The Parsis are a religious and ethnic group in India, descended from the followers of the ancient Persian prophet Zoroaster. They migrated to India from Persia around the 8th to 10th century to escape religious persecution, primarily from the Islamic conquests. Today, they primarily reside in Mumbai and are known for their contributions to Indian society, culture, and economy.
Parsis practice Zoroastrianism, which emphasizes the concepts of good and evil, the importance of individual choice, and the worship of one supreme god, Ahura Mazda. Their community is characterized by unique customs, including the traditional Navjote ceremony for children and the practice of exposing the dead to vultures in a structure called a Towers of Silence.