FAMILY RESEARCH & DOCUMENTATION

The project focuses on the history and legacy of the Kurshingal family, tracing its origins back to Kodungallur. The family initially belonged to Hindu merchant castes but underwent a religious conversion to Syrian Catholicism, later aligning with the Latin Catholic Church. Over generations, the Kurshingal family made notable contributions, with Kaku Kaku, the earliest patriarch, serving on the Cochin Municipal Council in the late 19th century. KB Jacob, a prominent figure in the family, became the first elected Malayali municipal chairman in 1924. His entrepreneurial success, including the establishment of KB Jacob and Co., and his role in social advocacy, such as introducing compulsory education, exemplified the family's leadership.

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The project also highlights the family's active involvement in various public service and independence movements. Family members like KJ Herschel and

KJ Burleigh played significant roles in the fight for India's independence, participating in protests and resisting British colonial rule. KJ Herschel, in particular, was a key figure, serving as the Municipal Chairman of Fort Kochi for 25 years and later as a Member of the Legislative Assembly. His contributions to town planning, such as the development of roads and slum clearance schemes, were pivotal in shaping the region. Despite facing personal challenges, such as the loss of hearing and eyesight in later years, the Kurshingal family remained influential in both local governance and the broader independence movement.