welcome again friends! 👋 Today, we’re stepping into a lesser-known but deeply meaningful corner of Kolkata’s spiritual landscape — the Neveh Shalome Synagogue. Tucked beside the grand Maghen David Synagogue in the heart of Barabazar, this humble prayer hall holds the distinction of being Kolkata’s oldest Jewish place of worship, built way back in 1831.
If you’ve ever walked past the busy lanes of Indra Kumar Karnani Street and spotted a quiet building with arched windows and a peaceful aura, chances are you’ve seen Neveh Shalome Synagogue — a true oasis of calm in the chaos. Let’s bring this quiet gem to life
📜 A Glimpse into History
Let’s rewind to the early 1800s. Kolkata was booming under British rule, and among its many communities were the Baghdadi Jews, who had migrated from places like Iraq, Syria, and Iran. One of the earliest settlers was Shalom Aharon Obadiah Cohen, who arrived from Aleppo in 1798.
To serve the growing Jewish population, his son Shalom Obadiah ha-Kohen built the Neveh Shalome Synagogue in 1831, making it the first Baghdadi Jewish prayer hall in India.
Originally a modest structure, it was demolished in 1883 to make way for the larger Maghen David Synagogue. But the community’s love for Neveh Shalome led to its reconstruction in 1911, right beside its grand sibling.
🏛️ Architecture That Whispers Stories
Unlike the towering Maghen David, Neveh Shalome Synagogue is simple and serene — but don’t let that fool you. Its architecture is quietly elegant, with a tripartite façade, arched windows, and painted louvered shutters that give it a timeless charm.
Step inside and you’ll find:
– A white-painted sanctuary with a peaceful vibe
– A centrally placed tebah (bimah) — the raised platform for Torah readings
– Rows of wooden benches and mesh chairs for the congregation
– A women’s gallery running along the upper floor
– A modest but sacred heckal (ark) set within a half-domed niche, once home to over 100 Torah scrolls
The flooring features grey and white marble tiles, and the ceiling is flat with exposed painted beams. It’s not flashy — but it’s full of soul.
✡️ Cultural Significance
Neveh Shalome is more than just a building — it’s a living memory of Kolkata’s Jewish past. It was once the center of Jewish mercantile, social, and religious life, and even today, it hosts special prayers during festivals like Passover and Rosh Hashanah.
Though it’s not under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) like Maghen David and Beth El, it was **restored in 2013** by the Jewish community — a testament to their love and commitment.
Neveh Shalome Synagogue: 🧭 Travel Tips
📍 Location: 9A, Indra Kumar Karnani Street, China Bazar, Kolkata – 700001
🕒 Timings: 10 AM to 4 PM (Closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays)
🪪 Entry: Free, but carry a valid photo ID
📸 Photography: Allowed with permission
👗 Dress Code: Modest clothing recommended
🧢 Head Covering: Carry a scarf or cap as a mark of respect
🙌 Final Thoughts
The Neveh Shalome Synagogue is more than just a building – it’s a living testament to Kolkata’s incredible diversity. In a city known for Durga Puja, Kali temples, and churches, this synagogue reminds us that Kolkata has always been a melting pot of cultures.
When you visit, you’re not just seeing architecture; you’re witnessing the story of a community that chose to make Kolkata their home, contributed to its prosperity, and left an indelible mark on the city’s character.
It’s a story of adaptation, success, decline, and preservation – themes that resonate with every community and every individual. The next time someone asks you about Kolkata’s hidden gems, tell them about the Neveh Shalome Synagogue. It’s a place where history, culture, and faith come together in the most beautiful way.
So, are you planning to visit? Trust me, this little synagogue will give you a completely new perspective on our beloved City of Joy!