The Young Zoroastrian Society (YZS), in collaboration with the 16th East Bombay Zoroastrian Bharat Scout Group and the 71st East Bombay Zoroastrian Bharat Guide Group, recently hosted a camp-cum-tour in Kerala from May 18 to 29. The event, which extended beyond the youth participants to include family members, aimed to foster inter-generational bonding while promoting the values of friendship, service, leadership, and community spirit.
The camp covered several key locations in Kerala, including Cochin, Munnar, and Alleppey. Participants explored cultural and natural landmarks such as Fort Kochi, the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, Munnar’s tea estates and spice plantations, and the scenic backwaters of Alleppey. Beyond sightseeing, the program incorporated traditional scouting and guiding activities, trekking, adventure challenges, and team-building exercises designed to develop resilience, discipline, cooperation, and independence among young attendees.
The inclusion of family members allowed for a broader celebration of togetherness across generations. Participants noted the unique opportunity to create lasting memories and deepen bonds beyond the immediate scouting community. One scout expressed gratitude for the experience, while a family member highlighted the significance of grandparents being able to join the trip, marking a memorable first-time tour experience.
The 16th East Bombay Zoroastrian Bharat Scout Group was founded on August 1, 1920, by the late Scouters Ardeshir Jilla and Merwanji Mehta, and the 71st East Bombay Zoroastrian Bharat Guide Group was established on August 1, 1993. Both groups share a mission to guide boys and girls toward becoming responsible citizens grounded in the principles of Zoroastrianism.
In addition to the Kerala camp, the YZS also recently organized Night Games in June, emphasizing problem-solving, teamwork, and quick thinking. These games engaged participants across age groups as they navigated clues through various South Mumbai landmarks such as Churchgate Station, Mahalakshmi Station, Nehru Science Centre, and Rajabai Clock Tower. The event incorporated exposure to local transportation systems, including the Western Railway network and the Aqua Line, highlighting engaging and purposeful learning outside the classroom.
The organizing committee acknowledged support from The Cusrow Baug United Sports & Welfare League, which provided the venue for the Night Games, and expressed gratitude toward sponsors Hoshang Jalal, Bejon Jalal, and Farida Hoshang Jal for their continued generosity in sponsoring the event’s dinner. Catering was provided by Rustom Gustad Dehmiri of Cafe Universal.
Through these programs, the Young Zoroastrian Society continues to nurture leadership qualities and a sense of community among its youth members, aiming to prepare them as responsible adults and proud representatives of Zoroastrian heritage. Parents interested in enrolling their children may contact Group Leaders Scouts Freddy Khapoliwala and Guides Mackie R. Majra for more information.