Raymond's Tomb, State Protected Monument in Hyderabad, India
Raymond's Tomb is a black granite monument standing on a hillock near Asman Garh Palace, marked with the initials JR on its surface. The structure rises roughly 7 meters high in a cone shape and occupies a site spanning about 60 meters by 30 meters, containing both the burial chamber and an open courtyard around it.
Michel Joachim Marie Raymond, a French general who served under the Nizam of Hyderabad State during the late 1700s, was buried within this granite structure. His burial in such a prominent location reflected the respect and importance given to his long service in the region.
Local residents viewed the tomb as a place of spiritual importance and brought incense and gifts there for centuries, showing how they kept the memory alive through their actions. The structure became woven into the daily customs of the area, treated with reverence that went beyond its role as a burial site.
The site is easily accessible to visitors since it sits in an open area near Asman Garh Palace and welcomes public entry. It is best to visit on a clear day when you can see the carved details and stonework without any obstruction.
The ruling family sent cigars and beer to the tomb every March 25th as an annual tribute, showing a deeply personal connection to this foreign general. This unusual ritual persisted for many years and reveals a surprising chapter of Franco-Indian relations centered on a single individual.
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