Preserving the Legacy of Chennai’s Jewish Community

Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu state in southern India, was once home to a thriving Jewish community. However, David Levi, who claims to be the last Jew living in Chennai, is determined to preserve the culture and history of his community. Having moved to Germany with his family for “security reasons” following a property dispute, Levi now seeks to ensure that his family’s legacy lives on.

The Levi family, with Portuguese origins, has resided in Chennai for more than ten generations. Their ancestors, Isaac Henriques De Castro and Rosa, who was named after the Tamil word for the rose flower, settled in Madras (now Chennai) in the 17th century. Tragically, they were killed during the Holocaust, leaving behind their only son, Levi Henriques De Castro, who returned to India. It is through the efforts of David Levi that the history of his family and other Jews who once lived in Chennai is being documented and shared.

Levi’s mission to preserve his family’s past has expanded, as he now seeks the assistance of Tamil Nadu’s archaeology department to take over and preserve his family’s artifacts in a museum. These artifacts include sacred Jewish texts, utensils used in religious rituals, and items from a now-demolished synagogue in Chennai, where Levi’s grandfather served as the last rabbi.

According to the 2011 census, India had 4,429 Jews, with just two recorded in Tamil Nadu. In 1921, the Madras province had 45 Jews, indicating a significant decline in the community’s population. The fate of Levi’s artifacts now rests in the hands of Tamil Nadu’s archaeology department, which is currently verifying ownership and assessing the objects’ historical value. Researchers and expert archaeologists will undertake this process, estimated to take at least a year.

The significance of these artifacts extends beyond preserving the Jewish community’s history in Chennai. They offer valuable insights into the lesser-known side of Jewish immigration, particularly during the 17th century when Jews sought refuge in Chennai after facing persecution in Spain. Historians believe these artifacts could shed light on the larger Jewish community across India, not only in Tamil Nadu but also in states like Kerala, Maharashtra, and West Bengal.

Sadly, the rich legacy of the Jewish community in India is gradually disappearing from public life and memory. Many historical synagogues, such as those in Kerala, have been neglected or destroyed. Scholars argue that it is crucial for governments, like that of Kerala, to protect these historical monuments. “The Kerala government should protect these historical monuments because they show that India had been a country which encouraged religious diversity and harmony,” says history professor Karmachandran.

In Tamil Nadu, the synagogues that once served Chennai’s Jewish community no longer stand. The last synagogue was demolished in 1968 to make way for a school. The absence of any records or mention of the Jewish community in Tamil Nadu’s museums and cultural centers is also cause for concern. Historian Ramachandra Vaithiyanath emphasizes that the state should accept Levi’s demands and preserve his family possessions in a museum. After all, the Jewish community has played a significant role in the social movements of Chennai.

The conservation project initiated by David Levi goes beyond mere historical preservation. It is deeply personal, as the artifacts he seeks to protect represent the reverence with which his ancestors used them. They are an integral part of Chennai’s history and, by extension, his own. Preserving the legacy of Chennai’s Jewish community is not just about honoring the past, but also acknowledging the role played by different religious communities in shaping India’s history.

As the verification process of the artifacts progresses, it is crucial for the government to prioritize the preservation of this heritage. By establishing a museum dedicated to the Jewish community’s history in Chennai and Tamil Nadu, a broader understanding and appreciation of India’s cultural diversity can be fostered. This will ensure that the legacy of communities like Chennai’s Jewish community endures for future generations.

In conclusion, David Levi’s efforts to preserve his family’s history and artifacts serve as a reminder of the rich Jewish heritage in Chennai. The conservation project not only helps safeguard the legacy of the Jewish community but also contributes to a more inclusive understanding of Indian history. By supporting Levi’s cause and establishing a dedicated museum, Tamil Nadu can recognize and celebrate the role played by different communities in shaping the state’s cultural and religious fabric.