In the bustling capital of Uzbekistan, far from the deserts of Egypt but close to centuries of Jewish heritage, the Jewish community of Tashkent gathers each spring to celebrate Passover — or Pesach, the Festival of Freedom. With a deep respect for tradition and a modern sense of unity, this ancient holiday continues to thrive in the heart of Central Asia.
A Celebration of Liberation and Identity
Passover, commemorating the Jewish people’s exodus from slavery in Egypt over 3,000 years ago, holds powerful meaning for Tashkent’s Jewish families. As we clean our homes of chametz, prepare matzah, and set the Seder table, we’re joining Jews around the world in honoring the values of freedom, remembrance, and resilience—particularly our cherished diaspora communities.
Though Uzbekistan’s Jewish population has decreased over the decades, from over 100,000 in its heyday to under 10,000 now, Tashkent, once home to 50,000 Jews, continues to host a vibrant and active Jewish community of about 2,000 — a mix of Bukharian, Caucasian and Ashkenazi Jews.
The Seder in Tashkent
On the first night of Passover, families and community members gather for the Seder — a ritual meal rich with symbolism. In synagogues such as the Tashkent Jewish Community Center and in private homes, guests take part in reading the Haggadah, singing traditional songs, and sharing symbolic foods like bitter herbs, salt water, and charoset, representing both the suffering and the hope of the Jewish people.
While Hebrew remains the liturgical language of the Seder, many in Tashkent also incorporate Russian and Bukharian dialects, making the experience accessible to all generations. For children, it’s a joyful night of storytelling, questions, and the traditional hunt for the hidden afikoman.
This year, one of the largest communal Seders took place at the Prague Hotel, following prayers at the synagogue. Organized under the leadership of Chief Rabbi of Uzbekistan Shlomo Babaev and Yuri Kalendarev, a member of the Congress of Bukharian Jews, the event welcomed over 90 participants. It was a joyous and meaningful evening that brought together generations to honor ancient traditions in a modern setting.
Preserving Heritage in a Modern City
The Jewish leaders in Tashkent work diligently to keep Passover traditions alive, hosting community events, distributing kosher-for-Passover supplies, and providing educational programs for youth. Behind the scenes, this effort involves a tremendous amount of planning:
The delivery process, document preparation, obtaining permits from local authorities and customs clearance is a complex and lengthy process. This year, we cleared 3,500 kg (3.8 tons) of matzah and delivered and distributed it to all regions of Uzbekistan — a testament to the dedication to serving even the most remote communities.
The atmosphere is one of warmth and togetherness — a true reflection of the holiday’s core message. “As long as we gather, share the Seder, and teach our children the story of the Exodus, we keep our heritage strong,” says Arkadiy Isakharov, head of the Tashkent Jewish religious community.
A Universal Message
More than just a religious event, Passover in Tashkent is a celebration of cultural identity, intergenerational bonds, and the enduring human yearning for freedom. Amid the modern rhythms of life in Uzbekistan’s capital, this timeless holiday continues to inspire reflection and hope.
As Tashkent’s Jewish families light the candles and raise their glasses of wine, the words “Next year in Jerusalem” echo softly — a prayer of faith, unity, and peace that connects this ancient story to today’s world.
Daniel Isakharov