August 16, 1962 — 15 long years after Indian gained its independence — it was on this day that Puducherry, the French colony was liberated and merged with the Union of India. And this year, this French Riviera celebrates 59 years and calls this day De Jure Transfer Day.

When did Pondicherry get independence from French?

While the rest of India celebrated its Independence Day on August 15, 1947, Pondicherry, as it was formerly known, remained a French colony. Fifteen years after India gained Independence, this small French colony was liberated on August 16, 1962 when Pondicherry was officially merged with the Indian Union.

When did Pondicherry join India?

De facto transfer of the four remaining French possessions to the Union of India took place on Nov. 1, 1954, and de jure transfer was completed on May 28, 1956. Instruments of ratification were signed on Aug. 16, 1962, from which date Pondicherry, consisting of the four enclaves, became a union territory.