First Dastoor Meherjirana Library

The First Dastoor Meherjirana Library is a historic research library and manuscript repository located in Tarota Bazaar, Navsari, Gujarat. Established in 1872 and named after the 16th-century Parsi high priest Dastur Meherji Rana, it is renowned for its collection of ancient Zoroastrian manuscripts, books, and artifacts. It serves as a major centre for Zoroastrian, Persian and Gujarati studies and is considered one of the oldest and most important Parsi libraries in India.

Visitors can expect a heritage building housing reading rooms, display cases and archival storage with rare manuscripts, printed books, coins, and artifacts related to Zoroastrian history and Parsi culture. The interior is quiet and research-oriented with wooden shelves and study areas. Access is typically by prior permission and guided viewing, with staff explaining the collection. The library is located in a busy central area of Navsari near markets and Parsi institutions.

The library was founded in 1872 by the Parsi community of Navsari to preserve the literary legacy of Dastur Meherji Rana, the renowned 16th-century Zoroastrian priest who was invited to Emperor Akbar's court. It was established to house manuscripts and books collected by Parsi priests and scholars. Over time it has preserved manuscripts dating back several centuries, including some of the oldest surviving Avestan and Pahlavi texts, making it a key repository for the history of Zoroastrianism in India.

The library is a significant cultural and religious institution for the Parsi-Zoroastrian community and for scholars of Iranian and Gujarati studies. It preserves the literary and liturgical heritage of Zoroastrianism and reflects Navsari's historic role as a centre of Parsi settlement and priestly learning. It is visited by researchers, students and community members for its cultural and educational value.