Introduction

The Jews of Mumbai represent one of the most distinctive strands of the city’s diverse communities. Comprising primarily two sub group namely the Bene Israel and the Baghdadi Jews, the community has contributed substantially with David Sassoon being one of the legends from the community. 1796 saw the first synagogue in town in form of Gate of Mercy Synagogue, also called as Shaar Harahamim and Juni Masjid. There’s an interesting story behind its construction. Samuel Divekar, the moving force behind the synagogue, served in the British East Indian army. During an Anglo-Mysore battle, he was captured by Tipu Sultan. Just before putting him to sword, Tipu Sultan is supposed to have asked Divekar about his caste affiliation. On hearing that he was a Bene Israel, Tipu’s mother (according to another version it was Tipu’s wife) requested that he be left alive as she had heard of the 'caste' in the Koran. A devout Muslim, Tipu spared Divekar life. While being taken prisoner, Divekar had resolved to build a synagogue as thanksgiving to his God if he survived. The synagogue was built in 1796 by Samuel Divekar near Esplanade in South Mumbai. It was later rebuilt and moved to its present location at Mandvi in 1860. It was at the heart of a small but thriving Jewish community that inhabited the area back then. The synagogue is also prominently featured in the city’s heritage circuit. It is attended mostly by the city’s Bene Israel community.

Another prominent synagogue is the Knesset Eliyahoo. Built in 1883, it draws a mixed Baghdadi-Bene Israel crowd for its service. A beautiful pastel-blue structure built in colonial style of is decorated with wide wooden staircases, decorative floor tiles and fine stained-glass windows. It was built by David Sassoon’s sons - Jacob Elias Sassoon and his brothers – in memory of their father. It is managed by the Jacob Sassoon Trust.

Special Attributes

Very distinctive feel

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress conservatively

Connectivity

Train, Bus and Cab

Enjoyed by

History and culture buff, and knowledge seekers

Exposure

None

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

All facilities available in proximity.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

Keep your cell phone on silent mode

Type of site

Synagogue