For over a decade Koshe Kosha (KK) has strived to bring back the authenticity of Bengal’s culinary heritage whilst bringing the cuisine to a more contemporary palate. As a unit of Proem Hospitality, KK was created with the single vision to promote the flavours that form this unique cuisine, to a wider audience.
With multiple restaurants across India, the food at Koshe Kosha is known for its distinct “Bangaliana”*. Our signature dishes Kosha Mangsho, Chingri Malai Biryani and Bhekti Paturi have brought a smile to thousands of patrons. We are on a quest to bring this same smile and gastronomical experience to the world.
Our original menu was limited to the age old “Kosha Mangsho and Basanti Polao” combination. The roots of this confluence originated from North Kolkata but its authenticity was on the verge of extinction. Therefore in the summer of 2007, KK was born with a small space in Hatibagan, Kolkata with the drive to bring this classic back. Over the years, we have added to the menu in order to represent the larger vision of taking this cuisine to new heights.
KK has been able to add numerous restaurants in our portfolio and gained years of experience under our belt however, “Kosha Mangsho” will always remain our favourite and most popular dish!
*”Bangaliana” – Although definitions can typically vary and be quite abstract, we regard this term as being associated with providing a true reflection of the traits that defines being a Bengali. A projection of the energy, sentiments, culture, thoughts & habits that originate from this historic region.
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!
Kolkata’s Jewish Synagogues sum-up as the important architectural heirlooms from the colonial period in Kolkata. IF you are really looking forward for an historical and cultural treat then include this astonishing tour on your must-visit list right away!
We visit below historic and beautiful synagogues in Kolkata:
1. Neveh Shalome Synagogue: The first Baghdadi prayer house in India was formed out of a converted residence. It was Built in 1831, later in 1912 the synagogue was rebuilt again, with fairly simple interiors.
2. Maghen David synagogue: Believed to be Built in 1884, this is in fact one of India’s grandest and largest synagogue whose architectural brilliance will bewilder you, once inside.
3. Beth El Synagogue: Its impressive blue and white interior is lined with imposing columns, decorated with stained-glass clerestories, intricate wood work and antique glass chandeliers.
Enjoy a guided tour of Kolkata’s historic Synagogues. Learn about the history of the ancient Synagogues that have stood tall for so long in Kolkata. Stop at 115 year old Jewish Bakery. Don’t miss Jewish Heritage tour of Kolkata.
Neveh Shalom Synagogue was the first synagogue ever to be built in Kolkata by the Baghdadi Jews. The synagogue was originally built in the year 1831 to meet the needs of growing Jewish population in Kolkata. Originally designed as simply a prayer hall, after about sixty years it was found to be too small and so was demolished. In it’s place came up the magnificent Magen David Synagogue, which is currently also one of Asia’s largest synagogue.
Though the Neveh Shalom Synagogue got replaced by another bigger synagogue, people were still nostalgic about it and in the year 1911 it was rebuilt right next to the Magen David Synagogue. Much simpler in design, the synagogue is more like a prayer hall and is literally a catalogue of Jews in the city. The population of Jews in the city is close to nil, so the synagogue is hardly ever used for prayers now, except on special occasion when Jews often come from Israel to offer prayers. It’s actually the funds from these patrons which keeps the place alive even today.
The Jewish Cemetery in Kolkata (Calcutta) houses two genizot, the older one is sealed off, as it was filled to capacity, but the new one still towers above the graves of the Jewish Cemetery. According to historical records, the first recorded Jewish immigrant to Kolkata (Calcutta) was Shalon Cohen in 1798 from Aleppo in present day Syria, soon the Jewish community in the city started to grow. The first recorded Jewish death in the city happened on 1st Jan. 1812 and the community needed a cemetery as the deceased Hacham Moses needed to be buried. Today the Jewish Cemetery on the Narkelgdanga Main Road is still active and contains hundreds of graves but sadly the graves of Moses or Cohen can no longer be traced. Some records suggest the presence of another private Jewish Cemetery in the nearby 24, U. C. Banrejee Road, but it probably no longer exists.
Magen David (or the “Shield of David”) Synagogue is located at the junction of Brabourne Road and Canning Street (Biplabi Rashbehari Road) in Kolkata. Magen David is the second operating synagogue in Kolkata, the being the Beth El Synagogue at Pollock Street. The synagogue was built in 1884 by Elias David Ezra in memory of his father David Joseph Ezra, who made his fortune in the real estate trade of Kolkata. Elias David Joseph Ezra is associated with some of the well known buildings of Kolkata including Esplanade Mansion, Ezra Mansion and Chowringhee Mansion. Ezra Street is also named after him.
The synagogue is built in the Italian Renaissance style with a brick red finish. The entrance to the synagogue compound is hidden behind makeshift stalls selling hairclips and other trinkets. The Magen David Synagogue is approached through an arched door, containing the hexagonal “Star of David” and Hebrew inscription. The two side walls contains memorial plaques dedicated to the well known Jews of Calcutta (Kolkata). Although the services of the Magen David Synagogue have long stopped, the interior is astonishingly well maintained. The chequered marble floor, gleaming chandeliers, stained glass windows and ornate floral pillars shipped from Paris enhance its Continental look. The ark of the Magen David Synagogue is set into the walls of an apse. The star-studded half dome of the apse represents the heavens.
The large plaque above the middle section of the ark contains the Ten Commandments. It also contains several other Hebrew inscription along with several other items of Jewish Iconography, including the seven branched lamp stand of the menorah. High above the wall opposite the ark is a beautiful stained glass rose window. At the centre of the hall is the bimah, the raised platform from which the Torah was read. Two sets of stairs from either side of the hall lead to the upper balconies, reserved for women.
The Beth El Synagogye is a long established synagogue serving the Jewish community of Kolkata since the 19th century. It was built in 1856 by David Joseph Ezra and Ezekiel Judah and its style reveals a mix between classic British traditional Baghdadi-Jewish architecture. Beth El (Hebrew for House of God) was financed by Baghdadi Jews David Joseph Ezra and Ezekiel Judah in 1856, before being expanded by community member Elias Shalom Gubbay in 1885 to accommodate Kolkata’s growing Jewish population. Significantly, the architectural style of the synagogue is reminiscent of British and apparently “un-Indian and sometimes Christian” architecture. Yet, it still maintains quintessential symbols of Judaism and Baghdadi/Sephardic Jewish symbols in particular.
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.
Jewish Kolkata is a city with a rich and diverse Jewish history. For centuries, Jewish people have lived in the city, bringing their culture and traditions to the bustling metropolis. From the Jewish Quarter of Bowbazar to famous Jewish figures who have left an indelible mark on Kolkata’s cultural identity, there is much to explore when it comes to this unique aspect of Indian heritage. This article will take you through a journey of discovery as we uncover the Jewish roots of Kolkata and explore some of its most important sites, people, and places associated with its Jewish past. Let us begin our exploration into one of India’s most fascinating cities!
Jewish people have been living in Kolkata for centuries, with the earliest Jewish settlers arriving in the city as early as 1798. These pioneers of Jewish life were mostly Baghdadi Jews who had come from Iraq and other parts of the Middle East. They quickly established a thriving Jewish community, setting up businesses and places of worship such as synagogues. Life for these early Jewish settlers was hard but rewarding, with many finding success through their entrepreneurial spirit and industriousness. Despite facing prejudice and discrimination from some quarters, they managed to persevere and build a strong sense of Jewish identity within the city’s diverse population.
Jewish people in Kolkata have been contributing to the city’s economy and culture for centuries. They quickly established businesses in various sectors such as trade, banking, manufacturing, and retail. They also contributed significantly to social development projects such as education initiatives for Jewish children and support for Jewish refugees who had fled persecution elsewhere. Their hard work enabled them to thrive despite the prejudice they faced from some quarters. It is clear that Jews played an important role in helping Kolkata become what it is today – a vibrant metropolis full of opportunity where cultures mix and mingle freely.
Recent and Contemporary Jewish Life in Kolkata
Jewish life in Kolkata today is a vibrant mix of Jewish traditions and modern culture. Jewish people continue to play an important role in the city’s economy and culture, though their numbers have dwindled over the years. Today, there are approximately 3,000 Jews living in Kolkata, most of whom live in the Jewish Quarter of Bowbazar. The Jewish community here is close-knit and supportive, with multiple synagogues providing spiritual guidance for those who seek it. Despite its small size, this community has a strong sense of identity which can be seen through its commitment to preserving Jewish customs such as celebrating Shabbat each week or observing traditional holidays like Passover. In addition to its religious practices, members of the Jewish community also actively participate in cultural events hosted by other religions or organizations within Kolkata – evidence that they remain firmly embedded within India’s melting pot society today.
Iconic Attractions and Events in Kolkata
The Jewish Quarter in Kolkata
The Jewish Quarter in Kolkata is a testament to the vibrant Jewish heritage of the city. Located in the heart of Kolkata, this area has been home to Jewish people for centuries and is filled with places of Jewish cultural and religious importance. The Jewish Quarter consists of several synagogues, schools, cemeteries, shops, and other establishments that are frequented by Jews from all over India. It is also home to some famous Jewish figures who lived or died in the city such as Sir Elijah Moses Mocatta and Rabbi Solomon David Sassoon. Visitors can explore this quarter’s rich history through its various monuments and buildings which have been preserved since colonial times. A visit to the Jewish Quarter will provide an insight into Kolkata’s fascinating past while allowing visitors to experience its unique culture firsthand.
Neveh Shalome Synagogue
The Neveh Shalome Synagogue is a Jewish place of worship located in the Jewish Quarter of Kolkata. Built in 1884, it is one of the oldest synagogues in India and has been an important part of Jewish life since then. As one of the few surviving Jewish monuments in Kolkata, this synagogue is a reminder to all visitors about Jewish history and culture. It serves as a spiritual home for many Jews living in Kolkata today and continues to be used for religious services on certain days throughout the year. The synagogue also hosts special events such as lectures, concerts, and exhibitions that celebrate Jewish heritage and culture. Visitors can explore its rich interior filled with artifacts from different eras that tell stories about Jewish life over time. A visit to Neveh Shalome Synagogue will provide insight into the unique history and culture of Jews living in Kolkata today while allowing visitors to experience its beauty firsthand.
Neveh shalome synagogue | Attribution: Santanu072, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Jewish Cemetery of Kolkata
The Jewish Cemetery of Kolkata is a historic landmark that serves as a reminder of the Jewish community’s long history in the city. Located near the Jewish Quarter, this cemetery dates back to 1864 and contains hundreds of graves that tell stories about Jewish life in Kolkata through the years. It is an important site for many Jews living in Kolkata today, providing them with a place to remember their ancestors and reflect on their culture. The cemetery also hosts several events throughout the year which celebrate Jewish heritage, such as lectures and exhibitions highlighting Jewish contributions to local society. A visit to this cemetery will allow visitors to explore its rich history while gaining insight into Jewish life in modern-day Kolkata.
Jewish Cementery of Kolkata | Attribution: Rangan Datta Wiki, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Popular Purim Carnival and Masquerade Ball
The Jewish community of Kolkata celebrates the Jewish holiday of Purim each year with a grand carnival and masquerade ball. This popular event is held at various locations around the city, attracting both Jewish and non-Jewish people alike. The carnival features traditional Jewish food, music, dance performances, games and activities for children, as well as costume competitions that bring out some of the most creative costumes from participants. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of attractions such as art installations, puppet shows and magicians to keep them entertained throughout the day. At nightfall, the festivities culminate in an extravagant Masquerade Ball where guests can dress up in elaborate costumes inspired by their favorite characters from Jewish folklore and literature. The Purim Carnival and Masquerade Ball provides an opportunity for everyone to come together to celebrate Jewish culture while having fun doing so!
Iconic Personalities of Kolkata
Sir David Sassoon
Sir David Sassoon was a Jewish businessman and philanthropist who left an indelible mark on the city of Kolkata. Born in Baghdad, Iraq, he moved to India as a young man and quickly established himself as one of the most successful traders in the region. He used his wealth to give back to the Jewish community by building factories, schools, hospitals and other institutions that helped improve Jewish life in Kolkata. In addition to providing economic opportunities for Jewish families, Sir David also supported Jewish culture through his patronage of Jewish festivals such as Purim Carnival and Masquerade Ball. His legacy lives on today through these institutions which continue to serve people from all backgrounds living in this vibrant city. Sir David Sassoon passed away at his home in Kolkata at the age of 91 after living there for over 70 years.
David Sassoon | Attribution: Arnold Wright, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Ruth Prawer Jhabvala
Ruth Prawer Jhabvala was a Jewish writer from a Polish-Jewish background living in India when she won two Academy Awards for her screenplays ‘A Room With A View’ (1985) and ‘Howards End’ (1992). She was one of the first female authors to win this prestigious award while writing about Indian cinema with its unique history intertwined with Jewish culture. Ruth Prawer Jhabvala’s life and works are closely linked to the city of Kolkata, where she spent many years researching Jewish culture and discovering stories that would later become part of her work. Her writings shed light on Jewish identity in India during a time when it wasn’t easy to be different or express oneself freely. Through her work, Ruth Prawer Jhabvala not only made an impact on Jewish communities in Kolkata but also around the world. Although Ruth Prawer Jhabvala passed away in 2013 at the age of 85 in New York City, she will always be remembered for her contributions to both Indian and Jewish culture throughout her life.
Ruth Prawer Jhabvala | Attribution: Gotfryd, Bernard, photographer, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Summary of Kolkata’s Jewish Story
Jewish culture in Kolkata is a unique and fascinating story of struggle, success, and resilience. From Sir David Sassoon to Ruth Prawer Jhabvala, the city has been home to Jewish figures who have left an indelible mark on both Jewish life and Indian cinema alike. Today, visitors can explore this rich history by visiting places like the Jewish Quarter or attending events such as Purim Carnival & Masquerade Ball which celebrate Jewish culture while having fun doing so! Whether you’re interested in learning more about how Jews lived during British rule or discovering stories of iconic Jewish personalities from India’s past, Kolkata offers something for everyone looking to uncover its Jewish roots.
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🌍 Celebrating One Year of the Jewish Silk Road Portal
World Jewish Travel was thrilled at #IMTM 2024 to present a copy of the WJT Jewish Silk Road Pressbook to the CEO of the Azerbaijan National Tourism Board Florian Sengstschmid and Jamilya Talibzade its Israeli representative Azerbaijan Tourism Board (ATB).
The Pressbook celebrates the one year anniversary of the Jewish Silk Road Portal launch, an amazing example of using Jewish travel as a means of cultural diplomacy, whilst highlighting the significant Jewish contribution to the ancient trade route. Kudos to our participating partners from the Kiriaty Foundation (Turkey), National Board of Tourism of #Georgia, National Board of Tourism of #Uzbekistan, and Israeli Embassy of #India.
See the overwhelming reaction from the press, by downloading our free pressbook. Special thanks to Moshe Gilad of the @haaretzcom for highlighting this forgotten but important story in the Galeria section of the newspaper and available to download on WJT.
👉Link to WJT Jewsih Silk Rad Pressbook and more is in our bio
🌍 Celebrating One Year of the Jewish Silk Road Portal
World Jewish Travel was thrilled at #IMTM 2024 to present a copy of the WJT Jewish Silk Road Pressbook to the CEO of the Azerbaijan National Tourism Board Florian Sengstschmid and Jamilya Talibzade its Israeli representative Azerbaijan Tourism Board (ATB).
The Pressbook celebrates the one year anniversary of the Jewish Silk Road Portal launch, an amazing example of using Jewish travel as a means of cultural diplomacy, whilst highlighting the significant Jewish contribution to the ancient trade route. Kudos to our participating partners from the Kiriaty Foundation (Turkey), National Board of Tourism of #Georgia, National Board of Tourism of #Uzbekistan, and Israeli Embassy of #India.
See the overwhelming reaction from the press, by downloading our free pressbook. Special thanks to Moshe Gilad of the @haaretzcom for highlighting this forgotten but important story in the Galeria section of the newspaper and available to download on WJT.
👉Link to WJT Jewsih Silk Rad Pressbook and more is in our bio...
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Step into the soul-stirring Pesach traditions of Jerusalem virtually. Experience the resonating echoes of Birkat Kohanim🌿
