The Jewish Synagogue At Cochin, 1927 Print
A 1927 print of the Jewish Synagogue at Cochin (Kochi). Mattancherry, a part of Fort Cochin had a rich and varied history. Cochin was colonized in succession by first the Portuguese, then the Dutch, then finally by the British. The Cochin Jews, one of the most unique communities in India, once had a population numbering over thousands, now barely two or three of them are left.
From 1947 onwards they migrated to their promised land, Isreal. Because of the violence and destruction of their Second Temple in Jerusalem in AD 70, many Jews escaped to the Malabar coast. Settling down in Cranganur or Kodungallur in 12th century. Malabar was not unfamiliar with Jews. There was maritime trade between Malabar and Jerusalem from the time of King Solomon (1000 BC).
The Jews fled Kodungallur, in coastal Kerala, after they were ransacked by the Moors and later by the Portuguese. The community headed towards Kochi ultimately to settle down there at the kindness of the Rajah. By and by they attained considerable prosperity. This is indicated in the copper plate charter granted to them by Rajah Bhaskara Ravi Varma.
The copper plate charter conferred valuable privileges to the community. The Rajah also gifted them land to build a Synagogue near the Palace (shown in this print). Built in around 1568, the Synagogue still stands proudly and is a major tourist attraction today. The Jews built their homes on both sides of the lengthy lane leading to the Synagogue. The Jewish homes are now converted antique shops after the Jews sold them off, but are protected site under the ASI.
Read about Jews in Kochi.
Did you know- there were two classes the White and the Black Jews. Both communities claimed to be the earliest that came to Kerala. They were bitter rivals, so much so there were regular riots between them years ago. Although in later years they settled down amicably, both gradually emigrating to Isreal.
From the collection- Dalhousie Barrack Fort William Kolkata Vintage Postcard 1900., WWI German Cruiser Emden’s Sea Route Map 1914., Antique Print Opening Of The Madras Railway., Antique Painting of Madras Fort St George
