India/Iraq Programs

"You were absolutely wonderful. You have a beautiful voice and a haunting one. I can still hear you…Your story was fascinating and you delivered it with such talent that it brought tears to my eyes."
Esther Wilner, Congregation Beth El, Bethesda, MD
Jewish Calcutta Through Music and Memory
A fascinating personal journey mirrors the story of Calcutta's Jews with humor, poignancy and song.

From Shipwrecks to Maharajas: The Jews of Bombay and Cochin
The saga of lost tribes, shipwrecks and remote villages traces India's oldest Jewish communities.

Mumbai Minyanaires: The Music, History and Traditions of the Jews of Bombay
No slumdogs here! Slides, songs and customs bring to life this vibrant, contemporary community whose ancestors are said to have survived an ancient shipwreck.
Eshet Hayyil: Jewish India Through Women's Lives
A touching tribute to legacy and continuity follows five generations of women.

The Jews of Iraq: Antiquity, Inheritance and Escape
A dramatic historical, musical and visual journey behind and beyond the headlines.

The Blessings of a Pomegranate
The riveting legacy and uplifting songs of the Jews of Iraq, and an unforgettable return "home" to Calcutta.

The Jewish Rhythms of India: Spirit, Song and Story
Undulating melodies and ancient texts embody the rhythms of Jewish life and celebration in India.

Exploring a Lost Tribe: The B'nai Menashe of India
In the mountains and valleys of Northeast India, a community forsakes its Presbyterian upbringing and reclaims Jewish roots said to stretch back to the lost tribe of Menashe.

Awafi: A Calcutta Feast in Song
The powerful intersection of music and food evokes a delicious taste of the Calcutta Jewish community.
A sensory delight!

Facing West: The True Story of One Family's Journey from India to Israel, 1945-1955
A vivid portrait of life in Palestine (Israel) on the brink of statehood, told mostly through original letters and accompanied by archival photos and Baghdadi-Indian Jewish songs (pizmonim) that express the yearning for Zion.
A perennial reminder of what Israel means to us.

Unbelievably Beautiful Songs and Customs for Shabbat and Holidays You've Probably Never Heard Of Unless You Are a Baghdadi or IndianJew
Span the Jewish year through the beautiful piyyutim (liturgical poetry) and diverse traditions of the Baghdadi Jewish community of India.

Bazaar of Memories: A Journey Home to Calcutta
Share the powerful impact of a journey home after 33 years.

(See also School Programs and Artist-in-Residence Weekends.)
Create a weekend that will appeal to all ages: An unforgettable tapestry of heritage and culture.


Many other topics are available; see full program list for more options.

To book Rahel, call 516-829-2358 or click here to email.