Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue

Such a beautiful place! It has recently been restored by a popular architect and is a heritage site and a place of worship for the Jews. Entry is restricted to Jews, I guess, unless with special permission, like we had. It's situated in the lane behind Kala Ghoda and is a beautiful structure, both inside and outside. The lane is peppered with other beautiful designer and luxury stores and graffitied walls, making it a picturesque view.

The policeman sitting outside asked me why I wanted to go inside the synagogue. According to him "there's nothing inside". However, after I insisted on going inside, he asked me to get a photocopy of my Identity Card. Once I got the photocopy and filled in my details I was allowed to go inside accompanied by a staff member. Photography is banned inside the synagogue, but on requesting, he allowed me to click a single photograph of the altar. The synagogue is beautiful. It has a very peaceful and soothing vibe. The light entering through the stain glass windows adds to it's beauty. There is a Torah kept in the sanctuary. The staff member explained various parts of the synagogue. There are paper caps for sale, but are very expensive. Even the exterior is very beutiful. The combination of blue and white colours is very appealing and draws the attention of every person walking on the street

This was my first time to visit this beautiful Jewish Synagogue in Mumbai. When I entered the Synagogue I found Peace and God's love for Jewish Community. I am not a Jewish but A Roman Catholic and I believe that before Catholicism, Judaism existed first. So for me I went there to visit as a tourist/ viewer. So let's come to the main topic if you are someone who wants to visit this Synagogue. There is a Strict Security check and some Customs you have to follow in order to visit this synagogue. *Important things you need to know before entering the synagogue* 1. You need to carry a Xerox Copy of your Aadhar Card and show it to the security department. 2. If you do not have a Xerox copy they won't let you inside because a valid government ID is mandatory. 3. As a sign of respect please wear A Kippah (Jewish Cap) inside the synagogue. You don't have to worry about the Jewish Cap they will provide you inside the synagogue. 3. As you enter the synagogue photography is not allowed. If you want to shoot pictures and videos then you need to pay some amount of charges and then only you will be allowed to shoot. 4. Before visiting the synagogue the security department has a right to check your identity proof and if anything found fishy in you. He won't let you in. 5. The synagogue is closed for Non Jews on Fridays and Saturdays because on these days the Jewish community come up here and have their pray services and they prepare themselves for Shabbat and Kosher Meal. Except from Friday and Saturday. You can visit any of the days. That's it, as far my experience i loved this synagogue and i got to learn many things about the Jewish community. Also there was not much difference between my religion and their religion we also believe in the 10 Commandents as well . Shalom to the Jewish community. Love you ISRAEL. From Joshua Fernandes.