Welcome to the Frashogard blog!

A Happy New Year to all of you! Welcome to the Frashogard blog!

I propose to make occasional comments on various interesting Zarathusthrian facts – small posts which may not merit a whole article, but which contain important details about our religion.

I shall also take a critical look a the current way in which we practice our religion, and compare it with the correct practice. This serves two purposes – not only do we analyse and understand why we follow certain practices, we also realise how far removed we are from the original Zarathushtrian ideal. Once we see the wide gap, we can make conscious efforts to go back to the original tradition.

In this process you will see how some very ‘fashionable’ current practices of our religion are actually totally anti-Zarathushtrian! The intention is not to hurt anyone’s feelings, but to try and point out the reality and to separate fact from fiction.

I welcome you to go through these posts and leave your critical yet valuable feedback. The more interactive this becomes, the more we all benefit. Thank you.

Ervad Marzban J. Hathiram

20
AUG

Roshan E Darabna September 7, 2007

Baname Khuda!

Respected Eravad Marzban J Hathiram

Just came across this website thru TZML and found it very interesting. Manty thanks from my family and myself and we appreciate your time in eaducating the cross section of the community of the correct practices, since one is never too old to learn at any age.

I say that if there is room for improvement then surely one must make a determined effort to follow the right path. If one still choose to close their eyes inspite of the knowledge available then it becomes a sin of omission. I reckon the fast paced life has its toll on all humans and God’s creations. But a step forward in the right direction can surely make the sense of achievement all a pleasure.

There ia a question though I need to clarify re the use of Ankras. Their use is suitable if the Diva is lit in a glass due to their height. But if the Diva is lit in a bowl then what alternate means can be used. Will then the use of the Firki and the Ru No Kakaro not be compatilbe. I am specifically enquiring since I use the small glass bowls at home for the Diva. At present I use the firki and ru no kakro. Hence you feedback will be appreciated.

We say keep on with your noble work in keeping the community enlightened on the Right Path and may you avail of the Blessings of Ahura Mazda in this noble profession that you have been chosen by Him to practise.

Kind Regards
Usta Te
RE Darabna
Ervad Marzban J. Hathiram September 7, 2007

Dear Mrs. Darabna,

Thank you for your kind words of encouragement. You may consider subscribing to the magazine to keep the articles for easy reading.

Regarding your query, I have to state that there are special round ankras available which do not have the long stem on one side. This ankra balances itself and settles at the bottom of the bowl, and you insert the kakra in its centre. In case you have difficulty in procuring them I can have them made for you from my supplier.

Best regards,
Ervad Marzban J. Hathiram
Zenobia Patel December 14, 2007

Dear Ervadsaheb,
Please explain why mobile phones are prohibited inside the precincts of an agiary. Today I corrected someone who was charging his phone bang opposite the kebla and when I corrected him I was told to mind my own business. I would like to paste the explanation in the Agiary.
Your valuable explanation will be helpful.
Thank you.
Kind regards,
Zenobia
Behram P. Dhabhar February 25, 2008

Dear Ervad Marzban,

I just chanced to browse through your website and downloaded a file titled “Satum”. I had downloaded many of your articles in the past and have now maintained a seperate folder on my Hard drive named as “Marzban Hathiram”. This last article I read, takes the cake.

I had to read certain paras twice to properly digest the explanations given. At the end of the article all I could say was “WOW”. I was left speechless. This was a subject very close to my heart and the lucid way you presented the facts was something beyond compare.

Keep up the good work and look forward to many such articles in the near future.

Warm Regards

Behram P. Dhabhar
Meher Farokh Kolah August 13, 2011

Dear Ervad Marzban Hathiram,

I have read with great interest your article titled “ Zoroastrian Earth Day ” In which it states
Quote A more important spiritual practice followed by our ancestors was the writing of the special Nirang, or potent spiritual formula, called ‘Nirang-i-Khrafastar Zadan
Unquote
As a matter of interest – Can you please advise in which geh is this ceremony performed

Thank You,
With Best Wishes

Meher Farokh Kolah
Ervad Marzban J. Hathiram August 13, 2011

Havan
Manijeh Mistry October 14, 2011

Dear Sir,
Thank you for all your efforts in rekindling the flames of interest in our religion by writing & explaining details in such an interesting way. I would appreciate your views on the following: I have read in vaastu shaastra that photos of dead people should never be placed on a prayer table. However, it is a common custom for Parsis to do so. Most of us have our departed parents & grandparents photos on the prayer table and we remember and respect them each day when we pray. Is this wrong?