Chai Fest in India: Jewish Youth Giving Back to Their Community

Chai Fest, or "Festival of Life", is an annual celebration held during Hannukah in India and provides an opportunity for India's Jewish youth to give back to their community. Chai Fest is organized by JYP, the Jewish youth group supported by JDC. The group is comprised of Jewish youth from Mumbai and Thane and currently has 50 participants, ranging in age from 13-30.

During Chai Fest, JYP members put on a cultural show that includes dances, skits/ plays, a fashion show, etc. The dance performances range from traditional Indian folk dance to the Israeli Hora and includes individual as well as group performances.

Also important to Chai Fest are the Indian Jewish elderly who are invited to light the Channukiah in front of the community. It is a sign of respect that is very important to these elderly and the Indian culture.

Over the last two years, part of the proceeds from the Festival have been donated to various JDC supported programs, including Bayiti, the Jewish Home for the Elderly and JDC's Emergency Medical Aid Fund.