Jael Silliman Knihy

Set in the late 18th century, the narrative follows Shalome, a savvy businessman who immigrates from Syria to India in 1792. His journey explores the complexities of cultural exchange and adaptation as he navigates the challenges of a new land while seeking prosperity. The story delves into themes of identity, resilience, and the impact of trade on personal and communal relationships, highlighting the vibrant tapestry of life during this historical period.

"Reveals the forgotten history of Baghdadi Jews' journey into India through the stories of four generations of Jewish women. An invaluable cultural document shaped from personal experience, Jewish Portraits, Indian Frames explores the fascinating social and cultural history of Baghdadi Jewish women in Calcutta, India. Through the lives of her foremothers over four generations, Jael Silliman discovers how they "dwelled in travelling" despite being widely dispersed across Asia, which created a moving geography of Baghdadi Jewish culture. She shows us how they negotiated multiple identities, including that of emergent Indian nationalism, and how they perceived and shaped their Jewishness and gender in response to changing cultural and political contexts. She also traces the trajectory of a Jewish presence in one of the most hospitable cities of the diaspora"--Publisher's website