Meet Johann Binny Kuruvilla: Kochi’s Legacy Keeper 

Johann Binny Kuruvilla is the founder of The Kochi Heritage Project, a social enterprise dedicated to preserving and celebrating Kochi’s diverse heritage through immersive experiences, storytelling, and community engagement. Inspired by his travel experiences and the vibrant cultural tapestry of his hometown, Kuruvilla launched the project in 2018 to create meaningful connections between locals and visitors through thoughtfully curated heritage walks, food trails, and events.

With a background in tourism and a passion for urban heritage, Kuruvilla spotlights Kochi’s unique place in global history, where cultures from India, Europe, Southeast Asia, and beyond have mingled for centuries. Under his leadership, The Kochi Heritage Project promotes sustainable tourism. It supports local businesses — from storytellers to family-run establishments, contributing to the community’s social, economic, and environmental well-being.

The storyteller’s vision for the project is rooted in the belief that understanding the stories of the past can inspire a deeper appreciation for the present. His team collaborates with researchers, educators, storytellers and enthusiasts to offer engaging, insightful events and experiences that invite curiosity and foster a lasting connection with Kochi’s heritage.

Excerpts from the interview with Johann Binny Kuruvilla, Founder of The Kochi Heritage Project

T+L India: What does the Kochi Heritage Project mean to you?

Johann Binny Kuruvilla: What started as a simple idea of celebrating Kochi’s heritage has, over time, evolved into a platform that creates meaningful experiences for visitors, builds a sense of community, sparks curiosity, and gives a voice to stories that originate from Kochi. It began as an opportunity to showcase my passion for history and heritage. As time passed, I began to realise the importance of preserving and sharing these stories. Now, it’s become a core part of my identity, intertwining with my travels and shaping my perspective. I’ve become the go-to person for anything related to Kochi’s heritage, so much so that I’m saved as “Kochi Heritage Project” in contact lists!

T+L India: Irish novelist and journalist Frank Delaney said, “To understand and reconnect with our stories, the stories of the ancestors, is to build our identities.” Your thoughts?

Johann Binny Kuruvilla: This quote resonates deeply with the motto of the Kochi Heritage Project. Stories define who we are, especially in a place like Kochi, which is so rich in history. My goal is to foster a sense of belonging in the city by connecting locals and visitors to the colonial past and 2,000–3,000 years of rich history, encompassing the influences of Muziris, Jews, Muslims, Christians, and Chinese cultures. People are beginning to appreciate that Kochi is a city brimming with far more stories than we previously assumed.

T+L India: Describe Kochi in three words. What makes you choose these words?

Johann Binny Kuruvilla: I would describe Kochi as “resilient,” “multifaceted,” and “evolving.”

The city’s resilience is rooted in its history; it was formed after a flood that prompted people to migrate and settle here. Over time, Kochi has navigated challenges through trade, colonisation, and modernisation, rising above every situation.

Kochi is multifaceted due to the 39 communities that call it home. These groups came here for trade and continue to thrive, practising different religions and speaking various languages at home, yet blending seamlessly into the more significant Kerala identity when they step outside. Their diverse influences have enriched our culture and cuisine. From the first newspaper published by a Gujarati to the first woman teacher from the Konkani community, people here have been peacefully coexisting for generations. Our “Microcosm of the World” tour helps visitors understand Kochi’s multicultural personality.

An advertisement from the 1940s published by the royal government aptly described Kochi as a blend of traditional and modern—and that remains true today. Just outside the city, traditional farms coexist with a bustling metro. We also have a unique water metro, envisioned to be the largest in the world by 2025. Despite the development, we have successfully preserved our traditional art forms. Tripunithura, home to the royal family, is known as the cultural hub of Kochi, where events and activities are held every weekend. Kochi is still a place where the old and new coexist.

T+L India: How have you evolved as a traveller over the years?

Johann Binny Kuruvilla: I used to be a curious traveller, but now I approach my journeys purposefully. I no longer travel merely to check items off a bucket list; instead, I seek to connect with the essence of each place. My perspective has shifted, and I now look at cities through the lens of their stories, people, and culture.

I’ve evolved as a traveller who prioritises immersive experiences. I explore like a local, often forgoing detailed itineraries in favour of spontaneous adventures guided by insights from residents. Sometimes, I shut off from the world entirely, go on treks to disconnect from work and separate my personal life from my professional commitments.

Travel has become my passion, allowing me to seek out stories, sit with locals, and jot down experiences I want to bring home. Interestingly, my travels also open up business opportunities, happening seamlessly. This new approach has enriched my understanding of the world and my place in it, making every journey a meaningful adventure.

T+L India: What is the best compliment you have received?

Johann Binny Kuruvilla: I think “master storyteller” resonates with me the most. People appreciate my cinematic storytelling style. In the beginning, I would ask questions and listen to the answers, finding that they often resonate deeply with my audience. Perhaps they already knew some of the stories, but by the end of my tour, they understood the connections in a new light. Preserving the stories of Kochi and passing them on to the next generation is just part of who I am.

T+L India: What do you think is unique about you as a storyteller?

Johann Binny Kuruvilla: I strive to tell authentic stories. I research to uncover them. Sometimes, it takes months to bring a single story to life as I seek out hidden layers and perspectives, considering how different interest groups view a particular narrative. For instance, a building can be examined from architectural, cultural, or artistic angles. Take St. Francis Church: it’s a historical church in European style; and while I discuss its architecture, I also delve into its art, highlighting the intricately designed tombstones that date back 500 years.

I aim to tell real stories that resonate emotionally with my audience, allowing them to see my passion for Kochi’s heritage. My Fort Kochi tour is significant because I grew up in that part of town, and my family has lived there for four generations. I begin the tour by sharing my own journey of rediscovering the area. Many participants are so engaged that they stay for six to seven hours beyond the planned itinerary. It’s common for people to book additional tours after experiencing just one.

I’m aware that today’s travellers are increasingly seeking immersive experiences that engage all five senses and develop personal connections to the places they visit. They want to take something back with them—knowledge transfer, inspiration for their own projects, or a new perspective that can change them as individuals. Artists, architects, doctors, and teachers engage with history and heritage in new ways. So, I tailor my stories accordingly.

T+L India: One of the most exciting discoveries you’ve made on your recent travels?

Johann Binny Kuruvilla: For a long time, I’ve been delving into the trade history of Kerala and Kochi, a journey that has taken me across South Asia. During my time in Malaysia, I encountered the Baba Nyonya community. I was struck by how their floral shirts and embroidered skirts mirror those of the Anglo-Indian community in Kerala. It dawned on me that the Portuguese had brought some women from Kerala to Kochi, carrying their cultural style.

Interestingly, their cuisine also shares similarities with Kerala’s—think coconut milk, kokum, and various chillies. This revelation helped me piece together a fascinating puzzle rooted in Kochi’s maritime history, connecting multiple cultures and traditions. When I conduct a tour focused on textiles, I can weave in the Malaysian story and its connections to Kerala, enriching the narratives I share with participants. My next trips will take me to Indonesia, Portugal and the Netherlands to pick up tidbits on interconnected histories and enhance the depth of my storytelling about Kochi.

T+L India: What is India’s secret power as a destination, and how can it be tapped best?

Johann Binny Kuruvilla: We refer to Mattancherry as “mini-India.” That moniker truly reflects the diversity of traditions, cultures, landscapes, and experiences throughout the country. Travellers are increasingly eager to explore this rich tapestry, seeking to go beyond the usual highlights and delve into the stories. Our tier-2 cities, like Mangaluru, Bhubaneshwar, and Bhopal have massive potential in this respect. I genuinely believe no other country boasts such a variety of cultures and experiences.

We’re seeing a surge in initiatives and industry knowledge after establishing a Ministry of Tourism. While the growth may be slow, I’m encouraged by what I see unfolding. However, I believe there must be a sustainable approach to this growth. For instance, I wouldn’t support drastic changes to places like the Andamans, as preserving their unique character is crucial. It’s about finding a balance—promoting tourism while respecting and maintaining the integrity of our cultures and environments. This thoughtful approach will ensure that India’s rich heritage is showcased and preserved for future generations to appreciate.

T+L India: What would be the top three things on your agenda as a heritage enthusiast if you had the power?

Johann Binny Kuruvilla: I advocate for a comprehensive preservation strategy because many of our physical monuments face destruction, and our intangible heritage is at risk of being lost due to rapid development. Countless rituals and historical narratives have been forgotten simply because they were never documented. My primary focus is preserving this intangible heritage, which I believe is critical for maintaining our cultural identity.

Sustainability is the second key aspect of my approach. We’ve established a community-driven tourism model that empowers local residents who are passionate about heritage. For instance, we collaborate with local eateries and families during our food tours, often visiting their homes. We ensure that a small percentage of the revenue from our tours goes back to them, creating a sustainable flow of income within the community.

T+L India: Which countries fascinate you with their heritage conservation and why?

Johann Binny Kuruvilla: I find exploring all the countries connected to Kerala’s rich history incredibly fascinating. In Malaysia, for instance, there are two UNESCO World Heritage cities, and one of them, Malacca, features a Portuguese fort that has been preserved and enhanced to provide a glimpse into its historical significance. They’ve done a remarkable job of cordoning it off and reconstructing elements to give visitors an authentic sense of how it might have looked in its prime. Countries like Egypt, Portugal, the Netherlands, Sri Lanka, Iran, and Yemen also captivate me with their rich histories and cultural narratives. Japan, in particular, stands out for its remarkable work in rebuilding and preserving its heritage, often from scratch.

Related: Savour Coffee, Culture And Cuisine At Kochi’s Best Art Cafes And Restaurants

Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.

The views expressed in this interview are solely those of the interviewee and do not reflect the opinions of the publication.

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