Hanukkah Celebrations Highlight Jewish Resilience

As antisemitism rises globally, Jewish communities embrace Hanukkah's message of light, hope, and cultural pride.

Jewish communities worldwide are celebrating Hanukkah, which began at sundown on December 25, by lighting menorahs and sharing the festival's message of hope and religious freedom.
The festival commemorates the Maccabees' victory over the Greeks and the miracle of oil lasting eight days during the rededication of Jerusalem's Second Temple in 200 BCE.
This year's observances take on deeper significance, with Jewish leaders emphasizing the importance of public displays of pride and resilience in the face of rising antisemitism.
In Mumbai and other cities, menorah lightings and gatherings include prayers for hostages still held in Gaza, reflecting the community's ongoing concerns for peace and safety.
Hanukkah traditions, such as lighting candles, giving charity, and sharing fried foods like latkes and sufganiyot, continue to unite families and communities worldwide.