Thousands Participate in Kharkov Purim Celebrations

Purim was a full day in Kharkov, from 9am in the circus through the late hours with a Purim Seudah in the Shul and literally thousands of people taking part in one of the happiest days of the year.

Despite the early hour the circus was packed with over 2000 people, all of whom received Mishloach Manos and heared the Megilla. Men put on Tefillin while all the women and girls received Shabbos candle sets.

Special guests took part in the well attended program. Mr. Avraham Grant, famous former trainer of the Chelsea team, Mr. Yoav Tzur, former editor of the Maariv newspaper and Mr. Meni Weissman along with a very enthusiastic crowd.

Rabbi Moshe Moskovitz pointed out the power of the community – that the fact that at so many people came to celebrate our victory over Haman and our enemies – is proof that the Jewish nation is still victorious.  This year the program was dedicated to 100 years since the building of the Kharkov Shul.

Rabbi Levi Raices read the megilla as a builder this year – with an improvised shule in the background , together with his ‘builders’ from the Yeshiva Ktana . The Or Avner school and kindergarten had a lively performance and Purim spiel. The circus was better than ever with clowns, acrobats and elephants performing to Chasiddic niggunim!

For the first time, a grand Purim Seuda took place in the shul upstairs with almost 200 participants! Rabbi Yaakov Yakimenko and Eli Nochum Lipsitz had the crowd on wheels as the simcha of Purim continued late into the night! The Cheder Menachem Choir performed together with Chazan Issac Halfon.