Zoroastrianism was the religion of Persia(Iran) until the 7th century A.D. when the Arabs converted the whole region to Islam.Some who wished to preserve their religion escaped to India and settled in Gujarat on the west coast where the tolerant Hindu kings permitted them to practice their religion.Since they came from Pars in Iran, they came to be known as Parsis.Although Zoroastrianism was not born in India, the largest number of followers of this faith live in India.Zoroastrianism is a purely monotheistic faith whose founder was Zarathustra,also known as Zoroaster. The Avesta,the scriptures of the religion,contain the teachings and the prayers of Zoroaster and his disciples.The language of the Gathas or hymns is similar to the vedic(Sanskrit) language of the Hindu sacred books.
Ahura Mazda is believed to be the supreme lord and wise creator.The Sun,the brightest light is his emblem and Fire his symbol on the earth.Great veneration is extended for this reason to the fire kept burning in parsi temples,but it is not worshipped.There is a constant fight going on in the world between the good and the evil spirits and man has to choose between the path of good and light or evil and darkness.Life is a great blessing of god,and man has to do his duty to god,to others and to himself.For this,the body must be kep clean and healthy and the mind clean in thought,word and deed.Hard work,service and charity are enjoined on all as is the importance of living a good and happy life,full of virtue.This religion is extremely tolerant of other faiths and like Hindus,Parsis visit temples and churches of all religions.
With the coming of the British,large number of Parsis moved from Gujarat to Bombay(now known as Mumbai) where they helped develop the port of Bombay and set up many industries in the city.Thier religion enjoining duty to the community,Parsis are very hard working and industrious.Considering their small numbers,they have contributed greatly to the prosperity of every city they live in.Philanthropy and charity are virtues for which Parsis are noted for and many buildings in Bombay (Mumbai),cultural and service organizations owe their existence to Parsi benevolence.
