On 17 February 2025, Karthick a Computer Science & Engineering student from Sri Manakula Vinayagar Engineering College earned 2nd place in the photography segment of the Pondicherry Heritage Festival’s Creative Expressions Competition—a testament to the technical and artistic spirit of our budding engineers
Introducing the Pondicherry Heritage Festival
The Pondicherry Heritage Festival is an annual celebration held between late January and early February, devoted to celebrating Puducherry’s unique French, Tamil, and colonial cultural fusion through immersive activities and dialogue.
Heritage Walks Through History
Guided tours wind through the French and Tamil quarters, showcasing colonial-era edifices, tranquil temples, and key landmarks—raising awareness of architectural conservation amid urban growth.
Cultural Performances Realized
The festival comes alive with Bharatanatyam recitals, folk music, dramatic performances, and street theater—reviving and honouring Puducherry’s artistic traditions.
Exhibitions & Competitions
Art and photo exhibitions spotlight the region’s coastal charm and heritage architecture. The Creative Expressions Competition—featuring painting, writing, group performances, and photography—was held on 25–26 January and 7 February 2025 at Akalavya International School and Alliance Française de Pondichérry.
Workshops & Conversation Series
Panel discussions and workshops engaged heritage experts, conservationists, and community members in meaningful dialogue on sustainable tourism, urban planning, and cultural preservation.
Franco-Tamil Culinary Delights
Food festivals and live cooking demonstrations allowed visitors to taste the unique fusion of French and Tamil cuisines that define Puducherry’s culinary landscape.
Eco-Initiatives in Action
Firmly rooted in community impact, the festival included beach clean-ups, tree plantations, and other environmental activities—highlighting the link between natural and cultural heritage.
Elevating Students & Academia
From quizzes to debates, creative contests to volunteering, the festival features active participation from students. The standout achievement was the CSE student who secured 2nd place in photography, showcasing how technical minds also possess artistic vision
