Congratulations from Trump, Netanyahu and Modi: This is how Moishe Holtzberg celebrated his Bar Mitzvah • Watch

December 1, 2019   

In the presence of hundreds of relatives and invited guests, Moishe Holtzberg, a survivor of the terrorist attack on the Chabad house in Mumbai 11 years ago, celebrated his bar mitzvah in the events tent at the Chabad Village this evening (Sunday). His parents, the exiled Rabbis Gabi and Rivki Holtzberg, who gave their lives in the terrorist attack, were not there, but their presence was felt, physically and spiritually, throughout the evening - from the images on the giant screens and also from the great longing in the hearts of the family members. [vimeo url="https://vimeo.com/376683385" width="600" height="400" responsive="yes" autoplay="no"] Moishe was flanked by his two grandparents, and among the participants was also Sandra, the caregiver - whose picture of her holding the sobbing Moishe as they fled the Chabad building will never be forgotten - who came especially from India to celebrate, the uncles and aunts, and hundreds of other relatives and close friends who surrounded Moishe with much warmth and love.

Sandra, the Indian caregiver who saved Moishe from hell. Photo: Chaim Twittu

After joyful dancing with a battery of singers, including Yishai Rivvo, Avraham Fried and Moti Steinmetz, and a festive bar mitzvah meal, his grandfather, Rabbi Nachman Holtzberg, presented him with a dollar bill as a blessing that his father had received from the Lubavitcher Rebbe. The event was graced by the presence of the Indian Ambassador to Israel. The Prime Minister of India, Nadira Mori, sent an official and moving congratulatory letter in honor of the bar mitzvah. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara also congratulated Moishe. [youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wz8eh9QFYtU&feature=youtu.be" width="600" height="400" responsive="yes" autoplay="no"]

Video: Omer Meron, GPO

""We know that from this tragedy there is life, there is resurrection and there are commandments. You come now with the love of the entire Jewish people, all citizens of Israel and many many people outside of Israel," the Prime Minister said. "I want to wish you to be a loyal son to your people, your country and your family, and that you continue to live a good and happy life. Mazal Tov Moishe." Sara Netanyahu said: "Mazal Tov Moishe. We know that you went through a great disaster at the age of two. In fact, from the age of two you have been fighting every day to continue living. But you are surrounded by a lot of love from your grandparents and your family. The entire Jewish people are with you.". President Donald Trump also sent a congratulatory letter to the bar mitzvah. [Gallery]