The National Library of France has one of the finest European collections of Indian material. Given the long interest and contacts the French have had with the subcontinent, an extensive repository of materials is available. Records from the former French colony of Pondicherry just north of Chennai are plentiful.

There are also photographic albums reflecting the long tradition of French collecting and interest in the art of photography. The image is a vintage postcard of Indian soldiers marching in France during World War I, highlighting many of the connections between these two cultures often overlooked by Raj historians.

The French also have deep historical connections to Afghanistan.

There is an online Ask a Librarian Service, a catalogue on the website with over 1,000 items listed and special records relating to Pondicherry.

• France