This painting reflects an interest in Chinoiserie, the fanciful European interpretation if Chinese and east Asian styles. The sitter meets our gaze with steady self-assurance; the striking colours and the tight framing further add to the dynamic image. The title presents a cultural puzzle. The kimono is traditional to Japanese culture, but the form derives from earlier Chinese hanfu. It is not clear who titled this work. Or whether the garment was in fact of Chinese origin.

This painting reflects an interest in Chinoiserie, the fanciful European interpretation if Chinese and east Asian styles. The sitter meets our gaze with steady self-assurance; the striking colours and the tight framing further add to the dynamic image. The title presents a cultural puzzle. The kimono is traditional to Japanese culture, but the form derives from earlier Chinese hanfu. It is not clear who titled this work. Or whether the garment was in fact of Chinese origin.

mattancherry palli

Coonan Street

Kochi St George Church, Koonan Kurisu, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala, India.

Handsome Chinese vagrant draws fans of 'homeless chic'

Identity of 'Brother Sharp' – dubbed China's coolest man – remains a mystery

By Clifford Coonan in Beijing, Thursday, 4 March 2010

The photograph shows a starkly handsome Chinese man walking with a model's measured gait, and wearing a rag-tag but well co-ordinated overcoat on top of a leather jacket. His eyes peer into the middle distance, in what one fan described as "a deep and penetrating way", and he strides confidently forward.

But this is no catwalk model. This is a homeless man in the city of Ningbo. And now a band of web followers are calling him the coolest man in China.

His good looks and bohemian dress sense have won him thousands of online fans after a resident of Ningbo posted a picture online. Web users in China have called him the "Beggar Prince", the "Handsome Vagabond", and, most often, "Brother Sharp".

He is 5ft 8in, around 35 years old, and always has a cigarette between his fingers. He also appears to have a fondness for women's clothes, which has only served to fuel his status as a fashion icon. His good looks are reminiscent of popular Asian actors like Takeshi Kaneshiro or the Oscar- nominated Ken Watanabe.

One particularly striking picture juxtaposes Brother Sharp's with a model showing the latest Dolce & Gabbana collection. "Look at him wrinkle his brow... nothing needs to be said... sexy...", ran one comment on the Tianyu site.

Another wrote: "He doesn't really look like a beggar, more like a vagabond. The quality of this person's tops are all not bad, a down jacket, cotton jacket, even a leather jacket inside, and though they're a bit dirty, they're all in good condition, not the kind that beggars find from the trash."

The suggestion that homelessness can be cool chimes with a fashion trend that many have considered tasteless: in January, the designer Vivienne Westwood presented a "homeless chic" show in which models were styled to look like rough sleepers, a move prefigured by Ben Stiller's satirical film Zoolander, which featured a similar show called Derelicte. Two years ago the supermodel Erin Wasson revealed the homeless were her fashion inspiration, saying: "When I... see the homeless, like, I'm like, 'Oh my God, they're pulling out, like, crazy looks and they, like, pull shit out of like garbage cans.'"

But anyone with similar designs on Brother Sharp's sartorial tips is out of luck. His identity remains a secret, and social workers in Ningbo say they want to keep it that way. "Homeless people are vulnerable. It is incorrect to use them for entertainment purposes," said one worker at a homeless centre in Ningbo. Brother Sharp is said to appear mentally disturbed when approached on the street.

In China, begging is technically illegal, as the Communist Party-run state provides all a citizen could need. In reality, the rapid development of the Chinese economy in the last 30 years has marginalised many.

The rumours surrounding Brother Sharp's true identity persist. Some say he is a university graduate who lost his mind after his girlfriend left him. Others have blogged about how they sought him out and tried to help him find work or to go back to his family, but that he appeared frightened and cried out without speaking.

The local government in Ningbo said it had a policy of looking after the homeless, and that it would extend the same treatment to Mr Sharp.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

Coonan Cross Oath of AD 1653, Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas.Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portuguese who invaded Malabar coast of India by AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

Coonan Cross Oath of AD 1653, Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , they were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

Church Kochi, Koonankurishu Palli

Koonan Kurishu Old Syrian Church

Mattancherry and Fort Cochin are two cities in Kochi, Kerala where various civilizations of the world have created significant impact which led to cultural and religious synthesis. The Portuguese followed by the Dutch and later on the British ruled the cities and used them as their first trade hub till independence of the country. Cochin became a thriving commercial center, and a major religious center where various religious groups tried to establish their administrative supremacy. This beautiful city surrounded by the Cochin backwaters was a common platform for various religious groups and cultural influences. The backwaters and the beautiful beaches have made phenomenal contributions in making Kerala ‘The God’s own country’. In this regard, the Koonan Kurishu Old Syrian Church of Mattancherry, which still languishes in the historic memories of the legendary Koonan Kurishu Sathayam (Coonan Cross Oath) has played a significant role of its own, never to be ignored.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurishu Old Syrian Church (Mattancherry Church).

Koonan Kurishu Church at Mattancherry, Kochi is a revered pilgrim center where Coonan Cross Oath took place and holy relics of St.George was installed. The Koonan Kurishu Old Syrian Church of Mattancherry, one of the oldest churches in India has played a significant role in the historic event that shaped the leadership of the Malankara Church, as it is today. This Church was built on the land where the historical Koonan Kurishu Sathyam (Coonan Cross Oath) took place in AD 1653. Koonan Kurishu Sathyam took place at Mattancherry Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India. Koonan Kurishu Church is also known as “Mattancherry Muri” or “Erimeghapally” and is presently under the direct control of the Malankara Metropolitan.

The Koonan Kurishu Church has paramount position among Oriental Orthodox churches as it is home to the holy remains of St.George. koonan kurishu church at Kochi is the only St George Church consecrated with installation of Holy relics of St George in its altar. Portuguese army had destroyed the St Thomas Church and its Leaned Cross (Koonan Kurishu) immediately after the Coonan Cross Oath of AD 1653. The destroyed St Thomas Church was reconsecrated in 1751 by Mar Baselious Shakkrallah Maphriana, and renovated later in 1974 under the initiative of Cochin Diocese. The land has become sacred with the foot prints of the Persian Prelates, first Catholicos Mar Thoma 1 and other forefathers of the Malankara Orthodox faith. In 2016 church is renovated using Nubian architecture with eco friendly construction process using compressed soil bricks with no steel and very less cement, reducing the CO2 emission. Koonan Kurishu is reinstalled at Mattancherry Koonan Kurishu Old Syrian Church along with the renovation. Importance is given to natural lighting and air circulation. Considering the historic importance of the Koonan Kurish Palli, Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church declared it as a historic monument as well as a pilgrim center.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

Coonan Cross Oath of AD 1653, Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , they were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

Image of Coonan Cross .

Coonan Cross Pilgrim Center

St George Church, Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath (Coonan Cross Oath)of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church

Orthodox church in Kochi, India

Pullupalam Rd, Near Lobo jn, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682002, India

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

Coonan Cross, Mattancherry Church ( St George Orthodox Koonankurishu Old Syrian Church)

Koonan kurishu Sathyam

Saint Thomas Christians.

The Indian Church (Malankara Church) was established by Apostle St Thomas (Mar Thoma) one among the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ in AD 52. The Throne of St. Thomas is the Apostolic tradition of the Christian church in India. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Arkadiyokan (Jaathiku karthavyan/ Arch Deacon) a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Arkadiyokans presided over the Assembly (Synod) and was responsible for overseeing the welfare of the Church. Their fidelity to the Law of Thomas (Thomayude Margam) was the touch stone of their authenticity and Orthodoxy. The Saint Thomas Christians remained in communion with the Church of the East until their encounter with the Portuguese in AD 1599.

Second Portuguese – India voyage under the command of Alvares Cabral arrived Calicut on 13th September 1500. During this expedition on JAN 1501 Cabral and team met the well established native communities of Malabari Jews and St Thomas Christians at Kodungallur Kingdom for the first time. Portuguese were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in Malankara (Malabar), but they were annoyed that native Indian Christians are not under Rome and never heard of Pope. Franciscan priests came with Cabral also started their Latin/ Roman Catholic—rite of India at this period.As local kingdoms permitted trading with Portughese , traders among Malanakra nasranies also began trading with them same like other communities. In AD 1505 Portugal King appointed his Viceroy in India which is considered as the beginning of colonial era in India.

Udayamperur Sunnahados -June 1599

As they gained political power Portuguese started to interfere the administration of Malankara Church. Portuguese Bishop Menezes visited parishes of St Thomas Christians and lured the parishioners with money and gold. He appointed priests ordained by him as vicars at various parishes and initiated parallel administration against Arkadiyokan . By 1597 Menezes started to pressurize Akadiyokkan Geevarughese to accept the Roman Supermacy over Malanakra Church. Akadiyokkan resisted and Menzese arranged to convene a Synod at Udayamperur. Heinous Udayamperur Sunnahados (diamper Synod) took place on 20th June 1599 led by Menezes, and armed Portuguese soldiers with the full support of the Raja of Kochi. King of Kochi had signed a treaty of friendship with Portughese to defeat King Samuthiri of neighboring Kingdom Calicut. This notorious meeting at Udayamperur enforced decrees to accept the faith and traditions of the Roman Catholic Church and the authority of the Pope. Many of the Diamper Synod’s canons were aimed to wipe out Malankara-East syrian relation and to place Malankra Church under Rome. The Malankara Nazranis (Syrian Christians / St Thomas Christians) signed the decrees, as they were afraid of the Portuguese opposition and their own King. They accepted the Roman authority with dissent. Intruders formally began the latinisation of St Thomas Christians who were Christians in Malankara well before Christianity arriving anywhere in Europe. Untill Synod of Diamper Nazranis never had hierarchical relationship with Rome or any other church.

Koonan Kurishu Sathyam (Coonan Cross Oath) – JAN 1653

St Thomas Christians started their efforts to get a Metropolitan from the Eastern Church for re-establishing their freedom . The Portuguese who were masters of the sea in those days, many a time intercepted their letters of appeal for Syrian prelates and there were occasions when attempts of Middle Eastern clergy to come to Malankara were physically thwarted. During this time Mar Ahatulla Bava who was coming to Malankara was killed by the Portuguese Archbishop Gracia by drowning him in the Cochin harbor. The Koonan Kurishu Sathyam refers to the action of thousands of St Thomas Christians led by Arkadiyokan Thomas (successor of Akadiyokkan Geevarughese), assembling at St Thomas Church at Mattancherry on 3rd JAN 1653 and taking an oath to preserve the traditions followed by them since AD 52 and to reject the Roman rituals imposed on them by Portuguese invaders through synod of diamper . Since all the people could not touch the stone Cross simultaneously, they all held onto ropes that were tied to the cross in all directions . They took the historical oath to break free from the clutches of the Roman supremacy by pledging “ till the end neither the Thomas Christians nor their generations would obey the church of Rome or the Portuguese bishops, but only obey their traditional leader Arkadiyokan” . The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu Sathyam’ ( Leaning Cross Oath). Like Moses liberated Israelites from slavery Arkadiyokan Thomas liberated and protected Malankara Church from atrocities of militant Roman Catholicism, through Coonan Cross Oath.

Mattanchery Padiyola May 22, 1653

With the unanimous consent of the whole Church, on May 22, 1653 the Malankara Nasrani Christians issued a proclamation called the “Mattanchery Padiyola” and Arkadiyokan Thomas , the descendant of Apostle St Thomas was elevated to the status of bishop with the title Mar Thoma I. The Coonen Cross event was a Great Victory for His Holiness MarThoma I and his indigenous Malankara Church. The Koonankurishu Oath (Leaning Cross Oath) is the first recorded mass revolt against the Western colonialism in Indian history. All historians agree that due to the Oath practically the whole body of the Thomas Christians joined together against Roman Catholic supremacy under the leadership of Arkadiyokkan Thomas. By the grace of God amidst Portuguese terror in both sea and land Malanakra Nasaranis could consecrate their own native Bishop. This was an unimaginable blow to Portuguese and they spread rumors against MarThoma’s consecration and confused Nasranis.

Troubled by the effects of the Coonen Cross, Portuguese authorities requested direct intervention of Pope to eliminate the authority and status of the Mar Thoma and thereby dishonor the status of his ancient Church of Malankara. Rome send two batches of Carmelite missions headed by Hyacinth and Joseph Sebastiani. This mission arrived Malankara in 1661.

Our Lord Jesus himself promised twelve thrones to the twelve apostles and none of them was deprived of having the authority by Luke22:24-30 & Mathew19:28, even then Carmelite wing of Portuguese rulers exerted pressure on native kings and spread anti-biblical teachings among Syrian malabar Christians that ‘Throne of St Thomas’ of Mar Thoma is inferior to ‘Throne of St Peter’ of Pope. Mar Thoma I and his predecessor Arkadiyokan Geevarughese survived many murder attempts from colonial Bishops for upholding St Thomas tradition of India. On 9 October 1661 Portuguese Bishop Sebastiani, ordered Portuguese military general Ignatius Sarmento to capture the H.H. Mar Thoma I from Mulunthuruthy Church, but H.H Mar Thoma I and his party cleverly broke free from Portuguese military by wearing munds (loin cloths) and special hats, disguising as soldiers. To stop Mar Thoma from guiding his followers, Portuguese ordered kings of Cochin, Vadakkankur and others to prohibit the entry of Mar Thoma into their territories. Then Sebastiani forcefully entered into churches of the Thomas Christians and took control of them by gifting huge amount of money to the local Kings.

Colonial rulers realized that East Syrian relation have deep routed influence among Malankara nazranis which they had banned in Synod of Damper and even stopped middle eastern Priests from reaching Malankara is one of the reason for Coonen Cross event . Learned from the past Carmelite mission introduced a new impersonated East Syrian Church hierarchy sponsored by Rome at the back end to distract the followers of Mar Thoma. To take advantage of St Thomas Christians loyalty to their native dynastic leader (Arkadiyokan) from Pakalomatam family Bishop Sebastiani trapped Parambil Chandy the cousin of Mar Thoma by offering him the position of Bishop. Before the consecration Chandy was pressed to curse his nephew ‘The Mar Thoma’ publicly so that he can not rejoin Mar Thoma in future. On February 1 1663 Alexander de Campo (Parambil Mar Chandi) became the first Roman Catholic Bishop of Indian origin. As a result of these dishonest teachings and persecutions by Portuguese, after the Coonan Cross Oath one faction of St. Thomas Christians disowned their Oath , betrayed Arkadiyokan and succumbed to Catholic tradition of colonial rulers. With this split many ancient parishes of St. Thomas Christians were again colonized by Portuguese(with the help of Carmelite mission) and taken over by Roman Church.

At the same time native faction courageously continued their ancient Mar Thoma traditions under the leadership of their native and hereditary Church head Marthoma I (Arkadiyokan) and retained the Sovereignty of the Throne of St Thomas as they had reaffirmed it through Coonan Cross Oath and Mattancheri Padiyola.

Due to the political and military support from colonial rulers, after this split the catholic faction of St Thomas Christians which was only 54 years then since they formed started calling them self as “Old Party” (Pazhaya kootu). Since Malankara Church of Mar Thoma opposed Catholic Bishops unethical behavior to Colonize Indian Church, Portuguese colonial rulers started addressing their enemies (‘native faction’) as “New Party” (Puthiya Kootu) , even though Mar Thoma’s native faction had 1600 years of uncompromising tradition at that time. Portuguese rulers intentionally called native faction as ‘new party’ to degrade them in retaliation to their brave protest against colonial propaganda. But today, for the present generation of native faction it is a matter of proud that troubled Portuguese rulers were forced to address their forefathers and their Patriotic Guru H.H Marthoma I as ‘new party’ (Puthiya Kootu) since they initiated Great Indian independence movement through Koonan Kurishu Sathyam against colonial rulers.

Dutch captured Cochin and ended Portuguese rule in 1663. Portuguese knew that dynastic leader MarThoma still have great recognition in society and in the absence of Portuguese terror defected faction will join back him. Before leaving Kochi they took Parambil Mar Chandi to the Dutch authorities at Cochin to vow to remain faithful to Rome during Dutch rule.Also Portuguese got an assurance from Dutch that Dutch will support only Catholic faction. This closed all possibilities of future re-union of the St.Thomas Christians and divided them into two. During Dutch colonial period Dutch did not persecute the followers of Mar Thoma, but they were left as the ignored ones . In such a disappointing condition, Mar Thoma bishops lived and prayerfully guided the Thomas Christians. From 1665 native faction began contact with the West Syrian Antiochian Patriarchate since Portuguese secured a court order (on 20th September 1661) in favor of catholic faction by straining King of Cochin that only Throne of St Peter is valid in Malankara.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

Mattancherry Orthodox Church, kerala,India.

Latinization of St. Thomas Church

The Christian Church of India ( EST - AD 52 ) is a mother church founded during the time of the Apostles of Christ. As in the case of Rome or Antioch, the church was led by Bishops who were appointed by Patriarchs. Archdeacons led the believers using the interactions during the public meetings within the churches. They followed the Eastern liturgy based on the Testament of St. Thomas.

When the Portuguese reached Kochi, the ruler of Kochi accommodated them in his palace and provided land for procuring pepper. Many warehouses came up in Kochi and Mattancherry at that time. Their remnants are still there. There are documents to show that the merchandise was given on credit. It was the threat posed by the Zamorin that prompted the ruler of Kochi to help the Portuguese (Melekandathil, Pius, Portuguese Cochin and Maritime Trade in India).

The main intention of Latinization was to take absolute control of the pepper trade and also of the pepper farmers. The visit of Menezes to the main pepper trading centers before the Synod of Diamper at Udayamperoor is significant. Historians say that the Nasranis distanced themselves from the Portuguese after the Synod of Diamper at Udayamperoor. Following the visit of Bishop Menezes after the Synod, a new trade link was established on the Atlantic Ocean. The helpless people had to yield to it. Total control of merchandise transfer thus reached the hands of the Portuguese.

The first move was the introduction of Latin rites. But the bid to force them to give up Syriac did not work. In CE 1601, Goa received a Papal Bull from Pope Clement VIII appointing Francis Ross as the Archbishop of Angamaly. This again, was a step aimed at bringing St.Thomas Christians under the Latin regime. Once the Portuguese gained control over the Persian Gulf, they were able to block the journey of Arab traders as well as of the Bishops from Mesopotamia. The Christians in Kerala were forced to break their ties with Persia. Bishops had to come to Kerala in disguise. Those who came under the protection of Rome were also imprisoned by the Portuguese.

In protest against the domination of the Portuguese, the St. Thomas Christians tied a long rope on a ‘standing cross’ on the northern side of the Mattancherry Church on Friday, January 3, 1653 and took an oath -"as long as this trial exists, we will not submit to the priests of Samballoor.” The Coonan Cross Oath (Koonan Kurissu Sathyam) which was a turning point in the case of the Christians, who held Angamaly as their headquarters, is considered to be a reaction to the Synod of Diamper

On learning about the religious uprising of the Malankara Christians, Rome sent an Italian Carmelite priest, Joseph Sebastiani, as Enquiry Commission to Kerala aiming at a compromise. Meetings were held at the churches of Mattancherry, Alangad and Kochi in 1657 for settling the dispute. Many churches relinquished allegiance to the Arch Deacon and accepted Sebastiani as the representative of the Pope. The Archdeacon had the support of some clergy including Anjilimoottil Itty Thomman Kathanar who was known as a magician, a lot of people, and 200 soldiers. But the majority accepted Sebastiani as the Bishop. Mar Sebastiani set off from Alangad to Angamaly during the Holy Week in 1662. When he reached the Eastern Church, the devotees had made all the necessary arrangements to make him comfortable since he have Portuguese military support. He purchased the Angamaly church from the king. Mar Sebastiani, who quit Kerala once the Dutch established their supremacy in 1663, brought 84 churches under Rome while 32 churches stayed with the Archdeacon.

The reforms in the Trent Council:

The Roman Church established its supremacy among the native churches only after and because the Portuguese established their colonies and successfully implemented there, a unique combination of trade and, missionary activities supporting Rome. Portugal implemented the reforms initiated by Rome on the strength of its being the colonial ruler.

The nineteenth global synod that met at Trent, a small town on the Alpine border between Germany and Italy, during the time of Pope Paul III, is known as the Trent Synod. This synod was convened at a time when colonization was gaining strength under the tutelage of the Portuguese King, with the setting up of the dioceses in Kochi, Goa, Malacca and Macau. The Portuguese King started implementing the Trent Council reforms from 1564. He called upon the missionaries and rulers to make the colonies in Asia and Africa aware of the Trent Council decisions.

Fort Kochi , Fort Cochin

Koonan Kurishu Old Syrian Church

Mattancherry and Fort Cochin are two cities in Kochi, Kerala where various civilizations of the world have created significant impact which led to cultural and religious synthesis. The Portuguese followed by the Dutch and later on the British ruled the cities and used them as their first trade hub till independence of the country. Cochin became a thriving commercial center, and a major religious center where various religious groups tried to establish their administrative supremacy. This beautiful city surrounded by the Cochin backwaters was a common platform for various religious groups and cultural influences. The backwaters and the beautiful beaches have made phenomenal contributions in making Kerala ‘The God’s own country’. In this regard, the Koonan Kurishu Old Syrian Church of Mattancherry, which still languishes in the historic memories of the legendary Koonan Kurishu Sathayam (Coonan Cross Oath) has played a significant role of its own, never to be ignored.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurishu Old Syrian Church (Mattancherry Church).

Koonan Kurishu Church at Mattancherry, Kochi is a revered pilgrim center where Coonan Cross Oath took place and holy relics of St.George was installed. The Koonan Kurishu Old Syrian Church of Mattancherry, one of the oldest churches in India has played a significant role in the historic event that shaped the leadership of the Malankara Church, as it is today. This Church was built on the land where the historical Koonan Kurishu Sathyam (Coonan Cross Oath) took place in AD 1653. Koonan Kurishu Sathyam took place at Mattancherry Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India. Koonan Kurishu Church is also known as “Mattancherry Muri” or “Erimeghapally” and is presently under the direct control of the Malankara Metropolitan.

The Koonan Kurishu Church has paramount position among Oriental Orthodox churches as it is home to the holy remains of St.George. koonan kurishu church at Kochi is the only St George Church consecrated with installation of Holy relics of St George in its altar. Portuguese army had destroyed the St Thomas Church and its Leaned Cross (Koonan Kurishu) immediately after the Coonan Cross Oath of AD 1653. The destroyed St Thomas Church was reconsecrated in 1751 by Mar Baselious Shakkrallah Maphriana, and renovated later in 1974 under the initiative of Cochin Diocese. The land has become sacred with the foot prints of the Persian Prelates, first Catholicos Mar Thoma 1 and other forefathers of the Malankara Orthodox faith. In 2016 church is renovated using Nubian architecture with eco friendly construction process using compressed soil bricks with no steel and very less cement, reducing the CO2 emission. Koonan Kurishu is reinstalled at Mattancherry Koonan Kurishu Old Syrian Church along with the renovation. Importance is given to natural lighting and air circulation. Considering the historic importance of the Koonan Kurish Palli, Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church declared it as a historic monument as well as a pilgrim center.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

Mother Mary, Coonan Cross Pilgrim Center

Mattancherry Church, Fortkochi, Cochin, Kerala

Night View Coonan Cross Church, ( Koonan kurish Palli) at Mattancherry, Kochi , Kerala . St George Orthodox Koonan Kurishu Church .

St George Church, Cochin, India.

151 Coonan street Indooroopilly

02062021463

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Church , Mattancherry , Kochi , Kerala, India

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church at Mattancherry town of Kochi (Cochin ) better known as the Koonan Kurishu Pally entered the annals of history following the oath taken by St Thomas Christians of Kerala in AD 1653, protesting against the the attempt to impose the hegemony of the Roman Church by the Portuguese .

The Indian Church (Malankara Church ) was established by Apostle St Thomas ( Mar Thoma ) in AD 52. This indigenous Church of Malabar/Malankara followed the faith and traditions handed over by the Apostle St. Thomas. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Archdeacon a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Portughese arrived India in AD 1498 , were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in India, but Portuguese were unhappy that native Indian Christians were not under Rome . With the help of Portuguese army and Portuguese missionaries they started luring and threatening native Christians to bring them under Rome.They succeeded in their efforts in 1599 with the `Synod of Diamper'. The representatives of various parishes who attended the assembly were forced by Portuguese Authorities to accept the Papal authority.

The Koonan Kurishu Oath of AD 1653 refers to the action of thousands of native Christians assembling before this church and taking an oath to preserve the traditions and rituals followed by them since AD 52 and resist the attempts to impose the Roman rituals among the native Christians. But the gathering was so large that hundreds were unable to touch the cross directly. They drew a rope from the cross, and touching it, publicly denounced the Roman Church.The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu’. The event is described as ‘Koonan Kurishu Sathyam’ or the oath before the bent cross.

Soon after the Coonan Cross Oath of 3 January 1653 the St. Thomas Christians were divided into Oriental Orthodox faction and Catholic faction . The Catholic faction joined the Portuguese, and the Orthodox faction stayed with their native Mar Thoma traditions in defiance of the Portuguese.

The Koonan Kurish Sathyam of AD 1653 took place at this Church is the first attempt to resist colonialism and western invasion in India .

Apart from the historical legacy the method adopted for the renovation of the church building assumes importance. The renovated church is built using clay to keep faith with the ancient architecture heritage. The use of cement and steel have been completely avoided and visitors from India and abroad are coming to the church to see the architecture of the building.

The church located at Mattancherry , Cochin is constructed entirely of compressed earth blocks (CSEB). The distinct style with catenary vaults, arches and a dome evokes the past

in a way, never seen before. The technique of construction was developed in Egypt, today known as the Nubian Technique. There are 13 vaults and a dome to complete the structure. Today, it stands as the second largest catenary structure in South India.

The sacred alter is lit with sunlight that filters through the oculus and the space between the sinusoidal walls.

The concept of domes, vaults and arches used in the renovated building has been drawn from early symbols of eastern Christianity.

In AD 1751 Church was dedicated to St George with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar , is another unique speciality of Mattancherry Leaning Cross Old Syrian Church.

Coonan Cross, Koonankurishu, Koonan kurisu

Koonan kurishu Sathyam

Saint Thomas Christians.

The Indian Church (Malankara Church) was established by Apostle St Thomas (Mar Thoma) one among the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ in AD 52. The Throne of St. Thomas is the Apostolic tradition of the Christian church in India. Saint Thomas Christians were administratively under the single native dynastic leadership of an Arkadiyokan (Jaathiku karthavyan/ Arch Deacon) a native ecclesiastical head with spiritual and temporal powers. Arkadiyokans presided over the Assembly (Synod) and was responsible for overseeing the welfare of the Church. Their fidelity to the Law of Thomas (Thomayude Margam) was the touch stone of their authenticity and Orthodoxy. The Saint Thomas Christians remained in communion with the Church of the East until their encounter with the Portuguese in AD 1599.

Second Portuguese – India voyage under the command of Alvares Cabral arrived Calicut on 13th September 1500. During this expedition on JAN 1501 Cabral and team met the well established native communities of Malabari Jews and St Thomas Christians at Kodungallur Kingdom for the first time. Portuguese were surprised to find the presence of St Thomas Christians in Malankara (Malabar), but they were annoyed that native Indian Christians are not under Rome and never heard of Pope. Franciscan priests came with Cabral also started their Latin/ Roman Catholic—rite of India at this period.As local kingdoms permitted trading with Portughese , traders among Malanakra nasranies also began trading with them same like other communities. In AD 1505 Portugal King appointed his Viceroy in India which is considered as the beginning of colonial era in India.

Udayamperur Sunnahados -June 1599

As they gained political power Portuguese started to interfere the administration of Malankara Church. Portuguese Bishop Menezes visited parishes of St Thomas Christians and lured the parishioners with money and gold. He appointed priests ordained by him as vicars at various parishes and initiated parallel administration against Arkadiyokan . By 1597 Menezes started to pressurize Akadiyokkan Geevarughese to accept the Roman Supermacy over Malanakra Church. Akadiyokkan resisted and Menzese arranged to convene a Synod at Udayamperur. Heinous Udayamperur Sunnahados (diamper Synod) took place on 20th June 1599 led by Menezes, and armed Portuguese soldiers with the full support of the Raja of Kochi. King of Kochi had signed a treaty of friendship with Portughese to defeat King Samuthiri of neighboring Kingdom Calicut. This notorious meeting at Udayamperur enforced decrees to accept the faith and traditions of the Roman Catholic Church and the authority of the Pope. Many of the Diamper Synod’s canons were aimed to wipe out Malankara-East syrian relation and to place Malankra Church under Rome. The Malankara Nazranis (Syrian Christians / St Thomas Christians) signed the decrees, as they were afraid of the Portuguese opposition and their own King. They accepted the Roman authority with dissent. Intruders formally began the latinisation of St Thomas Christians who were Christians in Malankara well before Christianity arriving anywhere in Europe. Untill Synod of Diamper Nazranis never had hierarchical relationship with Rome or any other church.

Koonan Kurishu Sathyam (Coonan Cross Oath) – JAN 1653

St Thomas Christians started their efforts to get a Metropolitan from the Eastern Church for re-establishing their freedom . The Portuguese who were masters of the sea in those days, many a time intercepted their letters of appeal for Syrian prelates and there were occasions when attempts of Middle Eastern clergy to come to Malankara were physically thwarted. During this time Mar Ahatulla Bava who was coming to Malankara was killed by the Portuguese Archbishop Gracia by drowning him in the Cochin harbor. The Koonan Kurishu Sathyam refers to the action of thousands of St Thomas Christians led by Arkadiyokan Thomas (successor of Akadiyokkan Geevarughese), assembling at St Thomas Church at Mattancherry on 3rd JAN 1653 and taking an oath to preserve the traditions followed by them since AD 52 and to reject the Roman rituals imposed on them by Portuguese invaders through synod of diamper . Since all the people could not touch the stone Cross simultaneously, they all held onto ropes that were tied to the cross in all directions . They took the historical oath to break free from the clutches of the Roman supremacy by pledging “ till the end neither the Thomas Christians nor their generations would obey the church of Rome or the Portuguese bishops, but only obey their traditional leader Arkadiyokan” . The cross bent under pressure and hence the name ‘Koonan Kurisu Sathyam’ ( Leaning Cross Oath). Like Moses liberated Israelites from slavery Arkadiyokan Thomas liberated and protected Malankara Church from atrocities of militant Roman Catholicism, through Coonan Cross Oath.

Mattanchery Padiyola May 22, 1653

With the unanimous consent of the whole Church, on May 22, 1653 the Malankara Nasrani Christians issued a proclamation called the “Mattanchery Padiyola” and Arkadiyokan Thomas , the descendant of Apostle St Thomas was elevated to the status of bishop with the title Mar Thoma I. The Coonen Cross event was a Great Victory for His Holiness MarThoma I and his indigenous Malankara Church. The Koonankurishu Oath (Leaning Cross Oath) is the first recorded mass revolt against the Western colonialism in Indian history. All historians agree that due to the Oath practically the whole body of the Thomas Christians joined together against Roman Catholic supremacy under the leadership of Arkadiyokkan Thomas. By the grace of God amidst Portuguese terror in both sea and land Malanakra Nasaranis could consecrate their own native Bishop. This was an unimaginable blow to Portuguese and they spread rumors against MarThoma’s consecration and confused Nasranis.

Troubled by the effects of the Coonen Cross, Portuguese authorities requested direct intervention of Pope to eliminate the authority and status of the Mar Thoma and thereby dishonor the status of his ancient Church of Malankara. Rome send two batches of Carmelite missions headed by Hyacinth and Joseph Sebastiani. This mission arrived Malankara in 1661.

Our Lord Jesus himself promised twelve thrones to the twelve apostles and none of them was deprived of having the authority by Luke22:24-30 & Mathew19:28, even then Carmelite wing of Portuguese rulers exerted pressure on native kings and spread anti-biblical teachings among Syrian malabar Christians that ‘Throne of St Thomas’ of Mar Thoma is inferior to ‘Throne of St Peter’ of Pope. Mar Thoma I and his predecessor Arkadiyokan Geevarughese survived many murder attempts from colonial Bishops for upholding St Thomas tradition of India. On 9 October 1661 Portuguese Bishop Sebastiani, ordered Portuguese military general Ignatius Sarmento to capture the H.H. Mar Thoma I from Mulunthuruthy Church, but H.H Mar Thoma I and his party cleverly broke free from Portuguese military by wearing munds (loin cloths) and special hats, disguising as soldiers. To stop Mar Thoma from guiding his followers, Portuguese ordered kings of Cochin, Vadakkankur and others to prohibit the entry of Mar Thoma into their territories. Then Sebastiani forcefully entered into churches of the Thomas Christians and took control of them by gifting huge amount of money to the local Kings.

Colonial rulers realized that East Syrian relation have deep routed influence among Malankara nazranis which they had banned in Synod of Damper and even stopped middle eastern Priests from reaching Malankara is one of the reason for Coonen Cross event . Learned from the past Carmelite mission introduced a new impersonated East Syrian Church hierarchy sponsored by Rome at the back end to distract the followers of Mar Thoma. To take advantage of St Thomas Christians loyalty to their native dynastic leader (Arkadiyokan) from Pakalomatam family Bishop Sebastiani trapped Parambil Chandy the cousin of Mar Thoma by offering him the position of Bishop. Before the consecration Chandy was pressed to curse his nephew ‘The Mar Thoma’ publicly so that he can not rejoin Mar Thoma in future. On February 1 1663 Alexander de Campo (Parambil Mar Chandi) became the first Roman Catholic Bishop of Indian origin. As a result of these dishonest teachings and persecutions by Portuguese, after the Coonan Cross Oath one faction of St. Thomas Christians disowned their Oath , betrayed Arkadiyokan and succumbed to Catholic tradition of colonial rulers. With this split many ancient parishes of St. Thomas Christians were again colonized by Portuguese(with the help of Carmelite mission) and taken over by Roman Church.

At the same time native faction courageously continued their ancient Mar Thoma traditions under the leadership of their native and hereditary Church head Marthoma I (Arkadiyokan) and retained the Sovereignty of the Throne of St Thomas as they had reaffirmed it through Coonan Cross Oath and Mattancheri Padiyola.

Due to the political and military support from colonial rulers, after this split the catholic faction of St Thomas Christians which was only 54 years then since they formed started calling them self as “Old Party” (Pazhaya kootu). Since Malankara Church of Mar Thoma opposed Catholic Bishops unethical behavior to Colonize Indian Church, Portuguese colonial rulers started addressing their enemies (‘native faction’) as “New Party” (Puthiya Kootu) , even though Mar Thoma’s native faction had 1600 years of uncompromising tradition at that time. Portuguese rulers intentionally called native faction as ‘new party’ to degrade them in retaliation to their brave protest against colonial propaganda. But today, for the present generation of native faction it is a matter of proud that troubled Portuguese rulers were forced to address their forefathers and their Patriotic Guru H.H Marthoma I as ‘new party’ (Puthiya Kootu) since they initiated Great Indian independence movement through Koonan Kurishu Sathyam against colonial rulers.

Dutch captured Cochin and ended Portuguese rule in 1663. Portuguese knew that dynastic leader MarThoma still have great recognition in society and in the absence of Portuguese terror defected faction will join back him. Before leaving Kochi they took Parambil Mar Chandi to the Dutch authorities at Cochin to vow to remain faithful to Rome during Dutch rule.Also Portuguese got an assurance from Dutch that Dutch will support only Catholic faction. This closed all possibilities of future re-union of the St.Thomas Christians and divided them into two. During Dutch colonial period Dutch did not persecute the followers of Mar Thoma, but they were left as the ignored ones . In such a disappointing condition, Mar Thoma bishops lived and prayerfully guided the Thomas Christians. From 1665 native faction began contact with the West Syrian Antiochian Patriarchate since Portuguese secured a court order (on 20th September 1661) in favor of catholic faction by straining King of Cochin that only Throne of St Peter is valid in Malankara.