french heritage

Pondicherry has a rich French cultural heritage, having been the capital of the French colonies in India since the 17th century. Pondicherry, Karaikal, Yanam and Mahe were transferred to the Indian Union in 1954.

This French legacy is visible in the well-planned town, neatly laid roads, wide and vibrant beaches, beautiful promenades, architecturally imposing churches and public buildings and statues of Joan of Arc and Josep Francois Dupleix who was the Governor of the French colonies in India from 1742-54. The town also has an Alliance Francaise and the French Institute.

Among the notable French personalities who left their indelible mark on Pondicherry, four names stand out. Francois Martin who was appointed the Administrator after the Treaty of Ryswick, brought stability and was responsible for its growth. Dumas, who succeeded him, built on Martin's foundations. The third notable Frenchman was Joseph Francois Dupleix, the Governor of French India from 1742-54.

The fourth French personality who made an impact on modern day Pondicherry was 'The Mother', a Paris-born painter-musician and Sri Aurobindo's close companion from 1920 until his death in 1950. She was responsible for developing the Ashram as it is today.

Auroville    Govt. Museum    Botanical Garden    Chunnambar    French Heritage Sri Arbindoashram  Bharathi Park

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