JERUSALEM — Addressing the Israeli Parliament (Knesset) on Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a sweeping historical retrospective on the enduring, millennia-old relationship between India and the Jewish people. Highlighting a legacy untainted by anti-Semitism, the Prime Minister stated that Jewish communities have thrived in India without fear of persecution or discrimination.
Ancient Roots and Safe Havens Drawing on ancient texts, PM Modi noted that the ties between the two regions long predate their existence as modern states. He pointed out that the Book of Esther refers to India as Hodu, and the Talmud records robust maritime trade routes connecting the Mediterranean to the Indian Ocean.
“Jewish merchants travelled across sea routes… seeking opportunity and dignity. And, in India, they became one of us. They have preserved their faith and participated fully in society. That record is a source of pride for us,” PM Modi told the parliament.
The Prime Minister praised the diverse Jewish communities that have deeply enriched India’s cultural and social fabric, specifically acknowledging the Bene Israel of Maharashtra, the Cochini Jews of Kerala, the Baghdadi Jews of Kolkata and Mumbai, and the Bnei Menashe of the North East.
Architects of Modern India To illustrate the profound impact of the Jewish community on Indian society, PM Modi listed several towering figures who shaped the nation’s institutions, arts, and military:
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Lt. Gen. J.F.R. Jacob: A pivotal military strategist during the 1971 war with Pakistan.
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Walter Kaufmann: The composer behind the iconic signature tune of All India Radio.
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Edwyn Myers: A foundational figure in the Films Division of India.
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David Abraham Cheulkar: The beloved actor affectionately known nationwide as “Uncle David.”
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Dr. Reuben David: The visionary founder of the Kankaria Zoo in Ahmedabad.
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David Sassoon: A prominent philanthropist who built numerous enduring institutions.
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Mr. and Mrs. Best: Founders of the highly regarded “Best School” in Gujarat.
A Shared History Written in Blood The address also touched upon the deep military and humanitarian sacrifices that bind the two nations. PM Modi paid tribute to the more than 4,000 Indian soldiers who laid down their lives in the region during the First World War. He specifically commemorated Major Thakur Dalpat Singh, the “Hero of Haifa,” who led the legendary cavalry charge in September 1918.
Shifting to the dark era of the Holocaust, the Prime Minister highlighted a shining act of Indian humanitarianism. He recalled how the Maharaja of Nawanagar (the Jam Saheb) offered refuge in Gujarat to Polish and Jewish children who were fleeing persecution. PM Modi expressed his gratitude to Israel for recently unveiling a statue of the Jam Saheb in Moshav Nevatim to honor this life-saving intervention.
Concluding his address, PM Modi celebrated the vibrant Indian-origin Jewish community currently living in Israel, noting that they proudly view Israel as their fatherland and India as their motherland.
