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Forgotten Jewish Routes: From the Caucasus to Southeast Asia

Journey beyond familiar narratives in Forgotten Jewish Routes: From the Caucasus to Southeast Asia, a four-part live course exploring overlooked Jewish communities across Georgia, Armenia, Central Asia, India, Oman, and Malaysia. Drawing on firsthand field research and personal encounters, the course brings to life the stories, histories, and cultural legacies of Jewish worlds that are rarely told. Through vivid storytelling and historical insight, participants will uncover the rich diversity of Jewish experience across regions often left off the map.

🗓 May 5 / 7 / 12 / 14, 2026
🕘 09:00 EST New York | 15:00 CET Berlin
📍 Live on Zoom | Limited spots

Instructor

Lasha Shakulashvili

Lasha is a Georgian scholar of Jewish Studies educated in Tbilisi, Tel Aviv, Oxford, Stockholm, and Jerusalem. His research and storytelling explore questions of Jewish diversity, belonging, and memory, with a particular focus on lesser-known communities whose histories broaden and enrich our understanding of the Jewish world.

Course Fee

€65.00

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Course Sessions

1

The Caucasus: Georgia & Armenia

Through personal field experiences and historical insight, we will uncover unique traditions, local beliefs, and forms of coexistence that distinguish Caucasian Jewish life. Special attention will be given to identity, folklore, and the enduring presence of Jewish heritage in the region.

2

Central Asia: Uzbekistan & Kyrgyzstan

This session explores the rich cultural and historical landscape of Jewish life in Central Asia, with a focus on Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. We will examine the legacy of Bukharan and Ashkenazai Jews, the role of major Silk Road cities, and the profound transformations brought by the Soviet period.

3

Across the Indian Ocean: Oman & India

Shifting from land to sea, this session follows Jewish communities connected by the Indian Ocean trade networks. From the diverse Jewish populations of India to the lesser-known traces of Jewish presence in Oman, we will explore how commerce, migration, and cultural interaction shaped distinct, yet interconnected, identities.

4

At the edge: Malaysia & the Disappearing Diaspora

The concluding session bring us to Southeast Asia, focusing on Malaysia and the remnants of Jewish presence in places like Penang. Through on-the-ground research and storytelling, we will examine how small, once-thriving communities emerged and eventually disappeared.

What You'll Receive

Live Sessions

Interactive live sessions via Zoom with your instructor and fellow students

Recordings

Access to all session recordings

Community

A space to connect, reflect, and discuss with other learners

Join the Community

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