JEWISH FOOTPRINT IN THE CITY OF JOY
Jewish communities have resided in Kolkata for hundreds of years, with the first Jewish immigrants arriving in the city around 1798. These early settlers, primarily Baghdadi Jews originating from Iraq and various regions of the Middle East, rapidly formed a vibrant Jewish community by establishing businesses and places of worship like synagogues. The once-thriving Jewish community in Kolkata has made a noticeable impression on the city. Several notable structures in Kolkata, such as Esplanade Mansions near Government House, Chowringhee Mansions, Bamboo Villa, Sri Aurobindo Bhavan, and the Norton Building, were constructed by the Jewish community, underscoring their significant influence in Kolkata during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Pic 1 David Sassoon | Attribution: Arnold Wright, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Pic 2 Ruth Prawer Jhabvala | Attribution: Gotfryd, Bernard, photographer, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
The city has hosted influential Jewish personalities from Sir David Sassoon to Ruth Prawer Jhabvala, each contributing significantly to both the Jewish experience and Indian film. Currently, tourists can delve into this vibrant heritage by touring locations like the Jewish Quarter or participating in festivities such as the Purim Carnival and Masquerade Ball, which joyfully honor Jewish traditions.
Three stunning synagogues exist (with two recognized as Grade 1 Heritage monuments by the Archaeological Survey of India), alongside two educational institutions, a cemetery, and numerous properties linked to these synagogues. A significant property located in Barrackpore, held in trust for the Jewish Boys School, is highly valuable and entrusted to the Official Trustee of Bengal for educational use. The Gubbay and Ezra Houses within the Kolkata Zoo are widely recognized, along with the Ezra Building at Calcutta Medical College. Ezra Street in Burrabazar honors the city’s merchant prince, Sir David Ezra. In Tikiapara, Howrah, one can find Bellilios Road and Bellilios Park. Businessman Emanuel Raphael Belilios departed from Calcutta for Hong Kong in the early 1860s, establishing himself as one of the merchant princes there.
The Beth El Synagogue in Kolkata. Credit: Tarunsamanta, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
The Jewish Quarter in Kolkata stands as a tribute to the city’s rich Jewish legacy. Situated centrally, this area has hosted the Jewish community for many years and is abundant with sites of cultural and religious significance. The Jewish Quarter is home to multiple synagogues, educational institutions, cemeteries, shops, and various establishments frequented by Jews across India. Notably, it houses prominent Jewish personalities who lived or passed away in the area, including Sir Elijah Moses Mocatta and Rabbi Solomon David Sassoon.
Neveh Shalome Synagogue is a place of Jewish worship found in Kolkata’s Jewish Quarter. Established in 1884, it ranks among the oldest synagogues in India and has played a vital role in Jewish life since its inception. Today, it acts as a spiritual refuge for numerous Jews residing in Kolkata and remains a venue for religious services on specific days throughout the year. The synagogue also organizes unique events like lectures, concerts, and exhibitions that honor Jewish heritage and culture.
Neveh shalome synagogue | Attribution: Santanu072, CC BY-SA 4.0
The Jewish Cemetery of Kolkata is an important historical site that highlights the long-standing presence of the Jewish community in the city. Located adjacent to the Jewish Quarter, this cemetery, which dates back to 1864, contains numerous graves that narrate the history of Jewish life in Kolkata over the decades.
Jewish Cemetery of Kolkata | Attribution: Rangan Datta Wiki, CC BY-SA 4.0
Every year, the Jewish community of Kolkata joyously commemorates the holiday of Purim with a lively carnival and masquerade ball. This festive event takes place at various venues around the city, drawing in both Jewish and non-Jewish attendees. The carnival showcases traditional Jewish cuisine, music, dance performances, games for children, and costume contests that reveal imaginative outfits from participants. Guests can also partake in diverse attractions, including art displays, puppet performances, and magic shows to keep the atmosphere lively throughout the day. As night falls, the celebrations peak in a lavish Masquerade Ball, where attendees don intricate costumes inspired by beloved characters from Jewish folklore and literature.
Today, even though the number of Jews present are less than 100 and most of them are aging citizens, the Jewish community in Kolkata presents a distinctive and captivating narrative of perseverance, achievement, and endurance.
About the Author:
Author: Ishani Gupta
Ishani Gupta, is an editor and an independent researcher. She holds a degree in Manuscriptology & Palaeography from IGNCA & holds professional training in Archaeology & Art Appreciation from Indian Museum, Kolkata. The allure of heritage deeply resonates with her, and she aspires to be a curator of such treasures. She believes that every story from the past is worth discovering.
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/ishani33
