrukh Tarapor, Associate Direc­ film. The film was selected to pre­ ing world provided him with some tor of Exhibitions at the Metropolitan miere at Robert Redford's Sundance equipment. Museum of Art (Met), in New York, Film Festival, considered by many as is possibly the most visible face of In a letter he thanks FEZANA and one of the US's most prominent cin­ the Met because of her role as the other trusts for financial help ema showplace. principal negotiator for the museum towards his studies at SFSU: "I Birju has, since, played at over 30 with governments and galleries could not have achieved this without worldwide. international film festivals from your support and belief in me." Berlin, to New York, Sao Paulo, San "Sometimes, I think I get too much Francisco, Hawaii, Mumbai, Ukraine, Marfatia is now working on a fea­ of the good thing," laughs Tarapor, Russia, and on the CBS Billboard in ture-length screenplay about Parsis who lives alone in Manhattan. She is Times Square. The San Francisco in the US. His script was shortlisted refening to being on the road for nine Chronicle dubbed Marfatia as a "film­ in the top 100, from about 6,000 sent months of the year, organizing any­ maker with a great eye" and listed him to Sundance. He is keeping his fingers where between 30 to 50 shows for among 19 others under 40 who are on crossed. Contact him at heeraz_m the Met, of which 15 are major exhi­ the verge of becoming successful. @yahoo.com, www.biiju.com. II bitions. Her canvas is large - Origin of Impressionism, Splendors of Imperial China, Egyptian Art, and Come join us in the celebration of the Art of First Cities from Mediter­ 3000th Anniversary of Zoroastrian ranean to Indus. Culture, as designated by UNESCO For someone who came from a mid­ dle class business family and studied English literature in Mumbai because "there was no such thing as art his­ tory in India in the late '60s," Tara­ ... as we celebrate! par went ahead to get a PhD at Harvard. Studying under scholars The Zoroastrian Association of Chicago (ZAC) like Stuart Cary Welch, Tarapor real­ is working with the Council for a Parliament of ized the only thing that interested her the World's Religions and the Film Department was museums. She joined Met during at Columbia College, Chicago, to host this To learn how you can be a spectacular event. the Festival of India of 1985. She has donor or sponsor of this been there ever since. • 17-18 October, 2003 event, please contact Columbia College Kamalrukh Katrak at [Excerpted from Indian Express, 1104 S. Wabash Avenue, Chicago, IL [email protected] or www. indianexpress. com/full-story.p Visit www.zac-chicago.org 312-371-6688. hp?content_id=12012]

112 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 Katy Galval~ 12, daughter of Neville and Lena Golvala of North

is already receiv­ ing national accolades for her leadership quali­ ties. In honor of her academic achievements and leadership ability, the Congress Youth Leadership Council awarded Katy the opportunity to attend the six-day Junior National Young Leaders Conference in Wash­ ington, DC, this fall. Katy, who was nominated by her teacher, is one of the first middle school students in the At the ZAPANJ "Sit Down Dinner": Top row, Malcolm Cooper, Feroze Karan­ nation to receive this nomination. jia, Darayus Toorkey, Mathew Daruwalla, Cyrus Kanga, Rohan Shroff and [The Sentinel, North and South organizer Aban Singh. Third row, Rachael Stoneback, Monaz Kanga, Natasha Brunswick, July 3, 2003} . ll Singh, Ninoshka Singh, Kyra Singh holding Zenia Masani and Sherry Bapa­ Kazad I rari of Champaign, IL sola. Second row, Rohan Masani, Burges Unwalla, Burgis Cooper, Sohrab has been selected to be among the Boga, Arish Kanga, Darayus Kermani. First row, seated, Serene Tarapore, elite group of architects/artists to Tina Unwalla, Alexander Karanjia, Allison Karanjia, Rae Tarapore, Aliza work on the design of the new World Eduljee, Ayana Unwalla, Abaan Kermani and Evita Mehta. Not in picture are Trade Center replacement in New Cyrus Patel, Kaizad Jokhi and Shanaya Desai. York City [ZAC Newsletter]. !fi.l ZAPANJ ctilct'B'1 hc&t "Sit Donn Dir'W a"' On May 1Oth, the last prayer class for The special guest, Er. Parvez Bajan, the season, children of the Zoroas­ and all the religious class teachers trian Association of Pennsylvania were presented with a handmade and New Jersey held a special ''Sit Thank You note and a rose bouquet. Down Dinner" for the adults. They A buffet style dinner was served by worked in teams, to make this event, the 12-16 year-olds, while the 8-12 attended by about 100, a resounding year olds served drinks and dessert. success. Others served on the Welcome Com­ The children ranging from 2 - 17 mittee, as photographers (view the were busy for months ahead - they photographs at www.zapanj .org), made placemats with Zarathushti table callers, and Thank-You presen­ themes, sent out invitations, and ters. One and all chipped in for the made name tags and corsages for the clean-up afterwards. lady guests. They set up the hall with Every child had a special role to play, balloons and decorated the tables making this a very memorable Eric ~ son of Rumy and with flowers. Young ushers escorted evening for all. Marj Mohta, received his First the families to their tables. - By Aban Singh Degree Black Belt in karate at the young age of 12 years old. He has received several trophies in karate IS IDUf SUIJSCfillliDR t/UBP and chess. He is now teaching karate Check the 'Expiry Date' on your address label. Please renew for multiple to younger kids, and hopes to have years to avoid book-keeping, at www.fezana.org or use the form on p. 116. his own class when he grows olded5ll FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 113 Bel .. a .. ,Ms~ son ofYash­ Dr. ScraJ. \1\ida-Fascetti, fara and Farrokh Mistree, of Lake­ associate professor of civil engineer­ side High School in Atlanta gave the ing at North- Valedictorian address on May 24. Behram graduated with a GPA of University in Boston, one of including: Ray Kroc Youth Achieve­ outstanding ment Medal (awarded to the graduat­ individuals ing senior who best exhibits qualities to receive of leadership, scholarship, sports­ the Presi­ manship and citizenship); Charlotte dential Ainsworth Lifelong Learner Award; for Lakeside Viking Award (soccer, aca­ demic excellence and community in Science, Mathematics and Engi­ activities); Lion's Club Award neering Mentoring, at an award cere­ (mathematics); Faculty Award mony in Washington, DC, last March. (English and Social Studies). The president annually recognizes Behram is a National Merit Scholar, the people and institutions that have Neuille R«Da i, [shown above an Eagle Scout, an accomplished vio­ provided broad opportunities for par­ with Colonel Gosselin, commander linist, and played Varsity Soccer at ticipation by women, minorities and of the Canadian Forces Joint Opera­ Lakeside. This Fall Behram, with the disabled persons in science, mathe­ tions] son of Roshan and Pervaze, intention of studying mathematics, matics and engineering. This year, was recently promoted, in a military joins his brother Dinsha at MIT. The White House honored 10 indi­ ceremony, to the rank of major in the viduals and 7 institutions. Canadian Forces at Kingston, In his Valedictorian address to the Sara received the mentoring award graduating class of 350 seniors, Ontario. Neville graduated from the for helping under-represented groups Behram Royal Military College of Canada who aspire to careers in science and stressed the and has served in the Electrical engineering. She has impacted the Mechanical and Engineering Branch importance lives of more than 150 high school of truth: since then. As an army officer, he and Northeastern undergraduate stu­ has served in locations across "... There dents personally, and by providing Canada as well as a one year tour of is beauty in outreach to more than 600 Boston duty with the UN in Israeli occupied the fact that public school students and 225 col­ Syria (Golan Heights). we know lege women. At a symposium preced­ truth and Neville lives in Kingston, ONT with ing the awards ceremony, Sara spoke find love. his wife Vera, daughter of Silloo and about "Excellent Mentoring Strate­ Boman Kotwal, and their three chil­ "There 1s gies for Women and Girls in Science, dren Yazdan, Yasna and Delnaz. He beauty in Mathematics, and Engineering." is currently serving at the Canadian that we do The annual award, administered by Forces Joint Support Group head not deny the National Science Foundation, quarters - an organization recently the truth of our mortality nor any includes a $10,000 grant and a Presi­ created to coordinate logistics support other truth though its nettles and dential commemorative certificate. to Canadian forces deployed overseas. quills may cause us to bleed when we embrace it. Zaab Seth-a a British-born Neville is the first Zarathushti to join Parsi with family ties to Mumbai, is "And, indeed, I can guarantee you, the Canadian Armed Forces and spokesperson and communications the truth will often cause us to bleed. achieve this position. advisor to Ahmad Chalabi, head of But yet embrace it! For to ignore the Iraqi National Congress in truth is to bury a part of you in a deep Slaackh Daoauual~ of Baghdad. With Chalabi's growing sleep from all that is great in the real North Vancouver, BC, was elected prominence on the political scene, world ... Division Governor, BC Chapter of Sethna has figured in the media Toastmasters International, and the "Therefore, though it may tear flesh lately, on issues like INC setting up world's leading organization dedi­ and sear the skin and veins with pain, Liberty TV and US funding for Iraqi cated to making effective oral com­ I encourage you all to be true to your­ opposition groups. [Source: www. munication a worldwide reality. selves and the world ... " indianexpress.com]. ~ 114 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 Dr. Nlei"W a, Pocladi· Darvisl1 associate professor of petroleum engineering at University of Calgary, in Alberta, received the 2001-2002 Students' Union Teach- A must for every Excellence Award in of "your outstanding dedication to students and to the practice of teach­ a valuable gift to our ing at the University of Calgary, as North American frienas attested to by your students." Mehran was "Domains of Belief' selected out An Interview with of 200 Professor K.D. Irani nomina­ tions, based By Shahriar Shahriari on student opinions of: ability to Professor K. D. Irani, a student of Albert Einstein, and a Professor Emeritus of . communi­ Philosophy at City University of New York, shares his wisdom of many years cate broad and his study of many ages on this 4-part, 4-hour program on DVD disks. and accu­ Part 1. His Life - in India as a child, his family, his experiences with rate knowledge of class material, Albert.Einstein, his many years at City College in New York. self-confidence and enthusiasm in presentation, success at challenging Part 2. His Faith - the teachings of Zarathushtra and how to practice them. students, ability to cultivate and Part 3. His Philosophy - his thesis of 'Domains of Belief'. encourage critical thinking, avail­ Part 4. His Philosophy (contd.)- how his thesis can be applied to day-to­ ability and approachability for con­ day life, and to social institutions; ending with an emotional farewell. sultation, and fairness and consistency of grading. A 2-disk DVD set in 4 hours, 4 parts. Price: $55.00 (includes shipping to US Mehran's picture will grace the wall and Canada). Order on-line at www.KDirani.com or send check payable to at the University alongside other S. Shahriari, P.O.Box 1292, Lomita, CA 90717, tel: (310) 462-3199, recipients from past years. • email: [email protected] ------C7ut llere ------FEZANA JJ~ Subscription/Advertisement/Sponsorship Rates Subscription Rates (All rates are in US dollars) US Canada Overseas Overseas (Periodicals) (Air) I year $15 $20 $24 $50 Sponsor an Issue 2 years $28 $37 $46 $90 To sponsor an issue of the Journal, 3 years $40 $52 $66 $120 contact Business Manager Single Issue: $5 plus shipping (US: $1.50, Canada: $3.00, Overseas (Air: $9 for Rusi Gandhi [see left]. 1 to 3 copies). Full set of archival Journals, 1991- 2001: $175 plus shipping. Individual Sponsorship is $1500 "Periodicals" rate for overseas may take upto 2 months (for UK, Europe) and Group Sponsorship is $300 each upto 4 months (for Asia, Australia, Far East, Africa ... ). (five or more sponsors) Advertising. 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FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 115 An appeal to Zarathushti brethren living in US ana Canada for help to produce video film for u3000th Anniversary of Zoroastrian Culture."'"'

Paintings and Photographs of the Parsees Hardcover, full color, 140 pages, 2002, $30 (USD). To order this collector's volume or to make a donation contact: Chemould Pub­ lications & Arts, Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai 400 025, Tel: 2284-4356, email: portraitofacommunity@ hotmail.com. A monumental work on Price $30 (USD). Zoroastrian heritage J : Film project. Following the success of the "A Zoroastrian Tapestry: Art "Portraits of a Community" exhibition last October, a video film is Religion & Culture" now planned to capture the beauty of the portraits along with city by Pheroza J. Godrej and landmarks, to tell a fascinating story of the small but vibrant commu­ Firoza Punthakey Mistree nity - the Parsis - that helped in the growth of Bombay. Price: USD$175 + S&H ($8 for USA; $15 for Canada). To order send All donations for this film, will be gratefully accepted. check payable to FEZANA, to Sponsorship of Rs 2 lakhs ($4000) will be acknowledged in the Roshan Rivetna, 5750 South Jackson film credits. Donors of over US $500 will receive a Street, Hinsdale, IL 60521, (630) complimentary CD-rom of the film. 325-5383, [email protected].

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116 FEZANA JOURNAL- FALL 2003 ZOROASTRIAN SOCIETY OF ONTARIO (Estd. 1971)

J~·, ~,,;...... d;t.,;;/..

Building Capital Campaign Committee needs your help to make our vision a reality

Help us Accommodate the growing and vibrant Zoroastrian community in Ontario Help us Support the Zoroastrian's religious, cultural and social needs in Canada Help us Expand our Darbe Mehr, a· generous gift from the Guiv Family, at its present site

Send your donations to: Dr. Dhun F. Noria, chair, Building Capital Campaign Committee Zoroastrian Society of Ontario Mehraban Guiv Darbe-Meher 3590 Bayview Avenue Toronto, Ontario M2M 3S6, Canada Tel: (416) 447-3482, Fax: (416) 447-0101, Email: [email protected]

FEZANA JOURNAL- SUMMER 2003