There are already more than 45,000 Hasidic pilgrims in Uman: the city is preparing for Rosh Hashanah

As of the morning of September 11, more than 45,000 Hasidic pilgrims had already arrived in Uman to celebrate the Jewish New Year—Rosh Hashanah. Iryna Rybnytska, director of the “Uman Historical and Cultural Center” charitable foundation, reported this in an exclusive comment to “Kommersant Ukrainian.”

“As of the morning of September 11, there are already more than 45,000 Hasidic pilgrims in Uman. The majority of the pilgrims have already arrived in the city, but people are still continuing to arrive. Traditionally, the largest influx occurs in the last few days before the start of Rosh Hashanah,” said Iryna Rybnytska.

According to her, preparations for the Rosh Hashanah celebrations have begun in the pilgrimage area. Pilgrims have started their prayers and are also attending synagogues.

“Pilgrims are praying, attending synagogues, and preparing for Rosh Hashanah. The city is already filled with the special spiritual atmosphere of this season,” noted Iryna Rybnytska.

One of the main events of the day is the mass communal prayer, Tikun Ha-Klali, which is scheduled to take place at noon. This is one of the most important prayers for Hasidic pilgrims who arrive in Uman on the eve of the Jewish New Year.

“Today at noon, one of the largest communal prayers—Tikkun Ha-Klali—will take place. It is a prayer for universal forgiveness, held simultaneously around the world. For the fourth year in a row, pilgrims are praying not only for their own well-being but also for peace in Ukraine,” explained the foundation’s director.

Most of the pilgrims who arrived in Uman this year are from Israel. According to Iryna Rybnytska, about 80% of the pilgrims came from there. The rest are from the U.S., Canada, and European countries.

Rosh Hashanah is the holiday marking the beginning of the 5787th new year for those who practice Judaism. In 2026, it will take place from September 11 to 13.

Every year, tens of thousands of Hasidic pilgrims come to Uman, as this is where the grave of Rabbi Nachman of Bratslav—the spiritual leader of the Bratslav Hasidim—is located. Pilgrims believe that celebrating the New Year at his grave has special spiritual significance and brings blessings.

This year’s pilgrimage is taking place under martial law and heightened security measures. Law enforcement officers, rescue workers, medical personnel, translators, and specialized services are on duty in the city to maintain order and assist pilgrims during their stay in Uman.