Discover the Rich Heritage of Jewish Communities in 19th Century Bombay
Introduction
Explore the history and culture of Jewish communities in Bombay during the 19th century.
Who Are We
The Bombay Jewish Archives is a digital repository and website dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history, culture, and contributions of India’s minuscule Jewish community through the lens of the city of Mumbai (erstwhile Bombay till 1995).
Jewish Bollywood
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Art And Culture
In 19th-century Bombay, Jewish culture thrived through the distinct yet complementary traditions of the Bene Israel and Baghdadi Jews. The Bene Israel, rooted in Indian soil for centuries, combined Jewish customs with local Marathi influences, observing Shabbat and holidays in unique, hybrid forms. Meanwhile, the Baghdadi Jews, more recent arrivals from the Middle East, upheld orthodox practices and built synagogues reflecting both Jewish and colonial styles. Both communities celebrated life events with a blend of Jewish and Indian customs, contributing richly to Bombay’s diverse cultural landscape and creating vibrant centers for faith, education, and community life
Who we are
Our organization is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich heritage of Jewish communities in Bombay.
Know More
Discover the Rich Heritage of Jewish Communities in 19th Century Bombay
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Introduction
The Bombay Jewish Archives is a digital repository and website dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history, culture, and contributions of India’s minuscule Jewish community through the lens of the city of Mumbai (erstwhile Bombay till 1995).
Jewish Bollywood:
Despite the fact that Jews are a micro-minority in India, Jewish women played a foundational role in the early twentieth-century Hindi film industry. The stories of Indian Jewish women, like those of other marginalized communities, have historically been ignored by official state archives and Indian society at large, and they have become even less recognized as India’s Jewish community itself has dwindled.
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Historical Timelines & Maps
Explore a map of the city with areas of settlement during the 19th century. Click on a location to learn more about its Jewish heritage.
Culture
In 19th-century Bombay, Jewish culture thrived through the distinct yet complementary traditions of the Bene Israel and Baghdadi Jews. The Bene Israel, rooted in Indian soil for centuries, combined Jewish customs with local Marathi influences, observing Shabbat and holidays in unique, hybrid forms. Meanwhile, the Baghdadi Jews, more recent arrivals from the Middle East, upheld orthodox practices and built synagogues reflecting both Jewish and colonial styles. Both communities celebrated life events with a blend of Jewish and Indian customs, contributing richly to Bombay’s diverse cultural landscape and creating vibrant centers for faith, education a community life
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