Rosh Hodesh Elul at Ma'oz Tzur, Indian Independence Day at Israel

Women of Ma'oz Tzur recite Tehillim.

(August 24, 2025) Today, the womenfolk of Kibbutz Ma'oz Tzur came together to warmly welcome the month of Elul, a significant time in the Jewish calendar that holds deep spiritual meaning. This month is not only a precursor to the High Holidays but also marks the beginning of the 40 penitential days leading up to Yom Kippur, which is the holiest day in Judaism. During this sacred period, individuals engage in self-reflection, repentance, and prayer, seeking to mend their relationships with both God and fellow human beings. As the sun rose over the kibbutz, the atmosphere was filled with a sense of reverence and anticipation.

A new shofar.

They began their observance with prayers and the recitation of Tehillim, the Book of Psalms, which is traditionally read during this time to invoke divine mercy and forgiveness. Each verse resonated with the collective yearning for spiritual growth and reconciliation as they prepared their hearts for the upcoming days of reflection. Elul serves as a time for introspection, a period to evaluate one's actions over the past year and to make amends where necessary. It is a month characterized by the sounding of the shofar, a ram's horn, which serves as a wake-up call to the soul, urging individuals to engage in self-examination and to return to their spiritual roots. This year, the congregation has received a new shofar from Degel Menashe, an event that has added to the excitement and significance of their observance. The shofar is not merely an instrument; it symbolizes a call to repentance and the awakening of the spirit, making it an essential element of the High Holiday preparations. As the women continued with their prayers, the sound of the shofar echoed through the air, marking the beginning of this sacred month. Following the prayers, discussions turned to the upcoming celebrations of Rosh HaShana, the Jewish New Year, which will soon follow Elul, and the subsequent festival of Succot, also known as the Feast of Tabernacles. Each of these holidays carries its own unique customs and meanings, contributing to the rich tapestry of Jewish life and spirituality. As they embraced the month of Elul, they looked forward to the opportunities for growth, forgiveness, and renewal that lay ahead, embodying the spirit of hope and unity that defines this important time in the Jewish calendar.

Indian Independence Day at Israel

Ambassador J.P. Singh flanked by Yitzhak Thangjom and his wife, Jessica.

The 79th Indian Independence Day was observed with at the residence of the newly appointed ambassador, His Excellency Mr. J.P. Singh, who took over the reins of the Indian diplomatic mission earlier this year. The event was a significant occasion, marking not only the celebration of India's freedom but also the beginning of Mr. Singh's tenure in a pivotal role representing India abroad. Among the guests, the executive director of Degel Menashe, along with his wife, were invited to grace the ceremony with their presence, adding to the diversity of the gathering. The celebration was replete with a vibrant cultural show which showcased Indian traditions and heritage. Attendees were treated to a sumptuous feast featuring an array of delicious Indian cuisine. It is reliably learned that Mr. Singh is not just a diplomat but a real-life hero who played a central role in a remarkable and courageous rescue operation. He was instrumental in rescuing an Indian citizen who found herself trapped in a harrowing marriage in Pakistan. His exploits have garnered significant attention and admiration, leading to their portrayal in a Bollywood movie titled "Diplomat" which stars the popular actor John Abraham. The film dramatizes Mr. Singh's heroic actions, bringing his story to a wider audience and highlighting the challenges faced by individuals in distressing situations. Through this cinematic representation, audiences are reminded of the complexities of international relations and the personal sacrifices made by those who work tirelessly to ensure the safety and dignity of their fellow citizens.

Hanna Hmar: A Profile in Success and an Inspiration

Hanna receiving her scholarship and a book from Hillel Halkin, chairman, Degel Menashe, earlier this year.

(August 6, 2025) In continuing with stories of success, Degel Menashe is proud to introduce our readers to Hanna Hmar, a remarkable 25-year-old from Afula, who is currently in her third and final year as an undergraduate student of Molecular Biology at Ariel University. Hanna's journey is not just about academic achievement; it is also a testament to resilience, family values, and the pursuit of dreams. She made the significant commitment to aliya alongside her parents, Azriel and Ma'ayan Hmar, and her younger brother, Malachi, in 2014, when they relocated from Aizawl, Mizoram, a picturesque state in India known for its lush landscapes and vibrant culture.

Hanna, as a child in Aizawl, Mizoram.

Hanna's academic endeavors have been supported by Degel Menashe's scholarship program, which has played a crucial role in her educational journey, enabling her to focus on her studies without the heavy burden of financial stress. This support has allowed her to thrive in a challenging field like Molecular Biology, where she is not only learning about the intricacies of life at the molecular level but also preparing herself for a future where she hopes to contribute significantly to scientific advancements. Reflecting on her childhood, Hanna describes her upbringing in Aizawl, a city that, while not large by global standards, is characterized by its dense population and narrow, winding roads that snake through the hilly terrain. Despite its size, Aizawl is rich in culture and community, providing a nurturing environment for Hanna and her family. She fondly remembers the values instilled in her by her parents, who emphasized the importance of aiming high and working diligently to achieve one's goals. This foundational belief has been a guiding force in her life, motivating her to pursue her aspirations relentlessly. Growing up with a younger sibling, Malachi, brought both joy and challenges for Hanna. She took on the role of a mentor and role model, navigating the complexities of sibling dynamics while also balancing her own academic and personal expectations. This experience has taught her valuable lessons in responsibility, patience, and the importance of setting a positive example. As she reflects on her experiences, Hanna often recalls her guiding principle: "Give your best and accept all outcomes with peace." This mantra not only encapsulates her approach to education but also serves as a reminder to embrace life’s unpredictability with grace and resilience. Hanna's story is a powerful reminder of the potential that lies within individuals who are willing to work hard and stay committed to their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they may face. Her journey from Aizawl to Afula is not just about geographical relocation; it symbolizes a transformative experience filled with growth, learning, and the unwavering support of family and community. As she prepares to graduate and take the next steps in her career, Hanna Hmar stands as an inspiring figure for many, embodying the spirit of perseverance and the pursuit of knowledge.

The Hmar family, post-Aliya in Israel, 2014.

Hanna describes her initial years in Israel in her own words:

"That first year was incredibly hard. I was thrown into a completely new world, new country, new language, new culture, new friends. I was overwhelmed in every possible way. I still remember calling my parents in the middle of the night, sobbing because I felt so lost. It was one of the loneliest moments of my life. Things began to change in 10th grade. My Hebrew improved, slowly but steadily. I kept a notebook where I wrote down new words every day, determined to understand and be understood. That small habit gave me control in a world that felt too big. And with the language came something even greater a love for learning. My teachers played a huge part in that. You could feel how much they loved their subjects, and their passion was contagious. The subject I loved most was biology. Strangely enough, it was also my most difficult one. Our teacher would dictate everything, and if you missed even a sentence, it was gone, which made it even harder, I’d stay up late preparing for tests, rewriting notes, and learning material line by line. Despite the difficulty, I loved every single minute of that subject. One of the moments I’m proudest of was when my biology teacher personally called me after our final exams. She told me how proud she was, and that I truly deserved my grade. She saw the effort I put in, and for me, that recognition meant more than the grade itself. The biggest challenge I faced was the language barrier. Sometimes I could understand each word in a sentence, yet the sentence still made no sense to me. It’s a strange kind of confusion and one I still face today in my academic studies. Learning to think, process, and speak in a second language is not something that happens overnight. Even after ten years, I’m still adjusting."

Hanna shared with our newsletter that she has always dreamed of becoming a doctor. She believes that saving lives is the most meaningful way to give back to the world. After high school, she served in the IDF and took the psychometric test, but didn't achieve the desired score, which left her disappointed. She then decided to pursue an undergraduate degree in Molecular Biology to stay connected to the subject she loves. As she approaches graduation, her focus remains on the medical field. Over the past few years, she has gained valuable knowledge and plans to take the "Yeda Test" to enter a 4-year medical program in Israel with renewed hope, resilience, and confidence. As she puts it, success is not guaranteed, but the opportunities are certainly available. As she embarks on this journey, Degel Menashe will continue to support her aspirations and wish her all the success in the world!

Where the Hills Speak: Northeast India Through the Eyes of Its Diaspora

Ambassador-in-charge, Mr. Das presents a book to Isaac Thangjom, with Mr. Garika, Ms. Pandey and Ms. Mhetre.

(July 25, 2025) A vibrant and insightful event titled “Where the Hills Speak: Northeast India Through the Eyes of Its Diaspora” was held yesterday at the Indian Cultural Centre in Tel Aviv. This engaging program was organized by the Embassy of India in Israel at the Indian Cultural Centre, to promote understanding and appreciation of Northeast India. The event aimed to showcase the cultural richness and diversity of Northeast India through the lens of its diaspora, who play an essential role in bridging the gap between their homeland and the global community. This initiative aimed to highlight the unique cultural, historical, and social aspects of the northeastern region of India, which is often less known to the broader international community. The executive director of Degel Menashe was invited as the keynote speaker for the event, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience related to the diaspora and its connection to this culturally rich region.

Ambassador Das addresses the guests.

The event drew a distinguished audience, showcasing a diverse array of influential figures and esteemed guests from various sectors. Among the notable attendees was the Ambassador-in-Charge, Mr. Vishal Jyoti Das, who not only represented his country with dignity but also brought along his family, adding a personal touch to the diplomatic gathering. Mr. Das, originally from Assam, spoke passionately about the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Northeast India. He encouraged the audience to discover the region for themselves, describing it as a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Opening the evening, Mr. Garika delivered a warm welcome to the guests and emphasized India’s cultural diversity and deep-rooted inclusiveness. He noted that India remains one of the few countries in the world where Jews have never faced antisemitism, highlighting India’s tradition of coexistence and mutual respect In addition to these prominent diplomats, Ms. Nayantara Pandey, the Head of the Chancery and Ms. Sayali Mhetre, the Director of the Indian Cultural Centre, were also present, bringing her expertise in cultural diplomacy to the forefront of the discussions, which often revolve around the rich cultural exchanges between nations. The audience also included representatives from Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who are instrumental in shaping the country’s foreign policy and international relations. Their participation underscored the significance of the event in the context of diplomatic engagement and collaboration. Furthermore, in attendance were professionals from the hi-tech sector reflecting the growing

First Secretary Mr. Garika gives opening speech for the evening.

importance of technology and innovation in forging partnerships between countries. This sector is pivotal for both nations, as they seek to leverage each other’s strengths in research, development, and technological advancements. Lastly, members of Israel’s tourism industry were also present, indicating a keen interest in enhancing tourism ties and exploring opportunities for collaboration in this vibrant sector. Their involvement suggests a focus on promoting cultural tourism and showcasing the rich heritage and attractions that both countries have to offer. Together, this eclectic mix of attendees not only enriched the event but also laid the groundwork for future dialogues and cooperation across various fields, from commerce and technology to culture and tourism.

Ms. Sayali Mhetre, the esteemed Director of the Indian Cultural Centre, took to the stage with a sense of purpose and enthusiasm as she prepared to introduce the keynote speaker for the evening. With a warm smile, she welcomed the audience and shared a few words about the significance of the event, emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange and understanding. She then introduced Mr. Isaac Thangjom, the Director of Degel Menashe, a prominent figure known for his extensive work in promoting awareness about the diverse cultures of India, particularly those of the Northeast region.

Audience listening to the discourse on northeast India.

As Mr. Isaac Thangjom began his presentation, he immediately drew the audience's attention with his engaging storytelling and vivid imagery. He provided a comprehensive overview of the Seven Sister States of Northeast India, which include Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura, along with the neighboring state of Sikkim. Each of these states possesses its own unique geographical features, which range from the towering Himalayan mountains to lush valleys and vibrant rivers, creating a stunning backdrop for the rich tapestry of life that flourishes within them.

Thangjom delved into the diverse cultures that inhabit this remarkable region, highlighting the multitude of ethnic groups and languages that coexist harmoniously. He spoke about the intricate traditions, festivals, and customs that are integral to the identities of the people living in these states. From the colorful Hornbill Festival in Nagaland to the clear, serene waters of Umngot river in Meghalaya, he painted a vivid picture of how they reflect the region's heritage and surroundings.

Guests enjoying food.

Furthermore, Thangjom explored the region's rich flora and fauna, emphasizing its status as a biodiversity hotspot. He discussed the various ecosystems found in the Northeast, which support an array of wildlife, including rare species that are endemic to the area, like the one-horned rhinoceros in Kaziranga and the Sangai deer in Manipur, both unique and found nowhere else in the world. The lush forests, mighty rivers and pristine landscapes are not only a treasure trove of natural beauty but also play a crucial role in the livelihoods of the local communities who depend on them for sustenance and cultural practices.

In addition to geography and biodiversity, Thangjom highlighted the distinct traditions of the people, including their traditional crafts, music, and cuisine. He shared anecdotes about the skilled artisans who create exquisite handwoven textiles and intricate bamboo crafts, as well as the diverse culinary practices that vary from state to state, showcasing flavors and ingredients that are unique to each culture. His presentation was not just an academic exploration, but a heartfelt tribute to the resilience and vibrancy of the communities that call this enchanting region home.

As he wrapped up his presentation, he emphasized the importance of deeply appreciating the Seven Sister States and Sikkim, urging everyone to explore these areas and engage with their rich cultural heritage. His insights not only informed but also inspired a deeper understanding of the need to preserve the unique identities and traditions that flourish in Northeast India. In the concluding part of his talk, Thangjom explored the story of the Bnei Menashe, a community from the region that traces its origins to the ancient Israelite tribe of Menashe. He shared a brief history of their journey and identity, providing insight into their enduring connection with the Jewish people and the land of Israel.

Ladies pose for a photo with traditional northeast Indian attires.