The Zoroastrian students of Lady Engineer High School recently embarked on a remarkable journey to visit Udvada Atash Behram and Chikli Agiary on January 17-18. This annual pilgrimage, generously sponsored by the school's management, is part of their continuous efforts to promote cultural awareness and heritage preservation among their students. This year, only senior boys participated in this meaningful trip.
Connecting Students to Their Roots
The trip was designed to provide students with a deeper understanding of their roots, traditions, and the historical significance of the Zoroastrian faith. It was not just an educational excursion but also a spiritual experience, allowing the students to connect with their cultural identity in a profound and meaningful way.
Engaging Activities and Reflection
During the pilgrimage, the students took part in several enriching activities, including:
Guided tours of the sacred sites.
Storytelling sessions about the rich Zoroastrian heritage.
Moments of quiet reflection at the sacred locations.
The school’s Religion teacher, Rukshana Modi, and Principal Errick Elavia accompanied the students, ensuring that the experience was both informative and inspiring. The initiative to make this an annual trip has been well-received, with Zoroastrian teachers also actively participating.
A Meeting with the High Priest
One of the highlights of the pilgrimage was meeting Dastur Khurshed Dastur, one of the High Priests of Iranshah. This interaction fostered a sense of pride and unity among the students, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
Generous Hospitality
The students were hosted at the J.J. Dharamshala, with free accommodation provided by Rustom Jeejeebhoy, trustee of J.J. Charities. The hospitality extended by Mehernosh, the manager of the Dharamshala, ensured that sumptuous meals were provided at concessional rates, making the trip comfortable and memorable for everyone.
Conclusion
This unique pilgrimage was a beautiful blend of education, spirituality, and cultural enrichment, providing the students with a rare opportunity to connect with their heritage. The trip left a profound impact, instilling a sense of pride in their Zoroastrian identity while fostering unity and camaraderie. It was a journey that celebrated tradition, community, and the enduring legacy of the Zoroastrian faith, ensuring that the students returned with memories and lessons to cherish for a lifetime.
The school's management deserves applause for their commitment to preserving heritage and creating meaningful experiences for their students. This annual pilgrimage is not just a journey to sacred sites but also a journey into the heart of Zoroastrian culture.