Kolkata | 04.08.2019 | 10:00 am ~ 11:30 am

Tracing the Legacy of Kolkata's Jewish Culture and Settlements

About the walk

The Jewish community’s rendezvous with the Indian subcontinent can be traced back to the ancient period. India embraced the Jews, and they assimilated into society easily. What differentiates them from other foreign communities is their cultural contribution to the country in general and to Kolkata specifically, as well as their ability to mould to local cultural trends. 


Jews in India are mainly divided into three different groups—the Cochin Jews, the Bene Israelis and the Baghdadi Jews. All of them came to India at different periods of time and consolidated their own identities. The Baghdadi Jews came to India through Calcutta (now Kolkata), Bombay (Mumbai) and Rangoon (Yangon) and created a strong entrepreneurial class in these cities. After the formation of Israel in 1948, many Jews left India in the hope of a better and prosperous life. But some stayed and carried their legacy forward. This walk will discuss that legacy of the Jewish community by tracing their history in Kolkata. We will visit the magnificent structures of the Baghdadi Jews—including three synagogues, two schools and a cemetery—and explore the community’s fascinating stories.

 

This guided tour is free.

Walk Time
-
Walk Date
Meeting Time
09:45 am

About the walk

The Jewish community’s rendezvous with the Indian subcontinent can be traced back to the ancient period. India embraced the Jews, and they assimilated into society easily. What differentiates them from other foreign communities is their cultural contribution to the country in general and to Kolkata specifically, as well as their ability to mould to local cultural trends. 


Jews in India are mainly divided into three different groups—the Cochin Jews, the Bene Israelis and the Baghdadi Jews. All of them came to India at different periods of time and consolidated their own identities. The Baghdadi Jews came to India through Calcutta (now Kolkata), Bombay (Mumbai) and Rangoon (Yangon) and created a strong entrepreneurial class in these cities. After the formation of Israel in 1948, many Jews left India in the hope of a better and prosperous life. But some stayed and carried their legacy forward. This walk will discuss that legacy of the Jewish community by tracing their history in Kolkata. We will visit the magnificent structures of the Baghdadi Jews—including three synagogues, two schools and a cemetery—and explore the community’s fascinating stories.

 

This guided tour is free.

Led By

Manoswini Sarkar
She is an avid history enthusiast who is pursuing post graduation in Political Science and International Relations. She can indulge in conversations with you about the World Wars, the Cold War, World Politics, Sports. Music, Cinema etc. She is also an ardent traveler and a food connoisseur who would gladly introduce you to some of the best food joints and street food of Kolkata.

Meeting Time

09:45 AM

Meeting point

In front of Tea Board, B.B.D. Bagh

Nearest Bus/Metro station

Central Metro Station

Disclaimer

The information & views presented by walk leaders and individual speakers are based on personal perspectives and points of view and do not necessarily represent views, opinions and official policies of Sahapedia.

Sahapedia reserves the right to cancel an event due to unforeseen circumstances. Participants will be informed accordingly.

Maintaining safety during our events is our main priority. We have implemented several social distancing and safety measures to limit physical interactions between all attendees at the walk. Sahapedia/ India Heritage Walks is not responsible for any illnesses developing due to participation in physical events. 

 

In case you are unable to attend after having registered, please send us an email.

Email: ihw@sahapedia.org

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Please Note

 

 

  • Carry an ID card as one of the synagogues will ask before the entry. 

  • Parking facilities are not available near the meeting point. We recommend taking the metro or other forms of public transport.

  • Google link of the meeting point: https://goo.gl/maps/z8HXSCJrU1sUVpFQA

  • Photography is allowed. 

  • Some areas have entry fees. These are to be borne by the participant. 

  • Wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes. Carry a small backpack with a water bottle and a hat (optional). Carry an umbrella or raincoat. 

  • Please speak in a low voice when you enter places of worship.