Contents: Preface. 1. Introduction. 2. The Parsee pioneers of Calcutta in the 18 and 19 centuries. 3. Present Parsees in public and business. 4. Social and cultural life of the Parsees. 5. Religion and community life. 6. Conclusion. Bibliography. Index.

"The Parsees of Calcutta is an account of the Parsees in Calcutta who have become part of the history of India. The Parsees, a part of the Raj scenario have left behind a rich heritage in this mega city. Though always a microscopic minority in Calcutta the community's contribution to the economic development and cultural panorama of the metropolis was considerable and praise worthy. The socio-cultural, economic, religious and philanthropic activities of the Parsees in Calcutta are reconstructed in this study with the help of authentic documents, both archival and contemporary. The focus of the study is on the contribution of the Parsees to the cultural and economic life of Bengal and as an objective study of the community the work shows originality and sincerity of purpose. The Parsee heritage of Calcutta is enduring and let us preserve it for the posterity." (jacket)