The Parsi community is one of the oldest groups in India. Their culture dates back to more than 2,500 years ago and they have contributed a lot to Indian society. They follow Zoroastrian traditions and rituals and prefer to live their lives accordingly.
As per historical records, the Parsis first arrived in India at Sanjan town, which is located in Umargam taluka, Valsad district in the Indian state of Gujarat. It is believed that they arrived in the 8th-10th century. Sanjan town, being the first home of Parsis in India, Gujarat, is naturally one of the important heritage places for the Parsis. Though the Parsi community is spread across India, currently, the majority of them are settled in Mumbai, Maharashtra maintaining their rich culture and heritage. There are many places in India where you can enjoy the best of Parsi heritage and culture.
Here is the List of Places to experience the best of Parsi heritage in India:
Udvada
1) Udvada:
Udvada is a small town situated in Pardi in Valsad district, Gujarat. It's home to some of the most significant historical monuments in the Parsi community including the Zoroastrian temple, Udvada "Atash Behram" which is a fire temple where the holy fire is burning for centuries and making it one of the oldest holy fire burning temples in the world. Udvada is a great place to experience the best of Parsi heritage as it's got a rich history and a beautiful atmosphere.
Baroda
2) Baroda:
Baroda is another beautiful city on the list of places to experience the best of Parsi heritage in India. It's home to one of the most important Parsi communities in India, which represents centuries of artistic and architectural excellence. Baroda is home to the Parsi Agiary which was the first private Parsi temple in Baroda. It was built by the state contractor, Faramji Contractor. This agiary is managed and financed by the family only and no outsiders are allowed to do the same, and the legacy is still maintained by great-grandchildren.
Bahrot caves
3) Bahrot caves:
Bahrot Caves, locally known as Barad, is situated near Dahanu, Maharashtra which is 25 km south of Sanjan and it is the only Zoroastrian Cave temple existing in India. As per records, Parsis hid in the caves for 13 years when a general of Muhammad bin Tughluq, Alaf Khan invaded Sanjan. Bahrot caves are a must-visit for those who want to experience the best of Parsi heritage in India.
Pune
4) Pune:
Pune, situated in Maharashtra state is known for its historical significance and cultural vibrancy. MG Road in Pune is one of the major Parsi hubs and if you are interested in experiencing Parsi food, do not forget to visit the Sharbatwala Chowk area of the city where you will get authentic Parsi food restaurants that will serve delicious Parsi cuisines.
Dadar Parsi Colony
5) Dadar Parsi Colony:
Mr. Mancherji Edalji Joshi put in a great effort to create Dadar Parsi Colony as its founder. Dadar Parsi Colony is one of the most famous historical neighborhoods in Mumbai to experience the best of Parsi heritage being the most important place for the Parsi community in India which has been continuously inhabited since its foundation. This is a beautiful neighborhood, with old houses and amazing art deco buildings that have stood for decades.