Restoring the Jewel of Mumbai
After 20 months of relentless work of restoration, the 135-year-old Keneseth Eliyahoo synagogue in the Kala Ghoda area, more popularly known as the Blue Synagogue, was inaugurated on Thursday, 7th February, 2019.
JSW Group is extremely proud to have supported the restoration of this historic monument, which is a part of Mumbai's rich cultural tapestry. Thanks to the efforts of the entire team, an important temple of worship for the Jewish community has been restored to its original glory and colour.
The restored neo-classical structure was inaugurated by Israel’s Ambassador to India, Dr Ron Malka and the Governor of Maharashtra, C Vidyasagar Rao.
Located in the heart of Mumbai’s art district, the Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue is a Grade IIA Classical Revival Structure protected under the Heritage Regulations for Greater Bombay 1995. And now, this place of worship is open to all.
In a first, non-Jews will not only be allowed to walk inside to admire the place of worship, but will also be welcomed to take part in the prayers. Sending out a message of secularism, Solomon Sopher, leader of the Baghdadi Jewish community in Mumbai, said, “Everyone is welcome here. Be it Muslim, Christian, Hindu, or any other community.”
The event also underlined secularism and gender equality.
C Vidyasagar Rao
Governor of Maharashtra
“Girls, when given the opportunity, scale great heights. It is a privilege to note that this restoration work is the hard work and dedication of three women.”
Dr. Ron Malka
Israel’s Ambassador to India
“Many Jews moved to Israel from India, playing an important role in strengthening the relationship between the two countries. I want to congratulate the Maharashtra Government for formally recognising the Jewish community.”
A Glimpse of the Restored Synagogue
