Auspicious Occasion Summary

Rustomji yells for his younger wife Mehroo, busy preparing for prayers at the fire temple. The toilet upstairs has leaked on his head. He declares his day spoiled and fears constipation. Mehroo has packed the children off to school, cooked dinner, and laid out temple clothing. Mehroo sends Gajra away after a quick sweeping, hastily completes decorating, and catches the H bus. Rustomji promises to follow.

Mehroo has always loved the fire temple. As a child, Mehroo watches the flames dance in the marble inner sanctuary and prays before exams, happily hugging Dustoor Dhunjisha, who, now 75, often lets younger priests officiate. She hopes he will be present today.

The gates to the fire temple are locked and police are dispersing the curious crowd. Mehroo hears "murdered" and "stabbed" being murmured. Rustomji finishes his tea, dresses, grooms, and heads to the fire...