 |
Sharing Memories
 | 
Since their arrival to India, Rabbi Gabi and Rivkah Holtzberg have served their local community, as well as the international community, with great devotion and selflessness. Many, many people have been impacted by them during their time in India, as well as during earlier portions of their lives.
If you have any such experiences, please share them with the rest of us via the Post A Comment feature below (where you will also find shorter, vignette-style memories).
|
|
|
| |
 |
|
 |
|
| What Darkness is Incapable of Accomplishing
Evan A. Heltay, Toronto, Canada
Moshe was only one and a half years old and he spent most of the meals attempting to get rice and puréed vegetables all over himself and anyone that ventured too close... | |
 |
|
 |
| |
|
|
|
| Gabi's Sister Reminisces
Rikal Kaler
I thought I knew my brother. I was proven wrong during the week of shiva and the difficult days that followed, as incredible stories kept pouring in about him and his wife Rivky...  1 Comment | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Two Summers in Mumbai…
Hillary Lewin
We reached the rooftop deck, where commandos landed and stormed the house in a vain attempt to rescue hostages. Amidst the rubble from the destruction of this holy place where innocent lives had been taken, we read the Book of Lamentations... | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| My Impromptu Bar Mitzvah
Nathan Azize, Munich, Germany
The way in which everything was done gave me the feeling that we were being filmed or something because he was just so enthusiastic. I could not believe in that moment how beautiful it all was; and just for me.. | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| "I Want to See the Priest of this Synagogue"
The Holtzberg's Role in Bhagirath Prasad's Long Journey Home
By Mirish KisznerThe storm began when, at eighteen, Prasad, emerging from his sheltered childhood, began to question his religious roots. Every home he'd visit boasted several idols... 5 Comments | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Rivky Sat In For My Operation...
Anonymous
Having her pray for me as I went in made me feel that everything would be alright and that all was right with the world. I had no idea that years later the world would become very, very wrong... | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| An Oasis of Redemption
Baruch Shalom Davidson
Today my tears flow freely as I write these memories. Who would have thought that in these very rooms filled with love and light, hate and darkness would end the lives of my dear friends? 2 Comments | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Memories and Lessons From Mumbai
David Bogner
Every guest at the Holtzberg’s table left with the odd (but special) feeling that we had somehow done our hosts an incredible favor by coming! | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Like Meteors in the Sky
Samuel Marshall
Gaby just said, "Let's jump over the wall," which was six feet high. A very minor impediment when you consider what he faced throughout his five year period in Mumbai... 3 Comments | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| At The Shabbos Table With Gabi and Rivkah
Rabbi Joseph Telushkin
Entering the Chabad House was like encountering a lighthouse in the middle of a dark ocean. It did not take long to realize that its proprietors, Rabbi Gavriel and Rivkah Holtzberg, were extraordinary people and practitioners of kindness. 1 Comment | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Soymilk From Scratch
Reuben Posner and Leila Bilick
We keep going back to the small things. So many people have written about the big things—how they dedicated their lives to serving Jews, etc.—but Gabi and Rivki, as we knew them, were also people with unique thoughts, habits, idiosyncrasies, stories, personalities... 1 Comment | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| My Yom Kippur in Mumbai
Ed Handelsman
I remember the horrible images I saw on television. But I am fortunate that I also have the positive memories. I remember the smiles of the rabbi and his wife as their baby crawled all over the place... | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Righteous Souls
Trevor Horwitz, Atlanta, Georgia
This was one of my most memorable Shabbat experiences, not in any way because of the tragedy that subsequently occurred, but for zeal and commitment to the Jewish people that Rabbi Gabi and Rivki demonstrated. | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Don't Leave Us Stranded
Pesha Leah Azoulay, Brooklyn, NY
Rabbi Holtzberg, when I spoke to you on Tuesday / You were so accommodating / "I would never want to be a stranded Jew in India" / Those were your words... 4 Comments | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| A Precious Evening
Valerie Porush
By the end of the night, we had all forgotten that we had arrived strangers and that we were in a strange land. This is all because of Rivky and Gabi... | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Last Purim with the Holtzbergs
David Perla
They never preached, never suggested that I or anyone else practice Judaism in any particular way, and never judged. They simply wanted it understood that their home was always open, and I was always wanted and welcome... | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Sleep Eluded Me After the Shabbat Meal
Louis Allan Krieger
For some reason or another, I had taken for granted the fact that a Chabad house existed in the middle of nowhere. I had taken for granted the fact that kosher wine was shipped to house in three gallon plastic jugs, all the way from Israel... | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Heroes of Mumbai
Anonymous
This song was written and recorded on the night we learned of the tragedy, in loving memory of the sacred souls who perished in the Mumbai terrorist attack in the Chabad House. 2 Watch (2:15) | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Words May Fail Us, But Actions Cannot
By Daniel P. AldrichWe can all put our grief, our disbelief, our desire to do something into action—and we must do it quickly. Send money to a Jewish cause. Spend some time telling your parents, children, and friends how much you love them... 1 Comment | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| A Bright Spot in the Mumbai Darkness
Raphael Altman
Everything was possible with Rabbi Gavriel and Rivki, thanks to their wonderful optimism in the face of the adversity of India's day-to-day life. Thanks to their love of life and energy, their consideration of others and their selfless work. 2 Comments | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| My Sister's Wedding
Batya Rotter
How does one deal with a wedding and a terrorist attack on the same day--both so close to home? While my sister and her husband began a journey of love and commitment, the couple who knew a love and a commitment to a calling beyond themselves were under attack. 6 Comments | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| They Were Selfless
Corinne Marlen
Rivki told me "when you have faith, you believe that G-d puts challenges in front of you, and tests your faith, sometimes you may not understand why things happen but that does not mean you should lose faith..." 6 Comments | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Overwhelmed by their Warmth
Amy Caron-Shif, Tel Aviv, Israel
We were really overwhelmed with warmness from them and for what they do for all the strangers that come in and out of their home. | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Exceptional People
Phillip Nash
They were the epitomy of what a real "Tzaddik" is. They helped spread Jewish life, and Jewish pride in an area where few Jews permenantly live. | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| We Lost Two Soldiers Today
Benjamin Holtzman
Gabi and Rivki were real for me. We often hear about tragedies in distant, disconnected places, and feel frustratingly estranged from them. We want to connect, but cant; we feel as though in a different world. | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Home Away from Home
Olga Daniela Bakayeva
I bragged about how lucky I was to be placed in a location where I am a twenty minute cab ride away from being home away from home. | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| I Will Always Miss You
Elias (Eliyahu) Samuel Ghosalkar, Mumbai
I am a Jew residing in Mumbai who was a close friend of Rabbi Gavriel and his family. I have been shattered by the news that I won't be ever seeing my dear Rabbi and his wife again, but I know that they will surely live on in my heart and soul forever. 1 Comment | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| They Touched My Life
Sarah Katz, New York City
I realize it is no small sacrifice to leave your family behind, move to a foreign country less suited for living an observant lifestyle, and build a home open entirely to serve the needs of others. | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Unflinching Dedication
Gilad Bar-Chaim, Johannesburg, South Africa
Rabbi Gabi and Rebbetzin Rivka's dedication to their service of G-d was unflinching. | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| So Warm and Welcoming
Hannah
They will live on in our memories as a vital vivacious couple, young enough to be my children, with an outreach capacity far ahead of their youth. | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| A Holy Shabbat
Ahuva Goldshmidt, Jerusalem, Israel
On my way to Pushkar on Saturday night I was filled with the most elevated, peaceful feeling, which left me wondering: where did that come from? I was amazed by the feeling of inner peace and joy I was feeling... I realized, and now I know, that it was the holiness that I picked up at the Chabad house in Mumbai... | |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| Safe Haven in a Scary City
Robin, Chapel Hill, NC
I had a fun time on the beaches of Goa and in the small towns, but when I got to Mumbai, a city of 15 million, I was overwhelmed.... | |
|
|
|
|
|
Since their arrival to India, Rabbi Gabi and Rivkah Holtzberg have served their local community, as well as the international community, with great devotion and selflessness. Many, many people have been impacted by them during their time in India, as well as during earlier portions of their lives. If you have any such experiences, please share them with the rest of us here.
78 Comments Posted
Latest Comments:
I am proud that my country's Prime Minister, Stephen Harper, was so moved by the sad events at Chabad House, Mumbai, that he took time to pay his respects during a trade mission to India last week.
It is difficult to imagine that these events would not touch the hearts of all world leaders; but, this does not seem to be so.
|
The horror presently occurring in Mumbai clashes poignantly with the wonderful memories of the recent trips my daughter Jennifer and I have experienced throughout India.
In particular, we fondly remember celebrating Purim in Mumbai March 2007, and participating in services at Chabad House officiated by Rabbi Holtzberg. It had been so refreshing to spend the holiday with Jewish Indians of all different denominations along with several other tourists.
It is so mind-boggling to fathom what the families of these dear people are going through. It is so unbelievable to consider how criminality has come to overpower in such a way that good, innocent people have to be treated in this manner.
Our most sincere and warmest condolences to the families of Rabbi Holtzberg and his dear wife.
With deepest sympathy,
Pablo Nankin,M.D. and family
|
I used to go to the same shul as Gavi when I was younger. He had a very brilliant mind and was smart but now he's a messenger for G-d and he watches over us from the heavens above.
|
ביקור בהודו; המטרה: להעביר את גופת הסבא המנוח לארץ ישראל.
לפני כ-70 שנה, ניפטר הסבא בנימין בן משה בבומביי בהודו, שם ניקבר בבית הקברות היהודי. לפני כשנתיים, ביקרו רוני ואירית יקותיאל בבומביי,
שם ניפגשו עם גבריאל ז"ל בבית חב"ד, שסיפר להם שעומדים להרוס את בית העלמין היהודי בבומביי. בשובם מהודו, הציעו לבני המשפחה לנסות
ולהעביר את גופת הסבא לארץ ישראל. המשפחה הזמינה מקום קבורה בהר המנוחות, ושליח מחברת קדישא מירושלים, יחד עם הנכדים: בנימין,
דניאל ורוני, טסו לבומביי. הם לא רצו להטריח את גבריאל מבית חב"ד, שהיה רב צעיר מדאי לדעתם, אבל גבריאל התעקש ללכת איתם לבית העלמין,
ואכן, עד מהרה הבינו שאי אפשר היה לבצע את המשימה בלעדיו. ירדו גשמים רבים אשר הפכו את האדמה לבוצית, ובכל פעם שניסו לחפור, הבור
היה מתמלא מים ומנע את המשך החפירה. עד מהרה, הגיע השליח של חברת הקדישא מירושלים למסקנה, שחפירת הקבר אינה ניתנת לביצוע.
אבל גבריאל ז"ל התעקש; הוא הלך להשיג משאבה עם כבל ארוך כ-300 מטר (שיגיע למקום בו יש חיבור לזרם החשמל), ואז החלו לשאוב את המים
שהצטברו. רק אז יכלו להתחיל ולחפור, והמבצע הוכתר בהצלחה. בשובם למילנו, סיפרו בני המשפחה בהתרגשות, כיצד הודות לשליח הצעיר של
חב"ד בבומביי, גבריאל – יהי זכרו ברוך- זכו להביא את סבא למנוחה בארץ הקודש...
משפחת נסימיהא
|
My wife, Susan, and I spent a beautiful Friday evening at the Chabad House in January. We met Rabbi Gabi at Kabbalat Shabbat services in a beautiful shul in downtown Mumbai and he insisted we and others come back to the Chabad House for Shabbat dinner. It was a spectacular evening with 50 or more people there all sharing a common bond and all treated to such warm and beautiful hospitality. Gabi and Rivka couldn't have been better hosts and made everyone feel so good and so at home. You knew instantly this was a very special couple and messengers from G-d. We mourn this tragic loss and know their memories will be an inspiration to all who had the special opportunity to get to know them for even just a short period of time. May their souls rest in peace knowing how many people they inspired to be better and more caring individuals and Jews.
|
On the last night of Chanuka 2005 we went to the gateway of India to see the candles being lit. This was organised by Gabbi and Rivky. We then were taken in a horse and carriage with a huge menorah to the Chabad house where we had a lovely dinner cooked by Rivky
|
Some years ago we had a baby who was born ill. The doctors tried to save him, but unfortunately could not. Afterward, with time and healing, I began to think about having another child, but I was afraid to have this happen again; I lacked a certain level of faith in G-d and what He choses is good. I sought advice and words of encouragement. I was adviced to call Rivky Holtzberg, for she had faced similar challenges and was known for her strong emunah, faith. I did not call her, for I did not want to make her speak about an obviously painful experience, but I did feel strengthen from the mere knowledge that another woman could be strong during such times. We did have another baby, and, also called him Moshe,
My deep condolesces to their families and to little Moshe.
May G-d send us Moshiach immediately, when we will then understand why He choses to do what He does.
|
On Thursday the 27th November 2008, when we heard that Nariman House in Mumbai was taken over by terrorists, my husband my two daughters and myself were beside ourselves with grief and prayed and prayed for the safe release of Gaby and Rifka Holtzberg and all at Chabad House.
Sadly this did not happen and our hearts were shattered at their tragic and needless murder - I asked my husband how could any human being do what these terrorists did to all at Chabad House to which he answered they are not human even animals do not kill needlessly—they kill only for food.
We were on holiday in India last December/January and while in Mumbai had the privilege of being welcomed by Rifka and Gaby into their home where we experienced first hand their great kindness, warmth and hospitality.
It was very special to be able to sit at their table and meet Jews from all over the world, enjoy Rifka's delicious food and listen to Gaby's words of Torah.
Gaby and Rifka were a very special couple, they gave of themselves unselfishly and we were very impressed at the amazing work they were doing. They were like a BEACON OF LIGHT for all the Jewish people in Mumbai and all those passing through.
May their light always continue to shine.
Our heartfelt condolences to both their families at their terrible loss and may G-d help their son Moshe whom we remember as such a happy adorable child.
|
We met on Sunday the 23rd 2008, at 7.15 pm at the Tepheret Israel Synagogue in Mumbai for a religious custom. She was there waiting for me along with a friend and her bundle of joy her little son Moshe tucked on her waist in her usual manner. Her pleasant persona, warm disposition and above all her welcoming smile brought in an instant sense of calm within me. She was my friend Rivki who I lost at `Chabad House’, which was a focal point of Jewish culture, tradition and life. She along with her husband Rabbi Gavriel came to Mumbai from the US as a breath of fresh air. They were young, extremely hardworking and committed and ready to extend their helping hand to the Indian Jewry and Jewish expatriates who would visit Mumbai on a regular bases.
It is Mumbai’s loss.
May G-d grant their soul eternal rest. Amen
|
Last March, too, I worked in Mumbai for 4 weeks. I missed going to Friday Night services. My boss allowed me to go, provided that he came with me.
When we arrived at the Chabad House, I lighted candles.
Meanwhile, Gavriel started to count the men in the room, to check if there was minyan yet. As he took into account my boss, I told him in Hebrew "you cannot count him." Gavriel asked me "He's not Jewish?" I answered "No. He's my boss. He wouldn't let me come here alone."
Gavriel nodded. And we all went to the old "Blue" Synagogue of Mumbai, where he celebrated the Shabbat services (in the presence of His Excellence the Ambassador of Israel in India).
On my side, at the service, was a young Israeli girl. She and her 4 friends were hoteled "full board" at the Chabad House during Shabbat. As we talked, she said "it is the first time of my life I celebrate Shabbat".
Here we were: Non-orthodox Jews, non-Jews at all... and still were warmly welcomed by Gavriel and Rivka since we needed a Jewish nest!
My thoughts go to their families, and all the victims throughout the world. Sharing your loss,
|
We are so sorry we cannot be with you for the memorial service on Sunday but want to share our precious memories of Rivkah and Gavriel Holtzberg.
Last December, Richard and I, together with Barbara and Mike Rubinstein, went to India. I had e-mailed the Chabad House in advance to say when we would be in Mumbai and received an immediate reply to say that dinner was served every evening followed by Maariv and we would be most welcome- there was no need to let them know in advance!
Once we arrived in Mumbai, we asked our tour-guide if she knew where the Chabad House was, and after our tour of the shuls of Mumbai she showed us exactly where it was and the landmarks to look out for when we went back in the evening, as it really was just up an alleyway. Anyway we did find it and we had the most wonderful evening. There were business men from Israel, mainly the diamond business, a couple of other tourists and a number of young Israelis who were backpacking round India. We had a fabulous meal and the opportunity to talk to one of the Israelis who told us how he came every month on business and stayed there at the Chabad House- the bedrooms were as good as any 4-star hotel. After dinner Richard and Mike went to Maariv, whilst Barbara and I, sat and chatted with Rivkah. We also met little Moshe who was running aroud smiling at everyone. After Maariv the boys also had the opportunity to talk with Rabbi Holtzberg in his study about the Jewish community in Mumbai and the work he was doing there.
They really were an exceptional couple, who provided a home away from home for so many people religious or non-religious. For me, seeing so many young Israelis there was especially important-when our children travel around the world it is so vital that they can connect with their Jewishness, and I know they did a lot of work where drugs were an issue. They really were an exceptional couple who gave up the comfort of living in a Jewish environment to serve others in a place so far removed from home. May their souls find eternal peace.
|
i am an israeli currently living in mumbai for business purposes...i had the big privilege to spent this past yom kippur with gaby and rivka and i am so glad i had this chance..i stayed there for two days and they did everything to make me feel comfortable and at home...after the fast was over we had a meal i sat with gaby and rivka at table ..it was the last time i would ever see them ..i kept thinking that i should go again...and then the terror attack happened ..i was watching the news here just hoping to hear that they made it out safely ..this is so sad...they were truly on a mission ...there to assist jews in any problem ..after yom kiipur i did call chabad house once becuase i wanted to ask gaby for the israeli consulate number...i just cant believe that they are gone...
|
Four years ago, I attended a professional conference in India. I decided to spend the Shabbat before my conference in Mumbai. As a result, I had my Shabbat meals with the Holtzbergs and I went with Rabbi Holtzberg to one of the shuls in Mumbai. When I say that I had my Shabbat meals with the Hotzbergs, there were an additional 30 guests Friday night. It was apparent to me that the Holtzbergs served Shabbat meals every week to a large number of guests. Most of the guests were young Israelis (mostly nonreligious) who travel to places such India and Thailand upon completion of their military service. In addition, there was a diamond merchant, who regularly travels to Mumbai from Israel on business and a retired Israeli couple. It was quite clear to me that although many of the young Israelis were not personally religious, they felt very much at home with the Holtzbergs. The seemed to consider the Holtzbergs’ apartment, which at the served as the Chabad house at that time, as their “home away from home.” The Holtzbergs will be missed, especially by the many young Israelis who felt at home in the apartment that served as both the Hotzbergs’ home and Chabad House of Mumbai.
|
My fiance spoke with Rav Gavriel on the phone more than once as well as emailing/askmoses.com. I still do not know what the two talked about, but Marcus was deeply changed, much for the better. Something deeply troubling him was relieved after speaking with the man... and we were invited to visit in the following months when we traveled for Marcus' work. Now it will be a memorial trip. And we are still looking forward to it.
|
My husband Stan and I celebrated Rosh Hashana in Mumbai 2007. First Night, a large group followed the Rabbi 'pied piper ' style from the synagogue through the streets to Chabad House for dinner. The Rabbi said he'd like to make a little detour as he may pick up some others wanting to join in the celebrations. We came across a man from Hong Kong who travels to mumbai often, and was so excited to see the Rabbi. Said he was lost and couldn't find Nariman House.
The Rabbi was chuffed that he had 'found 'another dinner guest. When we arrived at Chabad house we saw that the room had just recently been renovated in time for the festive season. The tables where set beautifully with bows on the chair backs, festive cloths for about 100 people. I asked the Rabbi why they had set for so many, as there were only about 35 guests there.
He replied "if we set for 100 then 100 will come.' As the evening progressed people kept coming, it was filled to capacity! Jews from all parts of the world.
It was memorable, and we will not forget the kind hospitality shown to us by the Rabbi and Rebbetzin. May their dear souls rest in peace.
|
Intermittently over the last few days waves of sadness and despair have washed over me.
For me, this act of terrorism in Mumbai, India, wasn't just a tragic loss of life, but it was also the loss of a wonderful couple, a family that I knew. About 4 years ago, a friend and I backpacked around India for a month. Every Shabbat we endeavoured to be with a Chabad family and over Rosh Hashanah we decided to be in Mumbai. Rabbi Gavriel Holtzberg and his wife Rivki were helpful from the very start, replying to our emails and helping us decide where to stay.
But it was their warmth, hospitality and inspiration during our time in Colaba, Mumbai, that most stood out. They assuaged the anxieties of our parents, opened our eyes to the fact that Tashlich is not done with bread- since you don't feed fish on Shabbat or Yom Tov, introduced us to the novelty of sieving flour with an electric sieve, and nurtured my interest in insect checking!
I remember 1st night Rosh Hashanah Rabbi Gavriel was making Kiddush for all of their guests on the roof-top terrace. Next door to us was another hotel, with a restaurant on the roof. Some Israelis happened to hear Kiddush; they hadn't realised it was Rosh Hashanah and they left the restaurant to join us for the Yom Tov meal. This was a delicious meal comprising of chickens slaughtered by Gavriel. It also included beef, a rare delicacy in India, where you can't kill cows. The Holtzbergs preferred to share this luxury with their guests rather than save it for themselves.
Not only did we learn from, and with this wonderful couple, but we stayed in contact afterwards. Our stay in Mumbai and our spiritually uplifting Rosh Hashanah in India would not have been the same without them.
|
My wife and I and baby daughter spent 2 shabbat dinners at the Chabad House. Rivka gave us her stroller to put our baby in while we were there and she gave us Israeli diaper cream for our baby. When our baby started crying and interrupting Rabbi Gavriel's Dvar Torah I took the baby out of the room and she followed me and said to me that babies cry and that it's all right for us to stay. I didn't stay but I was surprised and her kindness.
Rabbi Holzberg's Dvar Torah was about Noah and the flood and he asked why did God allow man become so evil that he had to have a flood? Why didn't he just make man good. If I understood him correctly he made the argument that God gave man the choice so man could choose good as well. After the outrageous murder of the Rabbi and his wife and guests I have another explanation and that is that there is a message in the bible to be severe with terrorists because if you aren't they will strike you. You need to strike first. We can't wait till terrorists come for us. If Chabad and the rest of us want to honor the memories of the Holzberg's we need to encourage our governments to strike at the terrorists before they can strike again.
|
Rabbi Gabriel Holtzberg and his wife Rivka were very loving and helpful couple. They were known for their hospitality towards the Jewish travellers who came from around the world.
They interacted with the Jews of Mumbai to know and understand their problems and various difficulties they faced in their observance. Earlier, the Jewish women used a mikve where there was no hot water. The women dipped themselves in cold water during winter too. Rav Gabriel faced a lot of difficulties before he got permission to construct a mikve in Mumbai. With his determination and perseverance he built a small but beautiful mikve with heater. He and Rivka personally took care of the mikve maintenance, cleaning it themselves and keeping it always fit for use.
Kosher food items are not available in Mumbai. Rav Gabriel arranged to get a lot of kosher items for all those observant people who needed them. He arranged every year Lulav and Ethrog for Succoth for individuals as well as the Synagogues.
Rabbi and his wife were always willing to help and guide the Jewish community members who needed their advise and guidance. Their contribution to the Jewish community of Mumbai will always be remembered.
We pray that G-d gives their family members strength to overcome this disaster. They will be missed very much by the Jewish community of Mumbai whose lives they have touched.
May their souls rest in peace.
|
As you know, I had the privilege to be with Rabbi Gavriel and Rivka Holtzberg during my stay in India over Shabbat (Nov 8th). I cannot explain the grief and sorrow that this horrific act of brutality and senseless murder has had on so many. This evening we are having a Memorial Service at the Chabad House in Houston and they have asked me to talk about the Holtzbergs, as I was one of the last visitors to have met them.
I can only say that they were pure individuals who have shown me kindness and hospitality as I was only a stranger that happened to need a Shabbat meal. There were over 20 guests on the Shabbat I attended (which is a small number by what I was told). It was open to young and old, Ashkenazi, Sephardic, Chassidim - Lubavitch and non-Lubavitch - just an open door to walk in and join (with no payment required). They were there for me, for us, and anyone who needed a meal, a place to stay, spirtual and emotional support. They performed weddings, the Rabbi was a Mohel, a shochet and everything else that needed to be done. They served meals every evening at 8 o'clock free of charge.
As you may imagine, it is very hard to come by kosher food in India. It is not Brooklyn! Nor is it Paris. Nothing in the stores will come with a hechsher, so it was quite challenging to put a kosher meal on the table. Rivka came across as very energetic and had a can do attitude, and was always orchestrating the feeding of all of us, yet she found time to sit beside her husband and socialize with the guests. I have this clear picture in my mind of them seated on this big table with Rivka sitting beside her husband and the baby (Moshe that was saved by the housekeeper) in between them. I recognized the housekeeper when I viewed it on the news channels as she carried the little boy out of the building. I also recognized the other housekeeper who was just to the right of the housekeeper and Moshe when I viewed the news coverage.
I cannot imagine what went on inside the walls of Nariman House during the siege, as the Chabad House was called. On the first floor, there was a large room in the front and two rooms in the back. That is where we ate. On the second floor was the synagogue in the front, and 2 offices in the back. The Holtzberg's lived on the third floor, and there were rooms for guests on the fourth. I remember going up the stairs and seeing all the floors. I also remember that the building was fully detached because there was a bathroom with a window on one side, the front and back had windows, and the other side was also opened. I knew that the only way they would be able to make a rescue is from the roof! I do not think that the Indian forces were sufficently trained and seasoned to perform a rescue. They claim that the Rabbi was alive till the end and that Rivka died in the early stages of the siege. The truth will hopefully come out soon.
Just wanted you to know that this is the best I remember being there.
|
I returned from a tour of India a few days ago. We had Shabbat meals at the Chabad Centre in Mumbai. I mentioned that it reminded me of the functions I have attended at Wimbledon Chabad.
There are no words to describe the tragedy - such young people with so much to give - it is heartbreaking.
|
I lived in Mumbai for 5 months in 2004; during that time, I spent nearly every Friday night in Gaby and Rivke's home. They were unfailingly warm and generous, and though we came from very different backgrounds, they went to tremendous lengths to provide a home away from home and a Jewish life for me in a very foreign city. I feel blessed to have known them and am terribly saddened by this loss.
|
I had the pleasure of spending a shabbos with the Rabbi and his wife two summers ago when I was traveling through India. I too remember racing down the streets after him trying to put in two strides to his one and keep up as we dodged people and traffic to find the Chabad house.
I remember how kind the Rabbi was at dinner to repeat his class in English for me, as I was one of the only people in the room not Israeli or fluent in Hebrew.
I cannot thank them enough for having the strength to live and work in Mumbai for the benefit of bring a Jewish light to travelers and businessmen from Israel, the US and all over the world. They opened their home and their hearts.
I am greatly saddened by this tragedy. May their memories live on. My thoughts and prayers are with their families and son.
|
Dear Helena,
As our first delegate to attend the Aviv seminar for the very first time, I write you this note.
Wizo India is shell shocked at the happenings here in Mumbai where terror has shown its terrible face in the land of peace and non violence of Mahatma Gandhi.
As the city bleeds we mourn the death of our WIZO friend and supporter of the Wizo chaverot here in Mumbai, Rabbanit Rivka Holtzberg And her dear husband Rabbi Gavriel Holtzberg.
You will remember Rivka as she was present on our foundation laying meeting here in Mumbai when you were with us.
She encouraged me whole-heartedly to participate and inaugurate the activities here in India .
Wizo members will miss her deeply and will always have fond memories of her.
I am personally going to miss her among us forever and the women who interacted with here will miss her and her beloved husband deeply.
May their family members have strength to bear the loss of this young couple.
Pray that all the citizens of Mumbai get the strength to recover from these horrendous events of the last few days.
Thank you once again for your phone inquiring about all of here personally and also from the World WIZO headquarters which is much appreciated.
Yours sincerely,
Yael Jhirad
President
Wizo India
|
I remember Gavi Holtzberg taking me aroudn to different guest houses in Bombay and bargaining with the managers till we found one suitable enough for me. I remember him taking in a young Israeli man who was so sick from food poisoning. He spent hours holding his head as he vomited, and rubbing his back.
|
Rabbi and Mrs. Holtzberg welcomed our son Samuel over Shabbos when he was en route to do Tsunami Relief Work.
They made a difference in his life, as in so many others.
Thank you for sharing your beloved ones with us.
|
My husband and I were in Mumbai this summer. We davened at the Kenesset Eliyahoo Synagogue and afterwards we were invited by one of the synagogue members to the Chabad House for shabbat dinner. We did not want to impose ourselves, but we were convinced to come along. We had a wonderful and warm shabbat dinner with the Holtzbergs as well as a large group of fellow Jews from around the world, who happened to find themselves in Mumbai that shabbat. Words can not express the feeling of knowing that wherever one is in the world, he or she can find a warm shabbat experience like that my husband and I shared at Nariman House.
|
I have just received your email. Such tragic news about the Holtzbergs and everything that has happened in Mumbai. I met Rabbi Holtzberg two weeks ago in Mumbai, he seemed like an incredible man. I arrived late to the Friday night service because of difficulty in finding the Shul, and when I arrived the congregation was dancing in a circle and singing Lecho Dodi. The rabbi grabbed my hand as soon as I entered the room, and included me in the circle. It was a profoundly Jewish moment that I will never forget. The chabad house itself was also an amazing place. In the middle of the hectic city it had such a homely feeling. The rabbi went around the table asking everybody their history, what brought them to India, and gave everyone an opportunity to talk about the most Jewish moment of their lives and what it meant to be Jewish. It really was like a place of refuge for Jews...
|
There are some people who are proud in the fact that they met kings, presidents of prime ministers.
Other people have photos with basketball or football players.
Some people do not wash their hands after shaking hands with film stars.
I am proud that G-D arranged for me to meet Rabbi Gabi and Rivki Holtzberg, and enjoy their extraordinary hospitality. This pride is an asset that I will carry with me for many years.
|
While passing through Mumbai during Sukkot of last year, it was my privilege to be a luncheon guest of this beautiful couple, Rabbi Gavriel and Rivka, of Blessed Memory, together with around 20 other regular or irregular Jewish and/or Israeli visitors. Thank you again from the bottom of my heart. I shall never forget you.
|
As a small group of 6 Israelis visiting Mumbai during 5 full days, gabi and rivki hosted us in nariman house inviting us for meals prayers and shabbat celebration. they made us immediately at home and asked us to share our experience of India, informing us about halachot specially dear to chabad, giving us a firm anchor in this unknown world. my daughter returned 6 months later with kosher wines enabling a permanent jewish life in the east. let's hope this will never end
|
Rabbi Holtzberg was so kind, loving, giving and kind to me when I was planning a visit to mumbai over 2 years ago. I begged and asked him what I could for him, what I could bring him, and how i could do a mitzvah before my arrival. He only said, because you are pushing me, I will ask if you could bring Kosher meat for use in the Chullent for the congregants.
I love him, and he and the Chabad were there for me the entire trip.
I am very fortunate to have experienced visiting Chabad of Mumbai.
He took us to the community center where we sang, and danced with the local Indian Jews. Then we walked over to the Chabad house to have dinner. He is truly one of a kind.
|
Linda and I are deeply saddened by this tragedy. We will never forget the kindness shown to my in-laws in Cochin by the Holtzbergs. For some time, upon learning that chicken was no longer being ritually slaughtered in Jewtown, Rabbi Gabi selflessly took it upon himself to pack and dispatch by air chickens each month to my father in law. The Holtzbergs were wonderful people, looking after a very disparate group of fellow Jews like they were family. Words cannot convey our sorrow.
|
My wife Esther and I fondly remember Rabbi Gavriel Holtzberg and his wife Rivkah - who were among those murdered at Chabad House in Mumbai - as the delightful young couple who invited us to Shabbat supper in Mumbai two and a half years ago.
Rabbi Gavriel had led us through the warm streets, with other worshippers from overseas in the Mumbai synagogue that Friday evening, past the Taj Hotel to his apartment.
We vividly recall their roof terrace, their warm hospitality - Rivka's magnificent array of delicious foods, many from Israel - and their enjoyment of all their guests. These included two Israeli student backpackers, a young Israeli diamond dealer, a Jewish woman who was working in India to help women affected by violence in the home, and a businessman from Australia, Isaac Balbin, who offered to send Esther some Stoliner rabbinical melodies (her grandfather had been a follower of the Stoliner Rabbi).
Under the star-filled sky, each of us was asked to say a few words about ourselves. Esther spoke about her Holocaust Memoir Digest, of which she was then preparing the third volume. I spoke about the Chabad Houses I had recently been to in Sofia (Bulgaria) and Shanghai, and my warm welcome at both.
There was a lively discussion, much talk of Torah, Yiddishkeit and Israel - and much singing, before Esther and I, reluctantly, had to leave before the others, to return to the Taj, where we were staying.
As a historian of the Holocaust, whose barmizvah came just four years after the end of the Second World War, I never imagined that I would live to see people whom I had known singled out, in the twenty-first century as Jews, for murderous hatred.
Baruch Dayan Emet.
|
I had the great honor to spend time with Rivky and Gabi during my visit to India several years ago. As a young Jewish woman myself, I was deeply touched by the gentle tenacity and small acts of love that characterized Rivky's daily efforts to build a Jewish home both for her own family and for any other Jew who needed a place to go in the noisy, crowded city of Mumbai. In the short time we spent together, I saw Rivky teach lessons in Hebrew for local Jewish children, prepare and serve weekday and shabbat meals in extra large portions (in case unexpected guests should arrive), and tend to the needs of travelers passing through, all while lovingly caring for her own family. Mumbai is a difficult place to visit, nevermind to live, and to keep a clean, kosher Jewish home on top of that. But Rivky did it every day with a smile and told me that she would continue to do it until the coming of moschiach. Her strength and love is an inspriation for me and I will remember her always.
|
In September 2007, I needed some Hebrew translated (I am not Jewish) and went to the synagogue in Kala Ghoda where the "rector" directed me to Rabbi Holtzberg and the Chabad. Rabbi Holtzberg spared me an hour from his busy schedule to translate and chat and it was with sorrow that I read of his death in the attacks. My sympathies to all at the Chabad and the community.
|
I'm so sad about the murder of Rabbi Gavriel and Rivka, may their souls rest in gan eden. I was lucky enough to spend the last Passover with them in the Chabad House in Mumbai (my best Passover) and they took us in like their children and served us with so much love and compassion. They were people full of faith and good deeds. We don't know why G-d does what he does but we must accept it with faith and love. As far as we can see it's a terrible loss for the world and for Israel.
May G-d comfort us and especially their families and give them the strength and faith to over come the pain and loss and give little Moshe the strength to grow up full of faith and full of Torah and good deeds and full of joy and may his parents good deeds and blessings be with him. May G-d send mashiach fast!
|
I am so saddened by the news and wanted to share this comment, written by my son and daughter in law. While backpackiing, they spent time at the Chabad House.
"I just read the news. This is the same chabad that we went to a couple times while we were in Mumbai. We knew the rabbi and had a couple meals/services with him. I understand that he was moving mountains there. You can't imagine what him and his wife developed there within the last 5 years. We were very impressed. We never met his wife, but hear she was one of the most incredible people you could ever meet. People raved about her.(She was in NY at the women's conference) It's sad to hear the news and scary to think we were there. The Taj Mahal hotel was also around the corner from where we were at. We visited there a few times. It's just terrible. Eric and Heather."
|
I had the privilege to spend a Shabbes at the Holtzberg's home in Mumbai a few weeks ago.
As in so many Chabad Housescin that region and all over the world, these emissaries managed to create a home away from home for "stranded" guests. What Gavriel and Riviki, of righteous memory, did and many of their fellow shlichim and schlichot do every day is a great sanctification of G-d's name and an even greater kindness.
We have no words for what happened and should not even try to look for explanations. We should keep their memory and the memory of all the victims of the Mumbai atrocities in honour. We should also take an example of the righteous Indian nanny who, most probably by risking her own life, saved the life of little Moishi. Let's wish her the highest awards in this and the coming world.
|
My mom and I traveled to India for Passover and we were very worried about where to eat and how to keep the holiday properly.
The rabbi and his wife showed us such generosity and kindness that it always lived with me and will stay in my heart forever.
I feel a deep pain after I have heard this news may G-d avenge their blood and may He send peace to the world.
This is a tragedy to humankind
My condolences to the family...and my sympathy to their child..
AM ISRAEL CHAI!
|
I've learned in New York in the same Yeshiva than Gabi (Oholei Torah).
I used to work with him on the weekly Torah publication that he was in-charge off: the Kovetz Oholei Torah. His job was to actually find "commentaries" from students for this publication, typing and setting it as well.
From the hundreds of hours I've worked with him, I could remember now, not only his talent, his ability to manage this project in the best possible way, but also his SMILE!
From the two years we have worked together, I cannot remember ONE time seeing him angry, upset or without a smile. He was always smiling. I cannot forgot this SMILE which do not stop to come to my mind since I've heard what happened.
I remember when we had some hard times for the weekly publication, he was always smiling. The smile has always stayed by him, to the extend that when I saw his few months ago, I couldn't imagine that one of this children has passed away, and the second one is seriously ill and is in a Hopital in Israel. No way he would complain about it, even relating it to me. He was always smiling.
Gaby was also from this kind of persons that you are "fluid". You don't feel them. They never NEED your attention. On the contrary - is always giving the attention to you.
I didn't had the Zchus, the merit to know and encounter his wife - Rivka - of blessed memory, but from her smile I'm pretty sure that she was exactly the same as her husband. How could we have such a smile with such tragedies in the family?
I'm sure that they are praying for us now, and that with his convincing smile, he will convince G-D to bring us Moshiach RIGHT AWAY.
|
From Arnold to Sandy and Bernard Weinbaum - London
My dear Bernard and Sandy,
As the people who first introduced to me the wonders, joys and hospitality of Chabad- Lubavitch I write to tell you how desperately saddened I am by the murderous, senseless killing in Mumbai of my friends Gavriel and Rivkah Holzberg z"z"l.
I do believe that I was among the first, if not the first, person to be a recipient of their gracious, open handed hospitality and kindness. I recall so vividly discussing with them the reasons for their coming to India as by the time of their arrival there were hardly any Jews still living in Mumbai. Gavriel in his wonderful cheerful manner said they were "here for people like me - to give us a "Jewish home while we were in their city"
Rivka and Gavriel were truly wonderful shelechim whose sole aim in life was to spread the word of the Rebbe and to receive with love every Jew . And, in paraphrasing the words of the Rebbe' as written in today's Jerusalem Post "to accept every Jew non judgmentally and to encourage him to grow in his observance and his knowledge of Torah and to transform the world into a place of goodness and holiness"
I join you and all my dear Lubavitch friends around the world in mourning these special people Gavriel and Rivka who in such a a short time and at such a young age achieved so much in the name of G-d. They will be deeply missed by the many hundreds of people whose lives they touched.
With love
Arnold
|
I had the privilege to stay with the Rabbi and his wife only once, over one Shabbos. But, that one time has left me with an everlasting impression of how really special this couple was. The meals consisted of such warmth and giving, making all the 30-odd people feel really right at home. A real shining example of what people can become in this sometimes shaky world.
|
I was fortunate to spend Hanukkah with Rabbi Gavriel and his wife Rivka two years back. He was my first contact with the Jewish world and I expected him to be very orthodox and reserved (a misconception I had because of difference in cultures - I'm an Indian Christian). But to my great astonishment, I found them very loving and welcoming and I started visiting them on multiple occasions. Amidst his busy schedule, he always had a word for you and rivka always had a smile on her face even when she was whipping out a meal for a large group of people every single day. I appreciate their love for humanity and feel proud to have known them.
Gandhi said "Be the change you want to see in the world" and this couple showed it through their lives. I pray for their souls to rest in peace. Soon Moshe would grow up into a fine young man and will come to know what fabulous parents he had. My prayers are with him and the family. God bless India and Israel during these trying times. May the Lord help us fight evil in all its forms.
|
“Now, I Am Become Death, Destroyer of Worlds”
Bronzed from the beaches of Goa and exhausted from the constant trance parties of Anjuna, Hellipad, Baga and Hilltop, we arrived in the sprawling mass of humanity, which is Mumbai. Bodies sleeping on the streets, beggars scamming tourists and the well heeled Bombay elite speaking English in their posh accents, punctuated with expletives, to impress their coteries. This is Colaba the heartbeat of Mumbai.
The smells of the street rise up and punch you in the nostrils. In Mumbai you can never be alone, at every step someone is selling to you, negotiating with you, cajoling you, tugging on your shirt sleeve. The teaming multitudeof people know the only way to survive is to engage, to enjoy, to accept – this is one of the most tolerant places in the world. In Mumbai you can be a Hindu, a Muslim, a Sikh, a Buddhist, a Jew – all are welcome
In the shadow of the Gate of India, sits the Taj Palace hotel, pride of India, built by the founder of the Tata group, to revenge the British who declined him entrance to their lavish colonial hotels. The Taj Palace is built as a monument to Indian dignity, prosperity and independence. Its magnificent dome, its arches, its pools and uniform clad staff make this edifice an authentic tourist fantasy.
Down the main strip of the Colaba Causeway is Leopold’s Cafe, immortalised as the meeting place of Shantaram. Tourists sit at the restaurant tables with copies of Shantaram in their hands reading the monolith trying to grasp the singularity that is India. Occasionally Gregory David Roberts, former heroine addict, bank robber, mobster, author and philanthropist wanders into the restaurant. Tourists flock to him to talk about his book which has become the Rosetta Stone translating Mumbai to the meandering generation searching for spiritual and physical redemption on the streets of India.
If you cross the road and walk past the Sassoon Library, donated by the Indian Jewish businessman and philanthropist of that name, and past the trendy art galleries and music stores not far from the magnificent structure of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Train Terminus you come across the Knesset Eliyahoo Synagogue. Nestled in a back alley behind flaking pale blue walls, the shul is ornate and cool in the searing Mumbai heat.
We entered before Shabbat in January 2008, not quite sure what to expect. This back alley building in the centre of the Hindu heart of capitalism is one of 7 or 8 shuls within Mumbai. One week later, Madonna and Guy Ritchie would tour the Knesset Eliyahoo shul as part of their spiritual quest in India.
The shul fuses five distinct Jewish cultures, the traditional Bene Israel Indian Jews, who trace their roots back in India two thousand years, Baghdadi Jews who came to settle in Mumbai over the past few centuries, Israeli business people, Jewish tourists with backpacks or staying in the opulent Oberoi or Taj Palace Hotels, all looking for the vestiges of something familiar in a very foreign land, and of course Chabad who have come to lead all of these disparate, often conflicting, scions of the tribes of Israel.
I sat down on the hard wooden bench next to an Indian Jew who asked my origin. When he heard I was from South Africa, he immediately asked if I knew Anne Harris. Anne had visited the previous year and had been a guest in the shul.
After the service, Rabbi Gavriel Holtzberg lead a group of tourists and Israelis working in Mumbai back to his home for dinner.
We moved at a blistering pace back through the streets of Mumbai, no one gave the kippa clad group a second look. In comparison to other religious practices in the city this was uneventful. Back through the smelly streets of the Fort area, into Colaba, back past the Sassoon Library, past the new falafel shop of one of the Israelis, past Leopold’s Cafe and down into side alleys and back streets to come to Nariman House, home of Chabad in Bombay. It was so out of the way that I feared we would not be able to find our way back.
The Rabbis home was an entire floor of the building. The room was host to about 20 of us. Rabbi Holtzberg introduced us to Rivka his wife, and to his mother in law who was visiting from Israel, the baby was just over a year.
In the kitchen about three or four cooks and helpers prepared Shabbat dinner and the food kept on coming.
Israeli salads, spicy fish, chicken, desert - the meal was endless. Before desert, the Rabbi gave a lengthy shiur in Hebrew, lengthy at least to the four South Africans whose Hebrew was not up to the standard of the other guests, all of whom were Israeli.
Among the guests were diamond dealers and business people who regularly frequented Mumbai. The next night we would meet up with one of the Israeli diamond dealers to go clubbing in a disco called Polyester one block from the Taj Palace Hotel. Another guest was opening pure vegetarian Israeli falafel shops in India to cater for the needs of pure vegetarian Hindus and the Buddhists who will not harm any living creature.
Before desert and birkat hamazon, Rabbi Holtzberg asked each person present to re-pay the favour of the meal. He did not want money, he wanted commitment, commitment to Judaism, to faith to ritual to charity. One by one, people around the large U shaped table rose and committed themselves to charity or teffilin or hospitality to the stranger.
The night ended with offers of hospitality for a return to Chabad for Shabbat lunch the next day or another Shabbat dinner when next in Mumbai. We thanked Rabbi and Rebetzen Holtzberg, for their hospitality and we commented on the cuteness of the baby – they told us their home was always open to strangers.
Last week a number of strangers entered their home - this time not for Shabbat hospitality, this time as the angels of death.
When the cute baby turned two last Shabbat, his parents lay dead in pools of blood at Nariman House. Saved by one of the helpers who cooked us dinner in the kitchen, she snatched the baby and ran from Chabad House when the terrorist entered.
Neighbours of Rabbi Holtzberg and Rivka had been shot while throwing stones at machine gun wielding terrorists while trying to protect their Jewish neighbours. In a country of religious tolerance like no other, the streets of Mumbai flowed with blood.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Train Terminus was under siege, Leopold’s Cafe had been attacked, the blood stained copies of Shantaram lay strewn across the rubble, the Taj had fallen, a symbol of bruised Indian pride.
Although the attacks were perpetrated by fratricidal Muslim terrorists, I am reminder of the quote from the Hindu sacred test, the Bhagavad Gitav, made famous by Robert Oppenheimer on the explosion of the fist nuclear bomb in New Mexico in 1945, “Now, I Am Become Death (Shiva), Destroyer of Worlds”.
But there was a difference between those merchants of death and the Hindu lord Shiva, for by Hindu tradition, Shiva destroys all - even evil - so that from destruction new good may be built.
|
2 years ago the rabbi and his kind wife hosted me in Mumbai and their hospitality was overwhelming. Like chabad all over the world, it felt like a safe haven away from the craziness of the city and in a tragic twist of irony this safe haven was destroyed.
My thoughts go out to their families, Moishe and all the other shlichim of Chabad who no doubt feel vulnerable and distraught at this loss.
|
I met Rabbi Gavriel sometime in January 2007, I was then working with a company that made plastic disposable plates and when one of our clients in Israel wanted to place an order for the plates but only if our plates / factory got the OK Kosher certificate. I found about Rabbi Gavriel and we travelled together 4 hours to our factory and that day was the most memorable for me.
We discussed a lot of things, political, social, International, business etc. We discussed all the happenings in the world right from Kashmir, Palestine, Pakistan, Iraq, Iran etc. He came across to me as someone who is so warm, practical, intellectual and so very sincere in his beliefs. He explained all that they did at the Chabad Mumbai, it was unbelievable and so selfless.
That one full day spent with him was an eye opener on the Jewish religion, way of life, the strong linkages that I could find between Jewish religion and Hinduism was unbelievable.
I remember he told me, he will be going to Israel as he was blessed with a baby boy, he was very very happy when he spoke of his son.
We kept in touch and he promised me to invite me over sometime to visit one of the synagogues in Mumbai with him. Alas that promised remains unfulfilled.
It's really tragic what happened to him and his wife. I only pray Lord Almighty gives little Moshe and members of both Rabbi Gavriel's & Mrs Gavriel's family strength to overcome this disaster.
With prayers and a hope for peace.
|
After traveling for 13 shabbatot throughout Nepal and India 3 summers ago, I spent my last shabbat before returning home to Israel at the beit chabad in Mumbai--i could go on for hours about how important that shabbat was for me--but its not about me--its about the thousands of holy souls who found their way to the beit chabad--a light in the middle of complete Indian chaos--and were welcomed with open arms--an awesome dinner EVERY SINGLE NIGHT cooked by the rebbetzin who was by far the most dynamic and strong of all I met during the trip--
India can be so intimidating sometimes, I can't begin to explain it to someone who hasn't been there, and in the middle of all that were these two shining lights--I feel blessed to have known them and endeavor to carry their light with me now living here in the old city of Jerusalem--yehi zikhram barukh--may their memory be for a blessing.
|
Christian, Hindu, Muslim or Druid, Gabi & Rivka were warm and welcoming to everyone. I had the opportunity to meet them a few years back while in Mumbai. Gabi & Rivka proved the old New York bakery adage that you don't have to be Jewish to love Levys or, in this instance, the Holtzbergs. Although I'm skeptical of all things religious, I'm equally certain that Gabi & Rivka were God's children.
|
Having been the recipient of their hospitality in Mumbai on two trips, I have experienced the amazing humility and selflessness which I felt to be inspiring and here's why:
A 24 year old man Torah scholar and his wife go to a place with a couple of backpacks and a few years later have a self sufficient blossoming operation where guests can stay (first class with every detail imaginable) feeling unusually closer to g-d in a place where idolatry is more common than Starbucks.
The job the Holzbergs was 24X7 and filled with continuous people, all who wanted/needed something from them. Despite the hardships of just operating in Mumbai, the personal tests of their first two chidren's health, the difficulties caused by characters who chose to even borrow Rabbi Gavriel's identity.... The Holzbergs were happy and appeared as if they had nothing to do except make those who visited with them feel at home.
May the Holzbergs be a mailetz yosher for us all and may we all grow from their apparently infinite ability to accept the will of G-d with joy and with abundant strength.
I wish for my sons and us all that we have the merit to continue the Holzbergs memory by emulating their deep knowledge in learning, their happy attitude and their abundant ethic of giving.
|
I am not an Orthodox Jew. I am not even religious. But as a Jew and as an American, I am soo very sorry about what has happened to these poor people. The rabbi and his wife, look so very nice and good in their pictures. their son, is a beautiful young boy. it is so horrible what has happened to their family. i feel nothing but terrible sympathy for them and their families. perhaps this event, will strengthen the ties between the Indian and Western (specifically Jewish) communities, and the resolve to defeat these evil men.
|
I met Rabbi Holtzberg only one time, winter 2005 in new york, the day he left to Mumbai. He was so excited to fly back and told me that the Indian people are respecting the jewish people and there is no anti semitism there.
He made such a great impression on me which I'll never forget. What a holy person! May G-d avenge his blood.
|
My wife and I stayed at the Chabad House for three days while we were in Mumbai including one Shabbat. Rabbi Holtzberg was warm and caring the entire time. He provide not only a home away from home, but good conversation and company. The atmosphere was just welcoming, that's what led us to stay in one of their guest suites instead of an hotel. The people and time we spent their will never be forgotten because of the Rabbi and Rebbztin's light. I will always remember them and the lives they gave up to help their fellows and the world around them. May their lives bring many the power of Torah and love and bring us all closer to G-d and his mitzvos.
|
My dear friends and family,
3 years ago on my world tour Ron and I were in Mumbai admiring the Taj Mahal hotel. We spent Yom Kippur at the Chabad House with Rabbi Gavriel Holtzberg, his wife Rivka and many many Israelis and Jewish tourists from around the world.
Photos were taken after Yom Kippur, at the break-fast, in the building which you see on TV, on the outdoor deck on the top floor.
They were so wonderful, so warm, so hospitable, so close , we felt like we knew each other for years.
And now they are so brutally killed by cruel, soulless animals who look like human beings, for doing only good to everybody...
My heart goes to their parents, family and Lubavitch community.
I contribute in their memories to chabadindia.org.
Peace and love to all.
|
I have only met Rabbi Holtzberg and his wife once - on my first visit to Mumbai in March 2008.
I went to a Friday night service at the Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue in Mumbai. Gabi had invited many of us back to the Chabad House for a Friday night meal. There were about 30 of us at the meal, some from the UK, some from the US, Israel and other countries.
They made us feel very welcome, there was a warm atmosphere around the table.
I cannot believe what has happened in Mumbai last week - it was a city in which I felt very safe, the city had so much character and yet so much destruction and devastation has taken place.
The rabbi and his wife did so much good to the local community and opened their home to travellers like myself, and they added to my experiences whilst on holiday in India.
My thoughts are with their families at this very difficult time.
|
I have only met Rabbi Holtzberg and his wife once - on my first visit to Mumbai in March 2008.
I went to a Friday night service at the Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue in Mumbai. Gabi had invited many of us back to the Chabad House for a Friday night meal. There were about 30 of us at the meal, some from the UK, some from the US, Israel and other countries.
They made us feel very welcome, there was a warm atmosphere around the table.
I cannot believe what has happened in Mumbai last week - it was a city in which I felt very safe, the city had so much character and yet so much destruction and devastation has taken place.
The rabbi and his wife did so much good to the local community and opened their home to travellers like myself, and they added to my experiences whilst on holiday in India.
My thoughts are with their families at this very difficult time.
|
I met the Rabbi and his wife last year while in Mumbai. I was on a stopover for pune and had the misfortune to miss my fligtht and get stranded. He offered me an opportunity to join for Shabbat dinner and I gladly accepted. This was one act of kindness that I would never forget. As I travelled through China (several times) I was introduced to Chabad as a family.
Very sad news indeed
|
I spent a month in India on business last February, but the Holtzbergs were in Israel at the time so I never got a chance to meet them, although I did communicate with Rabbi Holtzberg by email. I worked in Bangalore during the week but came to Mumbai each week for Shabbos.
While I did not know the Rabbi and Rebbetzin personally, I experienced the results of their efforts. Each Friday night 30-40 Jews gathered at the Chabad House for dinner following minyan at the Sassoon Shul. Each guest was expected to give a Torah thought, tell a story, or lead a song. There were Jews from Israel, the US, Canada, France, Australia and even Japan while I was there. Everyone felt welcomed and a part of the family.
While the meals were a welcome change from LaBruite and Meal Mart, I could see that while it was nice for me to have a place for Shabbos in a country where Judaism barely exists, what was even more important was the work they did for the many non-religious Israelis visiting India after their national service. Young Jews often come to India to "find themselves"; the Chabad House was the only place were they could "find themselves" in a Jewish sense.
The term "moser nefesh" - giving up part of one's life for heaven - is often overused. Living on a daily basis in a land like India and serving Jews of all kinds selflessly is truly being moser nefesh.
May their memory serve as an inspiration to all of us to do more for our fellow Jews, and may their sacrifice be the last our people suffer.
|
Shalom to all,
I met Gavi and Rivkah in Mumbai in Purim of 2004. I was unemployed and decided to travel to a country that I always thought treated Jews very well. I arrived in Mumbai and stayed in the hotel where Gavi and Rivki had their penthouse. When we arrived back at their house after Friday Night services, I noticed Rivki's beautiful Shabbat table. She was expecting over 12 people to arrive. But when we returned from shul, we were only 5 total. I asked her why she put out so many plates out and she said "They will come". And they did. By the end of the Shabbat meal, we were a strong 12!
May Moshe their little one find comfort someday in knowing that their parents were very kind, compassionate and visionary. The Holzberg's achieved so much in their short span in this world.
|
I also visited Mumbai last year, it being the first destination on my round the world travels. As a solo traveller, I was a little scared and anxious, travelling by myself and contacted Chubud as it was Succot.
Id never been to chubud before, and felt a bit shy in between the sea of many Israeli faces!
Rivki and Gabi were SO kind, making me instantly welcome and at home. I had the most amazing Succot imaginable with them.
I wish their family the deepest of condolences. My heart and prayers go out to everyone who had the privilage of knowing them.
|
I visited Mumbai last year and e-mailed the Rabbi hy'd to ask what he might want us to bring from London. He replied that they'd like some Chulent meat and fresh milk, and we were happy to oblige. Then he added that "well, our kids have never really had fresh milk".... Just one of those not-so-little things that we taken so much for granted which the Rabbi and Rebbetzin gave up in order to live in Mumbai and bring people closer to their Jewish roots.
|
I have been visiting Mumbai several times in the last two years for business, the last being for Purim 2008.
Each time I came to Mumbai I went to the shabes prayers at Sassoon synagogue followed by the meal at Nariman house.
I remember the warmth of the shabes lunches. Rabbi Gavriel was open to everyone, and made sure all would participate either by saying words of torah, or leading a song.
I was grateful as a traveler to find such a great hospitality and I am and remain thankful to Habad for that.
My deepest condolences to the Holzberg and Rosenberg families.
This is a sad day for all humankind.
|
My deepest, deepest condolences to the Rosenberg and Holzberg families on the passing on of their children - and children indeed they were - warm-hearted, joyous, accepting children of G-d who made all welcome in their home.
I fondly remember the many Friday Night services spent with them: Rivki's amazing meals for 40 strangers, Gabi's words of wisdom. Such a beautiful, talented, young couple.
Be comforted in the knowledge that they were doing wonderful work, that thousands of people around the world share your shock and horror and grief and will think of Rivki and Gabi with love, admiration and awe.
May G‑d console you, together with all mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.
|
I have only wonderful memories of these two wonderful souls. We shared shabbat meals, we prayed together - we danced at Purim, and we made many lechaims together. We met friends from all over this world, and were enriched by your warmth love of G-d, and his people. Gavi and Rivka, you must have completed your work on this earth early. I know so many of us who have passed through Chabad Mumbai have the same feeling of loss, bewilderment and despair.
What happened to you was madness, cruelty and inhumanity of unfathomable depths. Us Jews have no way of dealing with this type of action, it's not in our make up. How can any one have this much hate for those who have done such good?
I wear my Chabad Mumbai Kippa with pride, and will try to get it displayed in our shul as a memory and reminder of their wonderful work, and cruel deaths.
Let us all give some Charity in their memory so the brave Chabad work can continue, where most of us would fear to tread.
|
Rabbi Gavriel and his wife Rivka had visited our city Istanbul during their trip back to India from Israel. They were in Israel to buy kosher for pesach food, to be ready for the guests that would come at pesach.
I had a full day with them, and learned how important to be the shalich of the Rebbe. They were proud to be in India as the shaliach of the Rebbe.
I took them around the city had awonderful day, but they informed me that they were happier at Mumbai where they perform their holy job.
We'll miss them a lot!
|
I was very fortunate to meet the Holtzberg's in Mumbai 4 years ago. At the time, they were renting the basement of a small hotel by the water a few blocks from the Taj Hotel. "By chance" I stayed at the same hotel for a Shabbat, and when I asked the cleaning lady to leave my bedroom's lights on until the next day, she mentioned there were other people "like me" staying in the hotel. That same night, she introduced me to Gabi and Rivka who without hesitation kindly invited me to spend both meals with them. That is how I got the chance to spend an unexpected warm and joyful Shabbat and had the honor to meet this exceptionally welcoming, sweet and giving couple.
It is also worth mentioning that although at the time the Holtzberg's were not yet settled in Mumbai, they already had managed to host Israeli backpackers for Shabbat dinners.
I am deeply saddened and upset with the loss of such an extraordinary couple along with so many other lives in these shameful tragic events. May G-dd give strength to their loved ones, and sooner than later bring light to every dark corner of the world.
|
I am glad I had the opportunity to know Rav Holzberg and his wife. I was at the Bet Chabad roughly one month and a half ago for yom kippur, and Rav Holzberg spent the night to prepare the lulav for me before I was leaving.
I wont forget him and the wonderful person he was. He was a Rav, a friend and a family for every jew in India.
Thanks Gabi and Rivka, I wont forget you and your kindness
|
Having spent a day in Bombay on business i was fortunate to experience the amazing hospitallity of the Holtzbergs. The food I brought with for my trip had gone off due to the heat. I have immense gratitude to have been able to have a hot filling meal meal before taking my 10 hour flight back home. May their holy souls be a Maylitz Yoisher for there family and all of Israel.
|
Only deepest sypmpathy to these Wonderful people Gavi and Rivka hosted me a few moths ago during my visit to Mumbai. I have never enjoyed such genuine out pouring and love for fellow man as this couple demonstrated for all their visitors. They did not judge, but welcomed all Jews even their Non Jewish friends, to enjoy their warmth hospitality, and teachings. Many may have abused the privileges offered, but there was never a hint of resentment. They gave so much , and many thousands must have passed through their doors like me, and knew them, who would be feeling like I do today, so sad, so proud to have known them. There can not be a person out there that would ever say that these Lubavich Jews were not the kindest and most genuine and caring people that walked this earth. I join the many Mourners of this tragedy in expressing to them and their families, my heartfelt sympathy, they will be remembered with deep sadness, and I am proud to have known them as my life is better for it.
|
grieve for Rabbi holtzberg and his wife rivka me and my whole family are deeplty hurt upon hearing the deaths of rabbi gabi and his wife rivka, over the past two years they have been teaching my family the laws of orthodox judaism, we have learnt so much from them, and people like them are truly sent by G*D and come once in a lifetime, we also pray for moshe their beloved son that he has a wonderful future ahead of him, we share with u in grief the losses of rabbi holtzberg and his wife rivka.
shalom
|
Last March, I was welcomed by the Rabbi and his wife for an entire shabbat as I was in Mumbai on a business trip. They were the purest incarnation of selflessness, entirely dedicated to providing Jews of all horizons a home in Mumbai, a beacon of Jewish light.
They breathed life into the little local Jewish community, supported visitors in any way possible, and welcomed everyone, whatever their background into their home. I remember playing with their adorable son Moishe, the happiness and the warmth of their home. They made everybody feel comfortable, and their kindness had no limit.
I am heartbroken by the news of their loss and will cherish the memories of this shabbat spent in Mumbai with 30 other foreigners. The Holtzbergs (z"l) carried out their duties with absolute enthusiasm and and were instrumental in helping the community and external visitors to accomplish mistvot around the clock.
May G-d help their son, my thoughts and prayers go to their families.
|
Throughout the past two days I have prayed for the safe release of the Holtzbergs, but sadly my prayers were not answered. I am heart broken.
I was in Mumbai last year around this time for work. I communicated with Rabbi Holtzberg was very welcoming and I looked forward to meeting him in person.
Our client in Mumbai arranged for a car to pick me up on Saturday morning and take me to shul. Unfortunately, we never found it. We drove for an hour and half and got good and lost. Ultimately, we ended up on a dead end street and crowd around then car when the driver starting asking about a "Jewish Church." This seemed ill advised. Yet, out from the back of the crowd a man walked up and said he knew where we wanted to go and that he would take us. He walked the car out of the street and got into a cab and took us to the big blue Synagoge in town. It was very nice and an incredible experience, but it was not the Chabad and so I never got to meet Rabbi Holtzberg. And now I never will.
Please let me know if there is a donation fund for Moshe.
|
I mourn the loss of Gavriel and Rivka with their families and all of chabad.
I spent last shabbat in Mumbai and had, unfortunately as it turns out, their last shabbat lunch with them and their few guests in their home.
|
The passing of Rav Gabi ztz"l and Rabbanit Rivki ztz"l is too terrible for words. They were our anchours to Jewish life in Mumbai, with all the friction that entails, and it's so sad that they're gone.
It's also terrible to hear of the deaths of members of their house staff, who had children and who were Righteous Gentils... Rav Gabi ztz"l's door was always open to Jews, and he did his best to organize minyanim, help people out, organize classes etc.
I don't know how Shomer Shabbat Jews in Mumbai will manage now- there's really nothing else to support Jewish life which is left. The Jewish world is made much poorer and sadder by their passing- indeed, as much of a cliche as it may be, "nafla ateres rasheinu".
|
I'm a wife and mother, born & raised in Mumbai & presently based in the tristate area. This little incident may be insignificant compared to the tragedy, But will remain a very pleasant bit of memory in my life for ever. While living in New York as a graduate student, I have become accustomed to seeing RVs belonging to the Chabad Lubavitch organization and they were a reassuring part of daily life in New York.
Last year, I spent 6 months in Mumbai due to a personal crisis, and while out in Mumbai one day generally weaving through the crowds, I noticed something oh so familiar that i initially did not give it a second glance: A Chabad Lubavitch vehicle crawling thru the crazy mumbai traffic! It took me a minute to realise that I was not in New York but halfway across the world! But the sight of that van sent such a happy thrill down my spine that it made my day.
Please do not let these monsters win by moving away from your mission in Mumbai, Let the sacrifice made by Rabbi Gavriel & his wife not go in vain..
My sympathies & condolences to their parents & children.
|
I share your loss of your blessed members of the Lubavitch community.
Because of your Jewish influence on my life, I visited the Mumbai Chabad about 1 1/2 years ago and shared a Shabbat dinner with the Rabbi and his wife.
As I frequently visit Chabads on Shabbat while I travel, I called Rabbi Holtzberg and asked if he had a Shabbat dinner that Friday night. I was staying at the ill-fated Taj Mahal Palace hotel. He asked me to wait by the main door at a specific time as he would be making his rounds of the big Mumbai hotels to collect Jews that wanted to share Shabbat. He met me on time and we raced through the congested city and gathered a few other Jews at different hotels for his Shabbat.
After he gathered his flock, we walked, at an Olympic walkers stride, dodging cars, trucks and taxis to get to the sieged Chabad. We had a joyful Shabbat and found our way through the stimulating streets back to our hotels.
Rabbi Holtzberg was dedicated to sharing Judaism from Crown Heights and throughout the world. Rabbi Holtzberg was good and memorable Jew.
May his feats keep his memory alive,
|
Dear Chabad,
I'm an Antwerp Jew living in Mumbai for over 8 years. I knew Gabi and Rivka, met them at various occasions, enjoyed their hospitality during holiday functions they hosted... Although our ideologies diverged, i have always admired there dedication to their faith and causes they defend.
Please let me know if any local ceremony will be held to manifest our sorrow. How can we help rebuild the Mumbai mission and make sure it gets perpetrated - convinced it serves an essential purpose for the extinguishing local community as well as the Jewish travelers who find a harbor for the various needs.
The Holtzbergs were good hearted young dynamic people, we will all miss them.
Sharing your loss,
Shabbat Shalom
|
I stay with Gaby and Rivky so often they feel like my own children. Moishe reminds me of my own 18 month old grandson. (I am from Israel but work most of the time in Mumbai). I was supposed to see them Tuesday evening to give Moishe his birthday gift that I bought for him for his 2nd birthday but couldnt get back from work in time. I intended to visit them this Sunday when I return to Mumbai from China.
My heart breaks. My soul is crushed. We have lost two Tzadikim who gave us all so much unconditional love. Does any one know the funeral arrangements? Does any one know how I can still give Moishe his birthday present
Baruch Dayan Emet!!
|
Last March, I was welcomed by the Rabbi and his wife for an entire shabbat as I was in Mumbai on a business trip.
They were the purest incarnation of selflessness, entirely dedicated to providing Jews of all horizons a home in Mumbai, a beacon of Jewish light.
I remember playing with their adorable son Moishe, the happiness and the warmth of their home. They made everybody feel comfortable, and their kindness had no limit.
G-d help their son, my thoughts and prayers go to their families.
|
|
| |
|
Read this article
