Thrissur: ‘’Kerala is a state where religions share traditions. I am glad that the Muziris project seeks to bring alive the wonderful mosaic of cultural influences. Churches light oil lamps and raise flags as is done in Hindu temples. Similarly, Cheraman mosque has an oil lamp which is always lit,’’ President Pranab Mukherjee said on Saturday.
“If Kerala is God’s Own Country, Kodungallur is the town where the gods gather in unity and harmony. The town and its surroundings are a thriving centre of Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Judaism. Kerala has through the ages demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt to new traditions and values in every sphere of human thought and endeavour,” he said.
‘’Muziris, the doorway for cultures, religions and races into India, was frequented by large ships of ocean traders across the world, including Arabs, Egyptians, Greeks, Romans and Chinese,” he said after unveiling the first phase of the Muziris Heritage Project which aims to reclaim the history of the once-bustling Muziris seaport which was submerged in the Periyar floods in the 14th century.
The Muziris port has been considered to be the entry point for several cultures and religions, including Christianity, Islam and Judaism to India, The Indian Express reported.
St Thomas, the apostle of Jesus Christ, is believed to have set foot in Kerala through the Muziris port and so did the Islamic missionaries. It is here that India’s first church, Mar Thoma Church and the first mosque, Cheraman Juma Masjid, are located. The name ‘Muciripattanam’ has found mention in Sangam literature, spanning 300 BCE to 300 CE.
The President also hailed the Spice Route project envisaged by the state government as both important and timely. “Spice route project looks to interconnect 41 countries, rejuvenating the old spice route and once again establish Muziris as its hub. The project will be done in conjunction with UNESCO,” said Chief Minister Oommen Chandy. Governor P Sathasivam hailed the move to reinstate the historical significance of Muziris port.
“The port was the hub for spices trade 3,000 years ago. “It was not just a hub for spices, but precious stones and other artifacts also passed hands,” said the Governor.
Tourism Minister A P Anilkumar, MLAs T N Prathapan and V D Satheesan were present. The Paliam Kovilakom, Paliam Nalukettu, Paravur Jewish Synagogue, Chendamangalam Jewish Synagogue, Kottappuram fort, Kottappuram market, Paravur market, Abdurahman Sahib museum, Sahodaran Ayyappan museum have been included in the first phase of the Muziris Heritage Project.