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NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 7, 2026Miami-Dade

Last remaining Cochin Jews work to preserve historic synagogues and heritage in Kochi, India

The final two Jewish residents of Kochi, India, are working to maintain their historic synagogues and cultural legacy as the local community has dwindled to nearly zero. Preservation efforts are now largely supported by non-Jewish neighbors and former residents who have immigrated to Israel.

historyreligioncultural preservationIndiaJewish community
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Why It Matters

The survival of centuries-old religious sites and cultural history in Kochi depends on the efforts of two individuals and their non-Jewish neighbors, as the original Jewish population has largely emigrated.

Key Facts

  • The Cochin Jewish community in Kochi has dwindled to only two remaining local residents, Keith Hallegua and Elias Josephai.
  • The Paradesi Synagogue is 458 years old and requires a minyan (10 males) for communal services, which is now difficult to achieve.
  • The Kadavumbagam Synagogue dates back to the 12th century and was restored after being vandalized.
  • There are fewer than 5,000 Jews remaining in all of India.
  • A museum showcasing Kochi's Jewish history was opened earlier this year, featuring a 1000 CE copper plate charter granting religious freedom.
  • The Jewish community in Kochi historically played a major role in the regional spice trade.
  • Preservation of the synagogues is currently supported by non-Jewish residents, including Hindu and Muslim neighbors.
  • Many Cochin Jews immigrated to Israel, particularly during the 1950s and in 1972.

Who's Mentioned

locationParadesi Synagogue“A 458-year-old synagogue in Kochi.”personThaha Ibrahim“A Muslim resident who maintains the embroidery shop of the late Sarah Cohen.”personElias “Babu” Josephai“A Malabari Jew working to preserve the Kadavumbagam Synagogue.”personKeith Hallegua“The last local congregant of the Paradesi Synagogue in Jew Town.”locationKadavumbagam Synagogue“A 12th-century synagogue in Ernakulam.”personM.C. Praveen“A Hindu trustee dedicated to protecting Cochin Jewish history.”locationKochi“A city in India historically known as Cochin.”