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.