Bene Israel Jews
The Bene Israel Jews are the largest historic Indian Jewish community, originally residing in the Konkan region of Maharashtra before migrating to Bombay (now Mumbai).
Currently, about 3,500 members of this community still live in India.
Origins
The Bene Israel are believed to be one of the two oldest Jewish communities in India, with an oral tradition that claims their ancestors were shipwreck survivors who arrived more than 2,000 years ago.
Occupation
For centuries, they were known as the “Saturday oil-pressers” because they abstained from work on the Jewish Sabbath.
Migration
Many Bene Israel moved from the Konkan villages to urban centers like Bombay (Mumbai) beginning in the 18th century.
Synagogues
Today, between 13 and 15 Bene Israel synagogues and prayer halls still stand across India. As the country’s largest Jewish community, the Bene Israel built the vast majority of India’s Jewish houses of worship—primarily in the Bombay and Konkan regions—leaving behind a rich architectural and cultural legacy.
Modern Demographics
Most of the community now resides in Israel, with approximately 4,000 remaining in India.
Unique Tradition
One of their many unique customs is the Seder Malida, a thanksgiving ceremony dedicated to the Prophet Elijah, featuring blessings over fruits, flowers, and sweetened flattened rice, in remembrance of the offerings made during the Temple times.