In the southwestern region of India, specifically in Kochi, lies a Jewish town that holds a history spanning over a thousand years. A narrow street lined with shops and dark-colored houses is home to people with brown skin living alongside Jews with white skin and brown or golden hair. At the end of the street stands a synagogue, quietly witnessing the faith and heritage of the Jewish community.
However, as time has passed, many Jews have chosen to leave in search of better lives in countries like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, or Australia. Today, the weekly services at the synagogue remain solemn, yet the number of attendees has dwindled to just a few. The history of the white Jews of India is gradually becoming a distant memory.
There has been ongoing debate among scholars regarding when Jews first arrived in India. Some believe it was around 1000 BCE, others suggest the 6th century BCE, while some think it was in the late 1st century CE. Each of these theories has its basis, but a consensus has yet to be reached. The reasons for their arrival vary; some believe it was to escape persecution, while others think it was for trade purposes. Regardless of the reason, Kerala in India has long been seen as an ideal refuge for them.
