Feast of Dedication and a Mikveh in Aizawl

Earlier this month, a rabbinical delegation headed to Mizoram in northeast India to conduct screening interviews for the Bnei Menashe community eagerly awaiting aliyah (Jewish migration to Israel). During their short stay in the state capital Aizawl from the first of December to the tenth of the month, the delegation paid a visit on Shabbat eve (Friday morning), December 5, 2025, to the Main Synagogue located in the Dawrpui West neighbourhood of central Aizawl.

Rabbinical delegation mesmerised by the commanding city view.

The Shlomtzion synagogue, which currently serves as the spiritual home for a little over fifty members has been under community management since the 1990s when the property deed was acquired through the combined and tireless efforts of the Rabbi Eliyahu Avichail led Amishav organistaion, community elders and notable Christian well-wishers.

The synagogue hall was temporarily housed in a structure made of semi-durable materials: gypsum board walling on a wooden frame with corrugated metal sheet roofing. Over time, the congregation constructed a more durable brick and mortar synagogue hall and even built a rudimentary mikveh (ritual immersion pool).

By virtue of its prime location in central Aizawl, the visiting rabbinical delegation was mesmerized by the commanding city view as they stood at the synagogue balcony. They even inspected the three sifrei Torah (Torah scrolls) housed in the synagogue premises, one of which has the distinction of being donated by Rav Avichail. Before taking their leave, the delegation sat down to a modest morning meal at the synagogue dining hall. Gamliel Thomte, chairman of the Shlomtzion synagogue, noted, “In all my years I never could have imagined that such an august rabbinical delegation would not only visit and have a look at our synagogue, but that they would also sit down to a meal at our humble synagogue. I give thanks to Hashem who has graced us with the privilege of such esteemed guests”.

Delegation team enjoying a humble meal at Shlomtzion

While the delegation carefully surveyed the synagogue, what caught their attention was the mikveh in the premises which was in sore need of repair but which had been put off due to the paucity of congregation funds. Rav Uriel Shlomi, spiritual overseer of the Bnei Menashe in Nof haGalil, northern Israel, immediately stepped in and handed over a handsome sum to the synagogue chairman, Gamliel Thomte. He discussed the manner in which the necessary repairs were to be conducted in line with halacha (Jewish law) and encouraged the congregation to keep the commandment of the mikveh close to their hearts.

Rav Uriel Shlomi handed a handsome sum to the synagogue Chairman, Gamliel Thomte.

The congregation fulfilled the charge by the rabbi with due alacrity and once the current round of aliyah interviews were completed, a communal work programme was announced by the synagogue elders and duly completed in time for Chanukah (Feast of Dedication), on Chanukah eve, December 14. A celebratory feast was organised on the eve of Zot Chanukah (the last night of Chanukah), December 21, to mark the joyous occasion of completing the mikveh repairs alongside a naming ceremony for the erstwhile unnamed mikveh.

With regard to the naming of the mikveh, the synagogue leadership put their heads together and after careful consideration agreed upon the name “Ohr Shalom” (Light of Peace). Three distinct ideas formed the basis for this name: firstly, the name of the donor, Rav Uriel (Light of Hashem); secondly, the contemporaneous festival of Chanukah, also known as Chag Urim (Festival of Lights); and thirdly, the name of the synagogue, Shlomtzion (Peace of Zion).

Congregants were spiritually uplifted by the attention and concern exhibited by the rabbi and expressed their deep gratitude. Leah Renthlei, a long-time member of the synagogue observed, “Observing niddah (ritual law regarding menstruation) followed by a purifying immersion in the mikveh is one of the key commandments charged to Jewish women. May Hashem richly bless this donation by Rav Shlomi and may it uplift all who immerse in the purifying waters of this mikveh in the years to come”.

Safira Pachuau, another congregant, reflected, “Although I am personally no longer bound by niddah, I am moved by how reverently Rav Shlomi holds the commandment of mikveh. I have used this incident as a vital learning opportunity to impress upon my young daughter the centrality of a mikveh in the life of a married Jewish woman”.

Nadav Hauhnar, treasurer of the Shlomtzion synagogue, shared effusively, “As a congregation we have deliberated on the pending repairs to the mikveh on several occasions, but have been held back on each instance by our meagre coffers. The visit by the rabbinical delegation and the open-hearted donation by Rav Shlomi are an answer from heaven to our financial difficulties. We express our immense gratitude to Rav Shlomi and especially to Hashem who has used the rabbi as an instrument of blessing for our congregation.”

With the completion of the necessary repairs as per the instructions of the rabbi, the Ohr Shalom mikveh at the Shlomtzion synagogue in Aizawl now stands ready to be used by all those who stand in need of its purifying waters. May the observation of the commandment regarding the mikveh be to the merit of all who immerse in it, and may it be to the merit of the Bnei Menashe waiting eagerly their aliyah to the holy land.

Chanukah candle lighting in Shlomtzion

Delegation Visits B'nei Menashe at Aizawl

B'nei Menashe gather at Aizawl to meet the delegates.

(December 15, 2025) In late November, a delegation, a first of its kind, led by the deputy director-general of the Ministry of Aliya & Absorption, Moshe Pines, consisting of 25 members, landed at the capital of picturesque Mizoram, Aizawl. This carefully selected team was composed of a diverse group of officials from various sectors, including representatives from the Foreign Ministry, the Chief Rabbinate, the Jewish Agency, and several expatriate members of the B'nei Menashe who filled crucial roles as translators and facilitators throughout the initiative. These translators were instrumental in bridging any communication gaps, ensuring that cultural

A family faces an interview with a dayan.

nuances were respected and understood during the interactions with the local population. The primary objective of the delegation was to engage with the B'nei Menashe community, assessing their aspirations to Aliya, the immigration process for those wishing to return to Israel. According to official sources, during the nearly two-week initiative, approximately 3,300 out of the total 5,800 community members were interviewed and vetted by the dayanim, or rabbinical judges, who are responsible for determining their commitments. This vetting process was thorough and comprehensive, aimed at ensuring that all applicants met the necessary criteria for immigration, which is a critical step in the Aliya process. The interviews conducted were not merely procedural; they were imbued with a sense of hope and anticipation for many individuals and families who have long awaited the opportunity to reconnect with their heritage, homeland and families. The dayanim engaged in discussions that delved into the personal histories of the interviewees, exploring their identities, traditions, and the unique circumstances

Deputy director-general, Pines with an appreciative family.

that have shaped their lives in this part of the region. As the delegation navigated through Aizawl, they were met with a mixture of excitement and curiosity from the local B'nei Menashe community, who expressed their gratitude for the support and attention from Israeli officials. The initiative highlighted the importance of cultural and religious identity, as well as the ongoing commitment of the State of Israel to assist Jewish communities worldwide in their quest for connection and fulfillment of their rights to return. Ultimately, this significant undertaking was not just about numbers and immigration; it was about the rekindling of a shared heritage and the reaffirmation of a collective identity that spans across millenniums, continents and generations.

The program could and should have taken place in Lamka, a town with the largest B'nei Menashe population located in the erstwhile Manipur, but the tragic and ongoing ethnic cleansing perpetrated by the Meiteis against the Kuki-Zo community since May 2023 rendered such an event entirely impossible. The

violence and unrest have created an atmosphere of fear and instability, making it unsafe for individuals to gather and participate in any organized activities in the area. This situation is particularly poignant given that a vast majority of the B'nei Menashe, a community with deep historical and cultural ties to the region, reside in this area. Their presence adds a layer of complexity and urgency to the situation, as they too have been affected by the escalating conflict. Logistics for the program had to be arranged on a grand scale, reflecting the challenges posed by the current circumstances. Organizers faced the daunting task of transporting close to

Preparing for an early morning journey to Aizawl.

3,000 people across a treacherous terrain characterized by twisty mountain roads that extend over 350 kilometers in length. The journey is not only physically demanding but also time-consuming, often taking over 12 hours to complete. This logistical nightmare required meticulous planning and coordination to ensure the safety and well-being of all involved. To facilitate the movement of participants, a fleet of approximately 10 mini-buses and SUVs was deployed, arriving every evening and morning for a span of 9 consecutive days, excluding Shabbaths. Each vehicle was tasked with bringing interviewees from their homes to the designated gathering point, and then safely returning them back to Lamka after their participation. The commitment to ensuring that individuals could still engage in the program, despite the dire circumstances, speaks volumes about the resilience and determination of the organizers and the community members involved. The entire operation was not merely a logistical exercise; it was a testament to the human spirit's ability to adapt and persevere in the face of adversity, highlighting the importance of maintaining cultural

Delegates visit Shlom Tzion synagogue at Aizawl.

connections and community solidarity even amidst chaos. Those are the lucky ones. Community members from the northern reaches like Kangpokpi, Saikul, Phalbung and including Nagaland have to take a more circuitous routes covering three states, Nagaland, Assam and finally Mizoram. They begin their journey from their villages, hamlets towards the nearest railhead, Dimapur town in Nagaland which can be up to a hundred kilometers or more, taking several hours. From there they board a train, travel to Lumding in Assam where they change train to reach Sairang, near Aizawl in Mizoram. In all, it can take about 24 hours or more to reach the destination.

Despite facing both anticipated and unforeseen challenges, the mission was successfully accomplished. We extend our profound gratitude to the Ministry of Aliya & Absorption, led by Moshe Pines, and commend the Jewish Agency personnel, particularly Almog Moskowitz and Yosef Havtamo, among others, for their tireless dedication day and night to ensure its success. We also express our appreciation to the dayanim who embarked on this challenging yet spiritually noble endeavor. Together may we merit to see all B'nei Menashe in Jerusalem!

The team preparing to fly to India.

Degel Menashe's Chairman, Hillel Halkin, speaks at the LILA Conference at Haifa University

Hillel Halkin at the podium telling the story of the B'nei Menashe

(November 11, 2025) The LILA conference, a significant gathering dedicated to exploring the rich tapestry of Indian Jewish heritage and culture, was held on the 30th floor of the Ofer Observatory at Haifa University on the 5th of November, 2025. This event was organized in loving memory of Captian,Or Moses and Major Gil Daniel. The conference was made possible through a fruitful collaboration between the University’s esteemed Faculty of Humanities and several key organizations, including The Indian Jewish Heritage Center, The Cochin Jewish Heritage Center, and Degel Menashe all of which share a profound commitment to preserving and promoting the diverse narratives of Jewish history. The program was meticulously curated and expedited under the able guidance of Dr. Micha Perry. Dr. Perry's leadership ensured that the conference not only honored Capt. Moses but also provided a platform for scholars, historians, and community leaders to engage in meaningful discussions about the multifaceted aspects of Jewish identity, culture, and heritage. Throughout the day, attendees were treated to a series of thought-provoking lectures, panel discussions, and interactive workshops that delved into various topics. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and intellectual curiosity, as participants exchanged ideas though various lectures. Moreover, the stunning location of the Ofer Observatory provided a breathtaking backdrop for the event, allowing participants to not only engage in scholarly discourse but also to appreciate the beauty of Haifa’s landscape.

The flyer for the event.

The conference, a significant gathering for the exploration of cultural and historical narratives, brought together distinguished scholars, researchers, and esteemed guests from various backgrounds, creating a vibrant atmosphere of intellectual exchange and dialogue. Among the notable speakers was Hillel Halkin, the chairman of Degel Menashe, who delivered a spirited and insightful presentation that offered a unique glimpse into the story of the B'nei Menashe community. Halkin, a prominent figure in Jewish literature and thought, is well-known for his extensive writings, including his acclaimed book 'Across the Sabbath River,' which explores the intricate connections between B'nei Menashe and ancient Israel. Furthermore, he co-authored another significant work titled 'Lives of the Children of Manasia' alongside Isaac Thangjom, the Executive Director of Degel Menashe, which was released just a couple of years ago. This collaborative effort delves into the lives, struggles, and resilience of the B'nei Menashe, providing a comprehensive account of their journey and cultural identity. Following Halkin's engaging presentation, the audience was introduced to Suraj Ranjan, a doctoral student from India who has devoted the last several years to studying the B'nei Menashe community in Israel. Ranjan's research focuses on the challenges and triumphs faced by this unique group as they navigate their identity in a new cultural landscape. His findings shed light on the intricacies of their integration into Israeli society. The depth of his study adds a valuable perspective to the ongoing discourse surrounding diaspora communities and their adaptation processes.

The conference in progress with attendees listening attentively.

The conference featured a diverse lineup of guest speakers, including esteemed academics such as Prof. Arye Edrei, Elias Dandekar, Dr. Limor Kattan, Dr. Kenneth Robbins, each bringing their expertise to the table. They guided the audience through a captivating journey that spanned various Jewish communities, illustrating their historical significance and cultural evolution throughout what constitutes modern India. Their presentations encompassed a wide range of topics, from the historical migrations of Jews to India to the contemporary experiences of these communities in a rapidly changing world. This rich tapestry of narratives not only highlighted the resilience and adaptability of Jewish communities but also emphasized the importance of preserving their unique identities amidst globalization.

Executive Director, Isaac Thangjom with Dr. Micha Perry.

Overall, the conference served as a crucial platform for fostering dialogue and understanding among scholars, practitioners, and community members, reinforcing the significance of studying and appreciating the diverse narratives that shape the Jewish experience in India and beyond. The exchange of ideas and the sharing of personal stories contributed to a deeper appreciation of the complexities involved in maintaining cultural identity in a globalized context, making the event a memorable and impactful experience for all involved.

The Indian Embassy in Israel sent Deputy Ambassador, Mr. Sarvjeet Soodan to participate in the conference. He remarked that it was his third visit to the city when he joined the mission barely a couple of months and gave a thoughtful talk on the importance of such conference. Alongside him was Mr. Jonah Yahav, the Mayor of Haifa, a city known for its rich culture and historical significance. Mayor Yahav's involvement highlighted a deep commitment to the subject matter. In a poignant conclusion to the event, final remarks were delivered by Rafi Bhonkar, the chairman of the Indian Jewish Heritage Center. Bhonkar's address encapsulated the essence of the day's proceedings with an emphasized vital role of heritage in bridging communities. He reflected on the shared history and values that bind the India and Jewish peoples, advocating for continued dialogue and collaboration, that can only benefit all stakeholders.