A new heritage walk will offer an insider’s perspective on one of the oldest settlements in the city
When 28-year-old Daniel David first set out to explore the rich history of the Jewish community, he was surprised to learn of its long-standing association with the Indians. “The Jewish community migrated here around 1,000 years ago before the destruction of the first holy temple in Jerusalem,” he says. In a heritage walk, organised by Seek Sherpa, Daniel will offer culture enthusiasts an “insider’s perspective” on the remnants of the Jewish past. Here’s what awaits:
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Temple trail
Among the many synagogues that you will visit during the walk, the Gate of Mercy Synagogue, built in 1796 by Samaji Hasaji Divekar, a Bene Israeli, near Masjid Bunder, is the most significant, says Daniel. Not only is it the oldest synagogue in Mumbai, unlike its European counterparts, it replicates the model of the original Holy Temple of Jerusalem, says Daniel. The Magen David Synagogue (1864) and Kenneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue (1884), were also constructed as facsimiles of the original Holy Temple.
The Chabad of India
Chabad is a religious revolution within the Jewish faith that started in New York, says David. They have a centre in Mumbai, called the Nariman House, which became the target of the 26/11 terror attacks. Visitors will get a walk through Chabad House.
The Fishing Hub
Not many know that the Sassoon Docks, one of the oldest docks in the city, was owned by a Baghdadi Jew, Albert Abdullah David Sassoon (1818–1896), son of David Sassoon, who became the leader of the Jewish community in then Bombay. The docks provided employment opportunities for the local kolis and visitors will get to see, how the tradition continues to date.
Starting point: Outside Asiatic Central Library, Near Horniman Circle, Shahid Bhagat Singh Road, Kala Ghoda, Fort
When: Oct. 23, 9.30 am to 1.30 pm
Entry: Rs 800 (please carry Rs 500 extra for any exigencies)
Call: 9643982934
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