Imagine walking through the bustling electrical goods market on Pollock Street in central Kolkata, and suddenly you come across this magnificent yellow building with beautiful architecture. That’s Beth El Synagogue for you – a 169-year-old Jewish house of worship that stands as a testament to Kolkata’s rich multicultural heritage.
The name “Beth El” is Hebrew and means “House of God” – quite fitting for this sacred place that has witnessed nearly two centuries of history. Built in 1856, this synagogue is not just a religious building; it’s a monument of national importance protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.
This isn’t just a building; it’s a piece of history that tells the story of Kolkata’s vibrant Jewish community. if you are looking to explore something new in the Kolkata, this post is for you. Let’s dive in!
📜 A Journey Through Time
Picture this: it’s the 19th century, and Kolkata (then Calcutta) is a bustling port city, the capital of British India. Traders from all over the world are flocking here, including Baghdadi Jews from places like Syria and Iraq.
The first Jewish settler, Shalom Cohen, arrived in 1798, and by the mid-1800s, the Jewish community had grown significantly. That’s when David Joseph Ezra and Ezekiel Judah decided to build Beth El Synagogue(1856) to serve the spiritual needs of this growing community.
Later, in 1885, the synagogue was expanded by Elias Shalom Gubbay to accommodate the growing congregation. At its peak, Kolkata had over 4,000 Jewish residents, and Beth El was one of five synagogues serving them.
Today, only three synagogues remain active:
1. Beth El Synagogue
2. Maghen David Synagogue
3. Neveh Shalome Synagogue
After India’s independence in 1947 and the creation of Israel in 1948, many Jews left Kolkata, and today, only few remain. As a result, regular prayer services have stopped, but the synagogue still holds a special place for holiday celebrations and is open for visitors.
🏛️ Architecture That Speaks
From the outside, Beth El Synagogue may appear modest, but don’t let that fool you. The building showcases elegant Italian and Byzantine architectural influences — a beautiful blend that reflects the cosmopolitan spirit of colonial Kolkata.
As you approach, you’ll climb 15 marble steps leading to the main entrance. Above it, you’ll spot a pediment adorned with four Stars of David and a menorah, along with a classic Cooke and Kelvey clock — a graceful nod to Kolkata’s colonial past.
But the real magic begins once you step inside. The interior is breathtaking and offers a peaceful escape from the busy market outside.
✨ What You’ll See Inside:
Magnificent chandeliers with glass imported from Belgium
Stained glass windows that cast colorful light across the hall
A spacious women’s gallery on the first floor, offering a view of the sanctuary
Elegant iron columns added during the 1885 renovation, replacing heavier originals
Marble flooring, also introduced during the renovation
At one end of the hall, three doors lead to the Ark Room, where sacred Torah scrolls are kept. Above this area is a stunning blue half-dome painted with white stars, symbolizing the heavens. Three red glass panels display inscriptions from the Ten Commandments.
According to current records, only four Torah scrolls remain in all of Kolkata — and two of them are housed in Beth El Synagogue. These sacred scrolls are carefully preserved and not available for public viewing.
Though the Jewish population has greatly declined, the spirit of Beth El lives on. On special occasions like Passover and Rosh Hashanah, the sanctuary is lit, and prayers are held — keeping the legacy alive.
🧳 Beth El Synagogue: Travel Tips
📍 Location: 26, Pollock Street, near Brabourne Road, Kolkata
🕒 Timings: 10 AM to 7 PM (Closed on Fridays after 3 PM and Saturdays)
🪪 Entry: Free, but carry a valid **photo ID** (like Aadhaar)
📸 Photography: Allowed with permission
🧣 Dress Code: Modest attire recommended
🙏 Final Thoughts
Beth El Synagogue is more than just a building – it’s a living piece of Kolkata’s history. In a city that’s always rushing toward the future, this beautiful synagogue reminds us to pause and appreciate the rich tapestry of cultures that have shaped our beloved City of Joy.
Every time you pass by Pollock Street, remember that behind those electrical goods shops stands a 169-year-old testament to faith, community, and the enduring power of harmony. Beth El Synagogue may no longer echo with the sounds of daily prayers, but it continues to speak volumes about Kolkata’s incredible heritage.
So next time you’re in that area, why not take a moment to visit this hidden gem? You’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for the diverse communities that have made Kolkata the amazing city it is today.
Have you visited Beth El Synagogue or any other heritage sites in Kolkata? Share your experiences in the comments below!