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Parsi new year is all about being with my family, says Pune actor Viraf Patel
This year, actor Viraf Patel has made an exception and squeezed in time to spend the Parsi New Years with his family in the city.
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On Thursday, Ravo, Patrani Macchi, Farcha and lots of sweets will fill the tables of several Parsi households in the city. City Zoroastrians will celebrate the first day of the New Year with family by visiting the fire temple, exchanging gifts and relishing a wholesome meal.
This year, actor Viraf Patel has made an exception and squeezed in time to spend the New Years with his family in the city. "In the past decade I have been busy with shoots and schedules and was not able to spend ample time with family. So, this year I decided to take it easy and spend a week to enjoy the festivities with mom, dad and my brother," said Viraf.
As a kid, Viraf looked forward to wearing new clothes and meeting people at the Agiary. "I would enjoy the community dinners and gifts. It was the joy of being around people and having a good time. I am looking forward to reliving the joy again." Viraf is also excited about relishing authentic Parsi dishes made by his mom.
Darius Dorabjee of Dorabjee & Sons Restaurant, shared, "This day is one of the busiest for me as the restaurant caters to various home parties and events celebrating the New Year. So, it is a working holiday for me, but I am not complaining as I am doing what I love.” Recalling his childhood New Year memories, Darius said, "I remember visiting my uncle and aunt's place for a grand lunch followed by lots of sweets and gifts."
For theatre exponent, speech-drama-communication skills teacher and trainer, Mahrukh Bharucha, the New Year brings back pleasant childhood memories of being showered with gifts. “I am the only girl among many boy cousins. So, I was pampered with gifts on the New Year from the family. The New Year also reminds me of the Loban that mom would light in the house, the chalk designs in front of every Parsi home and of course the delicious food spread.”
Pix by Rahul Raut
Caption: Actor Viraf Patel makes it a point to squeeze in time and celebrate Parsi New Year with family
