Introduction

This old-world mansion boasting Indo-French architecture belonged to Ananda Rangapillai, the courtier (Dubash) of Joseph Francois Dupleix, the popular French Governor of Pondicherry. Rangapillai built this beautiful mansion in 1773, and since then has been an architectural specimen in Pondicherry. Apart from his administrative acumen, Rangapillai had another facet to his personality – a flair for writing. His skillful writing is evident in the diaries he maintained between 1736-60. Even today, they serve as a library of historical and cultural insight on 18th century Pondicherry under French rule. The mansion houses a good collection of diaries penned by Rangapillai that are a valuable source of information on the history of Pondicherry and the French rule in India.

One of the oldest buildings in Pondicherry to have thrived during the grandiose French era, Rangapillai’s mansion is a paradigm of Indo-French architectural style. Its fine blend of traditional Tamil residential architecture with the European style, tickles your architectural bone.

When the British forces conquered the city in 1761 and ravaged many structures, they spared this building of exquisite beauty. Browse the house and you will see a huge courtyard on the ground floor built in traditional fashion surrounded by intricately carved wooden pillars. While the terrace on the first floor is reinforced by ornate masonry columns that have a distinct Gothic design features. The amalgamation of the two architectural styles, and the presence of the diaries on the heritage and culture of Pondicherry, make Ananda Rangapillai’s mansion a worthy landmark in the city.

Located on Rangapillai Street, opposite Grand Bazaar, the mansion continues to enthrall visitors to Pondicherry.

Special Attributes

Rangapillai’s mansion is a paradigm of Indo-French architectural style.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress is whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

You can take an auto-rickshaw to the mansion in Grand Bazaar.

Enjoyed by

Families, Backpackers

Exposure

You will be indoors. If you are walking it from the city centre to the mansion during the day, you will be exposed to a harsh sun. So, it is advisable to carry along sunshades and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

April, May, June, July, August, September

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

If you visit early in the day, you will be in a better position to appreciate the nuances of its architecture.

Type of site

Mansion