Parsis Launch Revival Efforts for Uran Agiary Following Atal Setu’s Boost to Accessibility
Following the opening of the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (Atal Setu), Parsis in Mumbai have launched a renewed campaign to revive the agiary in Uran, Raigad. The Umrigar Agiary has remained shut for nearly three years after the death of its caretaker.
Efforts to revive the shrine have gained momentum after trustees reportedly agreed to reopen the fire temple. Community members are now seeking a mobed (priest), and appeals have been made to the Athornan Mandal (a body of priests), the World Zoroastrian Organisation, the World Association of Parsi Irani Zarthostis, and philanthropists to support staffing and enable an early reopening for the benefit of the community.
Advocate Raiomand Zaiwala, a key figure in the revival efforts, said that steps are being taken to make the agiary financially self-sustaining. He also raised concerns that the sacred fire, which must never be extinguished but transferred or merged, was left unattended after the caretaker's death. “We were assisting the caretaker, but his sudden demise left the agiary unattended,” Zaiwala explained.
A Marine Lines resident who visited the site last month noted that improved connectivity has significantly changed access to the agiary. “Earlier, poor accessibility limited footfall. Now, with the Atal Setu, it takes under an hour to reach the agiary near the Mora jetty,” the resident observed.
Plans to revive the shrine include generating income through commercial use of the premises, such as constructing shops. Aspi Deboo, a real estate professional who has pledged financial support, said the immediate priority is restoring the premises and ensuring continuity of rituals. “There is no concern about the property being sold. But we need a steady income for upkeep and a caretaker to tend the fire. With no Parsis left in Uran, a dedicated fund for firewood will also be required,” he stated.
Dossu Bhiwandiwalla, representing the trust that now owns the agiary, said several practical issues must be addressed before revival. “I am willing to cooperate, but we need clarity on how much funding can be raised and how to appoint a resident priest,” he said.
The Parsi community is deeply rooted in Mumbai and has a rich history in the region. The revival of the Umrigar Agiary in Uran is seen as a significant step in preserving their cultural and religious heritage. The Atal Setu has not only improved physical access but also rekindled the community's interest in maintaining this historic site.
