KOCHI: The arrival of Jews in Kochi is still a matter of contention among the historians. While a section claims the Jews arrived during the reign of King Solomon, others say they first landed in Cranganore, near Muziris, following the destruction of the Second Temple. Cranganore, which is today known as Kodungallur, is now believed to be the only Indian seaport with a connection to the outside world. Cranganore was called Shingly by the Jews and Muziris by the Romans and Greeks.
But Muziris, the ancient seaport, subsequently disappeared without a trace after the great flood in AD 1341. Gradually, Kochi assumed significance and the Jews started migrating to different parts of Kerala. Though most of them returned to Israel, they left behind a great legacy. The synagogues, cemetery, market and streets have now become a part of the heritage of the state. However, many including the Kochiites are unaware of the importance of these historical buildings and areas.
Hence, in order to make the public aware of the importance of Jews in the history of the state, writer and caricaturist Bonny Thomas has launched a venture called ‘Jewish Diaspora’. A programme that takes the participants on a journey down the history of Jews in the city. The tour has been arranged in association with Greenix Village, a cultural organisation in Fort Kochi.
Throughout the tour, Bonny, who has written a book titled ‘Kochikkar’ about the Jews, narrates the importance of each monument and place. The journey, which will be kicked off from Marine Drive, will cover Chendamangalam Synagogue, Paravoor synagogue, Broadway and finally will end at the Paradesi Synagogue at Mattancherry.
According to Bonny, many scholars have written about the history of Jews. “But there are several untold stories. Stories that have been passed down the annals of time through the word of mouth. While visiting the historically important spots, I will narrate the stories for the benefit of the participants,” he said. The golden era of the Jews, their tryst with Muziris and migration will be also part of the narrative.
“This initiative might be the first in the history. It is unheard of - a writer telling the story about each spot mentioned in the book,” he added. The Jews had set up seven synagogues in Chendamangalam, Mala, Paravur, Ernakulam and Mattancherry.
“The Jews were very superstitious. For instance, none of them will ever spend a night at Kodungallur since their ancestors were once attacked in the night at the place. Whenever the Jews visited Kodungallur, they would take a handful of soil from the place since they associated it with Jerusalem. When anyone dies in their family, they place the soil thus collected in the tomb. Many such stories which have not been written will be a part of the journey,” Bonny said.
About the journey
The journey to the places will start every day except Monday from 8.30 at Marine Drive
A boat journey which will last one hour will be a part of the tour
Before proceeding to each area a powerpoint presentation will be presented before the participants.
For booking, contact Greenix Venures, Mob: 9846020091
Bonny Thomas, Mob 9846983388
Areas covered under the Jewish diaspora
Chendamangalam Kottayil Kovilakam Synagogue
The synagogue was built in AD 1420 and was later rebuilt in 1624. The synagogue has been constructed as per the Indian architecture. “During the earlier days, women had no direct access to the place. They had to enter the synagogue using a separate stair. Even the entry gate was separate for them,” Bonny said.
Paravur synagogue
Paravur Synagogue is believed to have been built in 1164 AD and renovated in 1616. It is one among the oldest synagogues. The synagogue has two rooms, a very spacious front yard, long corridor, huge doors, stairs made of wood and whitewashed walls.
Vypeen Kotta seminary
Only the ruins of the Vypeen Kotta Seminary can be seen at Chendamangalam. The seminary built by the Portuguese is now under the Archaeological Department. It is believed the seminary was destroyed in a war. The remains of the seminary were declared a protected monument in 1935.
Kottapuram Cranganore Fort
The excavation to unearth the remains of Kottapuram Cranganore Fort is still going on. The Kottappuram Fort was believed to be constructed by the Portuguese in 1523. Later, it was captured and destroyed by the Dutch in 1663. The fort, located at the mouth of the river Periyar, was used to control the ships and boats.
Kadavumbhagam synagogue at Broadway
Elias Josephai is taking care of the Kadavumbhagam Synagogue located on Jews street in Broadway. It is believed Kadavumbhagam Synagogue dates back to the early sixteenth to seventeenth centuries. Paradesi Synagogue, Nehemia Motha grave and the cemetry in Mattancherry are the other areas the journey will cover.