Fort Cochin, with its cobblestone streets and colonial-era architecture, holds stories that transcend time. Among them is the tale of the Kappiri—a symbol of resilience, history, and remembrance.
During the Portuguese rule, enslaved Africans, locally called Kappiri, were brought to the Malabar Coast. These individuals lived through immense hardship, shaping the region’s history in ways often overlooked. When the Dutch seized Fort Cochin in 1663, folklore says that wealthy Portuguese buried their treasures underground. To protect these riches, they reportedly buried their loyal Kappiri guards alongside, tying their spirits to the land forever.
Far from being seen as ominous, the Kappiri are remembered with respect and even reverence. Small shrines, known as Kappiri Muthappan, still stand across Fort Cochin. Locals light candles at these shrines, honoring the memory of those who lived and suffered in a tumultuous era.
The story of the Kappiri isn’t just about loss—it’s about resilience and the deep layers of history that make Fort Cochin what it is today. It’s a reminder of the lives and cultures that shaped this land and the importance of acknowledging their stories.
Have you ever visited one of these shrines or heard about the Kappiri?
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