A Women’s Retreat Rooted in Ways of Ancient Iran

On the weekend of July 26- July 28, 2024, I had a great opportunity to attend the Zoroastrian Women Retreat by Door Way to Joy. This retreat was organized with the vision and hard work of Dolat Bolandi, Armita Dalal and Nooshin Jehangiri.

The retreat unfolded at Villa Maria Del Mar; a hidden gem embraced by the city of Santa Cruz. Nestled gently by the ocean, the villa offered a breathtaking haven where the rhythmic whispers of the waves serenaded us throughout our stay. Here, amidst the serene beauty of the coastal landscape, we found solace and inspiration, harmonizing with nature’s timeless dance.

I have always wanted to meet members of the Iranian Zarathushti community, as I am keen on fostering unity between Iranian and Indian Zarathushtis and to learn Persian /Iranian folk songs and spiritual songs. I was excited for this new experience and found it incredibly satisfying. There were about 32 women participants from various parts of California, primarily from the West Coast. I was the only participant who traveled from a distance of 2,000 miles away, from Chicago.

As mentioned in the title of the retreat, it was rooted in the traditions of Ancient Iran, but it accommodated both English and Persian-speaking participants, bridging the gap between generations and nationalities. There were attendees from various age groups, ranging from 21 to 60+.

We started with a 6 pm dinner on Friday, followed by a 7 pm welcome gathering where we introduced ourselves and found retreat partners by playing a fun game. It was a great way to meet new people, learn about their interests, and discover what they do.

On Saturday morning, we gathered at 7 am for meditation, relaxing our minds. We enjoyed singing the Gathas' verses, Ashem Vohu, and Yatha Ahu prayers in the Avestan language, while also exploring their meanings using both traditional and modern interpretations.

Following our invigorating Yoga session, which harmonized both body and mind under the guidance of a skilled Yoga Teacher, we found ourselves in a serene moment of contemplation. It was then that Dolat, our gracious organizer, invited me to share a chant I had composed in reverence of Ahura Mazda. As the melodious vibrations filled the space, a profound sense of unity enveloped us all.

In that sacred silence, a young woman who was pregnant, approached me. Her eyes glistened with emotion as she shared that my chant had deeply touched her, sending shivers of awe through her being. She expressed how, when her child arrives, this very chant would be the first sound to grace their ears. Her heartfelt words and the gesture of noting down my website to share this sacred moment with her child left me deeply moved. It was a poignant reminder of the spiritual connection we share, transcending the present moment and reaching into the future.

One of the most enjoyable events was candle making on the beach. We did it in the sand dunes, organized and led by Delbar Jahanian. It was the most fun-loving event for me. Delbar brought a camping stove to melt the wax, and we made holes in the sand to hold the candle wicks while she poured the wax around them.

While the wax was setting, a few ladies Sapideh, Armita, Dolat and Nooshin played dafs (a percussion instrument used in Iran, similar to the tambourine in India, also called khanjri) and sang Iranian/Persian folk songs. We all danced on the beach, and they asked me to join in by singing Indian songs. I taught them some Indian songs and performed the Garba dance. I mentioned that I was there to learn Persian spiritual and folk songs as music is my passion and they were all delighted.

One evening gathering, it was a profound and enriching experience with Mobediyar Armita Dalal's teaching on the Ameshaspandan, which are central to Zoroastrian spirituality.

Here’s a brief summary of each Ameshaspand and their associated qualities and elements:

1. Vohumana (Vohu Manah): Represents "Good Mind" and "Good Thinking." This attribute emphasizes the importance of wisdom and benevolence in thought.
2. Asha Vahishta (Arta Vahishta): Embodies "Righteousness," "Truth," and "Order." This attribute is related to the element of Fire, symbolizing the purifying and illuminating nature of truth and righteousness.
3. Khashatra (Khshathra Vairya): Symbolizes "Good Rule" and "Self-Dominance." This attribute is connected with metal, reflecting strength and the ability to establish and maintain order.
4. Spenta Armaiti (Spenta Aremati): Represents "Serenity," "Harmony," and "Devotion." Associated with Mother Earth, this attribute underscores the importance of nurturing and maintaining harmony with the natural world, as well as cultivating a deep sense of devotion and tranquility.
5. Khordad (Khordad): Stands for "Perfection" and "Complete Health." This attribute is related to Water, which signifies purification and the essential nature of health and well-being.
6. Ameretat (Amurdad): Embodies "Immortality." Associated with plants, this attribute symbolizes the enduring and life-sustaining qualities of nature

As our time together at the retreat comes to an end,our hearts were filled with gratitude for the shared experiences and new friendships. This gathering of Persian and Indian Zarathushti women has been a beautiful testament to our shared heritage and unity. We’ve not only learned from each other but also built lasting friendships that will continue to inspire and uplift us.