Fort Kochi is more than its iconic streets, colonial
architecture and cafés. Hidden within its narrow lanes are
centuries of stories waiting to be rediscovered—stories of
trade, migration, culture, cuisine and the people who shaped
one of Kerala’s most historic neighbourhoods.
For the very first edition of
Habivore Originals, we joined heritage
storyteller
Oneal Sabu
on a journey through Fort Kochi, uncovering the narratives
that continue to live within its streets. More than a walk,
this became an invitation to slow down, look closer, and
experience a familiar place through a completely different
perspective.
Oneal Sabu is the founder of Phantasma, a heritage storytelling initiative dedicated to preserving and sharing the lesser-known stories of Fort Kochi. Through years of research and exploration, he has transformed ordinary walks into immersive experiences that connect people with the history, architecture and culture surrounding them. Rather than presenting history as dates and facts, Oneal brings places to life through stories—revealing the people, traditions and moments that continue to shape Fort Kochi today.
Habivore Originals is dedicated to documenting remarkable people, places and ideas that inspire curiosity. Through conversations, explorations and immersive experiences, we hope to preserve stories that deserve to be remembered while encouraging people to see familiar places from entirely new perspectives. Every Original is built on a simple belief: The most meaningful experiences begin with curiosity.