Jewish temple at Kala Ghoda to mark 125 years

Plain in its appearance, standing two storeys high, the Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue is distinct from the other structures in the vicinity at the Kala Ghoda. Painted blue and white, the 125-year-old heritage structure portrays a fresh look for the celebration due this Sunday that will have the governor of Maharashtra as its chief guest amongst other dignitaries.

The Jews in the city are gearing up to celebrate. “We want to show we are happy irrespective of what happened to us. We hold no grudge and think no evil for any,” said Solomon Sopher, chairman and managing trustee of Sir Jacob Sassoon Charity Trust, of which the synagogue is also a constituent.

Built in 1884, the Sephardis’ (eastern Jews) synagogue is a footprint of the Sassoon dynasty, formed by David Sassoon, which had come to India to do business. “At that time there were many Jews in the vicinity. Religious Jews do not take any mode of transport to reach the synagogue on day of Sabbath. It was this intention and in the memory of his father that the synagogue was built,” says Sopher.

On Sunday, the Sefer Torah scroll (copy of the formal Hebrew text of the first five books of Moses, which is hand-written) will be carried around the synagogue, accompanied by celebratory dancing, singing, and prayers — a very ancient celebration. Prayers will be recited by Rabbi Ya’aqob Menashe, founder of the Yeshiva Ben Isha Hai, New York.