Gleaming chandeliers await you. Welcome to the Magen David Synagogue. This magnificent structure stands as a testament to Kolkata’s diverse cultural heritage and the once-thriving Jewish community.
The Magen David Synagogue. Its story began in 1884. Elias David Ezra built it. He dedicated it to the memory of his father David Joseph Ezra. The Ezra family made their fortune in Kolkata’s real estate trade. They were associated with iconic buildings like Esplanade Mansion and Ezra Mansion. Ezra Street itself bears their name.
Look up to see the Italian Renaissance style. The Magen David Synagogue boasts a striking brick-red finish. It stands at the junction of Brabourne Road and Canning Street. Many Calcuttans are unaware of its existence. Some even mistake it for a church.
Notice the arched door. It marks the entrance. The hexagonal Star of David adorns it with Hebrew inscriptions. Take a moment to read the memorial plaques on the side walls. These plaques honor the well-known Jews of Calcutta.
Step inside the Magen David Synagogue. You will be amazed by the well-maintained interior. Even though services have long stopped here. The chequered marble floor feels cool beneath your feet. Chandeliers sparkle above. Stained glass windows cast colorful patterns. Ornate floral pillars add to its Continental look. These pillars were shipped all the way from Paris.
Observe the ark. It is set into the walls of an apse. The star-studded half-dome above represents the heavens. A large plaque displays the Ten Commandments. Hebrew inscriptions and Jewish symbols are everywhere. Spot the seven-branched lamp stand of the menorah.
Gaze upwards to the beautiful stained glass rose window. It sits high above the wall opposite the ark. In the center of the hall is the bimah. It is the raised platform where the Torah was read. Two sets of stairs lead to the upper balconies. These balconies were reserved for women.
The Magen David Synagogue. It is more than just a building. It represents the Baghdadi Jews who came to Kolkata for trade. Their community once numbered 6000. Today only about 30 remain. Shalom Cohen was the first recorded Jewish immigrant. He arrived in Kolkata in 1798 from Aleppo in Syria. The Ezra family was perhaps the most influential. They contributed significantly to the city.
The Magen David Synagogue stands alongside the Neveh Shalome Synagogue. Both are accessible to the public. Both are protected by the Archaeological Survey of India. The Beth El Synagogue also operates to this day.
Don’t forget to visit Nahoum’s in the New Market. This Jewish confectioner and bakery is a Kolkata institution. It was founded in 1902. It moved to its present location in 1916.
The Magen David Synagogue. It is a reminder of a vibrant past. It is a symbol of cultural diversity. It stands as a protected monument. It connects us to Kolkata’s rich Jewish heritage. Take with you the stories and images of this special place.