₹14 lakh French grant to revive Hyderabad’s historic Raymond’s Tomb

Hyderabad’s iconic Raymond’s Tomb, a significant symbol of the city’s historical ties with France, is set to be restored with a ₹14 lakh grant from the Bureau de France, Hyderabad. This initiative aims to preserve the monument while strengthening cultural connections between France and Hyderabad.

The tomb commemorates Michel Joachim Marie Raymond, a French military officer who served under the Nizams in the late 18th century. Renowned for his military acumen and discipline, Raymond earned the trust of Nizam Ali Khan and played a pivotal role in raising and training a modern army in 1768. This army became a formidable force in the Deccan during a period of British expansion. Raymond passed away under mysterious circumstances in 1798 at the age of 43 and was buried on a hillock in Malakpet, where he had trained his soldiers. A 23-foot-high obelisk was later erected over his grave, now known as Raymond’s Tomb.

The restoration project was discussed during a review meeting on June 17, 2026, chaired by Vani Prasad, Special Chief Secretary of the Youth Advancement, Tourism, and Culture Department. The meeting was attended by a French delegation and senior officials from the Telangana government. The Department of Heritage Telangana has been tasked with preparing detailed estimates for the conservation work, which is expected to be completed within two months. Plans also include enhancing visitor amenities, such as installing information boards and providing basic facilities to improve the tourist experience.

An inauguration programme for the restoration initiative has been proposed for July 28, 2026. This event will be organised in collaboration with the French delegation and other relevant departments, according to Arjun Rao Kuthadi, Director of the Department of Heritage, Telangana.

This restoration effort underscores the enduring historical and cultural relationship between France and Hyderabad, with Raymond’s Tomb standing as a testament to this shared legacy.