Raymond’s Tomb Restoration Gets ₹14 Lakh Support From French Embassy

Hyderabad: The French Embassy/Bureau de France in Hyderabad announced financial assistance of ₹ 14 lakh for the preservation of Raymond’s grave here.

The announcement was made during a review meeting held by the government’s special principal secretary (department of youth development, tourism and culture) A. Vani Prasad with the French delegation and senior officials here on Wednesday.

During the inspection, Prasad emphasized the importance of preserving Raymond’s tomb, a monument of historical importance symbolizing long-standing cultural and historical ties between France and Hyderabad.

The Telangana government has also imposed administrative sanction of ₹ 40 lakh for development of basic amenities in the district. The heritage department will complete the conservation work within two months, while facilities such as information boards and basic amenities will also be upgraded to improve the visitor experience. Following conservation work, an opening program was proposed for July 25.

Heritage department director Prof. K. Arjun Rao said the state government is committed to protecting, preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the state and looks forward to strengthening cultural cooperation with France through the project to preserve Raymond’s tomb.

The French delegation consisted of Bureau de France, Hyderabad vice-consul Pascal Loreau, vice-consul Rohini Reddipalli, Alliance Française de Hyderabad director Maud Miquau. Tourism department director Ranjeet Nayak, heritage department deputy director Dr. P. Nagaraju and other officials also attended.