What is a Fire Temple? Why is fire significant to Parsis?
Channel: Arth Parkash TV
Date: 13/07/2020

#FireTemple #Parsis #Secunderabad

1. What is a Fire Temple? Why is fire significant to Parsis?

A Dar-e-Meher, commonly known as an Agiary, is a Fire Temple that houses a consecrated Fire which burns eternally. It is the second highest grade of Holy Fire. Parsi Zoroastrians worship the Supreme Creator Ahura Mazda and fire is 'all light', the living symbol of Ahura Mazda on Earth. It is therefore divine and worshipped by Parsis. 


2. Tell us a little about the Fire Temple in Secunderabad which turns 100 years old on 14th July, 2020.

The Khan Bahadur Edulji Sohrabji Chenai Anjuman Dar-e-Meher located in Secunderabad, marks its Centernary on 14th July 2020, as per the Zoroastrian Shahenshai Calendar. 

Seth Jamshedji Edulji Chenoy, son of Khan Bahadur Seth Edulji Sohrabji Chenoy and Bai Pirojbai Edulji Chenoy, along with his brothers, built the Khan Bahadur Edulji Sohrabji Chenai Anjuman Dar-e-Meher, in memory of their late father. The Chenoy family came to Hyderabad over 200 years ago. 

Hon’ble Dastoor Khurshed Dastoor Behram Jamasp Asa consecrated the Dar-e-Meher during the reign of Nizam Mir Osman Ali Khan and King George V. 


3. How is the Fire Temple in such an immaculate condition, despite being 100 years old?

The Fire Temple is situated in the Anjuman compound and has been very well looked after by the Trust and Managing Committee Members over the years. 


4. Tell us a little about the Parsi population in the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad

There are about 1000 Parsis in the twin cities, consisting of about 430 families. A sizable portion of the community resides in the three community colonies which are in the precints of the three Fire Temples, two in Secunderabad and one in Hyderabad. The community is well knit and meet regularly on auspicious occasions. 


5. Since celebrations are not permissible right now, is there anything special being done to mark this milestone?

There are no celebrations, in compliance with Govt regulations and owing to the Covid-19 pandemic, but a milestone this significant cannot be overlooked. To immortalize this special day, a video titled 'Where The Fire Burns Eternally' is scheduled to be released on YouTube on 14th July 2020. This video showcases the Fire Temple's story and throws light on the minds that have contributed to it.