Zoroastrian Community Protests Sale of Heritage Sanatorium Property in Sanjan

A proposal to auction a historic 2.5-acre sanatorium complex in Sanjan has sparked intense opposition from the Parsi-Irani Zoroastrian community, who regard the site as an integral part of their cultural and spiritual legacy, according to reports from October 2025.

The property, owned by the World Zoroastrian Organisation (WZO) Trust Funds, is located approximately 150 km from Mumbai's redevelopment-focused landscape in Sanjan near Daman. The site holds profound historical importance for Parsis, who arrived there over 1,300 years ago as Zoroastrian refugees from Iran, making it their second landing site in India after Diu.

Heritage Property Under Financial Strain

The Bai Maneckbai P B Jeejeebhoy Sanatorium, situated adjacent to the iconic 1917 Sanjan Memorial Column, has become the focal point of controversy following WZO's decision to proceed with private tender auctions. The Memorial Column commemorates the community's arrival and integration into India.

According to WZO Trust Funds chairman Dinshaw Tamboly, the trust unanimously agreed to monetize what has become a non-performing asset. He stated that all procedures were being followed in accordance with trust laws and had received approval from the Charity Commissioner.

Tamboly clarified that no prohibition existed in the trust deed preventing the sale of this property, and emphasized that proceeds would be channeled toward community-centric charitable initiatives including healthcare for seniors, educational support, entrepreneurship programs, and food relief services.

Financial Losses Prompt Controversial Decision

The trust has cited consistent financial losses as the primary justification for the proposed sale. Between 2020 and 2025, the sanatorium generated total income of ₹16 lakh against expenditure exceeding ₹63 lakh. Average annual income stood at ₹3.2 lakh while expenses averaged ₹12.6 lakh, with bed occupancy rates remaining at a mere 10.95 percent.

Community Members Rally Against Sale

Despite the financial rationale presented by the trust, the proposal has triggered emotional backlash from various sections of the Parsi community. Several individuals and organizations have come forward with purchase offers worth crores of rupees in attempts to prevent the property from falling into private builders' hands.

The World Alliance of Parsi Irani Zarthoshtis (WAPIZ) offered ₹5 crore for the property, while former BPP chairman Dinshaw Mehta proposed ₹2.9 crore to halt the sale process. However, WZO has maintained that only open tenders will be considered, categorically rejecting private offers or third-party takeover proposals.

WAPIZ Chairperson Meher Panthaki emphasized that Sanjan holds sacred significance for the community, noting that their holy fire, the Pak Iranshah, was enthroned at the site for 700 years. She stressed that such historic sites must remain in community hands, much like other heritage preservation efforts across India.

Concerns Over Heritage Preservation and Development Impact

Pareecheher Davierwalla, whose family originally sold the property to WZO decades ago, expressed that the community felt shocked and heartbroken by the proposed sale. She raised concerns that construction activity around the sanatorium would disturb the tranquility of the adjacent memorial site.

Davierwalla warned of potential issues including sewage problems, parking congestion, and noise pollution, all of which could prove detrimental to the heritage monument and its surroundings.

Broader Questions About Community Responsibility

Lawyer and author Armin Wandrewala raised broader questions about community participation and the sustainability of heritage assets. She noted that Dharamshalas and fire temples cannot be expected to survive without active patronage from community members.

Wandrewala emphasized that it remains the community's responsibility to keep these institutions active, relevant, and financially viable through regular use and support.

Negotiations Reach Stalemate

A meeting held on October 14 between WZO trustees and concerned community members ended without resolution. The trust reiterated its position that the sale process would proceed transparently through public tenders, while community groups continued rallying to find alternative solutions or raise matching bids that could help retain the property within Zoroastrian ownership.

The controversy surrounding the Sanjan property sale has reignited deep emotional debates within the Parsi-Irani Zoroastrian community, pitting historical preservation against financial viability. While trustees stress their legal and charitable obligations, many community members believe their heritage's very soul hangs in the balance, reflecting broader challenges faced in preserving Parsi cultural identity in contemporary India.

Disclaimer: This news article is based on information available from public sources and reports from October 2025. Readers are advised to verify details independently and consult relevant authorities or legal experts for accurate and updated information. The content is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice.