Les Parsis

This thoughtful study offers a rare glimpse into the world of the Parsis at the turn of the twentieth century, illuminated by the keen eye of a young Indian woman who helped bring the original French monograph into English. It situates the community within the broader currents of colonial Bombay, exploring its customs, religious rites and the ways its members navigated modernity. The opening pages set the stage with vivid anecdotes that reveal both the richness of Parsi traditions and the social atmosphere of the era.

At its heart are the lives of two pioneering sisters, whose determination opened doors for Indian women in higher education. The younger sister, Ratanbai, chose to remain in her native city, devoting herself to teaching French at Wilson College and supporting fellow students through generous scholarships. Her quiet devotion and intellectual curiosity provide a compelling portrait of a woman whose love of learning left a lasting imprint on her community.