Arun Jaitley inaugurates the Everlasting Flame International Programme
Arun Jaitley, the Minister of Finance and Information & Broadcasting inaugurated the months long cultural spectacle The Everlasting Flame International Programme on Saturday in New Delhi. Speaking on the occasion Arun Jaitley said Parsis mark a distinct thread in the tapestry of multicultural heritage in India and are a one rare community to be measured not by their number but their impact.
Referring to Parsi’s ability to excel in any field, the Minister said Every Parsi is an institution in him/herself and no two Parsis are same. Over generations Parsis not only stayed having adapted to the Indian context, preserved their culture, identity,endured their core belief, lived with dignity but also became a role model for others.
Earlier, welcoming the guests Dr. Najma Heptulla, Minister of Minority Affairs, said The Government of India is committed to the multi-cultural heritage of this ancient land and young country. Zoroastrianism and Rig Vedic Hinduism are sister cultures that share linguistic and cultural commonalities. The most important however is the Eternal flame- Agni or Atash that burns in all our hearts. The battle of light and darkness in the mind and heart of every human; was first understood by Prophet Asho Zarathushtra in the Bronze Age.
It is great to see that the Parsi community, which has excelled in all walks of life, has consistently worked for the betterment of the society.
The achievements of the Parsi community are disproportionate to their size. They have done more for India than India has done for them and never sought any favours from the Government of the day. They have set new benchmarks by being selfless in the service of the nation and the society. The immense success and extraordinary leadership displayed by the Parsis is an inspiration to us all as we strive towards excellence. The fire they brought with them has fueled their great feats and efforts in nation building. This everlasting flame will continue to be eternal and our guiding light in the years to come.