In Collaboration with
Prepare for a deeply enriching conversation with Hormuz Avari from the Zoroastrian House, as he unveils the ancient and enduring tradition of Zoroastrianism—one of the world’s oldest religions. You’ll learn about its core beliefs, centred around the Three-fold Path of Asha: Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds. Hormuz will share how these values guide the everyday lives of Zoroastrians and how they are expressed during life’s key moments, including the celebration of births and new beginnings within the community.
A highlight of the session is a detailed look at the Navjote ceremony, the rite of initiation for Zoroastrian children. Usually performed when a child is between 7 and 15 years old, the Navjote marks their formal entry into the faith. During the ceremony, they are invested with two sacred garments—the Sudreh, a white cotton shirt representing purity and commitment, and the Kusti, a woollen cord made of 72 threads that symbolise spiritual discipline and connection to the religion’s teachings. Hormuz will explain the significance of the prayers, blessings, and rituals that take place during this special occasion.
You’ll also get to see the ceremonial garments up close and learn about their ongoing role in a Zoroastrian’s daily life. Hormuz will describe how wearing the Sudreh and Kusti becomes a lifelong reminder of one’s spiritual identity and responsibility to lead a righteous life. This unique programme offers a rare window into the intimate customs of the Zoroastrian community in Singapore and invites you to appreciate the beauty of a tradition that continues to nurture values across generations.
Hormuz Avari is the President of the Parsi Zoroastrian Association of South East Asia (PZAS). The Association plays a vital role in preserving and promoting Zoroastrian heritage throughout the region. He also is an Executive Council member of the Inter Religious Organisation of Singapore since the last few years.
Monira Bhada is a Managing Committee member and past Secretary of the PZAS.
PZAS is instrumental in organising milestone events that unite the Zoroastrian community and will be hosting the 13th World Zoroastrian Congress in December 2026 in Singapore.
The enduring commitment of the PZAS committee ensures that Zoroastrian heritage in Singapore is not only safeguarded but also made accessible to future generations.
The Zoroastrian House located on Desker Road is a community centre where the Zoroastrian community members meet and celebrate their cultural activities. It has an area demarcated as a prayer area but this should not to be confused with a Fire Temple (a place of worship). There is no Fire Temple in Singapore and daily worship is conducted in private settings such as at the House. Contrary to popular belief, Zoroastrians are not fire worshippers. They see fire in a more symbolic way as representing God’s infinite light or wisdom. Today, the Zoroastrian community in Singapore is approximately 350 members strong.
Vandana Sharma is an active volunteer with My Community, best known for co-hosting neighbourhood dinner tours like My Punjabi x Gujarati Dinner in River Valley during My Community Festival. She is also a regular volunteer guide for River Valley tours.
Originally from Delhi and with a background in education, Vandana became a very active volunteer after migrating to Singapore, contributing her time to organisations such as SINDA, IC2, the Red Cross, MINDS, and as a docent with Friends of the Museums.
Her passion for community storytelling and connection shines through in her guided events, where she helps participants explore Singapore’s multicultural heritage—bringing people together through shared stories and food.
Participants should be dressed respectfully in smart casual (i.e. collared shirt, long pants and covered shoes). Sleeveless attire, shorts/miniskirts or sandals are strictly not allowed. Participants will be denied entry if they dress inappropriately.
The nearest carpark to Zoroastrian House is at Mustafa Centre (145 Syed Alwi Rd, Singapore 207704) (Approx. 5 min walk)
My Prayers and Practices
My Prayers and Practices
My Prayers and Practices
My Prayers and Practices
My Prayers and Practices
My Prayers and Practices
