Govt to give Udvada town Rs 20cr revamp

Scores of Parsis from across the country and globe came together and launched the first-ever Iranshah Udvada Utsav (IUU) in the holy town of Udvada in Valsad on Friday evening by offering prayers at the fire temple of Iranshah Atash Behram.
The Zoroastrians also enjoyed `Uziran Ge Maachi’ and yed `Uziran Ge Maachi’ and `Khushaali nu Jashan’ at the largest gathering of the community in the country .
On the occasion, state tourism minister Saurabh Patel announced Rs 20 crore for development of Udvada town into a model for unity and harmony .Patel acknowledged contribution of Parsi community in development of the country and reiterated government’s commitment to preserve Parsi culture and heritage.

“Parsi community has a global identity . Settled in India for last 1,300 years, the community has contributed immensely from freedom struggle to industrial development. To preserve its culture, the youth from the community need to come forward,” said Patel in his key note address.
The minister expressed concerns over dwindling Parsi population and requested community leaders to take steps to improve the scenario. Patel also released a souvenir on Parsi community . While in Udvada, Patel also visited the Zoroastrian Information Centre and made suggestion to make provision of tourist guide at Udvada.

“The old Parsi houses in Udvada will be preserved and new high-rise buildings will not be allowed,” Patel announced.
Chief priest of the fire temple, Dasturji Khurshedji Dastoor said, “The major focus of the IUU is to bring forth Zoroastrian culture. Over 5,000 Parsis are expected to participate in it. This event is inspiration of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and it is being organised with his support.”
The inaugural function was followed by cultural events by prominent Parsi artists. A new film, `The Journey of the Zoroastrians through the sands of time’, was also launched. Leading choreographer Shiamak Dawar’s dance group enthralled the audience with their performances. Creating waves of laughter, Yazdi Karanjia and Group performed play – A variety review – Zindgi Ye Safar He Suhana – describing life of a lazy person. The evening ended with musical performances by various groups.

Published on Times Of India.