October 21, 2025: Several members and trusts from Mumbai have offered to take over the Bai Maneckbai P B Jeejeebhoy Sanatorium in Sanjan to prevent its sale to builders. Still, the World Zoroastrian Organisation (WZO) Trust Funds, which manages the property, has decided to invite open bids instead. The 2.5-acre charity-run sanatorium holds deep historical significance, as Sanjan was the second landing site of Parsis in India after fleeing religious persecution in Iran over 1,300 years ago.
Last week, the World Alliance of Parsi Irani Zarthoshti (Wapiz) submitted a bid of Rs 5 crore, emphasising the need to preserve the site. Chairperson Meher Panthaki said, “Sanjan is the place we landed after fleeing from religious persecution in Iran. It is where our holy fire (Pak Iranshah) was enthroned for 700 years.” Former BPP chairman Dinshaw Mehta also offered Rs 2.9 crore to “stall the auction,” but the trustees declined.
Dinshaw Tamboly, chairman of WZO Trust Funds, explained, “It is open for any intending purchaser to participate in the tender. It is not feasible for the trust to permit a third party to take over the property and ‘run it’. As trustees, we are legally responsible for the property and cannot let an outsider run it… funds generated from the sale of the property can be utilised for fulfilling the objectives of the trust.” He added that the sanatorium has been operating at a loss, earning close to Rs 16 lakh between 2020–25, while expenses exceeded Rs 63 lakh.
Community members have voiced concern over the sale, highlighting its proximity to the Sanjan Memorial Column and potential impacts from development, including noise, sewage, and increased traffic. Pareecheher Davierwalla said, “The proposed sale has left Parsis shocked with disbelief and heartbroken… this sudden news has once again triggered the need to unite to preserve and protect Parsi properties and estates.”
Lawyer Armin Wandrewala emphasised the community’s responsibility, stating, “If Parsi-Irani Zoroastrians want our community and trust properties to be preserved, shouldn’t they patronise them more?… The properties need to be at least self-sustaining.”
Source: The Times of India
