India Mint Stamp

Lokith Philately

Permanent Pictorial cancellation of Kerala

Permanent Pictorial Cancellation inaugural day covers

Date of issue: 09.03.1982

Pin code: 682002

Status: Active

PO Name: Mattancherry Jetty

Description: Mattancherry is the western part of the city of Kochi. It is about 9 km from Ernakulam town in Kerala. The Cochin Jewish Synagogue, also known as the Paradesi Synagogue, is located in the Jewish quarter of Mattancherry, built-in 1568 by Samuel Castiel, David Belila, and Joseph Levi on land gifted by Raja Rama Varma, the King of Kochi. This Synagogue succeeded an earlier one in Kodungallur during the 4th century. The Jewish community primarily Sephardic Jews settled due to religious persecution. Called the Malabari Jews or Yehudan Mappila, The synagogue complex consists of four buildings and shares a wall with the Mattancherry Palace Temple. It is traditional architectural elements that integrate with the local landscape while maintaining distinct Jewish characteristics.

The interior is designed so that worshippers face Jerusalem when praying, emphasizing the religious orientation towards the northwest. Its wooden ceiling is intricately carved with floral motifs with the Star of David, a significant symbol of Judaism. This six-pointed star, also known as Magen David, symbolizes the connection between worshippers and the Creator. The bimah, an elevated platform for reading prayers, is in the synagogue, surrounded by seating for the congregants. This is the oldest active synagogue in India and also in the Commonwealth countries. India Post, Kerala Circle has Issued this PPC on the Occasion of the Jewish Purim Festival which they celebrate to commemorate the saving of the Jewish people from Haman in the ancient Persian Empire.