French War Memorial

The French War Memorial, formally called Monument aux combattants des Indes françaises morts pour la patrie, stands on Goubert Avenue opposite the Gandhi Statue. Erected in 1937 and unveiled in April 1938 by Governor Crocicchia, it honors the residents of French India who died serving in World War I.

Designed by sculptor Gaston Petit and architect Delafon, the monument features four white granite columns framing a life‑size bronze soldier resting on his rifle. The inscription reads: “Aux combattants des Indes Françaises morts pour la Patrie, 1914–1918.

Set within a manicured garden, the memorial stands out for its tranquil ambience on the popular Rock Beach Promenade. It is beautifully illuminated every Bastille Day (14 July) and also holds ceremonies on Armistice Day and Defence & Citizenship Day in November

Open daily for public viewing, the memorial can be admired during a short stroll along the seafront.