'A symbol of humanity': Kadavumbagam Synagogue to be reopened on February 3

THE Ernakulam Kadavumbagam Synagogue has been accorded a lease of life. The fully renovated place of worship, on Market Road, will be reopened to the public on February 3.

- MANISHA V C S @Kochi

Believed to have been built by Malabar Jews in 1200 AD, the structure, brimming with history, had remained stowed away from public view for nearly 53 years.

With the efforts of its devoted caretaker Elias 'Babu' Josephai and like-minded volunteers, the once dilapidated structure has been completely restored.

As the number of worshippers dwindled, the last regular Sabbath prayers were offered at the synagogue in 1972, after which it was shut down. In 1977, the structure was vandalized and its valuables stolen. Josephai, who lives nearby, took over as caretaker the same year, determined to restore the functioning of the 825-year-old structure.