The Zoroastrian Association of California (ZAC) buzzed with activity as members celebrated Jamshedi Navroze and Avan Yazad Parabh with traditional fervor.
Renewed Beginnings: The festivities began on March 17th with a community-wide cleaning of the Atashkadeh and the center itself. This spirit of renewal involved children as young as nine alongside youth, adults, and even senior members up to 79 years old. Also, a bonfire was lit to dispose of Garyans and torn Kustis along with torn/broken Z artifacts.
Jamshedi Navroze Jashan and Enlightening Talk: March 21st dawned with traditional “Chowks” performed by Arnavaz Dungore. Later, a special Jamshedi Navroze Jashan led by Ervads Zarrir and Zerkxis Bhandara drew over 50 Zoroastrians, even on a weekday. Following the ceremony, Zerkxis, a Ph.D. student, and Sam Billimoria, delivered an insightful talk on the significance of Jamshedi Navroze. The day concluded with a community lunch featuring compassionate Pulav Dal prepared by Zerkxis and the delightful Falooda made by Feeruza Bisney, and Ravo by Dhun Alamshaw all offered with a spirit of generosity.
Haft Sin, Humbandagi, Felicitation, and Award Ceremony: The 23rd of March saw the evening unfold with a beautifully laid Haft Sin table by Mahanaaz and Pervez Erani. the dynamic ZAC President, Mrs. Rooky Khushroo Fitter, warmly welcomed the enthusiastic Zoroastrian crowd of 204 attendees followed by a Humbandagi. Mr. Sam Billimoria was felicitated by our ZAC President Rooky Fitter and Secretary Mehernosh Amroli for his stupendous efforts in getting the vernal equinox of each year designated as the ‘‘National Zoroastrian Day’’ by the US Congress The highlight of the evening was the prestigious ZAC Youth of the Year Award, sponsored by the Fitter, Gundevia, and Pithawalla families. This year, the honor was shared by Zane Commissariat and Ervad Zerkxis Bhandara. The evening culminated with a mesmerizing performance of Persian dances by professional dancer, choreographer, and actress Danish Bhandara. To cap off the night, a scrumptious Dhandar Patio prepared by the Commissariat family, along with delicious Persian food catered by the ZAC Executive Committee, delighted everyone.
Avan Yazad Jashan and Beach Celebration: On March 22nd, the ZAC Atashkadeh hosted the Avan Yazad Jashan, followed by a delicious Curry Chawal lunch prepared by Zerkxis Bhandara and Ketty Alamshaw. The celebrations continued on March 31st when 20 ZAC members gathered at Sunset Beach to revere Avan Yazad’s birthday. After prayers, an offering of dudh and sakar was made to Avan Yazad, and everyone was treated to a delicious “Dal ni poris” prepared by Rukshana Colabewala. A delightful high tea awaited everyone at the beachfront home of Captain Khushroo and Rooky Fitter in Huntington Beach.
Throughout these celebrations, the dedication of the hardworking ZAC Executive Committee was evident. Their tireless efforts ensured a joyous and memorable experience for all members.
A Heartfelt Thank You: The success of these vibrant celebrations can be attributed to the dedication and hard work of the ZAC Executive Committee. Their tireless efforts fostered a spirit of togetherness and joy within the Zoroastrian community.
