Blessed with numerous alluring charms of Mother Nature, Pondicherry is regarded as a top rated domain for a memorable leisure or romantic vacation in Southern part of India. This offbeat destination shares its border with vast Bay of Bengal and comprises four coastal regions namely Puducherry, (in Tamil Nadu), Karaikal(in Tamil Nadu), Yanam( in Andhra Pradesh) and Mahe(on the West Coast in Kerala).
Literally mean as “the new settlement”, Pondicherry encompasses an interesting history within its arms. This former capital of French colonialism in India traces back its origin to saint Agasthya, one of the revered sage of South India. Even some historians and nearby archaeological excavations displays that Ponducherry also has a Roman linkage, some 2000 years ago.
Puducherry is the capital of this Union territory and located just 162 kms away from Chennai. Situated away from the hustle and bustle of big cities of south India, Pondicherry is an excellent place to get rid of all the tensions of a busy life. Its distinguish characteristics which comprises of its unmistakable French connection, the three lined boulevards, the fantastic array of colonial heritage buildings of 18th century, the spiritual aura, the endless stretches of virgin beaches, tranquil backwaters, Tamil culture and the cosmopolitan flair of various nationalities so on bestows an unique identity to the town. Along with Tamil and other regional languages, French and English are commonly spoken in the area. Thanks to its seaside villas and the cobbled streets, Pondicherry reflects more of south France than the south of India!!
Beside its pleasant atmosphere, relishing sea side restaurants, cheap bear, Pondicherry is renowned for its famed Shri Aurobindo Ashram and offshoot Auroville, 10 km outside the main town. As the name suggest, this ashram was founded by Shri Aurobindo in the year 1926, which brought international reputation to this tiny coastal town. This ashram is a fantastic blend of Yoga and modern science which beckon thousands of International and National travellers.
Pondicherry is also popular for its unique festivals which are different from the rest of the country and have their own flavour. Pondicherry has a special festival known as a Masquerade which takes place in March – April. It is a popular mask festival, during which brilliantly costumed and masked people of Pondicherry, dance down the streets to the music of trumpets and accordions. During the Eve of the Bastille Day, retired soldiers parade the streets in war finery, singing the French and Indian National Anthem.
By Jolly Mazumdar
