Indian Jewish Women

Stories from Bene Israel Life

By: Nina Haeems, Alysha Haeems

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

The Bene Israel of India, numbering just 5,000 today, are a minority even among India’s minorities. They have been the subject of several scholarly studies; however, this book tells the more personal stories of women from this little-known community.
Parts I and II present vignettes from the lives of an earlier generation of women. The first part features homemakers – daughters, sisters, wives, mothers, grandmothers, aunts – and their role in family and community life. They made important contributions to preserving Bene Israel culture and heritage, a crucial need for the survival of a microscopic community. The second part includes stories of education and careers. The stories presented here are inspiring examples of dedication and the spirit of service. Introductory essays in each section provide the background of the history and social life of the community, highlighting important events and people.
Part III focuses on four Bene Israel women who each excelled in her career and contributed substantively to her chosen field. The essays document the lives and achievements of these extraordinary women.
The book represents only a fraction of the many stories that could be told of Bene Israel women, but the variety presented here will give the reader a window into the community. The pages are profusely illustrated with photographs that bring to life the women and their times.