08 Apr 2017   |    Views : 1766     |    Professional Services   |    New Delhi

The presence of Jews in Delhi goes back many centuries, even before the British colonial era. When the capital of India shifted to Delhi, Jews were present in the vital railways, defence and central government services. During the Second World War there was influx of British and American troops and services in New Delhi for Jewish soldiers were conducted by Army chaplains. A few German and Polish Jews,who escaped the Holocaust, also settled in the city.

To cater to the growing religious,, social and cultural needs of the community, the Jewish Welfare Association was formed in 1949 on the initiative of Late Mr. Ezra Kolet, Mr. Joshua Benjamin Bhonkar, Mr. Baruch B. Benjamin and Mr. Jacob Solomon, the Station Master of the Delhi Railway Station. This well-knit organisation felt the necessity of a Prayer Hall*community Centre of its own.

An Annexe to the synagogue was constructed on 26th December, 1979 to house a library and an inter-faith study centre. In order to promote goodwill and understanding among all religions, it has a well stocked library of books on all religions and sacred scriptures. People of all faiths and religions are emcouraged to have access to the books of this library.

At present there are 7-8 Indian Jewish families (about 40 persons) in Delhi besides diplomats from various Embassies and High Commissions in Delhi. Regular Friday Evening services are held at 7:00 p.m, during summer and at 6:30 p.m. during summer. The synagogue also conducts services during Purim, Passover, Shavuoth,High Holidays and Hanukkah. The Bar-Mitzvah and Bar-Mitzvah ceremonies are regularly held at the synagogue.

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