In the southern Israeli city of Kiryat Gat, a roundabout named after Mahatma Gandhi was erected in 2016. 2,000 Bene Israel Jews live in the arid Biblical village. Despite being Israeli citizens, these Jewish immigrants from the Indian subcontinent nevertheless hold Gandhi in high regard as India’s austere political and spiritual leader during the country’s war for freedom. Their birth nation continues to hold a particular place in their hearts. India has a 2,000-year history of antisemitism-free tolerance for its Jewish community.
David Ben Gurion, Israel’s first prime minister, kept a photo of Gandhi on his bedroom wall because he believed there were parallels between Jewish and Indian ambitions for freedom. Gandhi’s affection, however, was unrequited: he remained unconcerned about Zionism. Despite improving relations between the Israeli and Indian governments, the majority of Indians are still unaware of Israel.
Source: https://www.thearticle.com/should-we-compare-india-and-israel
