Israel's Airstrikes on Iran Spark Concerns Among Persian Communities in Mumbai

Strategic Insights -

Members of Mumbai's Zoroastrian and Iranian Shia Muslim communities have expressed concern over Israel's airstrikes on Iran, a nation with deep cultural and historical ties to the Indian city. The attack has sparked worries for the safety of sacred sites and fire temples in Iran, as well as for the well-being of community members still living in the country. With a significant number of Zoroastrians and Shia Muslims from Iran residing in Mumbai, the city's Persian community is closely following the escalating conflict in the region.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Zoroastrian community in Mumbai is concerned about the potential destruction of sacred sites in Iran, including Takht-e Soleyman, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with 55 fully functional fire temples and six great shrines linked to the last Zoroastrian kings.
  • Firoza Mistree, author and curator, noted that 20,000 Zoroastrians live in Iran, mainly in Tehran, Yazd, and Kerman, making it a "very major centre" for the community.
  • Viraf Mehta, chairperson of the Bombay Parsi Punchayet (BPP), stated that the community is worried about the potential losses to Zoroastrians and their places of worship, and will support members who wish to come to Mumbai and seek asylum.
  • The Iranian Muslim community in Mumbai, estimated at around 2,500, also expresses concern for the safety of their loved ones in Iran, with many having familial connections and roots in the country.
  • Community members have reached out to check on the safety of those still living in Iran, highlighting the importance of looking out for one another, as stated by Viraf Mehta.
  • The Parsi panchayat is prepared to support any Zoroastrian wishing to come to Mumbai and seek asylum, ensuring that they have access to basic necessities like a roof and food.

Statistics:

  • Around 110,000-115,000 Zoroastrians live worldwide, with nearly 20,000 residing in Iran.
  • Iran has 55 fully functional fire temples and six great shrines linked to the last Zoroastrian kings.
  • The Iranian Muslim community in Mumbai numbers around 2,500.
  • The Bombay Parsi Punchayet (BPP) has stated that they will support any Zoroastrian wishing to come to Mumbai and seek asylum.

Sources:

  • Firoza Mistree
  • Viraf Mehta, Chairperson of the Bombay Parsi Punchayet (BPP)
  • "Zoroastrian associations respond to rocket attacks on Iran's sacred sites" - Contify.com
  • "Bombay Parsi Punchayet will support Zoroastrians fleeing Iran" - Contify.com
  • "Iranian Muslims in Mumbai fear for their loved ones in Iran" - Contify.com