GUJARAT, INDIA, 27th DECEMBER, 2019 (GPN): The third edition of the Iranshah Udvada Utsav commenced today in the heart of Udvada, Gujarat – the religious center point for Parsi Zoroastrians across the globe. Hosted by the Foundation for Development of Udvada, sponsored by Dr. Cyrus Poonawalla, Founder and Chairman of Serum Institute of India and promoted by Gujarat Tourism, the IUU is an extravaganza showcasing the best of Parsi culture. The biennial festival will continue till Sunday, 29th December 2019.

The event was inaugurated by the Administrator of Dadra Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu, Shri Praful Patel.

The highlights of Day 1 included ‘Gujarat ni Arsi Amhe Parsi’ a play by famous Gujarati Playwright Mr. Yazdi Karanjia and Mrs. Mahrukh Chichgar. The stage extravagance used music and dance to lace together the story of how Parsis have woven into and are integral to the spirit of Gujarat.

This was followed by a performance by Groove Garden, the band comprised of some of the most talented and famous musical personalities including India’s premium JAM master Hormuz Ragina! Amidst the cheering of the young Parsis who had gathered in large numbers from across India for the special sports matches, the band rocked the crowd with all-time favorites including soft and classic evergreen rock music.

The IUU Souvenir, a special compilation of messages from well-wishers across India, including the President of India, Hon’ble Ram Nath Kovind, was released on stage along with a special Childrens’ book by Ervad Dr. Ramiyar Karanjia, the Principal of the Dadar Athornan, a School for young Parsi Priests.

The evening was also dedicated to the Parsi achievers across varied industries and categories, which included: Health and Fitness personality, Mickey Mehta; Popular Vlogger, Sherry Shroff; TV personality and Actor, Viraf Patell; and filmmaker Sooni Tarporewala.

Now in its third edition, the IUU promises heritage tours, musical performances, a unique Parsi food cookery show, photography exhibitions, fitness programs and an array of entertainment activities while mingling with dignitaries from the political and entertainment landscape and watching midnight games of cricket ad football! – ENDS