The Jewish community in Kerala, India, celebrated a traditional wedding after a gap of 15 years, bringing to life the essence of Jewish customs. The wedding ceremony took place at a private resort in Kochi and was attended by family, friends, and community members. The event was officiated by Rabbi Ariel Tyson, who traveled from Israel for the occasion.
The bride, Rachel Malakhai, is a data scientist based in the United States and the daughter of former crime branch SP Benoy Malakhai. She married Richard Zachary Rowe, an American citizen, and a NASA engineer. The ceremony was held under a canopy called Huppah, symbolizing the home.
Notably, this wedding was the first of its kind in Kerala to take place outside a synagogue. The rarity of such weddings in Kerala made this event significant. The previous Jewish wedding in the state occurred in 2008, after a gap of nearly two decades, at the Thekkumbhagam synagogue in Mattancherry.
Due to limitations on the number of participants allowed inside the synagogue, the families decided to conduct the ceremony at a private resort, enabling more family members to witness the rituals. The wedding captured the cultural and religious heritage of the Jewish community, highlighting the enduring traditions that have been passed down through generations.
The Jewish presence in Kerala dates back over 2,000 years, with historians noting that the first Jews to arrive in the region were traders during the time of King Solomon. While only a few Jewish families remain in Kerala today, the celebration of this traditional wedding signifies the community’s commitment to preserving their cultural heritage.
The joyous occasion brought together family, friends, and community members to witness the union of Rachel Malakhai and Richard Zachary Rowe. By showcasing the rich customs and traditions of the Jewish community, this wedding served as a testament to the enduring legacy and vibrant diversity of Kerala’s cultural tapestry.
