A place for free thinkers and liberals

The Parsis are a close-knit community primarily based in India. They are descended from Persian Zoroastrians who emigrated to the Indian subcontinent over 1,000 years ago.

The Story of Sanjan is the only known account that describes their immigration to India. Legend has it that they arrived in the state of Gujarat after being driven out of their homeland by the Iranian king. The Parsis were traders by profession, and they were aware of the fact that the King of Gujarat was tolerant towards other religions.

The chief clansman was invited to the court of the Gujarati King. He had brought gifts and exotic spices. The king was pleased until the clansman conveyed he sought asylum for himself and his people. The astute king could not decline, however he summoned a courtier to deliver a bowl filled with milk to the brim.

He held it out, and said: “This is our land, and the milk signifies the number of people in my kingdom. You will see that it is filled to the brim. How can we accomodate your request?”

The clansman bowed, and whispered something into the ear of his companion. The companion brought back a small pouch and handed it to his master. It was powdered sugar. The clansman held the extended cup and put the sugar into it and stirred carefully, and handed it back. The milk did not spill.

“Your highness,” he said, “Our people are like the finest quality of sugar, that I just added to your cup. They would not be a burden on your society.”

The king was pleasantly surprised and welcomed the Parsis to his country.

Since then, the Paris traders have contributed immensely to the society and brought wealth and prosperity to the whole country. Their contribution is magnanimous, but what cannot be undermined is the fact is that along with their wealth, they taught the people of India the value of self-reliance and self-sufficiency.

The Tatas, one of India’s wealthiest families are Parsis.