
Jamwa Chalo Ji
As we stand on the threshold of the 21st century, the Parsis in New Zealand have been navigating their lives, trying to honour their past, whilst embracing the mosaic of a contemporary, Kiwi lifestyle in the land they now call home.
As the peace loving community, known for philanthropy, grapples with the intricate duality, doing the tightrope walk between tradition and modern life, they long to be connected to their roots, holding on to their ancient wisdom and values that their forefathers passed on to them.
Zoroastrian parsis initially arrived on New Zealand shores around 50 years ago but the seed of an idea to build a community hall was first planted by the then trustees of the Zoroastrian Community Trust (ZCT) just 18 years ago.
The vision: To create a sacred space for young Zoroastrian families to safeguard their centuries-old, rich traditions, rituals and culture, passed down by their ancestors. Also, to allow the generation-next to foster a deep sense of reverence and value the legacy they have inherited. As they say, know your past to understand your present.
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The subsequent board of ZCT Trustees have been working tirelessly to build a community hall through various fund-raising activities that reiterates the importance of a tight-knit community that stands strong together through the good times and the tough.
More recently, ZCT hosted one of the biggest fashion shows where around 100 community members came together to showcase their exquisite, traditional wear at an event called Jamva Chaloji. Around 320 in the audience cheered for men in daglis, and women showing off their Gara saris– priceless, embroidered heirlooms that are often passed down from mother to daughter, over generations.
The only challenge the trustees faced this time was finding a hall that was big enough to accommodate the long line-up of spectators to the event in east Auckland, without breaking the bank! The requirement for a community hall was even more pronounced this time as the number of people wanting to be present at the fundrasing event had to be limited due to lack of enough room.
Some of the special guests that evening was Pakuranga MP Simeon Brown, also Minister of Transport and Deputy Leader of the House, Howick Local Board members Adele White and Peter Young, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s parliamentary secretary Katja Kershaw, editor of Indian Newslink Venkat Raman and the RJ Junoo from Humm FM.
The highlight of the well attended evening was the show of hands and the full-hearted support by the community members.
Apart from the Jamva Chaloji showcase of traditional fashion and the food served, the success of the event was measured by the promise of the funds raised which was around $130,000.”
The five trustees set the ball rolling by each committing to donate $10,000 or more, should they find a property that would be ideal for a community hall. Seeing that they lead by example, members of the audience also pledged their support, which was truly heartening for the Trustees who have been working hard to garner support.
Currently, the trustees are on the treasure-hunt of finding a property that would fit the bill.
If there is any way you would like to contribute to ZCT or be a part of creating a legacy, feel free to contact the ZCT trustees at zcentre@gmail.com
