The PARZOR Project needs your wholehearted support attitudinal, physical and also your financial commitment to continue the work on preservation and promotion of this unique culture and heritage.

Please contact us if you would like to contribute with research work, donation of old archival material, information and financial support.

The PARZOR Project started in 1999. UNESCO gave only the initial seed money of Rs. 1.5 lakhs($4500) to formulate the Project Proposal. Thereafter the progress of the project work is solely dependant on the funds collected from donations/contribution given by well wishers, Anjumans and Panchayats etc.

We have several modules to be covered such as

1. Living heritage

Recording Oral Traditions

This is most urgent. Our elders have a wealth of wisdom. Recording this is of utmost urgency, as many of them are now at a very advanced age. This module is covered by field trips with our recording team.

2. Medical and Demographic

The Demographic and Health module has been formulated under the guidance of Prof Armaity Desai ex Chairperson UGC, and covers Medical, Sociological and demographic issues. This module will help to bring benefits not merely to be the Parsi community but others also, who are suffering the predicaments/penalties of progress. The census commission of India has agreed to share data for more meaningful evaluation. Support is required for furthering the work. We sincerely request full co-operation in the data collection being carried out by our researchers.

3. Archival Material

Meherjirana library

The preservation of the treasure trove of manuscripts and documents at the First Dastoor Meherjirana library at Navsari has attracted national attention. Started with a donation from an individual, 90,000 manuscripts have been microfilmed by now. We require funds for preservation of these rare documents, which are disintegrating.

4. Tangible heritage

Heritage Sites

They are many beautiful heritage sites all over India, but particularly in Gujarat and Maharashtra. Funds are required for their upkeep and turning them into tourist attractions.

The Tanka System of Water Harvesting

This unique ancient system of water harvesting which provides pure drinking quality water. PARZOR has had the water quality assessed by an independent authority and found it was within the WHO water quality standards. Today the Tanka system methodology is known only to a handful of elderly Zoroastrians and it is still functional only in Bharuch. Research to replicate it in other places is of national and international importance and needs funding.

5. Arts and Crafts

Studying and Preserving Parsi Zoroastrian Arts and Crafts, particularly in the field of textiles, embroidery, music, is another module, which needs funds. In collaboration with National Institute of Fashion Technology and National Institute of Design Ahmedabad studies have been started. PARZOR is keen to publish the research on the kusti weaving 'Threads of Continuity' as an affordable book. To bring out 'Threads of Continuity' as a fully illustrated colour book, with over 175 colour plates and line drawings will cost around Rs. 600,000/- PARZOR appeals for donations for this purpose.

6. Creating Awareness

Archival Centre and Museum

This would contain archival documentation and showcase the unique Parsi - Zoroastrian culture as a strand in the tapestry of the multi-cultural India and the World.

7. Public and Professional life

Books and electronic Recording

Fund availability is the key to creation of permanent records in print and the electronic format.

More details of the work are available in the respective sections of the web site.

Donations of any denomination in cash or by cheque are most welcome. You can indicate whether you would like your donation to be used for a specific activity or for the Project in general.

UNESCO New Delhi administers the research funds received and monitors the specific work elements in a time bound manner.

Cheques in any currency can be drawn in the name of UNESCO, New Delhi and sent to

UNESCO New Delhi-PARZOR Project
UNESCO HOUSE
B 5/29 Safdarjung Enclave,
New Delhi-110029
India
Phone no. #011-26713000; Fax no. #011-26713001

Under intimation (online or offline) to Dr. Shernaz Cama

Dr. Shernaz Cama,
C-53, Anand Niketan
New Delhi - 110 021
India.
Phone Nos. 011-26114794
e-mail shernazcama@hotmail.com

Cheques in Indian rupees may be made in the name of "Parzor Foundation" and sent to

The PARZOR Foundation
F-17 Haus Khas Enclave,
New Delhi-110016
India
Phone No.:011-26513560
email: shernazcama@hotmail.com

Those interested in getting income tax exemption under Indian Income Tax Bye-Laws (80-G) should make their cheques in the name of "PARZOR Foundation", which is a registered society under The Society Registration Act of 1860 (India).

For more information about any aspect of the Project's work, or if you'd like to leave us any comments or suggestions please feel free to fill up the form below.