Programme Summary

January – August 2010

Day & Date	Time	Event
January 2010
Sunday 3^rd	1:00 pm	Varsi prayers of Late Rusi Bahadurji
Sunday 10^th	11:00 am	Children’s Education Fun Club
Tuesday 19^th	5:30 pm	Shehrevar Parabh Jashan
Saturday 30^th	6:00 pm	Jashn-e Sadeh Ghambar & Lecture by Rastin Mehri
February 2010
Saturday 13^th	5:30 pm	Seth Maneckji Limji Hataria & Zoroastrian Civil Rights in Iran
Sunday 14^th	11:00 am	Children’s Education Fun Club
Sunday 21^st	4:30 pm	Vada Dasturji Meherji Meherjirana Remembrance Jashan
March 2010
Tuesday 2^nd	5:30 pm	Meher Parabh Jashan
Sunday 14^th	11:00 am	Children’s Education Fun Club & NoRuz Party / Lunch / Disco
Wednesday 17^th	5:30 pm	Iranian Zoroastrians Panjeh (Muktad) Ceremony
Sunday 21^st	11:00 am	Jamsheedi NoRuz Jashan & Lunch & Musical Entertainment / Dance
Friday 26^th	5:30 pm	Iranian Zoroastrian Khordad Sal Jashan / Ghambar & Ava Parabh
April 2010
Sunday 11^th	11:00 am	Children’s Education Fun Club
Sunday 11^th	1:00pm	Sunday Dhansak & Lectures on Zoroastrianism by Harvard Students
Wednesday 14^th	6:30 pm	Zoroastrian History Lecture Series Registration & Introduction
Tuesday 20^th	5:30 pm	Dasturji Saheb Dr Sohrabji Kutar Memorial Jashan
Wednesday 21^st	6:30 pm	Zoroastrian History Lectures Series 1 of 11
Saturday 24^th	5:30 pm	Adar Parabh Jashan & Pot Luck & Bollywood Film nite
Wednesday 28^th	6:30 pm	Zoroastrian History Lectures Series 2 of 11
May 2010
Wednesday 5^th	6:30 pm	Zoroastrian History Lectures Series 3 of 11
Sunday 9^th	11:00 am	Children’s Education Fun Club
Sunday 9^th	1:00pm	Sunday Dhansak & Classic Bollywood Matinee Film Show
Wednesday 12^th	6:30 pm	Zoroastrian History Lectures Series 4 of 11
Sunday 16^th	4:00 pm	Dae Mah Hormuzd Roj Jashan & Book Promotion & High Tea
Wednesday 19^th	6:30 pm	Zoroastrian History Lectures Series 5 of 11
Wednesday 26^th	5:30 pm	Shahenshai Zarthost-no Diso Jashan
Wednesday 26^th	7:00 pm	Zoroastrian History Lectures Series 6 of 11
June 2010
Wednesday 2^nd	6:30 pm	Zoroastrian History Lectures Series 7 of 11
Sunday 6^th	4:30pm	Homaji-ni-Baj (Dae Mah, Govad Roj) Jashan & Lecture
Wednesday 9^th	6:30 pm	Zoroastrian History Lectures Series 8 of 11
Sunday 13^th	11:00 am	Children’s Education Fun Club
Wednesday 16^th	5:30 pm	Bahman Parabh Jashan
Wednesday 16^th	7:00 pm	Zoroastrian History Lectures Series 9 of 11
Wednesday 23^rd	6:30 pm	Zoroastrian History Lectures Series 10 of 11
Wednesday 30^th	6:30 pm	Zoroastrian History Lectures Series 11 of 11
July 2010
Thursday 1^st	5:30pm	Iranian Zoroastrian Tirgan Jashan & Maidyoishema Ghambar
Sunday 11^th	11:00 am	Children’s Education Fun Club
Monday 19^th	5:30pm	Aspandarmad Parabh Jashan
Tuesday 20^th	3:00pm	Latest submission of ZTFE Muktad 2010 forms
August 2010
No	Children’s	Education Fun Club This Month
Monday 9^thTo Wednesday 18^th	5:30 pm	Muktad Ceremonies Except Sunday 15^th at 4:30 pm
Thursday 19^th	5:30 pm	Shahenshai Navroze Jashan, Dinner & Dance
Tuesday 24^th	5:30 pm	Shahenshai Khordad Sal Jashan & Ghambar

Remember we send out updates and announcements via email. Please ensure that your email address is registered with us so you are kept up to date.

• Members who wish to subscribe to the membership distribution list should send an email to: ztfe_membership-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

• Young Zoroastrians who wish to subscribe to the YZ distribution list should send an email to: ztfe_yz-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

The circular is also available online for your easy reference at: www.ztfe.com

You may correspond with the ZTFE by email: secretary@ztfe.com

ATTENDANCE AT ZOROASTRIAN CENTRE

The Joint Administrative Secretaries Mrs Roshan E. Avari and Mrs Kerman F. Munshi are in attendance at Zoroastrian Centre during weekdays: Monday to Friday between 9.30 am to 4.30 pm.

Those desirous of visiting Zoroastrian Centre are strongly advised to telephone (020) 8866 0765 and confirm their intended visit. At other times, our Honorary Site Manager Mr. Daraius Rustomji can facilitate access to the Zoroastrian Centre by prior appointment. However, please note that Wednesdays and every third Sunday of the month is Mr Rustomji’s days off. The Zoroastrian Centre will remain closed on public holidays, except when a function has been organised.

Regular Activities

EVERY SATURDAY: 2.30 PM - 4.00 PM

Kusti Prayer & Navar Prayer Instructions

Ervad Rustom Bhedwar instructs children of all ages in Kusti prayers and advanced prayers. Instructions of Navar prayers for athornan children are also being conducted during these prayer classes. Please contact Ervad Rusi Bhedwar on Tel: (020) 8903 7791 to enrol your children for these classes.

2^ND SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH: 11:00 am

Except for the month of August

Children’s Education Fun Club

These classes are for 4 to 15 year old children and are kindly conducted by Dr Farhad Cooper, Miss Nazreen Avari, Miss Jennifer Batliwalla and other volunteers. Please email nazreen177@hotmail.com for details.

Religious education is essential for the righteous upbringing of all children in any society. All parents are urged to take advantage and bring their young ones to attend these classes. The classes will help our children gain knowledge, understanding and conviction of our ancient Zoroastrian Culture, Heritage and Religion.

Face book group ‘Young Zoroastrians of the UK’

YZ Events

For all updates and information YZs should join and check the Face book group ‘Young Zoroastrians of the UK’. Informal social events such as music and movie nights or drinks in the city are also set up periodically using this group. All YZ events are age tailored for suitability. For more information please email Tina Mistry at tina.mistry87@gmail.com or secretary@ztfe.com.

EVERY WEDNESDAY 14^TH APRIL – 30^TH JUNE FROM 6.30 PM - 8.00 PM

Zoroastrian History Evening Lecture Series by Dr Rashna Writer

Zoroastrian history is a vital ingredient in understanding our ancient Zoroastrian Culture, Heritage and Religion. After Easter, Dr Rashna Writer, lecturer in Zoroastrian Studies, School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London, will be undertaking the first series of 11 evening classes on Zoroastrian History of Iran from the Achaemenian dynasty to modern times. All are urged to take advantage and bring your children (teenage and above) to attend these classes. These lectures are open to all and will help gain knowledge on the History of Zoroastrian Iran. Cost: £35 Individual Adult; £50 Family (parents and children); £20 students with NUS card & OAP. Registration and Introduction to Evening Lecture Series Wednesday 14^th April at 6.30pm, please refer to enclosed form more information. For your convenience ZTFE has facility to accept payments by credit and debit cards for event bookings. Please call 020 8866 0765.

Other Information

Annual membership

Ordinary annual members of the association are reminded to send their membership renewals early in the New Year. Fees are due from 1^st April 2010. Failure to renew your membership promptly will mean your membership lapses and a new form will need to be completed.

Transfer to OAP membership

Annual membership subscriptions are the only regular income of the association. Should you be able to continue paying your annual fee please do so. However those members wishing to transfer to OAP membership will need to write to the association informing us of the same. Please do not assume that you will automatically be transferred.

Credit & Debit Card payment facility available

For your convenience the ZTFE has facility to accept payments by credit and debit cards for event bookings or donations over the phone. Please call 020 8866 0765.

Booking Functions

Many members still book for functions a few days before the event. This makes it impossible for us to plan events for members. Please aim to book a minimum of 2 weeks prior to the event. This will definitely help us in the smooth running of the events and ensure fun for everyone attending. Please phone to pay by credit or debit card or post your completed booking forms, with a stamped addressed envelope and your cheques payable to ZTFE Inc. Facilities are provided for you to deposit your correspondence to the Secretariat, in the internal mailbox situated in the front right hand corner of the foyer of the Zoroastrian Centre.

Requesting silence during Jashans

Members their families and guests are kindly requested not to talk in the Zartoshty Brothers Hall during the Jashan and other prayer ceremonies. It breaks the concentration of our Ervad Sahebs and is very disrespectful.

January 2010

Sunday 3^rd January – 1:00pm

Varsi prayers of Late Rusi Bahadurji

Varsi prayers for Late Rusi Bahadurji will be performed by our Ervad Sahebs on Sunday 3^rd January 2010 at 1.00 pm, at the Zoroastrian Centre.

Please make a note of this date in your diary and we request you to attend the prayers to pay a tribute to a noble and large-hearted Zoroastrian who inspired us all by his silent generosity and to whom we all owe a debt of gratitude.

Tuesday 19^th January – 5:30 pm

Shehrevar Parabh Jashan

A Jashan ceremony will be performed by our Ervad Sahebs followed by a Humbandagi to celebrate the auspicious Parabh of Shehrevar mah, Sherevar Roj. Tea and chashni will be served.

Saturday 30^th January – 6:00 pm

Jashn-e Sadeh Ghambar & Lecture by Rastin Mehri

Jashn-e Sadeh celebrates the discovery of the skill to create and tend a fire by Shah Hoshang of the Peshdadian dynasty. This ancient Iranian Zoroastrian winter festival of Jashn-e Sadeh is the last big festival before the vernal equinox NoRuz. Thanks to the generosity and foresight of Late Mehraban and Mrs. Goli Farhangi Jashn-e Sadeh is annually celebrated by the ZTFE for over two decades for which we extend our heartfelt gratitude.

The evening will commence in the Zartoshty Brothers Hall by the reciting of an Atash Nyiash by our Ervad Sahebs and a Humbandagi. After the prayers there will be a short lecture in English and Persian titled, “Jashn-e Sadeh” by Rastin Mehri, PhD student of Zoroastrianism at SOAS sponsored by the Zartoshty Brothers Fund for Zoroastrian Studies. The lecture will cover the origins of Jashn-e Sadeh, how it was celebrated historically in Iran, its celebration today in Iran and North America. Following the lecture a Ghambar Meal will be served. Ghambar tokens £4 per person. Vegetarian option available, please request in advance. Kindly register by Tuesday 26th January 2010.

February 2010

Saturday 13^th February – 5:30pm

Seth Maneckji Limji Hataria & Zoroastrian Civil Rights in Iran

Seth Maneckji Limji Hataria, popularly known amongst the Iranian Zoroastrians as Arbab Maneckji passed away in Tehran, Iran on 15^th February 1890. When Hataria was sent from India to Iran in 1854 by the “Society and Fund for the Amelioration of the condition of the Zoroastrians in Persia”, he reported back to the Parsis in India that the Zoroastrian population of Iran had dwindled down to 7200. Life for the Zoroastrians of Iran was worthless. Besides the dreaded jizya tax, other laws existed to pressurise Zoroastrians to convert. Murders of Zoroastrians went unpunished. Rape and abduction of Zoroastrian women was common. Zoroastrians were even forbidden to wear spectacles, carry umbrellas and ride a horse. After struggling for nearly three decades Hataria persuaded the Qajar Shah to abolish the dreaded jizya tax, which is Haratria’s lasting legacy in ensuring that Zoroastrianism continues as a living faith in Iran, the land of its birth. The ZTFE is commemorating the 120^th anniversary of the passing away of this Zoroastrian hero and saviour of Zoroastrianism in Iran by organising commemorative lectures.

The evening will commence in the Zartoshty Brothers Hall by the Ervad Sahebs invoking the Fravashi of Seth Maneckji Limji Hataria by reciting a compilation of the Avesta Yasna Hā 26 and a portion of a Parzend prayer ordinarily known as the debāche of Afringān-i Ardā Fravash, also known as the Stūm-no Karta. This will be followed by Dr. Rashna Writer, lecturer of Zoroastrian Studies at SOAS, delivering the opening lecture titled; “The life and legacy of Seth Maneckji Limji Hataria”. The lecture accompanied with visual material will cover the historical period shortly before the arrival of Hataria in Iran in 1854 to the coming of Reza Shah Pahalvi in 1926. After questions and answers, Mr Sam Vesuna, President of the Zoroastrian Society of Ontario, Canada, and past Honorary Secretary ZTFE will give a lecture titled; “My father Dr Manuchiher of Yazd”. The lecture will cover the experiences of Dr Minoo Vesuna, a Parsi born in India in 1903 married to Dowlat Irani, an Iranian Zoroastrian of Poona, who took up the post of resident doctor at the Tata Memorial Hospital in Yazd in 1930. To conclude, Mr Shahrokh Vafadari, will deliver a lecture titled; “Growing up in 1930s Iran”. The lecture will be an autobiographical account of a young boy growing up in Kerman, Iran, during the 1930s including the bullying and prejudices faced by him for being a Zoroastrian.

Following questions and answers, around 8pm dinner will be served consisting of lamb dhansak with kachumber followed by lagan - nu custard. Listening to Hartaria’s commemorative lectures is free but tickets for dinner priced at £7.50 per person. Vegetarian dhansak option available, please request in advance. Kindly register via email or phone. For your convenience ZTFE has facility to accept payments by credit and debit cards for event bookings. Please call 020 8866 0765.

Sunday 21^st February – 4:30pm

Vada Dasturji Meherji Dasturji Kekobad Meherjirana Remembrance Jashan

Vada Dasturji Meherji Dasturji Kekobad Meherjirana of Navsari, India passed away on Roj Dae-pa-Adar Mah Shehravar Shahenshai 1379YZ – Saturday 23^rd January 2010. As a tribute, ZTFE has organised a Remembrance Jashan in Zartoshty Brothers Hall on Roj Amardad Mah Meher, Sunday 21st February 2010 at 4.30pm, performed by our dedicated Ervad Sahebs, who mostly are of the Bhagarsath Anjuman.

Vada Dasturji Meherji (1935 – 2010) was the 16^th descendent of the illustrious First Dastur Meherjirana (1514 – 1591), who in 1578 was invited to the court of the Mogul Emperor Akbar to discuss matters relating to the Zoroastrian religion. Over the centuries the Meherjirana Family have been at the fore of ensuring that the Zoroastrian religion and its customs and above all its values have continued till the present day. Like his illustrious ancestors, Vada Dasturji Meherji was the head of the Bhagarsath Anjuman and High Priest of the Navsari Atash Behram and Vadi Dar-e Meher. He had a BA in Avesta and Pahlavi from St. Xavier’s in Mumbai and was a great upholder and defender of the Zoroastrian faith, a gentle soul with great compassion towards all of creation. Dasturji Meherji was highly respected and was Trustee of many institutions in Navsari including the First Dastur Meherjirana Library with the help of Dr Katy Antia and Mrs Bharti Gandhi, Vada Dasturji Meherji Meherjirana deserves the gratitude not only of the Zoroastrians but of historians and culture specialists all over the world.

After the Remembrance Jashan, ZTFE Trustee Ervad Rostam K Bhedwar of the Bhagarsath Anjuman, initiated Navar – Martab at the Vadi Dar-e Meher in Navsari during the era of Dasturji Kekobad Meherjirana, will pay a tribute to Dasturji Meherji Meherjirana. Ervad Rostam will explain the long standing practice of how the new Vada Dasturji Meherjirana is appointed. This will be followed by ZTFE Counsel Emeritus Noshir J. Avari and President Malcolm M Deboo, whose families originate from Malesar Navsari, giving brief talks on “First Dastur Meherjirana: First Parsi Zoroastrian to achieve national recognition in India” and “First Dastur Meherjirana Library: A Repository of Zoroastrian Manuscripts and Literature.”

This will be followed by pot luck refreshments. Participants are requested to bring a food dish for the table spread including Zoroastrian sweet and savoury delicacies.

March 2010

Tuesday 2^nd March – 5:30 pm

Meher Parabh Jashan

A Jashan ceremony will be performed by our Ervad Sahebs followed by a Humbandagi to celebrate the auspicious Parabh of Meher Mah, Meher Roj. Chasni and refreshments will be served after the Jashan. If you are interested in sponsoring a Parabh Jashan, please inform the ZTFE Secretariat.

Tuesday 9^th March 6:15 pm

Exhibition of Paintings: A Woman with a Cause by Jeroo

Inauguration at Nehru Centre, 8 South Audley Street, London W1K 1HF

Jeroo Roy has enjoyed success through a number of exhibitions including the National Portrait Gallery where 208 portraits were displayed for the launch of Zerbanoo Gifford’s book, Confessions to a Serial Womaniser - Secrets of the World’s Inspirational Women. She has also led a number of art classes for children belonging to a women’s shelter group, and has also run classes in art therapy for young people. Jeroo has also been invited by New Scotland Yard and the Home Office to display paintings at their International conferences on Gender Equality, and at similar conferences in Stockholm and those arranged by Amnesty International.

A Parsee from Mumbai, Jeroo Roy first studied Art at the JJ School of Art in Mumbai and continued training at the London College of Printing. She then worked as a designer for magazines and as an illustrator and writer of children’s books. Exhibition, which will be inaugurated by Baroness Cox of Queensbury, Deputy Speaker of the House of Lords since 1985. Her work in the field of humanitarian aid has taken her on many missions to conflict zones.

Sunday 14^th March 11am

Children’s Education Fun Club & NoRuz Party/Disco

As Jamsheedi NoRuz is due the following Sunday, the Children’s Fun Club in March will focus on NoRuz and preparations for the Haft Sheen Table. There will be a Children’s NoRuz party and each child up to 12 years will get a special NoRuz gift from Amu NoRuz (Uncle NoRuz), thanks to the generosity of the “Simin and Shahrokh Shahrokh NoRuz Children’s Fund”. It is critical that parents submit the names and ages of their children before Tuesday 9^th March 2010 in writing by email to secretary@ztfe.com or post, to ensure all children get a gift from Amu NoRuz and no child is disappointed.

Games and entertainment will be organised for the younger members of the community including tales from Iran of Amu NoRuz. After lunch there will be a mini disco to round off the afternoon. Please register early. There will be a charge of £6 adult members; £8 adult member’s family and guests; £5 children 5yrs – 15 yrs; under 5’s free. Kindly register by Tuesday 9^th March 2010 by email or phone. For your convenience ZTFE has facility to accept payments by credit and debit cards for event bookings. Please call 020 8866 0765.

Wednesday 17^th March – 5:00pm

Iranian Zoroastrian Panjeh (Muktad) Ceremony

A Panjeh (Muktad) ceremony will be performed by our Ervad Sahebs followed by a Humbandagi on the first Gatha according to the Iranian Zoroastrian calendar. Like last year, this event will be organised by the Iranian Zoroastrians, who will endeavour to get an Iranian Zoroastrian Mobed to participate in these holy prayers with the existing team of voluntary Ervad Sahebs and invoke the names of our dearly departed. For further information or / and if you would like to submit names of your dearly departed please contact Mr Jamshid Falahati by phone / fax on 020 8868 7957 (before 9pm) by Wednesday 10^th March 2010.

Sunday 21^st March – 11am

Jamsheedi NoRuz Jashan & Lunch & Musical Entertainment

The ancient Iranian Zoroastrian festival of Jamsheedi NoRuz is celebrated on spring equinox. A Jashan ceremony will be performed by our Ervad Sahebs in the Zartoshty Brothers Hall followed by a Maatchi ceremony in the Setayash Geh. The Haft Sheen table prepared by our Iranian Zoroastrian members will be on display. A sit down 3 course lunch will be served prepared by Farida Vora, consisting of lamb samosas, seekh kebabs, spring rolls and vada as finger starters, lamb cutlets with tomoto gravy and salad as first course, lamb biryani with dal and raita as main course followed by dessert. Vegetarian option available, please request in advance. First seating will commence around 1pm. During lunch there will be light musical entertainment followed by a disco after lunch till 7pm.

Formal event for 30 minutes will be around 3pm when the ZTFE will felicitate Cyrus Rustom Todiwala OBE and Minoo Homi Patel followed by a book promotion. Cyrus R. Todiwalla is the Executive Chef / Patron of Cafe Spice Namaste and was conferred the OBE in the recent New Years Honours List. Professor Minoo H. Patel was conferred the Outstanding Zarathushti Award in the field of engineering and technology at the 9^th World Zoroastrian Congress, Dubai 2009.

Afterwards, Shirin Amani Azari will be promoting her book “Once upon a time in Tehran” and autographing copies. Once Upon a Time in Tehran is a beautiful and touching fictional memoir inspired by true-life events of Shirin, a twelve-year-old girl living in Tehran during the war between Iran and Iraq. The longing for a normal life in an unfamiliar world is interwoven with cultural insights and tales of ancient Iran, celebrations of festivals, family bonds and the facts of living in a post-revolution Iran. Shirin was born and raised in Iran, left Iran aged 12 years old and never returned. She is a counsellor/ therapist and lives with her husband and daughter, Maya in the UK. Shirin is one of our local Zoroastrian authors so let us give her a push. Tell all your friends and help spread the word. Hardback copies will be available directly from the author priced £15.00. http://www.strategicpublishinggroup.com/title/OnceUponaTimeinTehran.html.

Tickets: £14 Members; £17 Member’s family and guests; £10 Member’s children 11 yrs – 18 yrs; £7 Member’s children 5yrs – 10 yrs; under 5’s free. Due to 30% increase in catering and other overheads the ZTFE has no option but to increase the ticket prices. Please register early to avoid disappointment. Kindly register by Friday 12^th March 2010 by email or phone, after this date will incur an additional administrative cost of £2 per ticket. For your convenience ZTFE has facility to accept payments by credit and debit cards for event bookings. Please call 020 8866 0765. A Zoroastrian Bookstall will be organised for this event.

Team ZTFE Wish all a very happy and prosperous Jamsheedi NoRuz. thanking all including our patrons in supporting the ZTFE in ensuring all our events are successful throughout the year.

May 3748 Dini Zarathushtrian / 1379 YZ fasli bring Joy, Peace and Happiness to all throughout the world.

Friday 26^th March – 5:30 pm

Ava Parabh & Iranian Zoroastrian Khordad Sal Jashan & Ghambar & Lecture by The Rt Revd Dr Alastair Redfern Bishop of Derby Co-Chair of the Inter Faith Network

Both the events fall on the same day. A Jashan ceremony will be performed by our Ervad Sahebs followed by a Humbandagi to celebrate both Shahenshai Ava Parabh and Khordad Sal, the Birthday of our Prophet Zarathushtra according to the Iranian Zoroastrian calendar. The Rt Revd Dr Alastair Redfern has been Bishop of Derby since 2005 and Chair of the Multifaith Centre, University of Derby. Recently Bishop Alastair was appointed the Co-Chair of the Inter Faith Network. The evening will conclude by a simple Ghambar meal. ZTFE extends heartfelt gratitude to Nahid and Bahman Mobed for their endowment towards this event for over last two decades.

Ghambar tokens £5 per person. Vegetarian option available, please request in advance. Kindly register by Friday 19^th March 2010 via email or phone, registrations after this date will incur an additional administrative cost of £2 per token. For your convenience ZTFE has facility to accept payments by credit and debit cards for event bookings.

April 2010

Sunday 11^th April 1:00 pm

Sunday Dhansak & Lectures on Zoroastrianism by Dinyar Patel and Daniel Sheffield

After the XYZ Children’s Fun Club Sunday lunch of lamb dhansak with kachumber will be served. Around 3pm following lunch Dinyar Patel, a PhD candidate in History at Harvard University, will be giving a lecture titled; “The Importance of Knowing Your Heritage And Preserving It: Some Thoughts from a Zoroastrian Youth.” Following questions and answers Daniel Jensen Sheffield, a PhD candidate in Iranian and Persian Studies at Harvard University, will give a lecture titled; “The Curious History of the Pahlavi Wizirgerd ī Dēnīg: Questions of Priestly Authority and Textual Legitimacy in 19^th Century Bombay.”

Dinyar Patel is the grand nephew of Vada Dasturji Dr Hormazdyar Dastur Kayoji Mirza of Iranshah Atash Behram Udvada. He is a student of modern South Asia with concentrations in the Indian nationalist movement and the history of the Parsi community. His dissertation is on Dadabhai Naoroji, the “Grand Old Man” of India. Dinyar has also done research on Gandhi’s relations with the Parsi community as well as Parsi involvement in modern Iran.

Daniel Jensen Sheffield has taught courses in Persian, Pahlavi, and the Zoroastrian religion at Harvard University. During the 2008-2009 academic year he was awarded a US Department of Education Fulbright-Hays Doctoral Dissertation Research Award to investigate Pahlavi, Persian, and Gujarati manuscripts at the First Dastur Meherjirana Library, Navsari and the K. R. Cama Oriental Institute, Bombay for his dissertation entitled In the Path of the Prophet: Sacred Narratives of Zarathushtra in Medieval and Early Modern Zoroastrianism.

Evening tea and biscuits will be served after the lectures. Listening to the lectures including tea and biscuits is free but tickets for dhansak with kachumber priced at £6.50 per person. Vegetarian dhansak option available, please request in advance. Bar will be open for the sale of liquid refreshments. Kindly register by Tuesday 6^th April 2010 via email or phone. For your convenience ZTFE has facility to accept payments by credit and debit cards for event bookings. Please call 020 8866 0765.

Wednesday 14^th April – 6:30 pm

Registration & Introduction Zoroastrian History Lecture Series by Dr Rashna Writer

Zoroastrian history is a vital ingredient in understanding our ancient Zoroastrian Culture, Heritage and Religion. Dr Rashna Writer, lecturer in Zoroastrian Studies, SOAS, will be undertaking the first series of 11 evening classes on Zoroastrian History of Iran from the Achaemenian dynasty to modern times. All are urged to take advantage and bring your children (teenage and above) to attend these classes. These lectures are open to all and will help gain knowledge on the History of Zoroastrian Iran. Cost: £35 Individual Adult; £50 Family (parents and children); £20 students with NUS card & OAP. Please refer to page 3 for details. Prior registration (form attached) requested by post or email to the Secretariat secretary@ztfe.com. For your convenience ZTFE has facility to accept payments by credit and debit cards for event bookings. Please call 020 8866 0765.

Tuesday 20^th April – 5:30 pm

Dasturji Dr. Sohrabji Kutar Memorial Jashan

A Jashan will be performed to commemorate 24^th anniversary of the passing away of our late Dasturji Saheb Dr. Sohrabji Hormasji Kutar. All are invited to participate in the Jashan and to chasni thereafter.

Wednesday 21^st April – 6:30 pm

Zoroastrian History Evening Lecture 1 of 11 by Dr Rashna Writer

Achaemenian Dynasty Part 1/2: Founders of the Iranian State. There is a cost to attend this lecture series. Please refer to page 3 for details. Prior registration (form attached) requested by post or email to the Secretariat secretary@ztfe.com.

Saturday 24^th April – 5:30 pm

Adar Parabh Jashan & Pot Luck & Bollywood Film Nite

A Jashan ceremony will be performed by our Ervad Sahebs followed by a Humbandagi to celebrate the auspicious Parabh of the Adar Mah, Adar Roj. Following the Jashan and Maachi ceremony in the Setayash Gah, around 7.30pm there will be pot luck refreshments. Participants are requested to bring a food dish for the table spread including Zoroastrian sweet and savoury delicacies. Around 9pm a Bollywood film will be screened for those wanting to stay behind and enjoy a night out at the Zoroastrian Centre in the company of fellow Zoroastrians.

If you are interested in sponsoring a Parabh Jashan, please inform the ZTFE Secretariat.

Wednesday 28^th April – 6:30 pm

Zoroastrian History Evening Lecture 2 of 11 by Dr Rashna Writer

Achaemenian Dynasty Part 2/2: Society, Administration, Culture. There is a cost to attend this lecture series. Please refer to page 3 for details. Prior registration (form attached) requested by post or email to the Secretariat secretary@ztfe.com.

May 2010

Wednesday 5^th May – 6:30 pm

Zoroastrian History Evening Lecture 3 of 11 by Dr Rashna Writer

Parthian Dynasty Part 1/2: Wrongly overlooked by history. There is a cost to attend this lecture series. Please refer to page 3 for details. Prior registration (form attached) requested by post or email to the Secretariat secretary@ztfe.com.

Sunday 9^th May 1:00 pm

Sunday Dhansak & Classic Bollywood Matinee Film Show

After the XYZ Children’s Fun Club Sunday lunch of lamb dhansak with kachumber will be served. Around 3pm following lunch a classic Bollywood film will be screened for those wanting to enjoy a lazy Sunday afternoon at the Zoroastrian Centre in the company of fellow Zoroastrians. For those not interested in viewing the film, there will be indoor games played in the foyer including cards, carom and chess.

Evening tea and biscuits will be served after the film. Viewing only the classic Bollywood film including tea and biscuits is £3.00 but film and dhansak with kachumber priced at £6.50 per person. Vegetarian dhansak option available, please request in advance. Bar will be open for the sale of liquid refreshments. Kindly register by Tuesday 4^th May 2010 via email or phone. For your convenience ZTFE has facility to accept payments by credit and debit cards for event bookings. Please call 020 8866 0765.

Wednesday 12^th May – 6:30 pm

Zoroastrian History Evening Lecture 3 of 11 by Dr Rashna Writer

Parthian Dynasty Part 2/2: Society, Administration, Culture. There is a cost to attend this lecture series. Please refer to page 3 for details. Prior registration (form attached) requested by post or email to the Secretariat secretary@ztfe.com.

Sunday 16^th May – 4:00 pm

Dae Mah Hormuzd Roj Jashan & Book Promotion by Cyrus Moore& High Tea

A Jashan will be performed at the Zartoshty Brothers Hall by our Ervad Sahebs followed by a Humbandagi to celebrate this auspicious day dedicated to our creator Ahura Mazda. After the Maachi ceremony in the Setayash Gah, around 6pm Cyrus Moore will be reading from his book “City of Thieves” and autographing copies.

Cyrus Mewawalla recently published his debut novel, “City of Thieves” under his pen name Cyrus Moore. The first edition was published on 2^nd July 2009 by Little, Brown Book Group, one of the world’s most prestigious publishers. It sold out in the first six months and the second edition is now available in most major bookshops around the UK. The novel is now available in 19 countries in four languages (English, French, Dutch and Chinese), as well as in audio book format. City of Thieves is a page-turning thriller set in the cutthroat world of investment banking. It has received enormous critical acclaim. For more information on the story, the author or the literary review on this book, please visit Cyrus’ official author website on www.cyrusm.com or follow him on twitter on http://twitter.com/CityThriller Cyrus is one of our local Zoroastrian authors so let’s give him a push. Tell all your friends about it and help spread the word. If you like thriller novels, you’ll like “City of Thieves”. Copies will be available for sale in hard back £13.00 and paper back £8.00.

High Tea will be served thereafter. Please register your names by phone or email with Secretariat latest by Tuesday 12^th May 2010. The Jashan is sponsored by a well-wisher and we appreciate the kind gesture.

Wednesday 19^th May – 6:30 pm

Zoroastrian History Evening Lecture 5 of 11 by Dr Rashna Writer

Sasanian dynasty Part 1/2: The apogee of Zoroastrian Iran. There is a cost to attend this lecture series. Please refer to page 3 for details. Prior registration (form attached) requested by post or email to the Secretariat secretary@ztfe.com.

Wednesday 26^th May – 5:30 pm

Shahenshai Zarthost-No-Diso Jashan (Dae Mah Khorshed Roj)

The death anniversary of our holy prophet Zarathushtra according to the Shahenshai calendar will be observed with a Jashan on Dae Mah Khorshed Roj at Zartoshty Brothers Hall.

If you are interested in sponsoring a Jashan, please inform the ZTFE Secretariat.

Wednesday 26^th May – 7:00 pm tbc

Zoroastrian History Evening Lecture 6 of 11 by Dr Rashna Writer

Sasanian Dynasty Part 2/2: Society, Administration, Culture. Due to the Jashan earlier, the start time may change. There is a cost to attend this lecture series. Please refer to page 3 for details. Prior registration (form attached) requested by post or email to the Secretariat secretary@ztfe.com.

June 2010

Wednesday 2^nd June – 6:30 pm

Zoroastrian History Evening Lecture 7 of 11 by Dr Rashna Writer

Post Sasanian Iran and Arab Military Conquest. There is a cost to attend this lecture series. Please refer to page 3 for details. Prior registration (form attached) requested by post or email to the Secretariat secretary@ztfe.com.

Sunday 6^th June – 4:30 pm

Homaji-ni Baj Jashan & Lecture & Pot Luck

A baj ceremony, sponsored by brothers Hoshang and Manek Buhariwalla, will be performed on Roj Govad, Mah Dae by our Ervad Sahebs followed by a Humbandagi at the Zoroastrian Centre. Homaji-ni Baj commemorates the sad occasion of an intra community dispute on Zoroastrian calendars resulting in miscarriage of justice and martyrdom of Homaji Jamshedji, a resident of Broach Gujarat, who was hanged in Bombay in 1783 (1152 YZ). Afterwards ZTFE Counsel Emeritus Noshir J Avari will deliver are brief lecture on Homaji Jamshedji. Following the lecture, around there will be pot luck refreshments. Participants are requested to bring a food dish for the table spread including Zoroastrian sweet and savoury delicacies.

Wednesday 9^th June – 6:30 pm

Zoroastrian History Evening Lecture 8 of 11 by Dr Rashna Writer

Consolidation of Islamic Rule in Iran. There is a cost to attend this lecture series. Please refer to page 3 for details. Prior registration (form attached) requested by post or email to the Secretariat secretary@ztfe.com.

Wednesday 16^th June – 5:30 pm

Bahman Parabh Jashan

A Jashan ceremony will be performed by our Ervad Sahebs followed by a Humbandagi at the Zoroastrian Centre to celebrate the auspicious Parabh of Bahman Amesha Spenta, which represents the “good mind”. Bahman or Vohu Manah (Avestan) is also Ahura Mazda’s guardian protector of cattle and the rest of the animal kingdom.

If you are interested in sponsoring the Jashan, please inform the ZTFE Secretariat.

Wednesday 16^th June – 7:00 pm tbc

Zoroastrian History Evening Lecture 9 of 11 by Dr Rashna Writer

From the Safavids to the Ayatollahs. Due to the Jashan earlier, the start time may change. There is a cost to attend this lecture series. Please refer to page 3 for details. Prior registration (form attached) requested by post or email to the Secretariat secretary@ztfe.com.

Wednesday 23^rd June – 6:30 pm

Zoroastrian History Evening Lecture 10 of 11 by Dr Rashna Writer

Parsi Migration, Settlement and Acclimatisation in India. There is a cost to attend this lecture series. Please refer to page 3 for details. Prior registration (form attached) requested by post or email to the Secretariat secretary@ztfe.com.

Wednesday 30^th June – 6:30 pm

Zoroastrian History Evening Lecture 11 of 11 by Dr Rashna Writer

Parsis and Iranian Zoroastrians: Disparate cultures but a shared religious heritage. There is a cost to attend this lecture series. Please refer to page 3 for details. Prior registration (form attached) requested by post or email to the Secretariat secretary@ztfe.com.

July 2010

Thursday 1^st July – 5.30pm

Jashne Tirgan & Maidyoishema Ghambar

To celebrate this auspicious day as per the Iranian Zoroastrian calendar, our Ervad Sahebs will perform a Jashan in the Zartoshty Brothers Hall followed by a Ghambar. This Jashan and Ghambar is funded by our dear and very generous benefactors Late Mobed Faridoon and Mobed Mehraban Zartoshty and their families. We extend our sincere thanks to them.

Ghambar tokens £5 per person. Vegetarian option available, please request in advance. Kindly register by Thursday 24^th June 2010 via email or phone, after this date will incur an additional administrative cost of £2 per token. For your convenience ZTFE has facility to accept payments by credit and debit cards for event bookings.

Monday 19^th July – 5:30 pm

Aspandarmad Parabh Jashan

A Jashan ceremony will be performed at the Zoroastrian Centre by our Ervad Sahebs followed by Humbandagi to celebrate the auspicious Parabh of Aspandarmad.

If you are interested in sponsoring the Parabh Jashan, please inform the ZTFE Secretariat.

Tuesday 20^th July – 3:00 pm

Latest submission of ZTFE Muktad 2010 forms

The Muktad prayers will be commencing on Monday 9^th August 2010 (details below). In order to facilitate preparations for the Muktad ceremonies we would like your co-operation by giving us the details set out in the enclosed ZTFE Muktad forms, latest by Tuesday 20^th July 2010. Any communication received after this date will incur an additional administrative cost of £5 per entry. For your convenience ZTFE has facility to accept payments by credit and debit cards. However, names for the Muktads will not be accepted verbally / telephone messages. Please initially email secretary@ztfe.com the names in the format described in the enclosed ZTFE Muktad Forms and then call 020 8866 0765 (10am – 3pm) to give your card details.

Please contact the ZTFE Secretariat for

ZS Shahenshai 1380 YZ calendars which also include Kadmi and Fasli roj and mah.

August 2010

This month there will be no Children’s Education Fun Club

Monday 9^th till Wednesday 18^th August Muktad Prayers – 5:30 pm except Sunday 14^th August – 4:30 pm

The Annual Muktad Ceremonies

The Muktad prayer ceremonies will commence on Monday 9^th August commencing at 5:30 pm everyday, except on Sunday 14^th August when the prayers will commence at an earlier time of 4:30 pm. We thank our Ervad Sahebs for volunteering to recite these holy prayers for our dearly departed. We also thank the volunteers who give selfless service for arranging the Muktad tables and organising the refreshments every day. Please complete the enclosed ZTFE Muktad Forms if you wish to submit the names of your dearly departed for the Muktad prayers. Charges: £10 for each name & £5 for each vase.

Thursday 19^th August – 5:30 pm

Shahenshai Navroze Jashan, Dinner & Dance

A celebratory Jashan ceremony will be performed by our Ervad Sahebs at 5:30 pm to bring in the New Year 1380YZ. After the Jashan, there will be a Maatchi for our Zoroastrian co-religionists in the Setayesh Gah. Dinner will be served thereafter followed by music and dancing. The Bar will be open after the Jashan. A sumptuous meal will be served.

Tickets: £14 Members; £17 Member’s family and guests; £10 Member’s children 11 yrs – 18 yrs; £7 Member’s children 5yrs – 10 yrs; under 5’s free. Due to 30% increase in catering and other overheads the ZTFE has no option but to increase the ticket prices. Please register early to avoid disappointment. Kindly register by Friday 13^th August 2010 by email or phone, after this date will incur an additional administrative cost of £2 per ticket. For your convenience ZTFE has facility to accept payments by credit and debit cards for event bookings. Please call 020 8866 0765. A Zoroastrian Bookstall will be organised for this event.

Team ZTFE Wish all a very happy and prosperous Shahenshai Navroze. thanking all including our patrons in supporting the ZTFE in ensuring all our events are successful throughout the year.

May 1380 Shahenshai YZ bring Joy, Peace and Happiness to all in the world.

Tuesday 24^th August – 5:30 pm

Shahenshai Khordad Sal Jashan & Ghambar

A Jashan Ceremony to celebrate the birthday of our prophet Zarathushtra will be performed by our Ervad Sahebs followed by Maatchi ceremony in the Setayesh Gah. A traditional Ghambar Dinner will be served. The Ghambar has been made possible by an endowment from the estate of the late Dr Homi R. Pithawala. We are most grateful to the Pithawala family for their generosity.

Ghambar tokens £5 per person. Vegetarian option available, please request in advance. Kindly register by Friday, 20^th August, 2010 via email or phone, after this date will incur an additional administrative cost of £2 per token. For your convenience ZTFE has facility to accept payments by credit and debit cards for event bookings.