Latest news with #Parsi
Express Tribune
16 hours ago
- Business
- Express Tribune
Pakistan's Parsi community dwindles
The front elevation of the Mama Parsi Girls High School, which has the bust of Ardeshir Hormushji Mama, its Zoroastrian founder, engraved on its facade, in Karachi. Photo: AFP From a gated community for her Zoroastrian faith in Karachi, 22-year-old Elisha Amra has waved goodbye to many friends migrating abroad as the ancient Parsi community dwindles. Soon the film student hopes to join them — becoming one more loss to Pakistan's ageing Zoroastrian Parsi people, a community who trace their roots back to Persian refugees from Iran more than a millennium ago. "My plan is to go abroad," Amra said, adding that she wants to study for a master's degree in a country without the restrictions of a conservative Muslim-majority society. "I want to be able to freely express myself," she added. Zoroastrianism, founded by the Zarathustra, was predominant religion of the ancient Persian empire, until the rise of Islam in the seventh century. In Pakistan, once the Parsi community had as many as 15,000-20,000 people but now the number is 900 people in Karachi and a few dozen more elsewhere. Amra acknowledges her life is more comfortable than many in Pakistanthe Parsis are in general an affluent and highly educated community. But she says she wants to escape the daily challenges that beset the city of some 20 million people — from power cuts, water shortages to violent street crime. Zubin Patel, 27, a Parsi working in e-commerce in Karachi, has seen more than two dozen Parsi friends leave Karachi for abroad in the past three years. "More than 20-25 of my friends were living in Karachi, they all started migrating", he said. That is not unique to Parsis — many young and skilled Pakistanis want to find jobs abroad to escape a country wracked with political uncertainty and security challenges, a struggling economy and woeful infrastructure. The number of highly skilled Pakistanis who left for jobs abroad more than doubled according to the latest figures from the Pakistan Economic Survey — from 20,865 in 2022, to 45,687 in 2023. Parsis are struggling to adjust in a fast-changing world. "There is a better chance to find a Zoroastrian partner in Canada, Australia, UK and America than in Pakistan," said Dinshaw Behram Avari, 57, the head of one of the most prominent Parsi families. Avari, who heads a chain of hotels, points out that Parsi population of Toronto is some 10 times greater than Karachi. He said that a wave of Parsis left Pakistan during the hardline military rule of Ziaul Haq in the 1980s. Since then, violence has targeted religious minorities, and while Parsis say they have not been targeted, they remain wary. Avari suggested the community's high levels of education and Western outlook to life meant many eyed a future abroad, while for those who do stay, family size is shrinking. "Couples are more interested today in looking after their career; they are not interested in family," he said. "When they do get married, they will have one child — and one child is not enough to make a positive impact on the population." Parsi members were among the pioneers of the shipping and hospitality industries in Karachi, and the city's colonial-era historic district is dotted with Parsi buildings including hospitals and schools. But as the community declines, many buildings have crumbled. For many among the younger generation, the only pull left keeping them in Pakistan is their ageing relatives. Patel said that he would leave if he could. "It would be a difficult decision," he said. "But if I have an opportunity which would give my parents ... a healthy lifestyle, then I'd obviously go for it".
Daily Mirror
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Queen legend Freddie Mercury's six-word question before making sweet gesture to music icon
Electro legend Gary Numan has detailed a heartwarming story about the late Queen frontman Freddie Mercury, which took place when the two musicians crossed paths in Tokyo Freddie Mercury, the legendary frontman of Queen, once posed a "darling" six-word question to another music superstar before making a thoughtful gesture at a party in Japan. Gary Numan, the electro pioneer behind hits like 'Are 'Friends' Electric?' and 'Cars', shared a touching anecdote about Freddie's kindness when they crossed paths in Tokyo. The 67-year-old Tubeway Army frontman described how the iconic rock band threw a "big party" at a sushi restaurant following their concert. However, there was one hitch for Gary: he didn't care for the Japanese speciality. But this didn't go unnoticed by the considerate Freddie, who approached Gary to check on him. This led to a brief conversation between the two musicians and the 'Bohemian Rhapsody' star making a food-related gesture. Speaking to Tom Parker-Bowles for the Mail's You Magazine, Gary said: "I once went to see Queen play in Tokyo, and afterwards they had a big party at a sushi restaurant. Everyone's sitting down and eating, save me. I don't like sushi." He continued: " Freddie Mercury comes over and says, 'Darling, why are you not eating?' I say I'm perfectly all right, and just so happy to be here at this cool evening. Freddie then organised his security man to go out and pick up a McDonald's." Summing up his story, Gary added that he proceeded to eat his McDonald's in the Tokyo sushi restaurant, "ordered by Freddie Mercury", and it would be the last thing he "ever ate in Japan". Freddie, who sadly died on November 24, 1991, aged 45, was reportedly a fan of good food, although it's said that he didn't greatly enjoy indulging in it. Born Farrokh Bulsara in Zanzibar, now part of Tanzania, to Parsi-Indian parents, Freddie retained a lifelong affection for Parsi dishes, as reported by Far Out Magazine. His favourite was chicken dhansak, a classic Parsi recipe combining lentils, vegetables, and typically goat or chicken. In a heartwarming revelation from 2019, it was discovered that Freddie's spirit of giving lived on through his will, which instructed that a festive hamper from Fortnum and Mason be sent annually to his close friends and godchildren, with the bill charged to his estate. "We do think it's a lovely gesture," said a spokesperson for the store to MailOnline, "Which has been known to happen on occasion." Elton John has also spoken about Freddie's incredible generosity, recalling how he received a watercolour painting wrapped in a "beautiful pillowcase" from the ailing star. He added: "It was really moving. He was dying and he still thought of his friends. I still have it on its easel and I still have the pillowcase next to my bed. "That is the type of person he was. He was so so full of love and life."
Time of India
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Marzi Pestonji: Dance is a universal language. You do not always need vocals to express what you are feeling
Marzi Pestonji Choreographer Marzi Pestonji is returning as a judge on the fifth season of the children's dance reality show Super Dancer, which is making a comeback after four years. While many in the industry jump from one project to another, Marzi prefers taking his time between shows. He says, 'Sometimes you take a back seat, reinvent yourself, and come back. It feels nicer and fresher.' He adds, 'A children's dance show is the purest form of performance. The kids come with their hearts in the right place, no agenda, just the desire to dance and be seen. They are so well trained, they know exactly how to perform and show incredible maturity. We do not treat them like kids. Their mindset and talent are so advanced that they make our job easier.' While many feel classical dance is fading from the spotlight, Marzi disagrees. He says, 'We have a Bharatanatyam dancer this season who is phenomenal. It would be an understatement to say that. I believe classical dance provides the best foundation. If your roots are strong, your tree grows beautifully. Besides, I feel if everyone is doing only hip hop, you will be bored in five minutes. But on our show, you will see contemporary, classical, hip hop, Bollywood and drama. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Villas For Sale in Dubai Might Surprise You Dubai villas | search ads Get Deals Undo It keeps the standard high.' Known for his warmth and authenticity, he is often noticed for his unique communication style. Ask about it, and he replies with a smile, 'This is the Parsi. This is what you get, and I cannot fake it. I have worked with many celebrities, and they respect me for what I bring to the table. Speaking a certain way does not matter, if I make sure I get my point across. That is what counts. In any case, dance is a universal language. Even if I do not say a word, the students understand. It is soulful. You do not need vocals to express what you are feeling.'
India.com
a day ago
- Business
- India.com
The orphan man was once Bombay's biggest merchant, received 'Knight' title by Queen Victoria, donated all his money to... he was...
In 19th-century India, creating a name for both trade and social service was a challenging task. However, an orphaned Parsi boy, Indian, was able to create history through hard work, vision, and benevolence. His name was Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy. Jamsetjee was born on July 15, 1783, in Bombay (now Mumbai) to a common Parsi family. After the early death of both parents, Jamsetjee lived with his uncle. Born into poverty and a lack of formal education, Jamsetjee carved out his life through sheer willpower and intellect. Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy was just 15 years old when he entered the world of commerce. He initially worked with his uncle to gain experience in the trade of opium and cotton. A few years in, he started his own company and expanded his trade overseas, including to China. Before long, he was one of the leading merchants of Bombay (now Mumbai) and well-respected. However, Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy was not solely known as a prosperous businessman. He invested many years of his life in social service. His legacy rests in the creation of the JJ Hospital and the JJ School of Art, both of which he financed to a very considerable degree. Jamsetjee's philanthropy extended beyond the Parsi community, but he assisted people of all religions and communities. He set up dharamshalas (rest houses), schools, orphanages, and other educational facilities. The sum of money he contributed in those days was in lakhs of rupees, a sum that would be equivalent to probably crores today, and an extraordinary legacy of generosity and social service. In 1842, he was knighted by Queen Victoria and in 1857 given a hereditary baronetcy; in both cases he was the first Indian subject to receive these honours, as reported by the Royal Collection Trust's official website. Sir Jamsetjee Jeejeebhoy has been described as 'the most famous Parsi of his time and perhaps the first famous non-European colonial subject' because of his honours and public charity. According to the Sir JJ School of Arts, after a preliminary visit to Calcutta, he undertook a voyage to China, then fraught with so much difficulty and risk that it was regarded as a venture betokening considerable enterprise and courage; and he subsequently initiated a systematic trade with that country, being himself the carrier of his merchant wares on his passages to and fro between Bombay and Canton and Shanghai. 'His second return voyage from China was made in one of the East India Company's fleet, which, under the command of Sir Nathaniel Dance, defeated the French squadron under Admiral Linois (Feb. 15, 1804),' reads the official website of Sir JJ School of Arts. It further added, 'The total of his known benefactions amounted at the time of his death, which took place in 1859, to over 230,000. It was not, however, the amount of his charities so much as the period and circumstances in which they were performed that made his benevolent career worthy of the fame he won.'
News18
4 days ago
- Sport
- News18
Mughlai, Parsi, Arabic, Chinese: What Cuisines Are Served At Mohammed Siraj's Joharfa
Last Updated: Cricketer Mohammed Siraj has launched his first restaurant, Joharfa, in Hyderabad, serving Mughlai, Parsi, Arabic, and Chinese cuisine with a focus on traditional flavours Mohammed Siraj has embarked on a new venture, following in the footsteps of several cricketing legends, by launching his first restaurant, Joharfa, in the heart of Hyderabad in Telangana. The restaurant, which officially opened on June 24, offers a rich and diverse menu featuring Mughlai, Persian, Arabic, and Chinese cuisine. Mohammed Siraj, currently touring England, shared that Joharfa holds deep personal significance for him. 'The city of Hyderabad has given me recognition," he said. 'Through this restaurant, I want to give something back; a place where people can come together, share a meal, and enjoy flavours that feel like home." According to a PTI report, Joharfa is helmed by a team of experienced chefs and focuses on fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. Mohammed Siraj added that the restaurant's unique identity lies in its emphasis on authentic, home-style flavours. He warmly invites anyone wishing to savour the finest dishes from India and across the globe to visit Joharfa and enjoy the experience. The 31-year-old cricketer has had an impressive international career, representing India in 37 Tests, 44 ODIs, and 16 T20s, with 102 Test wickets, 71 ODI wickets, and 14 T20 international wickets to his name. He is the senior-most pace bowler in the Indian team after Jaspreet Bumrah. view comments First Published: July 17, 2025, 12:16 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
