PM Modi lauds Parsi community for contribution to country

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday lauded the Parsi community for its contribution to the country in various spheres.

"The rich culture of Parsi community is an important and integral part of country's invaluable heritage. The Parsi community has made significant contribution in the country's different important spheres," PM Modi said in a message which was read by Minority Affairs Secretary Rakesh Garg at the inauguration function of an exhibition on Parsis.

"I hope this exhibition will make people aware about historical works done by Parsis for national unity and development," the message read.

The exhibition - titled 'The Everlasting Flame: Zoroastrianism in History and Imagaination' - was inaugurated by Minority Affairs Minister Najma Heptulla at the National Museum.

Addressing the gathering, Ms Heptulla said the exhibition explores the history of the ancient religion and its many journeys of rituals, language, teachings, practices and culture that have transcended through centuries.

"The exhibition showcases extremely rare manuscripts, archaeological objects, sculptures, a beautiful replica of the Parsi Fire Temple which is otherwise a rare opportunity for people to visit and a large number of paintings which would give a glimpse of the Parsi history and culture," she said.

"This exhibition celebrates Parsis' contributions to India and the world. For centuries, they have been a community of excellence, sharing and innovation - this will be evident to you in the exhibition," she said.

Having originated more than 3,000 years ago, Zoroastrianism is one of the oldest religions of the World and much like the ancient Vedic culture. It was an oral religion transferred from generation to generation through priests, she added.