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.

Operation 'Wings of Dawn' Announced by the Ministry's Deputy Director General

Deputy Director General, Pines, addresses the conference attendees.

(January 30, 2026) A significant and impactful conference was held at the Kinneret Academic College, in Tiberias, on the 27th of January 2026. The event was meticulously organized by the Ministry of Aliya & Klita, with a specific focus on engaging with the B'nei Menashe youths. The primary objective of the conference was to provide these young individuals with crucial and comprehensive information regarding the various educational and job opportunities available within Israel, thereby facilitating their integration into society. The conference took place from 4 PM to 8 PM, and it was structured thoughtfully to address the myriad challenges that new olim, particularly the youth, encounter as they navigate their new lives in Israel. The event was led by Mr. Moshe Pines, the deputy director general of the Ministry of Aliya & Klita. In his speech, Pines shared a personal anecdote that resonated deeply with many attendees. He recounted the heart-wrenching experience of losing his home in Gush Katif to fire, which forced him to relocate to a neighborhood predominantly inhabited by members of the B'nei Menashe community. This experience not only highlighted the resilience and strength of the B'nei Menashe but also forged a lasting bond between Pines and the community that continues to thrive to this day. The event was ably hosted by Eyal Nitzan, the deputy director of the education

Host Nitzan on the podium.

wing of the ministry, who ensured that everything ran smoothly and efficiently. Among the notable speakers was Ms. Miri Cohen, the director of the education wing, who delivered an uplifting address filled with words of encouragement. She urged all attendees to take full advantage of the educational systems and resources available to them, emphasizing the importance of education as a pathway to success and integration in their new homeland. After the formalities were completed, the atmosphere shifted to a more interactive format as teams of experts, including representatives from Degel Menashe, were assigned specific rooms and tables. Here, participants were encouraged to present their queries and concerns regarding the educational and job markets, fostering an environment of open dialogue and support. This setup allowed for personalized interactions, where the youth could seek guidance tailored to their unique situations and aspirations. As the evening progressed, the conference concluded on a high note with a sumptuous dinner, providing an opportunity for networking and further discussions among the participants and speakers. This

Invitation to the event.

gathering not only served its immediate purpose of informing and empowering the B'nei Menashe youth but also reinforced the sense of community and belonging that is essential for successful integration into Israeli society. The event was a testament to the commitment of the Ministry of Aliya & Klita to support new immigrants in their journey towards a brighter and more fulfilling future in Israel.

The director general made an important announcement regarding the commencement of 'Mivtza Kanfei Shachar,' or Operation Wings of Dawn. This operation is a monumental initiative aimed at facilitating the return of the remaining 5,800 B'nei Menashe, who are currently residing in India, back to their ancestral homeland of Israel. The name of the operation, which translates to "Wings of Dawn," beautifully encapsulates the hope and renewal that this project represents for the B'nei Menashe people. It symbolizes not only a physical journey but also a spiritual and emotional homecoming for those who have long awaited the opportunity to reunite with their heritage and families. The ambitious project is meticulously planned to unfold over a span of five years, commencing in the first quarter of 2026 and aimed for completion by the year 2030. This timeline reflects a well-thought-out approach to ensure that the integration process is smooth and supportive for all involved. Each year, it is anticipated that more than 1,000 B'nei Menashe will successfully reunite with their families in Israel. This gradual approach not only allows for careful planning and execution but also ensures that the returning families receive the necessary support during their transition. Director General Pines has taken up this noble and momentous endeavor with a profound sense of responsibility and commitment, embodying the spirit and aspirations of all B'nei Menashe to return home. The ethos behind this initiative is clear: no one should be left behind, emphasizing the importance of community and family bonds.

Participants pack the auditorium.

Moving Exhibition at the University of Haifa Honors the Bnei Menashe Community and Fallen Soldiers

Photographer Dorit Lombroso speaks at the exhibition.

(January 1, 2026) An emotionally powerful photographic exhibition held on Wednesday, 24 December, at the University of Haifa left a profound impact on all who attended, echoing the resonance of a similar exhibition previously presented at ANU.

Through the lens of acclaimed photographer Dorit Lombroso, the exhibition brought to life the story of the Bnei Menashe community—its deep-rooted faith, historical journey, and enduring sense of belonging to the Jewish people. The photographs offered an intimate and compelling portrayal, transforming personal narratives into a shared national experience.

The exhibition was dedicated to the memory of Gary Zolat and Gary Hanghal, two courageous Bnei Menashe soldiers who lost their lives during the Iron Swords War. Their sacrifice was deeply felt throughout the hall, lending the evening a solemn and reflective atmosphere.

A particularly moving moment came when the fallen soldiers’ sisters, Tiferet Zolat and Mercy Hanghal, addressed the audience. Their personal testimonies—spoken with visible pain, profound pride, and remarkable strength—touched the hearts of all present, leaving few dry eyes in the room.

In her address, Dorit Lombroso shared that the project was born out of a strong sense of responsibility: to give the Bnei Menashe community the recognition it deserves in Israel and to draw attention to the urgent need to advance their Aliyah. “We are Jews. We must help one another,” she emphasized, summarizing the moral message at the heart of the exhibition.

The event was honored by the presence of the Deputy Mayor of Haifa, Ms. Pratibha Sharma from the Indian Embassy, and Professor Assi Meshulam of the University of Haifa. Their attendance underscored the significance of the exhibition and reflected the strong bonds of respect, solidarity, and shared values between communities and institutions.

The exhibition was organized through a joint effort by the University of Haifa, Degel Menashe, and the Indian Jewish Heritage Center (IJHC). This powerful collaboration transformed photographs into voices, memory into action, and collective sorrow into unity.

The evening stood as a poignant testament to remembrance, truth, and Jewish solidarity—an enduring reminder of shared responsibility and the strength found in unity.

Below are some photos from the exhibit at University of Haifa:

Guests arriving at the event.

Photos hung on the walls of the University of Haifa.

Parents of Gary Zolat (L) and Gary Lhanghal (R) with Indian embassy representative, Ms Pratibha Sharma.

Curator Asi Meshulam delivers his remarks.

Audiences attentively listen during the event fostering engagement and inclusivity.

B'nei Menashe women presenting a song.