Parsi Fire Temple Mumbai, 1905 Postcard
Old 1905 photo postcard of the Parsi Fire Temple in Bombay, now Mumbai. The name “Parsi” implies “Persian”, they were the descendants of Zoroastrians in ancient Persia (now Iran).
See my post- Parsi Beauty Mumbai – Old Postcard 1908.
Zoroastrianism is one of the oldest religions in the world with Zarathustra as their Prophet. The Fire Temple or Agiary is their central place of worship. The Arab conquest of Persia centuries ago forced the Zoroastrians to flee their homeland. Zoroastrians arrived in India first at Diu, then settling in Gujarat, most of them finally settling at Bombay.
Because of the large concentration of the Parsi community in the city, an Agiary was found to be necessary. The first one opened in around 1709 and many more would open over the years around the city. The Parsi community is possibly the biggest business group in the country. And are also the biggest contributors to India’s commerce in community-wise. Some of their business giants are the Tatas, Godrej, Wadias, and so on.
The community was undoubtedly one of the biggest players in the growth of the city from the time it was a group of seven islands. One of the most famous Parsi landmarks is the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel adjacent to the Gateway of India.
Read more- Parsi Mumbai: The Legacy of Zoroastrianism in India’s Urban Fabric. See post- Rare Advertisement Taj Palace Hotel Bombay 1907.
Did you know– they allow only their community members to enter their place of worship. Non-Parsis are forbidden from entering any part inside the Temple.
From the collection- 1964 M. Suriyamoorthy Charcoal Art Abstract (#1)., Vintage Book With Wellesley To Madras., Antique Map/Plan English Fort Of Bombay., Our Journey Around The World – 1894 Book
