‘Baby Moshe’ who survived Mumbai attacks celebrates bar mitzvah

The Netanyahus sent their best wishes to Moshe Holtzberg on his bar mitzvah.

By World Israel News Staff

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara congratulated Moshe Holtzberg on his bar mitzvah on Sunday evening in a video message.

Holtzberg, who was whisked to safety by his nanny during the 2008 Mumbai attack, celebrated his bar mitzvah on Saturday in his hometown of Afula in Kfar Chabad, according to Chabad.org.

Prime Minister Netanyahu said in the recorded message, “We know that there is life amidst this tragedy. There is revival and there is hope. You come now with the love of the entire Jewish people, all citizens of Israel and very many outside Israel. I would like to wish you that you are faithful to your people, your country and your family, and that you continue with a good and happy life. Mazel tov, Moshe!”

Sara Netanyahu added, “Mazel tov Moshe. We know that you suffered a terrible disaster when you were two. From that age you have been fighting every day to carry on with life. But you are surrounded by so much love from your grandparents. All Israel is with you.”

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi also sent congratulations in a letter to Holtzberg.

“As you make this important transition and cross a significant landmark in the journey of your life, the courage of [nanny] Sandra and prayers of the people of India will continue to bless you for a long, healthy and successful life,”  Modi wrote. “Your story continues to inspire everyone. It is one of miracle and hope overcoming tragedy and immeasurable loss.”

The Nariman Chabad House in Mumbai was one of 12 targets attacked on Nov. 26, 2008 by Lashkar-e-Taiba, an Islamist terrorist group based out of Pakistan. The house was run by Moshe’s parents Rabbi Gabi and Rivky Holtzberg. They were killed along with four visitors at the house.

Dubbed ‘Baby Moshe’ at the time, Holtzberg, then 2-years-old, was taken to safety by his Indian nanny Sandra Samuel. For her heroic actions, Samuel was awarded permanent resident status and honorary Israeli citizenship on Sept. 13, 2010.