SHALOM PUTTI, Directed by Tamas Wormser***

           

                                

In 1919, Semei Kekungulo, a tribal leader from Uganda founded a Jewish community, defying both Christina and Islam missionaries. They call themselves: Abajudya the People of Judah. They read the Tora in their small community, wear Jewish worship clothes; the menorah and Star of David are on their clothes and house facades. These devout poor people make up 250 Jews living in Putti out of 2000 strong in Uganda. It isn’t until Shlomo Riskin, an enthusiastic, revered rabi from Israel visits them along with his bossy assistant that they learn more and one of them. Moshe Madoi Yashiirah, wishes to go back to Israel with them to become a rabi himself. Both his uncle and father practiced Judaism, and even his great grandfather did. Without giving away the entire story, suffice it to say, after some conflicts and much effort, his dream comes true. He studies two years in Israel, and when the rabi returns to the community, he converts them all the people in a truly formal manner.

This documentary film is touching in many ways. In 1919, Semei Kekungulo, a tribal leader from Uganda founded a Jewish community, defying both Chri er brings to life the true story of a determined people intent on becoming Jews and learning so much from the Zionist rabi. The synagogue they build is an enduring testament to the spirit and religion of the people of Putti.