Jewish Mumbai | World Jewish Travel

Jewish city story of Mumbai

Introduction to Jewish Mumbai

Mumbai is a bustling metropolis with a rich and diverse history, including the contributions of its Jewish community. Jews first settled in Mumbai over 500 years ago, and today there are still many sites of religious and cultural importance to visit. From exploring the Jewish Quarter to learning about famous figures who lived or died in the city, there is much to discover on a journey through Jewish Mumbai. Join us as we explore this vibrant culture, uncovering centuries-old stories that have shaped this remarkable city.

Jewish Culture and History in Mumbai

Early Jewish Life in Mumbai

Jews have been living in Mumbai for over 500 years, though the earliest evidence of Jewish presence dates back to the early 16th century. During this time, Jews were welcomed by the Portuguese rulers of Bombay and granted special privileges that allowed them to practice their religion freely. Life for...

THE BEST OF Mumbai

Kosher Travel

India Kosher Travel

and 3 other Tours

Guides

Rahel Musleah

and 2 other Guides

Hotels

The Trident, Nariman point

and 1 other Hotels

Restaurants

Boulevard

and 1 other Restaurants

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אתרים מומלצים Sites to see

Sites

Knesset Eliyahu

Knesset Eliyahu is an Orthodox Jewish synagogue located in downtown Mumbai, India. It is the city's second oldest Sephardic synagogue. It was established in 1884 by Jacob Elias Sassoon, son of Eliyahoo David Sassoon and grandson of David Sassoon; the latter had immigrated from Baghdad to India in 1832 due to persecution and had settled in Mumbai, then known as Bombay. It is maintained by the Jacob Sassoon Trust. The building's significance is attributed to its Jewish traditions as well as Indian and English colonial influences. It was designed by the British architectural firm Gostling & Morris of Bombay. The basement part of the edifice is built in stone masonry and the superstructure is built in brick masonry. The exterior facade of the synagogue is painted turquoise. The sanctuary within the interior of the building is in western direction, towards Jerusalem. Photo Attribution: World Monuments Fund

Sites

Maguen David Synagogue

The "Magen David" Synagogue in Byculla, Bombay was built in 1861 by David Sassoon, the first Baghdadi Synagogue in the city. The exterior has a Renaissance influence with a four-storey Clock Tower, and the interior features the Tevah and Hechal. The Synagogue's grounds are rented out for functions and two Jewish schools associated with it are open to all communities in the area.

Sites

David Sassoon Library and Reading Room

The David Sassoon Library and Reading Room is a historic public library located in Mumbai, India. It was founded in 1870 by Sir Jacob Sassoon in memory of his father, David Sassoon, a prominent Baghdadi Jewish philanthropist.

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Tours of Mumbai

Kosher Travel

India Kosher Travel

This tour offers a unique opportunity to delve into India's rich and diverse Jewish history, dating back over two thousand years. Explore the historic synagogues and vibrant Jewish communities of Mumbai and Cochin, where you can witness the blending of Jewish and Indian cultures. Take a relaxing houseboat cruise in Kumarakom and immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of this region. In Cochin, don't miss the chance to witness a Kathakali Dance show, a traditional Indian dance form known for its intricate facial expressions and hand gestures. Finally, experience the bustling streets of Delhi from a different perspective with a thrilling rickshaw ride through the city. This tour is a must-visit for anyone interested in Jewish history, culture, and the fusion of different civilizations.

Tours

Jewish Tour of the Villages

Visit the villages along the coast of Mumbai where, according to Bene Israel tradition, seven couples were shipwrecked over 2,000 years ago. Depart by a speed boat / ferry to visit the villages along the coast of Mumbai where, according to Bene Israel tradition, seven couples were shipwrecked over 2,000 years ago. Explore the original landing site and monument at Navgaon. Visit the Magen Aboth Synagogue and the Beth El Synagogue. Enjoy a visit to a Jewish home.

Tours

Hidden Jewels and Offbeat Tour of Mumbai

This tour will give an intimate understanding of how Mumbai has developed from a small fishing village to a major city in the past centuries. Learn about the fishermen, the original inhabitants of Mumbai, by visiting a local fishing village and the Sassoon Dock, a wholesale fish market. Walk through a wholesale vegetable and fruit market. Witness the amazing “lunch box” system and watch the dabawallas in action. At Banganga Tank, you will see how the city looked a century ago. Enjoy a visit to a home. Visit a Hindu temple, where you will see a religious ceremony.

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מסעדות בסגנון יהודי JEWISH STYLE RESTAURANTS

Restaurants

Boulevard

Be it breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even a brunch, tea, or midnight snack, The Orchid Hotel Mumbai has got you covered! Check out their exclusive cafe in Vile Parle and relish a wide range of scrumptious treats and delights. Choose from Indian, Asian or Continental menus - a la carte or buffet. Just know that our chefs at our Vile Parle Restaurant, are ready to delight you with the fare they turn out for your dining pleasure.

Restaurants

Falafels

Falafel is an ancient dish that has been popular in Egypt and now the rest of the Middle East. The history of falafel goes back to the days of the pharaohs. The name most likely devise from the Arabic word for spicy, Mefelfel. The Copts, an Egyptian Christian sect, also claim to have invented the ta’amia, the fava-bean fritter that is parent to the falafel. It is believed that falafels were invented in Alexandria. Since Alexandria is a port, sailors from all over took the delicious little patties home, and eventually falafel became popular fasts food all over the Middle East. Accordingly, Middle Eastern Jews overwhelmingly favored chickpeas solo in their falafels. An early Middle Eastern fast food, falafel was commonly sold wrapped in paper, but not served in the familiar pita sandwich. Beginning in the 1950s, Yemenite immigrants in Israel took up making falafel to earn a livehood, utilizing the chickpea version common in the Levant and transformed this ancient treat into the Israeli national street food. It’s hard to come by authentic, good quality, healthy Mediterranean and Lebanese cuisine. Falafel’s not only pioneered the segment but remains the leader even today! From an array of delicious falafels and yummy hummus platters, to healthy wraps, and salads to powerhouse meal boxes, Falafel’s has slightly tempered all of these to suit the Indian palate, while retaining all the original flavours. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian fares come in a wide variety of flavours that will leave you spoilt for choice. All dishes at Falafel’s are priced sparingly so that healthy food is always available to you without burning a hole in your pocket.The focus remains on good food and quick service so that you never have to wait long for your meal. One of the fastest growing quick service meal chains in the country, Falafel’s is the nourishing answer to all your food cravings!

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מדריכים בעיר CITY GUIDES

Guides

Rahel Musleah

India is a vast country of dramatic contrasts, extraordinary cultural richness, and religious diversity. Any visitor to India can choose from a wide array of tours. What distinguishes ours is its "insider's perspective." I was born in Calcutta to a family with Baghdadi roots; I live in the United States today and speak widely about the Indian Jewish communities--always adding music wherever I go. My tour partner, Joshua Shapurkar, is a member of the Bene Israel community of Bombay and has been leading general and Jewish tours for twenty-five years. Together we have an intimate knowledge of the Indian Jewish communities and close relationships with its members. You, too, will be treated as part of our broader family. You will meet and interact with community members, enjoy local hospitality, experience India's magnificent cultural tapestry, and enjoy its rare Jewish treasures. We will attend Shabbat services together in Bombay and Calcutta. I will lead services in the Baghdadi-Indian tradition in the Maghen David Synagogue, where my father was rabbi, and share my memories with you as we walk together through streets and bazaars. Our accommodations are deluxe--and you won't have to worry about meals or transportation in India: almost everything is included. Please join us on this unforgettable adventure!

Guides

Joshua Shapurkar

Joshua Shapurkar is a native of Mumbai and a member of the Bene Israel community. He has been a professional guide for more than 30 years. Full of knowledge and warmth, he has a special way of leading a group and sharing information. His passion for his country and his community shines through. Joshua's attention to detail and love for his Jewish heritage bring to life the history of the Jewish people of India. During his career as a guide he has guided and managed important delegations for JFNA, AJC and AJDC.

Guides

Haanna Shapurkar

A member of the local Jewish Community of Mumbai, Hanna Shapurkar has been a licensed tour Guide for more than twenty years. Engaging and Knowledgeable and delightful to be with, Hanna is full of insights into the Jewish History of Mumbai and her sense of humor makes the tour fun.

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קראו עוד בלוגים וספרים אלקטרוניים READ MORE BLOGS AND EBOOKS

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Hotels in Mumbai

Hotels

The Trident, Nariman point

Nestled in the heart of vibrant and bustling Mumbai lies the hotel Trident, Nariman Point. Soaring 35 storeys high, it offers panoramic views of Marine Drive or the Queen's Necklace, as the beautiful promenade is lovingly called. An iconic Mumbai landmark, featuring some of the best accommodations in the city, this is the luxury hotel address to be seen at.

Hotels

The Taj Mahal Palace

The Taj Mahal Palace opened in Mumbai, then Bombay, in 1903, giving birth to the country’s first harbour landmark. The recently trademarked flagship hotel overlooks the majestic Gateway of India. This legendary 5 star hotel in Mumbai has played host to kings, dignitaries and eminent personalities from across the globe, and is acknowledged as a world leader in hospitality.

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