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A Muslim and a Jew inside a Jewish synagogue in Kolkata, India. Source: YouTube Screenshot / Atlas Obscura.

The Muslims Preserving Kolkata's Last Jewish Synagogues (Video)

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In the vibrant city of Kolkata, India, a heartening and harmonious interfaith tradition is flourishing as Muslim caretakers diligently preserve the last remaining Jewish synagogues. This unique alliance, often unnoticed by the wider world, serves as a shining example of religious coexistence and mutual respect. Kolkata was once home to a thriving Jewish community, but over the years, its numbers have dwindled significantly. As a result, the synagogues that once echoed with fervent prayers and lively gatherings faced neglect and abandonment. However, rather than succumbing to the passage of time, these sacred spaces found an unexpected lifeline through the care and devotion of local Muslim families.

In a city where religious diversity is celebrated, Muslim caretakers have taken it upon themselves to protect and maintain these historically significant synagogues. Through this act of preservation, they honor the shared history and interconnectedness of their communities. This heartwarming display of interfaith cooperation defies the stereotypes and misconceptions that often surround relations between different religious groups. It serves as a poignant reminder that despite differences in faith, there exists a common thread of humanity that binds people together.

Top image: A Muslim and a Jew inside a Jewish synagogue in Kolkata, India. Source: YouTube Screenshot / Atlas Obscura.

By Robbie Mitchell

 
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Robbie

I’m a graduate of History and Literature from The University of Manchester in England and a total history geek. Since a young age, I’ve been obsessed with history. The weirder the better. I spend my days working as a freelance... Read More

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