Kochi, KERALA :

Kochi:

A video by American author Aija Mayrock has drawn global attention to a small embroidery shop in Jew Town, Mattancherry. The store stands as one of the last working links to the once thriving Cochin Jewish community of Kerala.

The shop belonged to Sarah Cohen, born in 1925. She was among the last Jews who lived permanently in Jew Town. Her store sold hand embroidery and souvenirs and became a known landmark in the area. After large scale emigration in the mid twentieth century, many Jewish homes and businesses shut down. This shop stayed open.

Thaha Ibrahim, a Muslim man, now runs the store. As a child, he sold goods on the street near Cohen’s shop. She later hired him and taught him embroidery and shop management. He assisted her for decades, handling customers, production, and daily operations.

Before her death in 2019, Cohen asked Ibrahim to continue the shop and preserve its character. He agreed. Today, the store functions under the same name and layout. It closes on Saturdays in respect of the Jewish Sabbath. Candles are lit on Friday evenings. Cohen’s photographs and belongings remain displayed inside.

Ibrahim has stated he remains Muslim. He sees his role as protecting the legacy entrusted to him.

Historians note that Jews lived in Kerala for over two thousand years. Although the community declined sharply after 1948, synagogues and heritage sites in Kochi still reflect that history. This small embroidery shop now stands as a living record of shared trust and continuity.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News> Report / by Radiance News Bureau / February 21st, 2026