The rich culture of the Parsi community is responsible for giving it fame and identity over centuries of existence. With its roots in ancient Persia and that follow global diaspora to India, among other countries, Parsi culture has shown resilience, creative adaption, and strong social connections. This article aims to sail you through a rainbow of symbols that differentiates Parsi community from others including their traditions, beliefs, rituals, art work and eating.
The history of the Parsis can be traced back to ancient Persia where Zoroastrianism evolved as one of the oldest monotheistic religions worldwide. To escape persecution due to religion back in their home country, a small number of Zoroastrians called the Parsis fled to the western coast of India more than one thousand years earlier. However, despite these drawbacks like cultural diversity and language barrier; they survived into Indian society thus contributing immensely towards its cultural economic and societal development.
The Parsi wedding traditions are full of customs and symbolism, which help to illustrate the cultural heritage of the society and religious beliefs. One such is called lagan in which all the rituals are joyful like Achoo mishtu where the couple exchanges flower garlands and Haath Borvanu when bride’s hands are tied with a sacred thread.