[1][2][3] The fire originated from a vessel named Chandrabhanu, which was docked in Cochin harbour and laden with highly flammable materials such as coconut oil, copra, coir, carpets, and spices.
Strong winds and currents drove the flaming ship towards the shore, causing the fire to spread rapidly among the nearby warehouses and buildings.
To commemorate the tragedy, a memorial pillar was erected by Port Captain Wrinkler, which still stands on the beach near Fort Kochi as a testament to the event.
[10][9] The Great fire of Cochin remains a significant historical event, highlighting the vulnerabilities of colonial urban centres and the dramatic consequences of such disasters.
[9] Despite its scale, this event is less well-known compared to other historical fires, but its legacy continues to be an integral part of Cochin's rich history.