Why Jews Flourished in Hindu India

The article explores the historical and cultural parallels between the Jewish and Hindu communities, highlighting India as a unique land where Jewish people flourished for over 2,000 years without experiencing the pogroms, ghettos, or expulsions common in Europe and the Middle East. It traces the roots of this relationship back to the arrival of communities like the Cochin Jews of Kerala and the Bene Israel of Maharashtra, who were granted land, trade privileges, and royal recognition by Hindu rulers. This peaceful integration allowed Jewish communities to maintain their religious traditions, such as observing Shabbat and building synagogues, while becoming an integral part of India’s commercial and cultural life. Beyond history, the author notes modern similarities between the two faiths, such as the shared symbolism of light in Hanukkah and Diwali, and suggests that the flourishing of Jews in India serves as a testament to the pluralistic and welcoming nature of Hindu civilization.