The Elegant Jewish Marvel of Kochi

Niharika Lakhmani

The Elegant Jewish Marvel of Kochi

What once came into being as the emblem of the inception of the Jewish connection with Kerala is now one of South India’s oldest monuments. The synagogue adds more to the charm of the Mattancherry neighborhood of Kochi and continues to awe a multitude of visitors even today.

The main hall within the Synagogue premises; Image Source: Viator

The tales of how the British influenced the traditions, culture, and architecture in India are often heard to date. But the British were not the only ones that were intrigued with the flourishing spice trade flourishing on the ports of Kerala. Much before the British, Jews from the kingdom of Solomon had made their way to India, with the first physical evidence dating back to the ninth century AD.

With a myriad of architectural establishments marking the milestones of Indian history, religious structures hold one of the most significant spots in the typologies of buildings. This stands true in the case of Jews as well. Out of all the marvelous architecture built by the Jews, synagogues hold one of the most significant spots.

## Infusing Jewish beauty into Indian culture

Constructed in 1568, the Mattancherry Synagogue was built to provide a place for the assembly of Jews. It came into being almost after 1500 years post the beginning of the Jewish connection with India, Kerala in particular. Later, it went on to be destroyed by the Portuguese in 1662 and was re-established by the Dutch two years later. The structure carries an imprint of various foreign cultures, which is beautifully reflected both in its planning and design.

Besides being a quintessential example of the striking amalgamation of two different cultures, this synagogue in Cochin seamlessly entails the particular style of Kerala and speaks volumes about it through its architectural elements. The synagogue is popularly called the Pardesi Synagogue, which means “foreigners” in Hindi, implying how it was associated with the Jews from Kodungalloor, the Middle East, and Europe, who were pardesis in the nation.

## Bespoke vintage interiors

The gatehouse acts as an entrance to the premises of the synagogue. Moving forward into the large main hall, one can delve into the beauty of rare antiques displayed impeccably. This large congregation space is adorned with chandeliers and lamps that were imported from Belgium in the 19th century. Hand-painted blue willow patterned tiles, huge vintage windows, and brass rails meant for sermons are likely to take one by wonder and infuse a feeling of wanting to explore more.

Copper plates from the 4th century that carry inscriptions in Malayalam and describe tales of the special privileges relished by the Jewish community are also a significant part of the antiques that the synagogue houses.

## A gift of generosity

Erected adjacent to the Mattancherry Palace, the synagogue was built on the land allotted by Raja Ravi Varma, the king of Cochin, to the Jews living in Upper Cochin. The center of the hall houses a teak arc that features intricate carvings. This contains the four scrolls of the Torah, which are impressively encased in silver and gold. Additionally, two gold crowns gifted by the kings of Cochin and Travancore are also put to display for the visitors to witness the splendid possessions.

While delving into the beauty of the land of backwaters, this synagogue should be a must-visit in everyone’s list of travel destinations. It emanates a mystical aura being the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations and continues to impress people with its simplicity even today.