Calcutta Synagogues

Last week I toured Magen David and Beth El in Calcutta. It was hard to find caretakers but finally (in both cases) I was able to have a tour. Caretakers are old Muslims who only speak Urdu but they are loyal and quite knowledgeable. It appears the two buildings are used alternate weeks. Magen David is an absolutely magnificent structure – in light of the age and size of the Calcutta community, what will be the fate of these magnificent buildings in a few years? It would be a shame if they were lost. As both are in quite good condition, would I be correct in assuming there are trust funds for maintenance?

Gary Richmond
Vancouver