Book Launch: Zoroastrianism in India and Iran by Alexandra Buhler

This book examines the cultural, religious, and political ties between the Zoroastrian communities of Iran and the Zoroastrian communities of India during the late Qajar and early Pahlavi periods.

A major theme is the increase in philanthropy directed to the Zoroastrians of Iran by the Parsis and the involvement of the British in encouraging Parsi feelings of patriotism towards Iran. Not only were Parsis affected by events taking place in Iran, they also contributed to the broader change in attitudes towards Zoroastrians in that country.

Using a variety of original sources from Britain, India and Iran, this book examines the political, legal, and social position of Zoroastrians in Iran and how different events impacted their attitudes as well as the attitudes of Parsis towards their ancestral homeland.

Of particular significance were the seminal years of the Iranian Constitutional Revolution (1906-11) and the rise in the glorification of the pre-Islamic past, culminating in the state nationalism expounded by Reza Shah.

The event will be followed by a light reception and an opportunity to purchase the book.

Speaker biography

After completing a BA in Theology at Oxford University, Alexandra Buhler studied at SOAS, where she also taught courses about Zoroastrianism and Iranian history.

Her PhD focused on the involvement of Zoroastrians in the Iranian Constitutional Revolution, and the impact the revolution had on members of the community. Alexandra now works in Libraries and Collections at King’s College London. She is also an artist and is part of the team at the non-for-profit collective, ‘It’s Not Your Birthday But…’."

Booking

In person registration is mandatory. However, for those attending online please register via Zoom.

Room Change 

Please note a change in room since the original posting. The event will now take place in Brunei Gallery Lecture Theatre, Brunei Gallery.

Image: Plate 2 Afghan-Persian Parsis Dina – The Amir is coming and there will be a reception at Government House. Another opportunity of shining. Goolcher – Or of cooling heels at the door-stop. There will be such a crush. Dina – But we’ll claim priority as Afghan Parsis! The Zoroastrian Association will vouch for us! © British Library Board (Asia, Pacific & Africa SV 576, Hindi Punch, 27 January 1907, 23).