(September 21, 2025) The year 5785, spanning 2024 and 2025, has been significant for the B'nei Menashe in both Israel and India. A total of 22 scholarships were awarded to B'nei Menashe youths pursuing higher education. Additionally, several activities took place, most notably Dorit Lombroso's photo exhibitions, which were held at the Hebrew University in December 2024 and at the Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food & Environment in Rehovot during May 2025. Kibbutz Ma'oz Tzur in Lamka has been steadily growing and is nearly self-sufficient in terms of food production. A synagogue was established in early 2024, and a school has been operating since January 2025, serving 61 students of all ages. There are three teachers (two in Ma'oz Tzur and one in Shlom Tzion, Aizawl) sponsored by ORT, Mumbai, along with two volunteer teachers at Ma'oz Tzur. Interested readers can refer to our past posts in our newsletter.
There is good news: during a series of meetings with Moshe Pines, the deputy director-general at the Ministry of Immigration and Absorption, approval has been granted for the aliya of the 5,000 to 6,000 B'nei Menashe still in India. Sources indicate that this will occur gradually over several years, with the first group expected to arrive by early 2026. The government is organizing a delegation to visit the area in preparation for the aliya. It has also promised that the aliya will be managed exclusively by the government, with no involvement from private organizations, unlike the past 20 years when the process was marred by questionable activities. If everything proceeds smoothly, we will witness family reunions and the arrival of individuals who have been blacklisted and waiting, some for as long as 50 years. At long last, the B'nei Menashe can heave a sigh of relief.
Wishing all our readers, all B'nei Menashe and all Israel Shana Tova and Chag Sameach!
(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 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!
