JSW's restoration & reconstruction project gains international recognition
The Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagouge was on the evening of the 13th of October recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, during the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation in Penang, Malaysia.
The synagogue, the second oldest Sephardic synagogue in the city of Mumbai, re-opened its doors to worshipers and the public in early February 2019 post a 20 month restoration effort. This historic monument designed by Bombay architects Gostling and Morris in 1884 had over the years, started fading, due to lack of funds for conservation.
In 2017, JSW Group, along with its teams of expert professionals and architects took the initiative to restore the synagogue. This included structural and roof repairs as well as the restoration of the synagogue’s stunning nineteenth-century stained glass windows. Today, this important place of worship for the Jewish community has been returned to its original glory and for the first time, welcomes even the non-Jews to take part in the prayers.
After 20 months of relentless work, Mumbai's Blue Synagogue opened its doors to everyone of February 7th, 2019. This historic monument is the second oldest Sephardic synagogue in the city, which was designed by Bombay architects Gostling and Morris in 1884. Over the years, the iconic building and its decorative interiors had started fading, due to lack of funds for conservation.
About Mumbai’s Iconic Blue Synagogue
Built in the year 1884, Knesset Eliyahoo Synagogue is a classical revival building. It was constructed by Jacob Sassoon, the grandson of businessman-philanthropist David Sassoon, to augment prayer services for the sub-community of Jews living in Mumbai. Its Neoclassic elements such as cast-iron columns, Minton-style tiles and chandeliers as well as beautiful stained-glass windows were all imported from Stroke-on-Trent in England.
The city’s Baghdadi and Bene Israel Jewish communities, as well as Jews from countries outside of India, visit the synagogue to pray as well as admire its notable Neoclassical and Gothic-Victorian architecture and features.
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.”
