Samarkand: Rabbi Yosef Mishulovinov returns to childhood home

Rabbi Yosef Mishulovinov, a prominent figure in the Los Angeles Chabad community and owner of Chabad Atara’s bookstore, recently returned to his childhood home in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

Returning nearly 60 years after leaving the Soviet Union, Mishulovinov observed significant changes in the local Jewish community. He noted the presence of an active synagogue that he could attend openly, supported by local police protection—a stark contrast to the era of the Iron Curtain when religious observance had to be conducted in secret.

Born in Samarkand in 1956, Mishulovinov’s family had navigated the challenges of living under Soviet rule. His father, Rabbi Eliyahu, served as an unofficial community leader while maintaining strict secrecy to avoid detection by authorities. The visit highlights the long-term impact of the religious perseverance of previous generations.