Rabbi Dan Halevi Krichevsky Named Honorary Citizen of Ufa, Capital of Bashkortostan
The Jewish community of Ufa, the capital of Russia’s Republic of Bashkortostan, is celebrating a historic milestone following the decision of the Ufa City Council to award the title of “Honorary Citizen of Ufa” to the city’s Chief Rabbi and Chabad Shliach, Rabbi Dan Halevi Krichevsky.
The prestigious recognition comes in appreciation of nearly 27 years of dedicated work to rebuild and strengthen Jewish life throughout the region, including extensive educational initiatives, charitable activities, and efforts to foster interfaith and intercultural understanding.
During a special session, members of the Ufa City Council and local government officials recognized Rabbi Krichevsky’s significant contributions to the city and its diverse population. The official decision cited his role in promoting intercommunal dialogue, strengthening relationships between different religious and cultural communities, and establishing major social welfare initiatives that benefit residents throughout the region.
For the Jewish community, the recognition represents a tremendous Kiddush Hashem and an acknowledgment of the positive impact of its institutions and activities.
The honor reflects nearly three decades of dedicated Shlichus, undertaken with the encouragement and blessing of Russia’s Chief Rabbi, HaGaon Rabbi Berel Lazar, shlita. When Rabbi Krichevsky first arrived in Ufa as a Shliach of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Jewish communal life operated out of temporary facilities. Today, the community has grown into a flourishing network of Torah, education, and Chesed institutions.
At the center of these activities stands an impressive community complex housing the central synagogue, which serves as a vibrant hub of daily Tefillos, Torah classes, and Chassidic Farbrengens. The complex also includes an extensive educational campus, with a Jewish school and kindergartens belonging to the Ohr Avner network, as well as the Beit Shvidler educational center, where children receive an education rooted in Jewish tradition and values.
The community’s institutions also include a comprehensive Kashrus system, a Mikvah Taharah, and a wide range of programs serving young people and families.
A particularly significant aspect of Rabbi Krichevsky’s work has been the development of an extensive network of welfare, healthcare, and rehabilitation services. Guided by the Chassidic principle that every individual is an entire world, he established the Pensionat, an eldercare facility, and the Shalom resort campus, providing care and support for senior citizens and individuals in need.
The community complex also houses a modern therapeutic swimming pool offering hydrotherapy treatments for children with special needs and health challenges, alongside a therapeutic dental clinic and additional services.
Currently nearing completion is another major initiative: a large-scale rehabilitation center for children with disabilities, designed to serve families throughout the region.
In addition, charitable funds established by Rabbi Krichevsky provide ongoing assistance to hundreds of elderly individuals, families facing financial hardship, and orphans. Their support includes food packages, financial assistance, and help with medical expenses.
Following the announcement of the honorary citizenship, messages of congratulations poured in from public officials, fellow Shluchim, and friends from around the world.
In remarks to community leaders and activists, Rabbi Krichevsky expressed his gratitude to the Ufa municipality and the members of the City Council for the recognition, while emphasizing that the honor belongs to the entire community.
“This honorable recognition does not belong to me personally,” Rabbi Krichevsky said. “Rather, it is a certificate of honor for the entire Jewish community and for each and every one of our partners, dedicated staff members, and generous donors who work day and night and stand behind our Torah and Chesed institutions, with the guidance and support of the Chief Rabbi, shlita.”
Concluding his remarks, Rabbi Krichevsky connected the occasion to the message of the weekly Torah portion, Lech Lecha.
“As we approach the holy Shabbos of Parshas Lech Lecha, we are reminded of the Chassidic meaning of these words: to constantly move forward, never remaining stagnant or settling for what has already been accomplished. Despite the impressive achievements of the past 27 years of Shlichus, our eyes are focused on the future—to completing the rehabilitation center, expanding our activities, and bringing the light of Yiddishkeit to every soul.”
The recognition by the Ufa City Council marks an important milestone for Rabbi Krichevsky and the Jewish community he has served for nearly three decades. Yet, as the Shliach made clear, the honor is not a conclusion, but rather an encouragement to continue building, expanding, and bringing the warmth of Torah and Chesed to even more people.
Photo: Community Spokesperson’s Office
