Michael Vaknin, Jerusalem— Michael Vaknin, one of the beloved co-founders of the Mushroom Project and an integral part of the Israeli trance music scene, tragically passed away on October 7 during the Nova music festival. Alongside his identical twin brother Osher, Michael was a key figure in bringing joy and energy to thousands of music lovers through their vibrant parties and events.
The brothers, originally from Jerusalem, were well-known for their contributions to the Psytrance community, having spent over 15 years organizing and producing events. Their passion for music and their commitment to helping emerging artists left a lasting mark on the Israeli music scene. Together, they founded the Mushroom Project, one of the country’s leading Psytrance production companies, and were admired by fans and peers alike for their dedication and creativity.
Michael and Osher were deeply involved in organizing the Ashrome stage at the Nova festival, which had taken over a year to plan. The stage was a testament to their hard work, sleepless nights, and unwavering commitment to creating a magical experience for festival-goers. However, during the opening ceremony, a tragic event unfolded as chaos broke out when a rocket was fired into the sky. While others fled, Michael and Osher stayed behind, selflessly protecting the crowd, helping people to safety, and making sure others were evacuated first. Sadly, it was in this heroic act that both brothers lost their lives.
Their friend and partner, Elkana Bohbot, was also at the festival but was kidnapped and taken to Gaza, where he remains to this day.
A fundraiser has been organized to raise money for a Torah scroll in Michael and Osher’s memory, honoring their legacy of kindness, bravery, and their significant contributions to the music community.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Michael’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Short Summary of Michael Vaknin
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Michael Vaknin |
| Date of Passing | October 7, 2024 |
| Fundraiser Created By | Michal Ohana |
| Goal Amount | $65,000 AUD |
| Location | Jerusalem, Israel |
| Purpose | Raising funds for a Torah scroll in Michael and Osher’s memory |
Note:This post was written and edited by Emma Baker, based on their expertise and research. It is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. We welcome your feedback and questions on this content. Please feel free to contact us.