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INTREPID KHORSHID TURNS 100

Khorshid Jobani celebrated her 100th birthday on July 12.

Khorshid Jobani has seen a lot of changes within the Zoroastrian culture. Born on July 12, 1921, in Quetta when it was still a part of British India, she witnessed the independence of Pakistan.

She lost her parents at a very young age, but was taught the many traditions of Parsi culture such as prayers, respect and the ceremony of a Navjote, etc., by her older brother and sister.

For a short while she was in the care of her paternal grandfather, who continued to keep the Zoroastrian flame burning inside her.

She married at age 13 and had four children, one of whom passed away shortly after birth.

Khorshid Jobani had limited schooling, yet she speaks many languages and learned how to read and write. She taught herself how to sew sudreh, bake bakra, nan khatia and delicious achars for which she became well known in her community.

Knowing the importance of being educated, Khorshid and Rustom lived and raised their children in Pune, India, making sure they all completed and excelled in their studies. After her husband passed away in 1980, she immigrated to Canada to be closer to her children and continue the traditions of the Zoroastrian faith in a new land.

She has instilled and passed down many facets of the Zoroastrian culture to those around her, and is always ready to give advice and guidance on family issues and on traditions and religion.

Her pride and joy are her children and their spouses, her seven grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

She wholeheartedly believes in the three main tenets of Zoroastrianism: good thoughts, good words and good deeds. She exudes all of them as anyone privileged to meet her will experience.

Khorshid Jobani is a symbol of strength, devotion and true goodness in this world and is made of pure love, attests her family.

“She is a true testament that prayers, the pursuit of health, and the blessings she gives and receives from Ahura Mazda keep her young in mind, body and spirit,” they said on her milestone birthday which was celebrated with her loved ones.

“Each one of us has a special place in our hearts for her and we are blessed to have her in our lives. Please join us in wishing her good health and happiness.”

Khorshid Jobani continues to be a huge part of the Parsi community in Toronto.

The pandemic curtailed her meeting people, she is always seen on virtual social events and online yoga classes.

She is still an active participant in raising funds for the OZCF Agari project which is very important to her. 

These days, she spends most of her time in Mississauga, Ontario, usually enjoying episodes of Family Feud and Indian Idol.

• If you’d like to share the story of your arrival in Canada, please write to desinews@rogers.com or call 416-695-4357.