Writers Meher Marfatia and Sooni Taraporevala are compiling a book on Parsi-Gujarati idioms in the effort to preserve the oral history of the Zoroastrian community.

“We are always saying that someone should compile these phrases before they get lost,” says co-compiler Marfatia, referring to the common refrain among the older generation of Parsis. “Sooni and I thought, why not make a start,” she adds, elaborating on how the idea to compile a book on the subject evolved.

Marfatia, who has in the past authored a coffee-table book on Parsi theatre in the 20th century, hopes that the book will serve as more than just a nostalgic look at the community known for its unique sense of humour.