Fort Kochi, a small town in Kerala’s Ernakulam district, has all the trappings of a tourist haven. Antiques, ethical clothing – all are on offer in the various tourist and curio shops. But something else is in store – a trip through time. Jew Street, a small lane in a corner of Fort Kochi, has stood the test of time. The street still preserves the mark of the Jews who came to India’s shores from as far afield Jerusalem, Baghdad, and Spain, to seek refuge in the 16th century.
[via Flickr]
Slipping onto Jew Street, one can feel transported to another land. The sound of exotic languages fills the air. Houses vibrant with unique Jewish architecture line the streets. Art and antique shops enhance the area’s charm. Kerala’s Jewish community have not only built a lively quarter in the heart of the city, their presence in India is a source of wonder in itself. The story of how the community arrived in India is a favourite bedtime story for the kids of Kerala.
The Cochin Empire assured them asylum, and the Jewish community soon became an integral part of the commerce and culture of Cochin. The Cochin Empire was lauded for taking a bold step to give refuge to a community which found itself on the receiving hand of persecution. The Jewish community thrived, showing a way to find a livelihood in the most challenging of circumstances. This merger of two radically different communities has fascinated many over the centuries. Tourists mark their calendars according to the visit timings of the Pardesi Synagogue constructed by the Jew community in 1567, which also makes it the oldest active Synagogue in India.
[via Flickr]
Built on land provided by Raja Varma of Cochin and sharing the same wall as the Palace Temple, the Pardesi Synagogue was constructed in 1567, making it the oldest active synagogue in India. The existence of the Synagogue alludes to a spirit of religious tolerance and secularism in India at the time. What began as diplomatic relations, matured into a successful model of cultural coexistence. Even after the exodus to Israel of the 1950s to Israel, the street retains its importance, thanks to the 32 Jew families who decided to make India their permanent home.
