Pheroza is a Parsee, a descendant of the ancient Zoroastrians of Persia Although the Parsees have lived in India for 13 centures as a tiny minority in the sub-continent, they have maintained the distinct identity of their race and religion. Culturally advanced and international in their outlook, they have often been seen as agents of social change in the country. It was not surprising therefore that someone like Pheroza would take up ballet as her profession.