Modi`s visit special for Indian Jews |
RAMLA (ISRAEL): At a curry house in central Israel, a poster welcoming Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets patrons even before they encounter the rich scent of spices wafting from the kitchen.Modi`s three-day visit which started on July 4 - the first ever of an Indian premier to Israel - is a landmark moment for the Jewish state, a country seeking the friendship of powerful allies and customers for its advanced military equipment. But for members of the small Jewish Indian community in Israel, the trip is a cause of genuine excitement and a unique opportunity to increase their visibility. There`s not a single (Indian) household that`s not talking about it. This is all people are talking about. It`s historic. The wording on the poster is in the colours of the Indian flag and invites members of the Indian community, in Hebrew and English, to a July 5 meeting with Modi in Tel Aviv. Estimates put the number of Jews of Indian origin in Israel at about 100,000. Even those of Indian origin born in Israel maintain a "deep connection" to their ancestral homeland through music, cinema, food and cultural events.Events in Israel have featured appearances by Indian actors. Jews made their way to India over the course of the last 3,000 years, and by and large have not suffered religious and racist persecution in the country.
|
|
|
|