Living the Light: Zoroastrianism in Houston

Zoroastrianism, one of the world’s oldest religions, teaches a simple yet profound way of life—good thoughts, good words, and good deeds. Founded over 3,000 years ago by the prophet Zarathustra in ancient Persia, the faith emphasizes truth, kindness, equality, and care for the environment—principles that remain deeply relevant in today’s world.In Houston, Zoroastrians from India, Iran, and Pakistan have built a vibrant community centered around the Zoroastrian Association of Houston (ZAH), established in 1976. TheZAH is a place of worship as well as a cultural and educational hub. At the heart of the ZAH complex stands the “Atash Kadeh” or Fire Temple, where a sacred flame symbolizes purity and divine presence.

Vehishta Kaikobad and Aban Rustomji, members of the ZAH, will welcome us to the temple complex. We will have the opportunity to discover how Zoroastrians in Houston embody their faith through action, compassion, and civic engagement as we tour the campus. Vehishta Kaikobad holds a diploma in Montessori education from St. Nicholas College,London, and has over 30 years of experience in the field of early childhood, middle, and high school education. Through her award-winning work in the Glassell Junior School, as an esteemed senior docent at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, and in the ZAH classroom, she exemplifies Zoroastrian precepts. Ms. Kaikobad is dedicated to promoting interfaith and cultural bonding at a global level. Aban Rustomji is the founder of the ZAH Library and co-chair of the FEZANA InformationResearch and Education System (FIRES). A career library media specialist with a master’s in library science, she has dedicated her life to preserving and promoting Zoroastrian heritage.Raised in Pakistan, she immigrated to the U.S. in 1979 and has since been a driving force in cultural programs and Zoroastrian congresses, fostering intergenerational dialogue and mentorship to ensure a vibrant community future.