New Delhi: It’s Navroz, the Parsi New Year today. A very happy Navroz to everyone!
Unfortunately, the average Indian knows very little about the Parsi community, which is in a minority in India. Whatever we know of its culture is through Hindi movies. Due credit must be given to Bollywood for its portrayal of the Parsi community through some memorable movies and characters.
Let’s take a look at some of them:
Pestonjee
The first movie that comes to mind is the 1988-release ‘Pestonjee.’ Starring Anupam Kher and Naseeruddin Shah, it is about two best friends, Pestonjee and Piro Shah who fall in love with the same girl, played by Shabana Azmi. Through them, the filmmaker gives you an insight into Mumbai’s Parsi community. It won the award for Best Feature Film in Hindi at the 35th National Film Awards.
Being Cyrus
Homi Adajania, whodunnit stars Saif Ali Khan (as Cyrus), Naseeruddin Shah and Dimple Kapadia. The 2006 movie received critical acclaim and several award nominations. The plot revolves around the Dinshaw family and the entry of the young man, Cyrus, disrupting the Parsi family.
Shirin Farhad Ki Toh Nikal Padi
Farhad, a 45-year-old bachelor, meets Shirin and introduces her to his mother for marriage who takes an instant dislike towards Shirin in this endearing 2012 movie starring Boman Irani and Farah Khan.
Little Zizou
Narrated through Little Zizou, an 11-year-old Parsi boy’s perspective, the movie delves into concepts like faith while portraying the feuds between Little Zizou’s father, Khodaiji and his rival, Pressvala. While Little Zizou just wants to meet the football legend, Zinedine Zidane, the two families are engaged in a full-on fight. Featuring strong performances and a charming narrative, the movie will win you over in no time.
