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Age is just a number, darling! #FOREVERYOUNG

Hello, hello, youngies! Swagat hai to Part 2—where the stories just keep getting better and the inspiration never stops!

It was an absolute thrill to interview the 94-year-young Goolbanoo Chenoy, known as the “Iron Lady of Hyderabad.” As Former President of the Parsi Zoroastrian Anjuman and Former Head of Zoroastrian Stree Mandal, she boldly opened Bai Ratanbai Jehangirji Chenoy Parsi High School to all communities in 1952, a progressive move that established the school’s enduring reputation. Her family’s connections with the Nizam add a fascinating layer to her story.

And speaking of legends, meet Ms. Thrity Bapooji—also 94 and fabulous! As Former Principal of Bai Ratan Jehangirji Chenoy Parsi High School, she expanded the institution from a primary to higher secondary school, bringing in computers and focusing on all-round student development. Her legacy of dedication and warmth is still cherished, even after her retirement in 1995.

Then there’s Mr. Burjor Antia, a powerhouse of resilience even at 90. Raised in a struggling family of seven in Surat, he witnessed intense hardship after his father, Hormuzji—a fifth-generation priest from Navsari—lost his fortune and had to work as a mobed (priest) in Bombay to support them. Beginning his education in Gujarati and later training as a priest, Burjor’s early years of scarcity fueled his determination to rise above poverty. He began his legal career as a clerk under Mr. Framroz Sukhia, passing his solicitor’s exam on the first attempt. In 1962, he joined Mulla & Mulla & Craigie Blunt & Caroe, where his legal acumen became invaluable. Today, his legacy reflects not only success in law but also deep dedication to social service and Zoroastrian values.

At a youthful 83, Dr. Kersi Hozdar continues to exemplify the healing power of compassion and dedication. A beloved doctor from Bombay, Dr. Hozdar’s career has left a lasting mark on countless lives. Known not only for his medical expertise but for his kindness, he often used a red pen on prescriptions to signal chemists not to charge patients who couldn’t afford it, covering the costs himself. Opening his clinic in Mazgaon in 1967, he quickly became known as a trusted and caring physician, with long queues of patients waiting each morning, confident in his ability to heal. Recently, while crossing the street, a former patient even sought his advice at a traffic signal—a testament to the deep trust he has built over 48 years of dedicated service. To this day, Dr. Hozdar remains passionate about medicine, keeping up with the latest advancements and showing that his commitment to healing is truly lifelong.

Hold tight for Part 3, where more inspiring stories of Gen Z’s await. Stay tuned, and get ready for the excitement to keep building—I can’t wait to share more!

Freny Daruwalla