How the Parsis contributed to Deterritorialization

Deterritorialization 

By ADVAITH MANHOLI

Deterritorialization is the process of something losing its original connection to a specific place, culture, or identity, becoming more fluid and mobile. It often refers to the breaking of boundaries and structures, allowing things like ideas, practices, or people to move and adapt in new contexts. This article aims to understand how the Parsi community contributed to deterritorialization within India. Historically Parsis were uprooted from Persia which led to their cultural and territorial connections breaking down. Despite being in a new land, they maintained core elements of their religious and cultural identity, balancing deterritorialization with preservation They did this by assimilating aspects of Indian culture with their own traditions. This blending of Persian Zoroastrian and Indian cultural elements is a prime example of deterritorialization, where they adapted to a new social, political, and economic environment. Examples include adoption of Sari by Parsi brides, Tilak ceremonies during weddings and inclusion of Indian cuisine in their cultural programs (Luhrmann, 1994). They played a major role in shaping the Indian economy into its current state. This role started from the early 18th century when Tata and Devar entered the scene. Their contributions have been the most notable in sectors like industry, commerce, banking, and philanthropy. Even though they are a small community, they arguably had one of the biggest impacts on the Indian economy, especially in areas like Mumbai and Chennai. Their trade regime started during the colonial period when their fluency in English, early contact with European traders, and neutral political stance made them trusted intermediaries between British and Indian interests. This led to them being involved in global trade by the 18th century, particularly in shipbuilding, cotton, and opium trade with China. (Palsetia, 2001). Among the parsis biggest exploits the most prominent one is that of the Tatas. They truly managed to kickstart the industrial boom in India as they were in all sectors from steel to food to automobiles. This helped the Indian economy grow a lot. The Parsis also had an impact on the architecture of Mumbai as it features a mix of traditional Persian designs and British colonial influences. Notable structures include the Tata Centre, Hanging Gardens, and various fire temples, which showcase intricate designs and a unique aesthetic that reflects their cultural heritage (Gupte, 2011).

Parsi writers such as Zubin Mehta and Naoroji Kharshedji, along have enriched and influenced Indian literature with their unique style of blending comedy and wit (Zavari 1995). The Parsis, due to their beliefs, place a major emphasis on community service and philanthropy. This led to them setting up establishments and trusts to support education, healthcare, and social welfare. Examples include Tata Institute of Social Sciences and Dadar Parsee Youths' Assembly to name a few (Niranjana, 1999). All in all, the Parsis over the centuries has had a huge impact in shaping the territory of India as evidenced by all the above factors. All of it shows how important this community has become to the larger picture of what India is, and remember, without the Parsis we wouldn't have the Tata Nano!

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Citations

Hinnells, J. R. (2005). The Zoroastrian Diaspora: Religion and Migration. Oxford University Press.

Luhrmann, T. M. (1994). The Good Parsi: The Fate of a Colonial Elite in a Postcolonial Society. Harvard University Press.

Gupte, R. (2011). Parsis of Mumbai: A Social and Cultural History. Academic Foundation.

Niranjana, R. (1999). Parsis: The Benevolent Influencers of India. Penguin Books India.

Zavari, P. (1995). The Parsi Community: Tradition and Modernity. Oxford University Press.