Judaism in Kerala

Chendamangalam Synagogue


Chendamangalam Synagogue is the place of worship for the Malabari jews.  Now a museum, Kerala Jews Life Style Museum, it showcases the lives and rituals of Kerala Jews who were firm believers and lived in close contact with the local society. The balcony that projects into the prayer room is the second Bimah (elevated platform for Torah reading). Supporting it are two stone pillars with intricate carvings. The position of the Ark is on the wall across the door, and it is a beautiful piece of art in teak with carved images. On both sides of the Bimah are two rows of bench. There is a spiral staircase to climb up to the second Bimah.