Parsiana, India’s iconic Parsi magazine, is ceasing publication after 60 years due to financial struggles and a lack of new leadership, marking the end of a significant era for the Zoroastrian community. Founded in 1964 by Pestonji Warden, a Parsi doctor, Parsiana began as a monthly journal to document the Parsi community in Mumbai, evolving over decades into a vital source of news and connection for Parsis worldwide.
Under the leadership of Jehangir Patel, who purchased the magazine for a symbolic one rupee in 1973, Parsiana transformed from a staid publication into a dynamic fortnightly. Patel introduced reported stories, sharp columns, and illustrations, shifting its focus to tackle sensitive issues with honesty and humor. This journalistic approach initially shocked the community but eventually earned respect for its candid coverage.
The magazine gained notoriety for addressing controversial topics, such as the high divorce rate within the Parsi community, which was highlighted in one of Patel’s first stories after taking over. In 1987, Parsiana broke new ground by publishing interfaith matrimonial ads, a bold move that sparked outrage in a community known for strict endogamy but demonstrated the publication’s commitment to progressive journalism.
Beyond controversy, Parsiana chronicled community achievements, key social and religious events, and new institutions, such as the inauguration of the Alpaiwalla Museum in Mumbai—the only Parsi museum in the world. It served as a crucial bridge for the dwindling and dispersed Parsi population, helping members across the globe feel connected and informed about their heritage.
Financial challenges, including dwindling subscribers and insufficient funds, have plagued the magazine in recent years, exacerbated by an aging team with no younger successors to carry on the work. The decision to shut down was announced in an editorial in August 2025, with the final issue scheduled for October, leading to an outpouring of tributes from readers worldwide.
Readers from places like Mumbai, Pakistan, and Washington have expressed deep sadness, describing Parsiana as more than a publication—it was a companion and a unifying force for Zoroastrians. The news has been met with a sense of loss, as the magazine provided a window into community affairs and fostered dialogue on contentious issues.
The 15-member team, many in their 60s and 70s, is preparing to end both the magazine and their journalism careers, reflecting on their long service with a mix of fatigue and sorrow. The office, housed in a former Parsi hospital with peeling paint and crumbling ceilings, symbolizes the end of an era, with no grand plans for celebrations—only a somber lunch to mark the occasion.
As Parsiana approaches its final issue, upcoming editions will feature stories commemorating its legacy, ensuring that its six-decade journey is remembered. The closure highlights broader challenges facing niche publications and the Parsi community’s ongoing struggle to preserve its cultural identity in a changing world.