The Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue at Kala Ghoda, which was restored over a period of one year, was reopened to the public on Thursday evening.
The ceremony was attended by the Governor of Maharashtra Ch. Vidyasagar Rao, president of the India Jewish Congress Solomon F. Sofer, and chairperson of Jindal South West foundation Sangeeta Jindal.
“We should endeavour to protect the heritage of the country and work together to save our culture and our monuments. This synagogue is not only the pride of Mumbai or Maharashtra, but of India as a whole. It sets an example for how India cares about protecting its heritage and all its monuments,” Mr. Rao said.
Also known as the blue synagogue, it was established in 1884 by Jacob Elias Sassoon and is regarded to be one of the best examples of Jewish tradition and culture in the country.
‘Secular city’
“Mumbai is a city of various religions and the people over here have always accepted every religion as their own. By contributing to the restoration of the synagogue, we have tried to help the Jewish community and tried to preserve the heritage of the country,” Ms. Jindal said.
The restoration was carried out under the leadership of architects Abha Narain Lambah and Swati Chandgadkar. Lauding their efforts, Mr. Rao said, “In the convocation ceremonies that I attend in various universities, almost 88% of the girls are toppers. The beautiful work done here by two women is testament to the fact that they are second to none in creativity, talent and perfection.”