More than half a century ago the pews of Kolkata’s stately synagogues were filled with members of a thriving Indian Jewish community. Today, the congregations are dwindling but dedicated Muslim caretakers tend to the three active synagogues in the city. One patriarch has been in the role for 60 years and works alongside his two sons. Atlas Obscura and filmmaker Ana Gonzalez share the history of Kolkata's Magen David Synagogue in this poignant short.

The Short Film Showcase spotlights exceptional short videos created by filmmakers from around the world and selected by National Geographic editors. We look for work that affirms National Geographic's belief in the power of science, exploration, and storytelling to change the world. The filmmakers created the content presented, and the opinions expressed are their own, not those of National Geographic Partners.

More than half a century ago the pews of Kolkata’s stately synagogues were filled with members of a thriving Indian Jewish community. Today, the congregations are dwindling but dedicated Muslim caretakers tend to the three active synagogues in the city. One patriarch has been in the role for 60 years and works alongside his two sons. Atlas Obscura and filmmaker Ana Gonzalez share the history of Kolkata's Magen David Synagogue in this poignant short.

The Short Film Showcase spotlights exceptional short videos created by filmmakers from around the world and selected by National Geographic editors. We look for work that affirms National Geographic's belief in the power of science, exploration, and storytelling to change the world. The filmmakers created the content presented, and the opinions expressed are their own, not those of National Geographic Partners.