Located in the Sayajigunj area of Baroda, the Parsi Agiary stands as the first private Parsi temple established in the city. Commissioned by Faramji Contractor and completed in 1923 under the supervision of Pestonji Contractor, this Agiary holds significant historical and cultural value. Faramji Contractor, the State contractor for Baroda State, chose the site of his brick manufacturing business for this purpose, demonstrating his commitment to the Parsi community.
Architectural Design and Features
Designed by architect V. R. Talwalkar, the Parsi Agiary was constructed at a cost of Rs. 1 lakh. The building merges local architectural styles with distinct Parsi elements. It features exposed brickwork contrasted with stone accents, reflecting Baroda’s architectural character. The grand columns on the welcoming porch highlight the Parsi influence, contributing to the building’s dignified appearance and emphasizing its significance.
Additional Facilities
In addition to the main Agiary building, the compound includes several important facilities: a Bungali for performing death ceremonies, a Dharmshala, a Community Hall, and a small garden. These spaces cater to various community needs and reflect the comprehensive nature of the facility.
Legacy and Traditions
The Parsi Agiary has been maintained by a Trust comprised of the Contractor family members, preserving the legacy of Faramji Contractor. According to tradition, the building remains a private space, with access restricted to members of the Parsi community. The sacred fire that was lit nearly 100 years ago continues to burn steadily, symbolizing the enduring spiritual heritage of the Agiary.
I studied Engineering at Kalabhavan, Maharaja Sayajirao University in Baroda for 6 years from 1959 t 1964, stayed at the Parsi Dharamsala near the Parsi Agiary of Sayajiganj, when I came from Bombay to give my entrance exam, and later as a student I used to come to pray at the Agiary. Once admitted to the degree program, I lived in a Parsi lady’s home in Pratapganj, with a few other Parsi students for a few months, before living in university hostels. The last one I lived in, was Dadabhai Naoroji Hall, (close to the university and the river Vishwamitri), named after the Parsi Vizier of Maharaja Sayajirao who advocated education for girls, and who wrote a white paper criticizing the British for taking raw materials from India, manufacturing goods in England and selling them to Indians. He was president of the Indian National Congress more than once, later became a member of the British Parliament in England and continuing his fight for the rights of Indian subjects. I used to travel from K.M.Munshi Hall to Kalabhavan on my Raleigh bycicle which I left to the Gurkha watchman when I graduated.
I was privileged to stay in Dharamsala once a month for 4-5 days built inside this palacial Red Stone Agairy compound in Baroda from 1966 to 1972. At that time dahramsala was Managed by Dastur Ardeshir Kamdin. Open vast Compound made the stay in dharamsala comfortable even in summer.
From the photo I could make out that the Agairy is well renovated with garden and fountain.
May the Agairy Fire burn and glow for many years to come and bless not only Contractor family but also the Parsis in Baroda and Gujarat.
May late Pestonji Contractor soul rest in peace.
Hoshang Nekoo