Bastille Day, Masi Magam and the festivals of Puducherry

Background

The culture of Puducherry combines religious, cultural and spiritual fairs and festivals. Among the popular festivals with religious significance are Kinni Radhothsavam at the Kamatchiamman Temple, Masi Magam, Brahmothsavam at the Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Bastille Day on 14 July, the Fire Walking Festival, the annual festival at the Muthumariamman Temple and a 22-day festival at the Drowpathiamman Temple. The International Yoga Festival in January and the Veerampattinam Car Festival are the two famous festivals. In and around Puducherry there are more than 350 temples. As a former French colony, the territory shows French influence in architecture, cuisine and lifestyle, alongside the influence of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Local handicrafts include leather, woodcraft, pottery and metal craft.