Transformation of Suffren Street: From Café Lune to ‘WOW’

Once Café Lune was a name card for Suffren Street in Pondicherry, it was started in the year 1960’s and operated by two energetic and talented brothers. The perfect mixing of ginger tea and Channa dal vada made in Café Lune attracts customers wide around Pondy. Hence it became a perfect hangout spot on those days. The heritage Café Lune was run successfully until 2018, then it was closed for renovation. The spot was demolished and reconstruction started. It took some years to attain such an enchanting structure that grabs visitors across the globe.

In 2024, this building was inaugurated by Mr. N. Rangasamy, Chief Minister of Puducherry. Let us see the changes after the reconstruction. It has now become a dual storied building with elegant and traditional touch. The tourists across India are eagerly visiting Puducherry for its colonial and heritage structures. In considering the point, this building is built in such a way that satisfies the tourists. Here in ground floor, you can see the live art museum which is known as Wonder of White Town (“WOW”). First floor is built as guest house and named “Villa Kouga”. This modern structure now stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of Puducherry, offering a blend of contemporary design and architectural elegance. While Café Lune’s departure left a void in the hearts of many, “WOW” symbolizes a new chapter in Suffren Street’s history, inviting visitors to explore its chic interior and perhaps create new memories in its welcoming spaces. As the streetscape continues to evolve, Suffren Street remains a vibrant hub in Puducherry, where the past seamlessly intertwines with the present, promising new experiences and discoveries around every corner.

Master of Innovation: Ap. Shreethar Unveiled

In the realm where creativity dances with boundless imagination, there exists a visionary whose artistry knows no bounds. AP. Shreethar, a luminary in the world of contemporary art, is a testament to the transformative power of expression. As a proud recipient of the prestigious Lenin Museum Award, Shreethar’ s journey spans 36 years of relentless exploration, weaving through the intricate tapestry of multiple career paths with unparalleled finesse.

A trailblazer in every sense, Shreethar is revered for his pioneering efforts in introducing Giclee art to the Indian subcontinent, setting the stage for a digital revolution in the realm of artistic expression. His genius extends beyond the canvas, as the mastermind behind globally acclaimed museums and cultural movements, including the Click Art Museum, Live Art Museum, and the celebrated Momentism movement.

Featured across esteemed media portals worldwide, Shreethar’s artistry transcends borders, captivating hearts and minds with its profound depth and innovation. In recent years, his creative spirit has given birth to the mesmerizing Single Line Series, where historic landmarks of various nations are immortalized through a minimalist lens, and the captivating G20 Series, which pays homage to the strengths of the world’s premier forum’s members.

Driven by an insatiable thirst for creative exploration, AP. Shreethar remains steadfast in his quest to push the boundaries of artistic expression. With each stroke of his brush, he ventures into uncharted territory, crafting a legacy that resonates with wonder, intrigue, and boundless possibility. In a world where art speaks volumes, AP. Shreethar’ s voice echoes with the timeless melody of innovation, inspiring generations to dream, explore, and create.

Mesmerizing Marvels: The Silicone Symphony at the Live Art Museum

Prepare to be enchanted by a realm where artistry transcends the boundaries of imagination at the Live Art Museum. Nestled within its walls lies a symphony of silicone, where famous personalities are reborn in breathtaking realism. Led by the visionary Mr. AP. Shreethar, this one-of-a-kind initiative has brought to life an unparalleled collection of lifelike replicas, each sculpted with meticulous detail and precision. As you wander through the museum’s halls, you’ll encounter iconic figures such as Mahatma Gandhi, Dhoni, Mother Teresa, and Michael Jackson, their essence captured in every subtle contour and expression. From the towering stature of the world’s tallest man to the humble charm of the smallest, each statue whispers stories of bygone eras, inviting visitors to step into history and experience the magic firsthand. This mesmerizing display not only captivates the senses but also leaves an indelible mark on the soul, offering a truly unforgettable journey through the corridors of time.

Enchanting Memories: Rediscovering Childhood Delights at the Teddy Museum

Step into a world where nostalgia intertwines with imagination, and childhood dreams come to life at the Teddy Museum. Here, amidst a symphony of soft colors and gentle fabrics, teddy bears reign supreme as timeless symbols of joy and comfort. As you wander through the museum’s halls, each step is a journey back in time, evoking the innocence and wonder of youth. From the first glimpse of Teddy’s Bear, named in honor of President Theodore Roosevelt, to the meticulously crafted replicas that adorn every corner, the spirit of childhood radiates from every stitch. But the magic doesn’t stop there. The Teddy Museum is more than just a showcase of cuddly companions; it’s a celebration of culture, tradition, and the universal language of play. Through handcrafted teddy mannequins adorned in traditional garments from around the world, visitors are invited to explore the rich tapestry of global fashion in a way that’s both enchanting and immersive. So come, lose yourself in the whimsical world of teddy bears, where every moment is a reminder that no matter how old we grow, the child within us never truly fades away.

Diving Into the Depths: An Enthralling Journey through Fish Museum

Prepare to be enchanted as you immerse yourself in the mesmerizing depths of AP. Shreethar’s Fish Museum. Here, the boundaries between art and nature blur, inviting visitors to submerge their senses in a captivating world of contemporary creativity. Through a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors and imaginative compositions, exotic fish varieties transform into the canvases for thought-provoking masterpieces. Each exhibit within this aquatic realm is a mesmerizing feast for the eyes, challenging conventional notions of artistic expression. Delving into the enigmatic relationship between humanity and the underwater realm, AP. Shreethar’s visionary curation unravels the mysteries of our deep-sea counterparts with the vibrant brushstrokes of his mind’s eye. From reimagining fish iconography in the annals of art history to exploring their symbolic significance across literature and new media, the Fish Museum beckons adventurers to suspend disbelief and embark on an unforgettable journey beneath the waves.

Explore Artistry: Museum Ticket Prices and Timings

Embark on a journey through artistic wonder at museum, where creativity knows no bounds. Delve into a world of imagination and inspiration with our diverse exhibits and captivating displays. Admission for adults is priced at Rs. 295 per person, ensuring access to a wealth of cultural treasures. For children aged 6 to 12, half charges are applicable as an opening offer, with full charges soon to come into effect. Join us any day of the week from 10 am to 9 pm, and immerse yourself in the splendor of art and innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or a curious newcomer, there’s something for everyone to discover at our museum. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the beauty and creativity that await within our walls.

Location and Overview

Villa Kouga conveniently located in the White Town of Pondicherry can be reached through all directions from Pondicherry border by taking National Highways respectively, 15 km via NH 32 Cuddalore, 23 km via NH 332 Vizhupuram, 23 km via NH 32 Tindivanam, 4 km via ECR (East Coast Road) NH 332A. Wonders of White Town can be reached in 1.5 km from Pondicherry Railway Station, 6.5 km from Puducherry Airport, 2 km from Puducherry New Bus Stand and Just 200 meters from Mahatma Gandhi Statue, Goubert Avenue.

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Good To Know

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Spot:

Wonders of White Town & Villa Kouga, Since – 2024.

Distance:

100 m from Mahatma Gandhi Statue, Beach road.

Door opening hours:

10 am to 9 pm.

Ticket Charges:

Adults 295 INR & Kids 195 INR (6 to 12 years).

Activities:

Live Art Museum, Teddy Museum, Fish Museum & Room Stay.

Rules for visitors:

• Look, admire, but don’t touch.
• Do not bring food or drinks inside.
• The museum is not responsible for theloss of your belongings.
• You break it, you bear the loss.
• Refrain from using flash photography.
• Be mindful of fellow visitors when taking pictures.
• Explore at your own pace.
• Walk, don’t run through the halls.
• Use your indoor voice while conversing.
• Keep your surroundings clean, no littering.

Parking:

Free parking outside of Villa Kouga.

Location:

Door Nº 9, Suffren Street, White town, Puducherry, 605001, INDIA.

Reservation Call:

+91 93859 12608.

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Text / Video / Pictures: Doorways Pondicherry.

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Disclaimer: The purpose of this site is to foster a free exchange of ideas and commentary among the tourists & enthusiasts interested in exploring traditions of Puducherry. The information’s are gathered from all available resources. Opinion, and perspectives expressed in this blog are solely by the author(s), and are carved through first-hand experience incorporating imaginary words & also responsible to vividly convey the essence. We sincerely thank the Tourism Department, INTACH, PTDC, LFIP, IFP, AFP, EFEO, business people, and heritage house owners of Puducherry for their cooperation.