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Kochi’s Last Jew Prays Alone Amid Interfaith Support

8/7/2026

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Story summary
  • Keith Hallegua is the last congregant of Kochi’s Paradesi Synagogue, praying alone on Shavuot.
  • Elias “Babu” Josephai, a Jew, restored the 12th-century Kadavumbagam Synagogue and hopes an organization will take over after his death.
  • Hindu trustee M.C. Praveen runs a museum while the synagogue’s deed bears two copper plates from a 1000 CE king’s charter granting religious freedom.
  • Muslim shopkeeper Thaha Ibrahim lights Shabbat candles and teaches his son Cochin embroidery.