Parsi fire temple to celebrate anniversary
HIDDEN BEHIND the canopy of huge neem trees is a pristine place of worship, the Parsi fire temple called Kaikhushru Pallonji Katrak Dar-e-Meher, which celebrates its 47th anniversary on Thursday As one enters the Delhi Parsi Anjuman premises, which houses this unique place of worship, a sense of peace and tranquility engulfs the visitor However, one is allowed to enter the Dar-e-Meher (different from Atesh Behram or even an Agiary, both being bigger fire temples) only if one is a Zorostrian. The ritual prayers to the fire are held five times a day whilst remembering the great saints and kings of Iran. The sacred fire is fed with 'special' wood during this prayer and also on special occasions. The Parsis, who came to India in the 14th century to save their religion and preserve the sanctity and purity of their sacred fire, ensure that the fire is kept burning all the while. "The community has just about 700 members in Delhi and the NCR and occasions like the anniversary of the fire temple gives a chance for all of us to come to- gether," said Dadi Mistry, the president of Delhi Parsi Anjuman. The simple-yet-attractive monument with Zorostrian motifs is one of its kinds in the entire north India. "The other nearest fire temples are at Kanpur and Ajmer and this makes the fire temple in Delhi even more special," added Mistry with a touch of pride in his voice. Compared to the Delhi Parsi Anjuman, which was formed 75 years ago, and the Parsi graveyard here, which is almost 116 years old, the fire temple was consecrated quite late but it has nevertheless helped strengthen and preserve the already strong rituals.. To read the complete click here..
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Image and Article source: Hindustan Times
Article taken from the issue: 20 Dec 2007
Labels: delhi, neem trees, parsi, parsi temple
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