Wednesday, December 25, 2013

Of Navjotes and New Beginnings




Parsis, like many other religious groups. have an initiation ceremony where the child is accepted into the religious fold and can formally practice the religion thereafter. This ceremony, the Navjote, is one that is much anticipated by all Parsi parents. It is a very important sacrament and preparations begin up to a year in advance.

It was the same in our family as the the oldest child among the nieces and nephews approached the requisite age and we started gearing up for the big event. The Baug (traditional community spaces used by the Parsis for weddings, Navjotes and other celebrations) was booked, guest lists were made, menus were discussed and the child was taught her prayers for the big event.

Friyana is the darling of the Dalals. She is the first grand child and holds a special place for all of us. Not that the ones who came later are adored any less but the first one is always a little more special, a little more adored :)

Earlier this month on 16th December 2013 we gathered at the Albless Baug grounds at Charni Road for Friyana's Navjote.


Here are a few photographs from the evening -











25 December 2013
Marathon Bloggers 

9 comments:

Sassy Fork said...

Love the last picture!!

Shailaja V said...

My aunt is a Parsi and I have always been fascinated by the customs. Lovely photos!

Aathira Nair said...

Amazing… I did not know such a ceremony existed. Clearly, I know every little about Parsi customs. Want to visit one of these places when in Mumbai next.

Unknown said...

Such a lovely ceremony to be a part of. Makes me almost wish I was a Parsi especially with all the lovely food that must have been served here.

Unknown said...

a parsi "bat mitzvah" thanks for sharing - and you and K look so elegant and happy.

Unknown said...

PS are there special foods that are served? would love to know the menu. Did you cater it as well?

Kurush F Dalal said...

thank u Lisa

Kurush F Dalal said...

this is a huge topic Lisa and needs be discussed elsewhere :)

Kurush F Dalal said...

:)