Journey to the Bene Israel Community in India

Beit Avi Chai presents “Journey to the Bene Israel Community in India”: A fascinating evening about Jewish roots on the subcontinent, in collaboration with the Indian Embassy in Israel.

The Bene Israel are the most ancient Jewish community in India. The community’s unique narrative is the tale of the vitality and vulnerability of a tiny minority that lived under Hindu and Muslim influence for many years, isolated from all other Jews.Although very few members of this once-splendid community remain in India, the émigrés inherited a rich lore of captivating stories, distinctive music, and ancient traditions, which will be showcased at this special evening.

Moderator: Tzur Sheizaf

• Mr. Navtej Sarna, Indian Ambassador to Israel-opening remarks• Dr. Shalva Weil, NCJW Research Institute for Innovation in Education, Hebrew University-on the Bene Israel community• Sophie Judah, author of Dropped from Heaven, a member of the Bene Israel communityTwo of Ms. Judah’s stories, which were translated specially into Hebrew for this event, will be read.

The Tslilei Rag ensemble will perform traditional musical and vocal pieces.Gideon Talker, paytan, vocalsOfer Talker, bulbul tarangYigal Dan, tabla and percussionAvi Kasuker, harmonium

A reception featuring Indian delicacies will be held at 7:30 PM.