About Us
from India and Pakistan started migrating to the Middle East in the 1950s to set up trade. Amongst those families were the Marolias who first came in and set up businesses in Bahrain in the early 1950s. Gradually, the number of Zoroastrians on the island increased and from a humble beginning of about 15 adults, the Bahrain Zoroastrian Association took shape. Today by the abundant Grace of Ahura Mazda there are over 70 people from about 40 odd families. Bahrain has the privilege of having the only Aaramgah in the Middle East for interring the dead.
We are extremely proud of being Zoroastrians and consider ourselves very fortunate in being the members of our Bahrain Zoroastrian Association. The association consists of Parsee Zarthustis from various parts of India and abroad, who are residing in Bahrain.
The Bahrain Zoroastrian Association was established in 1956 and registered with the Ministry of Social Welfare of the Government of Bahrain. Committees have been formed annually till 2009 (and every two years thereafter) and religious and social activities held on a regular basis.
The BZA holds at least one jashan every year and the reason d’être received full support from the Ruling family and Government of Bahrain. Most social functions are held on a no profit - no loss basis.
In August 2006, the Association celebrated its Golden Jubilee with a grand function. The power of prayers was felt by the children and adults alike amid the wafts of the fragrance of sandalwood and loban.
Since 1956 to date several hard working Committees have achieved much with the help of the whole community and today we have a close knit community who works shoulder to shoulder in times of joy and when anyone needs any assistance, ensuring our legacy and customs are preserved for our children and their future generations.
Zoroastrians...
Our Association Aims
1
To maintain the ‘Aaramgah’ [the final resting place for deceased Zoroastrians, the only one in the Middle East region] premises donated by HH the Late Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Ex Amir of Bahrain for interring deceased Zoroastrians
[Land allotment ref 704/1958, dated 17 August 1958]
2
To foster greater mutual understanding and establish and maintain good relations, goodwill, unity and friendship among the Zoroastrians and other people residing in Bahrain.
3
To safeguard and improve social and material welfare of Zoroastrians.
The Community Spirit
The unofficial Parsi Zoroastrian anthem sung in Gujarati, composed by Kavi Firoz Rustomji Batliwala.
Disclaimer
The Bahrain Zoroastrian Association is registered with the Ministry of Social Development in accordance with the regulations of the Government of Bahrain.
The Association’s headquarters and legal domicile is PO Box 10539, Manama, Bahrain.
The Association does not engage in politics or any speculative activities regarding funds.