From Iraqi origins to civic leadership in Cochin

The Koders migrated to Cochin from Iraq several centuries ago and became deeply embedded in the  city’s commercial and cultural fabric. Over time, they emerged as influential figures whose  activities shaped everyday life in Cochin across communities and generations.

The Koders’ role in shaping Cochin’s social and commercial life

Samuel Koder ran the Cochin Electric Company, which was later sold to the government, and also  established a chain of department stores across Kerala. These stores were known for their scale and  ambition, stocking everything from everyday provisions to imported luxury goods.

Alcoholic beverages from the abroad, fine clothing, and chandeliers sourced from Europe were  among the many items available. In their heyday, the Koders were widely regarded as civic leaders,  often described as the city’s unofficial aristocracy.

Samuel Koder as Honorary Consul and host to dignitaries

As the Honorary Consul to the Netherlands, Samuel Koder played an important diplomatic role  in Cochin. The house frequently hosted Dutch ambassadors and visiting dignitaries, further  cementing its reputation as a centre of influence and exchange. He was also one of the founding
members of the Freemasons’ organisation in Cochin, reinforcing his role within the city’s  intellectual and social circles.

A social institution that defined an era in Cochin

Under Satu Koder, the house became renowned for its Friday Open House, a custom he initiated  that soon became an institution on Cochin’s social calendar. Each Friday, the doors of the house  were opened to a wide and diverse circle.

Christians, Jews, and others gathered in an atmosphere defined by conversation, exchange, and  hospitality. Visitors could number as many as forty-five on one occasion or just a handful on  another. Among them were ambassadors, judges, lawyers, professors, students, financiers, rabbis,  celebrities, and heads of state. Conversation and food were always central, and anticipation for the  evening often built throughout the week.

Leadership, legacy, and the closing of a remarkable chapter

Following the passing of one brother and the dispersal of the family, the house eventually became  home to Satu Koderand his wife Gladys. With their passing, an era in the life of the house came to  an end.

Satu Koder’s daughter, Queenie Hallegua, later sold the house to its present custodians. Her  husband, Mr. Sammy Hallegua, served as the warden of the Jewish Synagogue, following in the  footsteps of Satu Koder, who held the same role for over forty years.

INTACH recognition and the restoration of Koder House

Koder House is formally recognised as a heritage monument by INTACH, and its restoration has  been guided by a commitment to preserving its architectural integrity and historical character.  Today, the house has been carefully reimagined as a luxury heritage boutique hotel, allowing its  legacy to remain present and lived with rather than confined to the past.

Archival photographs and stories from the house’s past

As part of this commitment to preservation, a dedicated heritage gallery located by the plunge  pool displays archival photographs and historical material documenting the Koder family and the  house’s past. This space offers an opportunity to pause, reflect, and trace the story of the residence  from its construction and global influences to the people, gatherings, and traditions that shaped it.

Koder House is not merely remembered; it continues to exist as a living chapter in Fort Kochi’s  history.