Purim Brings Joy to Ma'oz Tzur

Purim at Ma'oz Tzur.

(March 6, 2026) In the midst of ongoing conflict and turmoil, Israel experienced a notably subdued celebration of Purim this year. The government, acutely aware of the precarious security situation, issued calls for restraint regarding public gatherings. This caution came in the wake of missile strikes launched from Iran, a direct response to the dramatic assassination of their supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, along with 40 of his high-ranking military officials who were pivotal in the regime's operations. This event, laden with historical significance, marked a moment of poetic justice; after 47 long years of a grim and persistent threat to obliterate Israel, the tides seemed to shift, albeit in a manner shadowed by ongoing violence and instability. Despite the overarching atmosphere of caution and concern, Kibbutz Ma'oz Tzur was rather exuberant, finding reasons to celebrate Purim with a sense of joy and festivity that contrasted sharply with the mood in Israel. Established just over two years ago, it has become a symbol of hope and renewal for its residents, many of whom had fled from

Guests enjoying Purim Seuda.

the horrors of ethnic cleansing perpetrated by the Meitei fascists in the Imphal Valley. The community has witnessed several significant milestones since its inception, marking its journey from a place of refuge to one of stability and comfort. As the kibbutz residents gathered to celebrate Purim, they did so not only to honour the traditional customs associated with the holiday—such as reading the Megillah, and enjoying festive meals—but also to commemorate their resilience and the new life they have forged in the face of adversity. The atmosphere was filled with a sense of camaraderie and collective strength, as families came together to share in the joy of the holiday, reinforcing the bonds that had been formed through shared experiences of loss, survival, and hope. As they celebrated Purim, the residents of Ma'oz Tzur not only honoured their cultural heritage but also embraced the promise of a brighter future, one where they could live in peace and security, free from the shadows of their past.

Purim Kut 2026 at Kibbutz Maoz Tzur! Please click on this link to view cultural dance by Ma'oz Tzur children.

Children participating in fun Purim activities.

Purim was celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy, particularly focusing on activities that brought smiles to the faces of children. The day was filled with various sports and games designed specifically for the younger members of the community, allowing them to engage in friendly competition and enjoy the festive atmosphere. These activities not only provided entertainment but also fostered a sense of camaraderie among the children, who participated with great enthusiasm. The meal that accompanied the festivities was partly contributed by the residents and partly sponsored by the chairman, Lalam Hangshing, whose commitment to the community is deeply appreciated. His support ensured that everyone present could enjoy a delicious and hearty meal, enhancing the joyful spirit of Purim. The gathering was not just a feast; it was a celebration of unity, where families came together to share in the joy of the occasion. Degel Menashe played a significant role in this celebration, pooling resources to provide rice, a staple food that symbolizes sustenance and community support. Their efforts were crucial in ensuring that the meal was plentiful and satisfying for all attendees. The sense of togetherness was palpable, as

Yehuda and Milka Lhouvum presents pots to Ma'oz Tzur residents.

everyone contributed to the success of the event in their own way. Yehuda and Milka Lhouvum presented community cooking pots for the residents of Ma'oz Tzur, a parting gift since they have been shortlisted for the coming aliya. However, the highlight of the day, the pièce de résistance, was undoubtedly the special gift from Operation Exodus. The organization presented suitcases to the participants, which held profound significance as they prepared for their imminent aliya to Israel. This gesture was not merely a practical gift; it represented hope, new beginnings, and the realization of dreams for many families in the community. The suitcases symbolized the journey ahead, filled with aspirations for a brighter future in a new homeland. A small yet meaningful ceremony was held to mark this moment in the lives of those receiving the suitcases. Elders and executives of BMC(I) Ovadia Touthang, Jonathan Sektak and JK David presided over it. During this ceremony, heartfelt speeches were made, and the atmosphere was filled with gratitude and excitement. The community came together to celebrate not only the joy of Purim but also the significant step towards their future in Israel. Degel Menashe extends its heartfelt thanks to Pastor Abe and his organization, Operation Exodus, for their unwavering support and generosity. Their contribution to helping families is truly commendable, and it is through such partnerships that communities can thrive and grow. The hope is that this collaboration will continue to flourish, leading to even more aliya and cooperation in the future. The spirit of Purim, with its themes of redemption and renewal, resonates deeply as the community looks forward to what lies ahead.

Suitcases from Operation Exodus being presented to those leaving on aliya soon.

Indian PM on State Visit to Israel, Degel's Executive Director in a Delegation meet with him

Prime Minister Modi with the Indian Jewish community in Israel.

(March 2, 2026) The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in India on a highly anticipated two-day state visit to Israel, commencing on the 25th of February 2026. This visit was marked by significant diplomatic importance and was accompanied by a robust delegation comprising 200 members, all traveling aboard a specially designated aircraft that underscored the seriousness and prestige of the occasion. Upon his arrival at Ben Gurion Airport, he was warmly welcomed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife, Sara Netanyahu. This reception was not merely a formality; it highlighted the personal bond between the two leaders, which is a reflection of the deep and warm ties that have developed between India and Israel over the years. The primary objective of this visit was to further strengthen bilateral relations across various domains,

including defense, trade, and other peripheral areas, all of which are crucial to both nations. The relationship

Prime Minister listens attentively to a presentation by Dina Samte.

has been on a steady upward trajectory since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1992, evolving significantly in scope and depth. Notably, a major component of the discussions was a substantial defense deal valued at $8.6 billion with Israeli arms industries, which positions Israel as India's second-largest defense supplier, just behind France.

The first day of Prime Minister Modi’s visit was particularly memorable, as it featured a vibrant reception hosted by the Indian Jewish community at the prestigious King David Hotel in Jerusalem. The turnout was overwhelming, exceeding expectations and placing considerable demands on security personnel tasked with managing the event. Among the highlights of the evening was a performance by Dina Samte, a talented B'nei Menashe singer, who welcomed the delegates with a song "I Love my India", a popular contemporary Hindi song that resonated deeply with the attendees. This performance was not only well-received but also left a lasting impression, as Prime Minister Modi later remarked on the significance of her contributions during his subsequent meeting with Isaac Thangjom, the executive director of Degel Menashe. Dina is a member of the renowned Israeli band "Shalva," which has enjoyed considerable success both in Israel and internationally, showcasing the cultural ties that bind the two nations. Following this warm reception, Prime Minister Modi addressed the Knesset where he mentioned the the four Indian Jewish communities, including the B'nei Menashe. He acknowledged their invaluable contributions to both India and

PM Modi with Jessica Thangjom during his earlier visit in 2017.

Israel, emphasizing that these communities serve as 'the living bridge' between the two countries. It is noteworthy that this visit marks Modi's second trip to Israel, the first being in July 2017, thereby completing a significant circle in his diplomatic engagements.

The following day, Executive Director Thangjom of Degel Menashe was among the select members of the Indian Jewish community who had the honour of meeting with Prime Minister Modi in a more intimate setting. This meeting took place in a private hall at the historic King David Hotel, following Modi's earlier discussions with Isaac Herzog, the President of Israel, that morning. During this smaller gathering, Thangjom expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the B'nei Menashe community and the broader Indian community for the support and cooperation extended by the Indian government regarding the aliya initiatives being facilitated by the Israeli government. He reassured the Prime Minister of the community's commitment to continue working diligently towards enhancing and strengthening the bilateral ties between India and Israel. This meeting not only reinforced the existing bonds but also set the stage for future collaborations that are expected to benefit both nations.

Thangjom with prominent members of the Indian Jewish community members prepare for a meeting with PM Modi.

Inspiring Evening at Museum of Islamic Art, Jerusalem Celebrates the Bnei Menashe Story

Ronia Lunkhel presents an insightful story of the B'nei Menashe at L.A. Mayer Museum for Islamic Art, Jerusalem.

(February 20, 2026) As part of "India Month" at the Museum of Islamic Art in Jerusalem, Degel Menashe’s Executive Director had the honour of attending a remarkable evening dedicated to the story of the Bnei Menashe community. At the heart of the event was a powerful and captivating lecture delivered by the talented young speaker, Ronia Lunkhel. With grace, clarity, and heartfelt conviction, Ronia shared the journey of the Bnei Menashe -- a story woven with faith, longing, resilience, and an unbreakable connection to the Jewish people. The hall was filled to capacity, drawing participants from diverse Jewish communities, all eager to listen and engage. Throughout the evening, the audience remained deeply attentive, visibly moved by the narrative of a community that held onto its identity across generations and continents, ultimately returning to what was once an unknown land to their forefathers, now their cherished home.

The museum's display on the program.

Ronia’s storytelling did more than simply recount history; it served to vividly bring the journey of the Bnei Menashe to life in a way that engaged the senses and emotions of her audience. Her eloquent narrative was not just a series of events strung together; it was a tapestry woven with rich details, personal anecdotes, and cultural significance that painted a comprehensive picture of their experiences. Each word she spoke resonated deeply, striking a chord within the hearts of her listeners and igniting a flame of curiosity and inspiration that lingered long after the formal lecture had concluded. As she recounted tales of resilience, hope, and the enduring spirit of the Bnei Menashe, her passionate delivery captivated the audience, drawing them into the emotional landscape of her stories. The vivid imagery she conjured allowed attendees to envision the struggles and triumphs of the Bnei Menashe people, making their historical journey feel immediate and relatable. Many attendees, moved by the depth of her storytelling, lingered in the hall long after the event had ended, reluctant to part ways with the profound insights they had gained. They engaged in animated discussions, sharing their reflections and expressing a strong desire to continue learning about the rich heritage and traditions of the Bnei Menashe. This collective eagerness to explore further underscored the impact of Ronia's narrative, as it not only educated but also fostered a community of individuals eager to delve deeper into the stories of those who have navigated complex histories. In this way, Ronia’s storytelling transcended mere historical recounting; it became a catalyst for connection and understanding, inspiring attendees to seek out more knowledge and appreciation for the Bnei Menashe heritage and the broader tapestry of human experience.

Audience listen to a story unfolding.

The evening stood as a testament to the power of authentic storytelling - how one voice, when guided by passion and truth, can bridge cultures and strengthen communal bonds.

Special appreciation was extended to Rafi Bhonker, Tirtza Levi , Jessica Thangjom from IJHC and our heartfelt appreciation as well to Gilad Levian, General Director from the Museum of Islamic Art and to Hadar Fractenberg, in-charge of the event, for organizing an impactful and beautifully executed event that left a lasting impression on all who attended.

With such enthusiasm and heartfelt engagement, there is already anticipation for another gathering to continue this meaningful dialogue.

Organizers and participants of the event pose for a post-event photo.