History of the Parsis Including their Manners, Customs, Religion, and Present Position
Dosabhai Framji Karaka, History of the Parsis Including their Manners, Customs, Religion, and Present Position, London: Macmillan and Co., 1884, 2 Volumes
(In 2 Volumes)
Volume I: xxxiii, 332 pages including 1 black and white aquatint, 5 colour chromolithographs and 2 tipped in photographs
Volume II: viii, 350 pages including 2 colour chromolithographs
Publishers' pictorial cloth gilt, top edge gilt, fresh spines (each)
9 x 6 x 1.25 in (22.7 x 15.2 x 3.3 cm) (each)
The first volume has the printed signature by the author.
Dosabhai Framji Karaka was educated at the Elphinstone Institution. He was the editor of a Gujarati newspaper, following which he became manager of the Bombay Times. In 1858-59, he was in England, where he wrote History of the Parsis, and became known for this work. After returning to India, he held several legal and official positions, and later became chairperson of the Bombay Municipal Corporation.
The primary focus of the book is on the history of the Parsi community. The Parsis are descendants of Zoroastrians who fled Persia (modern-day Iran) during the Arab conquest in the 7th century and settled in the western coast of India, primarily in the region of Gujarat. The book delves into their migration, early settlements, and subsequent contributions to Indian society.
The two-volume work covers a wide range of topics related to the Parsi community. This includes discussions on their religious beliefs, customs, and practices, as well as their social and cultural traditions. It provides details about Parsi religious ceremonies, festivals, and rites of passage.
The book highlights the contributions of Parsis to Indian society and their involvement in various fields, such as trade, industry, education, and philanthropy. Parsis have historically been known for their significant role in India's economic and social development.
Dosabhai Framji Karaka was a meticulous researcher, and his work is based on extensive historical sources, religious texts, and archives. He might have also drawn from oral traditions and community records to present a comprehensive history.
History of the Parsis was one of the earliest comprehensive accounts of the Parsi community written by a Parsi scholar. It contributed to a better understanding of Parsi history and culture not only within the community but also among a wider audience.
The book is still considered an essential resource for those interested in the history of the Parsi community and Zoroastrianism in India. It remains a significant work in the field of Parsi studies.
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