Often known as the melting pot of culture and arts, Fort Kochi is a historic neighbourhood located in Kochi. The streets of Fort Kochi are sprawling with curious tourists and helpful natives all through the year. A simple walk can leave you awestruck because the place is a testimony of all those who conquered the place including the Portuguese, Dutch and English colonizers.
It is fair to say that everyone who has visited Fort Kochi throughout history has left behind a little mark of their being, usually in the form of art, a cultural trait, minor changes in language and even architecture. Currently, Fort Kochi is famous for its thriving art scene, which attracts artists and art enthusiasts from all over. It is a popular belief that every creative person finds something for themselves here.
The rich history and cultural exchange have built a close-knit artistic neighbourhood which has opened its doors to welcome all types of artists who specialize in various fields from street art and graffiti to art installations, classical dancers and more. But to understand Fort Kochi and what it offers, one should dive into the history of the neighbourhood to see its evolution into an aesthetic spot which supports art and culture.
Brief history of Fort Kochi
Originally a small fishing village inhabited by Malayalis, its strategic location overlooking the Arabian Sea, put Fort Kochi on the maps of the foreign powers. They were in search of a place to settle and flourish, and the sea routes brought in traders from the Greek, Roman, Arab and Chinese civilisations. One of the examples of the influence of the cultures of these traders on the region is the Chinese nets that line the port of the area.
As a place frequented by the traders, the locale soon attracted those in search of spices. Fort Kochi became a prominent trading hub for spices, especially black pepper, which was held in high value in Europe and the Middle East. The arrival of Vasco Da Gama in Kozhikode in 1498 changed the history of Kerala forever. He brought in the Portuguese, who enjoyed a monopoly in the spice trade, while paying special attention to the trade routes already established in Kochi.
Fort Kochi derives its name from a fort built by the Portuguese as a process of fortification. Named Fort Manuel and built in 1503, it was a symbol of power exerted by the Portuguese colonial power. During this time, Vasco Da Gama made his third voyage to Kochi, where he fell sick and died of Malaria. Vasco da Gama’s body was first buried at St. Francis Church at Fort Kochi in the city of Kochi, but his remains were returned to Portugal in 1539. Shortly after, in the 17th century, the arrival of the Dutch led to them capturing the fort and developing the trade links and routes until they were defeated by the British in the 18th century. The British rule transformed Fort Kochi into an important centre of trade and commerce. The East India Company ingrained themselves into the neighbourhood by constructing colonial buildings like churches and bungalows. Many of them are preserved to date, while the remains of some serve as arachnological sites.
The hub of art and culture
As Fort Kochi began to embrace multiculturalism, the section of arts began to develop with influence from various sources, both internal and external. The traditional art forms that have always existed in Kochi, began to evolve fervently as they found patrons and audiences who were more interested in them. Classical dance forms, including Kathakali and Theyyam, rediscovered their roots through frequent public performances. The colonial influence played a major role as they brought in new artistic styles and techniques. This can be observed in the construction of buildings and streets as well as the colour palette of Fort Kochi. European paintings and sculptures began blending with the local artistic culture, leading to the creation of something entirely new. This emerged as the new identity of Fort Kochi. Bridging the gap between the ancient and the contemporary were the mural paintings which dominated the temples and palaces. They were reimagined to fit the needs of the new artist lovers, leading to changes in colours and styles. The mythological themes and narratives were now expressed in a path different from the ancient murals.
The contemporary art scene in Fort Kochi vigorously reached a peak as Kochi emerged as the hub of art and culture. The establishment of art galleries and art institutions brought art closer than ever to those who appreciated it. Soon enough, people were drawn into a whirlwind of arts, creativity and imagination in 2012 when The Kochi-Munziris Biennale invited artists, curators and art enthusiasts from around the world.
The Kochi-Muziris Biennale is an international exhibition of contemporary art that takes place in Kochi every two years. It features works by artists from around the world. Since the first edition of the Biennale, it has since become one of the most important contemporary art events in India.
Street Art and Graffiti found their niche as they began to adorn the streets of Fort Kochi. They gave artists a form of expression. Further, the Biennale also encouraged public art initiatives like installations and street art. This led to the introduction of art into the cultural sphere of Kochi.
A legacy for the future
The historical significance of Fort Kochi, coupled with its colonial heritage and legacy, which entwines the past and present, has led to a cultural fusion. This renders Fort Kochi as a tourist destination. Efforts have been made to preserve and restore the neighbourhood’s heritage buildings and cultural assets, ensuring that its legacy is protected and passed on to future generations. The legacy also includes art galleries and studios that invite visitors to enter into a world dedicated to art.
A part of the legacy that holds major stakes in Fort Kochi is the culinary delights. A wide range of aromas and flavours delight all those who visit the area. A special emphasis is laid on seafood encompassing international dishes with local flavours. Such unique fusions are available in aesthetic cafes, restaurants and even food stalls.
It is fair to say when one steps into Fort Kochi, they are transported into a world which is a haven for art lovers, foodies and creative heads. Fort Kochi has managed to place itself under global attention and continues to build its status as an ever-growing hub of art, culture and legacy.
