The Parsis emigrated from Persia to the Indian subcontinent about 1,000 years ago to escape from the religious persecution carried out by Muslims. Though the 2001 census shows that most of the Parsis live in and around Mumbai, it was the state of Gujarat, north of Mumbai, where these refugees first arrived. According to the "Story of Sanjan", the first group of Parsis came to Gujarat from (greater) Khorasan, the eastern territories of old Persia. Later, two more groups, one from (greater) Khorasan and another from Sari (presently in Mazandaran, Iran) came and settled at the place.
Two centuries after their landing in the Indian subcontinent, the Parsis started to settle in different regions of Gujarat. This caused problems as it became difficult to define the boundaries of priestly jurisdiction. In 1290, the problem was solved when Gujarat was divided into five districts. From 17th century, many Parsis moved out of Gujarat and headed to the British-run settlements, Mumbai (earlier called Bombay) being the primary one, to take new job offers. Between 17th century to 18th century, the Parsis became one of the significant commercial groups in Mumbai. By the mid-18th century, almost all brokerage houses of the Bombay Presidency were managed by the Parsis. Towards the end of the 19th century, the Parsis have grown to become one of the leading communities of the country with respect to social, educational and industrial matters. |
