My fellow travelers and I were a group of 4 people and we assembled a table with 2 guys who were traveling solo. One is between medical school and internship and just returned from the 17 day each way trek to Everest Base Camp. The other, also trekking, is an engineer who works in defense. Can't say much about what he does.
First there was a half hour religious service - completely in Hebrew. The rabbi had handed me a prayer book saying that it had the translations. It did - except that it was translated into Russian. Didn't matter. The service was quick.
When it ended, we scouted for places to sit in the banquet room which was stuffed so tight that you had to lift up or climb over chairs to settle into your seat.
The traditional apples and honey, pomegranate and challah were served, followed by so many courses that it seemed like they would never stop: salad, cabbage, eggplant, stewed tomatoes, roasted potatoes, fish, etc., etc., etc.
How special to be in the Himalayas, halfway around the world, sharing the same traditions; but with a Nepali twist. The rabbi greeted us with his hands pressed together in front of his chest, and bowed his head slightly. He said "Namaste". Rabbi Lifshutz has achieved notariety for the large gatherings at Jewish holidays. The Kathmandu seder he organizes is reputed to be the largest in the world, gathering 1,500 people.
 |
| Center: Rabbi Chezki Lifshutz, surrounded by me, my husband and travel friends |