Religion in Pondicherry

Pondicherry people, culture, festivals reflect the social structure of the Union territory. The culture of Pondicherry has imbibed various fairs and festivals. Some of these fairs and festivals are religious in nature, while others are cultural and spiritual. Few of the popular fairs and festivals that have religious significance are festival Kinni Radhothsavam in Kamatchiamman Temple, Masi Magam, Brahamothsavam in Manakula Vinayagar Temple, Bastille Day on 14 July, Fire Walking Festival, annual festival at Muthumariamman Temple, 22-day festival in Drowpathiamman Temple and many more. The International Yoga Festival in January and the Veerampattinam Car Festival are the two famous festivals that are attended and enjoyed by the maximum number of people in Pondicherry.

Pondicherry was the erstwhile colony of France, so the influence of French culture is evident on the architecture, cuisine and lifestyle of the people of Pondicherry. The influence of the neighboring states of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala are also quite evident on their culture. Pondicherry is a popular pilgrimage center for where people following various religions come here. Religion and spirituality is imbibed in the culture of the region. In and around Pondicherry there are more than 350 temples.

The people of Pondicherry are engaged in different types of handicrafts like leather, woodcraft, pottery, metal craft etc. It has a cosmopolitan culture and people belonging to different caste, creed and religion live here amicably. Pondicherry people, culture, festivals are the representatives of the heritage of the Indian sub continent. Pondicherry people speak French and English, along with Tamil.

Language

The indigenous population of Pondicherry is of Tamil origin but Pondicherry is home to a whole host of people from different Indian states as well as from European countries. The French influence lingers on even half a century after their departure it can be seen in the architecture and culture of Pondicherry down to the red ‘kepi’ worn by the local policemen.

Many of the locals born during French rule opted for French citizenship and continue to have close ties with France sending their children there for education etc. The Aurobindo Ashram also attracts a large number of foreigners - many of whom put down roots in Pondicherry.

Many people in Pondicherry are bilingual – comfortable in French as well as Tamil.

Religion

Most of the people of Pondicherry are Hindus. There are a large number of Muslims and Christians. Christianity is a legacy of French colonial rule evident in the city’s cathedrals, churches and convents.