From Israel...

Over 2400 years ago, after facing persecution from the Seleucid Empire, a group of Jewish families fled the land now known as Israel. As the legend goes, seven couples were shipwrecked off the Konkan coast at Navgaon in Maharashtra.

While the other Jews found their way to Cochin, these couples were helped by the Koli community in Alibaug. They first buried the rest of their kin at what is now the oldest Jewish cemetery in Alibaug, where the Jerusalem gate stands as a symbol. They began to rebuild their lives in an unfamiliar land with unfamiliar customs, all while clinging to their Jewish heritage.

Origin studies indicate the Bene Israel community dispersed before the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE. The Kingdom of Israel fell earlier, in 175 BCE. Before reintegration into mainstream Judaism in the late medieval period, they observed outdated festivals like the Day of Rejoicing of the Temple Priest and did not observe the Ninth of Av—the day marking the destruction of both Temples—indicating they were unaware of these events. These facts imply they left before these events occurred.

...to Alibaug

As centuries passed, these Marathi-speaking Jews settled across Alibaug. Known locally as Shanivaar Telis (Saturday oil-pressers), they observed the Shabbat, a Jewish custom, by refraining from work on Saturdays. The community gradually adopted the local language and customs, including surnames ending in “kar,” derived from the villages that took them in.

In the 18th century, they moved to Mumbai, Thane, and Pune, hoping to get posted in the British administration and army. In his 1937 book The History of the Bene Israel of India, Haeem Samuel Kehimkar identifies one of the earliest immigrants as a member of the Awaskar family, who adopted the agnomen “Mombaikar.”

Despite their small numbers, the community was notably active in military service under local rulers such as the Mughal Abyssinian admirals, the Sidis of Janjira, and the Marathas. They held military and administrative roles while living under various regimes, including the Portuguese, Marathas, Siddis, and British. The Portuguese controlled northern Konkan towns like Navgaon, Alibag, Revdanda, and Korlai until the Marathas took over in the late 17th century, followed by British rule.

Today, although the Bene Israeli population in Alibaug has dwindled, it has not disappeared. Synagogues like Magen Aboth remain, recently restored and now maintained. The Jewish community in Alibaug is easily recognised by the Star of David symbol displayed on their homes. Though Israel Alis no longer exist, villages like Revdanda, Navgaon, and Theronda are home to Bene Israeli families.

Alibaug gets its name from Ali, a benevolent and wealthy merchant who lived in the area about 300 years ago. Having earned the goodwill of the locals, the area came to be known as "Alichi Baug," meaning Ali’s garden, which eventually became Alibaug. However, the Bene Israelis believe the name comes from “Eli,” their prophet. Regardless of its origin, Jewish influence in Alibaug is well established. Although the Bene Israelis were granted minority status (alpsankhyak) in Maharashtra in 2016, feelings about this recognition remain mixed.

Their story doesn’t end here. Head into our virtual walk-in gallery to watch the full documentary.

Magen Aboth Synagogue Walk-Through

Step inside one of Alibaug’s few synagogues as Margaret Talkar shows you around and explains its history and key traditions.

Step inside for a detailed, 360 view!

What They Celebrate

Bene Israel festivals blend Jewish traditions with local Indian culture. From Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, to Purim celebrations, the community comes together with prayers, special foods, and customs. Many Indian festivals like Diwali and Holi are also celebrated within the community.

What They Eat

Great food knows no borders. The Bene Israelis add a tasty twist to Jewish cuisine by blending in Maharashtrian flavours. From sweet malida to spicy mutton, you won’t find empty plates at their table.

More from the Community

Step Inside the Legend.

Among the oldest Bene Israeli-owned businesses in Pali, Alibaug.

A collection of memorabilia curated from old editions of Aamchi Shayli, the community's magazine.