Bene Israeli Jewish community members on Sunday stressed on the need to preserve their culture and the mark that they have left on the city. Community members from various parts of the world came together in Mumbai to mark the 175th anniversary of Shaare Rason, the second oldest synagogue in the city. The event at Magen David synagogue in Byculla was attended by Governor Ch. Vidyasagar Rao.
Calling on Jewish parents to pass on their history to their children, members called for awareness and protection of synagogues. Emanuel Joseph (54), a community member from Mulund, said, “The work needs to begin at home. Jewish parents must teach their children about our religion. There also needs to be awareness of the community in Mumbai. We have assimilated in the culture, but many do not even know about our existence.”
Sinora Kolatkar, president, Shaare Rason synagogue, said: “We may be few in number, but we do exist. Preserving our culture means looking after our synagogues. We also need to conduct activities to indulge the city in our community affairs.”
Amit Pingley (19), a student, said, “We (Jews) have been an essential part of India’s ties with Israel. Yet, our history and religion is not taught in schools and colleges here. When we learn about every other religion and culture, why not Jewish too?”
The Governor called on the need to preserve synagogues. “In India, chardhaamyatra is said to help one attain salvation. I have not been to all chaar dhaams , but during my four years in Maharashtra, I have visited all four major synagogues in the State. The presence of synagogues in Mumbai shows India’s age-old culture and respect for every religion,” Mr. Rao said.
Referring to the Jews as members of goodwill, Mr. Rao mooted that the education system include Jewish contributions. “We need separate chapters on the Jews of India and their contributions in schools textbooks and college syllabus. This will enhance the understanding of the Jewish community and their crucial efforts in nation building,” he said. Solomon Sopher, trustee of David Sassoon Fund in Mumbai, was awarded a lifetime achievement award by the World Jewish Congress.
