Its Navroz - the first day of the first month of the Zoroastrian calendar - and families, across the city, are getting ready to bring in their New Year. Its a day of festivity and good food.
"Pateti, which was celebrated on August 18,marks the end of the year and the very next day, Navroz, is celebrated as the beginning of the new year. Its a family affair; we dress up in new clothes and visit the Fire Temple, after which people celebrate in their own different ways," says Meherzad Dalal.
Ten days prior to Navroz, special prayers are offered in the Fire Temple for the deceased. "Its a period where the deceased are remembered and prayed for. We ask for their well-being and a successful beginning to our New Year. On Navroz, we go to the Fire Temple and ask for blessings from the priests. As we believe in the Fire god, our offering consists of sandalwood," says Jasmine Amalsadvala.
As with any festival, food plays a big part, and even non-Parsis succumb to the temptations of 'patrani machi' (fish with mint chutney) and 'lagan' nu custard. Persis Panthakai says, "Besides the festivities and the shopping, the menu is the next big thing. In fact, an increasing number of families look to professional caterers. Many restaurants tend to have a special menu on this day."
And then its on to the entertainment. Hanoz Shahrer says, "Traditionally, families would watch 'nataks' (plays), but these days they have been placed by visits to the multiplex." Its the day for family get-togethers -a festival that symbolises the spirit of togetherness and love.
