Parsi

Parsi is a member of a group of followers in India of the Iranian prophet Zoroaster. The Parsis, whose name means "Persians," are descended from Persian Zoroastrians who emigrated to India to avoid religious persecution by the Muslims. They live chiefly in Mumbai and in a few towns and villages mostly to the south of Mumbai, but also a few minorities nearby in Karachi (Pakistan) and Bangalore (Karnataka, India). There is a sizeable Parsee population in Pune as well in Hyderabad. Parsees have become increasingly well known in the Indian subcontinent and elsewhere for their contributions to industry, trade, and the professions.

History

The Zoroastrian faith is one of the world's oldest religions, founded by Zoroaster in ancient Iran approximately 3500 years ago. The religion was the dominant world religion during the Persian empires (559 BC to 651 AD), and was thus the most powerful world religion at the time of Jesus Christ. It had a major influence on other religions such as Christianity, Judaism, and Islam.

Culture

Parsi culture is a blend of Persian and Indian cultures. It is deeply influenced by the principles of the religion of its followers, Zoroastrianism. The culture of Parsi community is rich in tradition.

Religion

The Parsis follow the religion of Zoroastrianism, which was founded by the Prophet Zoroaster in Iran about 3500 years ago. Zoroastrianism is a monotheistic religion. The Zoroastrians worship a single god called Ahura Mazda.

Demographics

The Parsis are a small community of around 69,000 people in India, according to the 2011 census. The largest concentration of Parsis is found in the state of Maharashtra.

Notable Parsis

There are many Parsis who have made significant contributions to various fields. Some of the notable Parsis include Freddie Mercury, the lead vocalist of the rock band Queen, and Zubin Mehta, a renowned conductor of Western classical music.

See also

• Zoroastrianism
• Zoroaster
• Freddie Mercury
• Zubin Mehta

Parsi Resources
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