JCC in India Hosts Judaica Fair and Creative Writing Workshops

On May 23 the first Exhibition and Sale of Jewish Books & Articles and a Creative Writers' Workshop was held at the Jewish Community Center (JCC) in Mumbai, India. The Exhibition was held just two days before the community celebration of Shavuot.

Three individuals, both Jewish and non-Jewish who wrote books on Jewish subjects (religious / historical / cultural, etc.) as well as those who manufacture Judaica items (Mezuzot, Candlesticks, Menorah, Challah covers, New Year cards, etc.) were invited to the event to exhibit their materials. A well-known theater artist, Mr. Atmaram and his wife, Mrs. Asha Bhende, formally inaugurated the Exhibition. Mrs. Bhende gave a wonderful speech in the Marathi language and their presence at the event added to its success.

A total of 10 stalls were constructed for the Exhibition. Bayiti, the Jewish Old Age Home in Mumbai sold Shabbat and Havdalah candles and kippot. The JCC stand exhibited many old books that had been donated to the JCC and JDC. As these books were all duplicates, they were put up for sale throughout the day. In addition, there was a large collection of children's books that were very popular. Book sales did very well that day and all money raised has been donated to the JDC Mitzvah Fund, which supports welfare recipients.

At the same time of the Exhibition, two workshops on Creative Writing were also held – one in English and the other in Marathi. Each workshop was attended by 30-35 people and was led by local professionals. The number of attendees to the workshops alone was truly inspiring to the JCC staff.

The Exhibition and Sale of Jewish Books & Articles and Creative Writers' Workshops were a huge success for the JCC of Mumbai. Around 150 community members attended the events and are eagerly awaiting the planning of the next Exhibition.