As organisers put the finishing touches to the Pondicherry Heritage Festival (February 27-March 1), they announced on Wednesday that the event will see some big names, including actor Revathi and French Ambassador to India François Richier at the inauguration.

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Ashok Panda, convener, Puducherry chapter of INTACH, said the organisers would also push for Puducherry’s inclusion in the government’s Heritage City Development Scheme (HRIDAY) and smart cities list.

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The organisers also said the government had been open to suggestions and receptive to their request for participation. They said that the government had promised to take up restoration of around two to three heritage buildings every year.

Other prominent guests include Philippe Toussaint of Les Vieilles Maisons Françaises (French Heritage Society) from France and Tasneem Mehta, vice-chairperson, INTACH.

The Pondicherry Heritage Festival is supported by almost all major establishments and organisations in the town and the government, including the Department of Tourism, Department of Art and Culture, Alliance Francaise, École Française d'Extrême-Orient, French Institute of Pondicherry, Cluny Embroidery Centre, Pondy ART, Svaram (Auroville), Neemrana hotels, CGH Earth, Hidesign, Gratitude-a heritage home, and residents from Puducherry.

Big names, including actor Revathi and French Ambassador to India François Richier, likely to attend inauguration on February 27