Picture this: you’re walking through the bustling streets of Kolkata when suddenly, you come across a magnificent red-brick building that looks like it belongs in a European fairy tale. That’s exactly how most people feel when they first see the Maghen David Synagogue (also spelled Magen David Synagogue).
Located right at the busy junction of Brabourne Road and Canning Street (now called Biplabi Rashbehari Road), this synagogue has been quietly watching over Kolkata for more than 140 years! Can you imagine? While our great-great-grandparents were just being born, this beautiful building was already standing tall.
If you’re someone who loves exploring history, architecture, and culture, then let me take you on a journey to one of Kolkata’s most beautiful and lesser-known landmarks — the Maghen David Synagogue.
📜 A Glimpse into History
Picture this: it’s the late 1800s, and Calcutta (now Kolkata) is buzzing as a major port city under British rule. Among its many vibrant communities were the Baghdadi Jews, who had journeyed from places like Iraq, Syria, and Iran. They brought with them a rich culture and became prominent traders — dealing in textiles, spices, and precious stones.
To honour their heritage and faith, Elias David Joseph Ezra, a respected Jewish businessman, built the Maghen David Synagogue in 1884, in memory of his father, David Joseph Ezra.
Now you might be wondering — what does “Maghen David” mean?
Well, Maghen David is Hebrew for “Shield of David”, the same six-pointed star you see on Israel’s flag. In Jewish tradition, it symbolizes divine protection, much like how we view sacred symbols in Hinduism or Sikhism. So in a way, this synagogue was meant to be a spiritual shield for the Jewish community in Kolkata — poetic, isn’t it?
Back then, Kolkata was home to thousands of Jews, and this was just one of five synagogues serving the community. Today, only three synagogues remain active:
1. Maghen David Synagogue
2. Beth El Synagogue
3. Neveh Shalome Synagogue – located right beside Maghen David
Together, these form what’s now called Kolkata’s Jewish heritage zone, and though regular worship isn’t common anymore, the spaces are still beautifully preserved. Visits can be arranged with prior permission — often through the Jewish Girls’ School or even Nahoum’s Bakery in New Market.
Despite the fact that only a handful of Jews still live in Kolkata, the Maghen David Synagogue continues to stand tall and proud, lovingly maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India and with the heartfelt care of Muslim caretakers who protect its legacy. ❤️
Architectural Marvel of Maghen David Synagogue
As you step inside, prepare to be amazed! The Maghen David Synagogue is built in the Italian Renaissance style with a brick-red finish that gives it a warm, inviting look.
The interior is like something out of a fairy tale—think shiny chandeliers, black-and-white checkered marble floors, and floral pillars shipped all the way from Paris! The high ceilings are decorated with fans, lamps, and Hebrew inscriptions, while stained glass windows add a touch of color and magic.
The heart of the synagogue is the “ark,” a special area where Torah scrolls are kept. It’s set in a star-studded half-dome that represents the heavens, with a large plaque displaying the Ten Commandments. There’s also a seven-branched menorah, a key symbol of Judaism.
In the center of the hall is the “bimah,” a raised platform where the rabbi would read the Torah. Upstairs, there are balconies reserved for women, as per tradition, offering a great view of the sanctuary below.
What makes this place even more unique is its blend of styles. The chequered floor is made of Italian marble, the pink columns come from Mirzapur stone, and the tiles in the ark area were imported from Amsterdam.
Even the furniture is crafted from Burma teak! It’s like a beautiful mix of cultures coming together under one roof. It’s a protected heritage site, open to visitors with permission
The Jewish Community’s Golden Era in Kolkata
To truly appreciate this synagogue, you need to understand the vibrant Jewish community that once called Kolkata home. Imagine this: by the 1940s, nearly 6,000 Jewish people were living in Kolkata! They weren’t just residents – they were active contributors to the city’s growth.
Their Contributions to Kolkata:
Business leaders who helped develop the city’s economy
Philanthropists who built hospitals, schools, and institutions
Community builders who created lasting legacies
The Ezra family, who built Maghen David synagogue, also gave Kolkata some of its most famous buildings:
Esplanade Mansion
Ezra Mansion
Chowringhee Mansion
These names might sound familiar if you know old Kolkata well!
🧳 Travel Tips for Visitors
📍Address: 19, Synagogue St, China Bazar, Barabazar Market, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001
🕒 Visiting Hours: 11 AM to 4:30 PM (Closed on Fridays and Saturdays)
🧣 Dress Code: Carry a scarf or handkerchief to cover your head
🪪 ID Required: Keep your Aadhaar or any photo ID handy
📸 Photography: Allowed, but be respectful
🕌 Nearby Attractions: Beth El Synagogue, Neveh Shalome Synagogue, Armenian Church, Nakhoda Mosque etc.
🍽️ What to Eat Nearby?
After your visit, head to Zakaria Street for some mouth-watering biryani and kebabs. Or grab a sweet treat from Nahoum’s Bakery in New Market — a Jewish bakery loved by generations of Kolkatans!
🙌 Final Thoughts
As I wrap up this journey through the history and beauty of the Maghen David Synagogue, let me ask you this: when was the last time you discovered something completely new about your own city?
This synagogue isn’t just a building – it’s a bridge between different worlds, different times, and different communities. It’s a reminder that India has always been a place where people from all backgrounds could come, contribute, and call home.
And remember – places like this survive and thrive because people like you visit, appreciate, and share their stories. By visiting the Maghen David Synagogue, you’re not just being a tourist; you’re becoming a keeper of Kolkata’s rich, multicultural heritage.
Have you visited the Maghen David Synagogue? I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below, and let’s keep the conversation about Kolkata’s amazing heritage alive.
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