Navroze Mubarak to everyone

Although Parsis form a very minuscule percentage of India’s 125 core plus population, they are a very integral part of our national cultural mosaic. This enterprising community (Tata , Godrej) is celebrating their New Year today (18 August). Our TV industry also has some important Parsi members, who we spoke to find out their plans for Navroze. Vahbiz Dorabjee, better known as Vivian Dsena’s aka RK from Colors’ Madhubala fiancé, said, “My parents have come down from Pune to spend this New Year with me. We have just returned from the nearby fire temple for prayers. Later we will meet friends.” Sanaya Irani of Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon (Star Plus) stated, “As Irani's 21 March (Navroz) is celebrated in a much bigger way for us but generally, Parsi New Year for me is also a family day. A lavish lunch awaits us post prayers. Some delicacies like sev (vermicelli) and ravo (sheera) are specially prepared.” Monaz Mevawala currently seen in Sahara One’s Jhilmil Sitaaron Ka Aangan Hoga, shared, “Today I am shooting so have brought sweets and ice cream for the entire unit. In the evening our family will go out for dinner and then check out a play.” Veteran TV and film actress Tanaaz Irani whose fourth child is celebrating his first Navroze is very happy, “We will put flowers outside the house. Then the gang will gorge on Margina Farcha, Patrani Machi, Lal Dal, Mutton Pulav, Salli Boti, Laganu Custard and Dhansak. Many of our non Parsi friends drop in to have a munch as well.” Last but not the least, Delnaaz Irani (Kya Huaa Tera Vaada ) is in Bangalore on Navroze for her play. “The best part is my brother Parus is settled here so besides work I get to celebrate Navroze with him and his family. The kids love the New Year as they get to wear new clothes and meet cousins.” Have not all festivals lost their religious significance ? Tanaaz does not feel so, “Agreed festivals have become commercial. Most religious places are flooded with sellers of candle and other stuff. But it is still holds a torch in my heart. This day gives us a feeling of hope for love and prosperity for the new year.” Monaz added sadly “that today most people use festivals as an excuse to catch up with lost family and friends.” When asked about what they felt about the Parsi community, Sanaya said, “We are a close knit folks, and our motto is eat, drink and make merry.” Here Tanaaz added in as serious note that, “although our numbers are very less, our contribution the national building exercise has been huge.” On the negative side Vahbiz Dorabjee felt that, “it was sad that Parsi religious laws do not allow for inter-caste marriages. This is a major cause of dwindling of our numbers. Many young Parsi women don’t find boys within the community; hence they have to marry outside.” In closing Tanaaz said that, “at a time where religious strife is again hitting the nation headlines we need to understand that all religions teach love. Sadly it is bigots who incite uneducated youngsters to violence.” Navroze Mubarak to everyone!!!