The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) recently addressed concerns from the Parsi-Zoroastrian community regarding potential changes to the historic 'Parsi Gate' on Marine Drive, which was temporarily dismantled as part of the Mumbai Coastal Road project. This monument, cherished by the community for its historical and religious significance, faced several modifications, raising fears about restricted access to seawater for ritual purposes. However, the BMC has clarified that no concrete tetrapods will be placed near the gate, ensuring the community can maintain its connection to the sea.
Community Concerns
Following site inspections, members of the Parsi-Zoroastrian community observed that a mud embankment and tetrapods seemed to obstruct the flow of seawater to the gate’s steps, a feature integral to their rituals. Additionally, visitors reported that the area was cluttered with debris, the steps leading down to the water were narrower than before, and a commemorative metal plaque outlining the site's historical significance appeared to be missing. This deterioration raised alarms over the preservation and functionality of the gate.
Historical Significance
The Parsi Gate, consisting of two obelisks carved from Malad stone, is dedicated to Yazata Ardevi Sur Anahita, the Avestan deity associated with water. Originally dismantled in April 2021 for construction, the gate has since been reinstalled a bit further north from its original location. Although often linked to the Parsi-Zoroastrian community, Jehangir Patel, editor of Parsiana magazine, noted that there are no official records directly connecting the site to the community. Nonetheless, there are reports that philanthropists Shapoorji Pallonji and Bhagojiseth Keer erected the obelisks in 1915, cementing its historical relevance.
Heritage and Rituals
The initial dismantling of the gate caused widespread concern among the Parsi-Zoroastrian community, who have long used the site for water-related rituals. In 2020, Havovi Sukhadwala initiated an online petition to protect the site, emphasizing its significance as a Grade II-B heritage structure under the Marine Drive Waterfront. The Union Ministries of Environment and Tourism had reportedly permitted modifications, sparking debate about how these changes could affect the heritage site.
BMC Assures Restoration
In response to these concerns, M.M. Swami, Deputy Executive Engineer for the Coastal Road project, reassured the community that tetrapods would not be placed along the shore near Parsi Gate. Swami added that the mud and debris currently at the site would be cleared, allowing seawater to flow up to the gate's steps, preserving the community’s unhindered access to the sea during religious rituals. This commitment by the BMC has offered some relief to the Parsi-Zoroastrian community, which remains deeply connected to the site’s historical and religious essence.
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