20/04/2026
An active, electric and luminous force; our Atash is a living flame of Zoroastrianism and commands an exalted throne in Zarthoshti ceremonies.
This painting depicts the purification of the ‘Atash nu Khwan’; a square stone slab on which stands the Afarganyu with the Fire. The chief officiating priest first cleans both hands with pav (purified) water. Reciting a formula of prayers offering homage to the Fire, he washes the stone moving from south, then west, north and returning to face the east. His pav hand is immersed into the pot to hold and lift it, while water is poured. The act is undertaken at the beginning of the Vendidad ceremony and a few other inner liturgical rites.
This ritual has been performed by generations of mobeds for millennia. Their ever-burning flame of faith keeping alive our sacred Zarthoshti Atash, is an admirable commitment.
This 18” x 24” Watercolour painting is a part of my ongoing series 'Soul of Fire'. Through art I hope to capture, appreciate and celebrate the quintessential essence of our illustrious and eclectic Zoroastrian community which has been thriving in India for centuries.
