The covers are off: Inside Kala Ghoda's restored 'blue' synagogue

The reopened Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue, built in 1884, allows non-Jews to participate in prayer too, but upon ID verification since it is under a terror threat

Feb 07, 2019, 13:32 IST2 min

1/7

The Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue is a significant place of worship for Mumbai&rsquos Baghdadi and Bene Israeli Jewish communities. The restoration project, worth a total of about Rs 5 crore,...

Image by Borja

2/7

The architecture boasts a large triangular pediment crowning the western fa&ccedilade. This sits over a semi-circular window arrangement with three unique stained-glass panels, flanked by f...

Image by Borja

3/7

Victorian chandeliers are seen suspended across the synagogue&mdashmost of the lighting is original, with a little restoration work undertaken. <br /><br />

Image by Borja

4/7

The prayer hall space has high ceilings, large windows and operable louvered shutters. The hall is arranged in an east-to-west orientation, such that the Ark or ornamental closet, which con...

Image by Borja

5/7

Workers put finishing touches on the project, which required roof repairs, terrace water proofing and various forms of structural maintenance. Lambah&rsquos team peeled back layers and laye...

Image by Borja

6/7

The central podium is surrounded by several wooden benches, and separate seating for men and women is available in galleries upstairs. The floor is set in Minton tiles originally imported f...

Image by Borja

7/7

Many religious symbols were found obscured, stencilled in bands on the walls&mdashgrape vines, citron fruit and the Star of David, for instance&mdashand have been restored. The interior des...

Image by Borja