Mahe, also known locally as Mayyazhi, is a unique district of the Union Territory of Puducherry, situated on the western coast of India. Enclosed by the Kannur district on three sides and Kozhikode on the other, Mahe lies at the mouth of the Mahe River, just 10 kilometers from Thalassery in Kerala. This small but picturesque town carries a rich historical legacy as a former French colony, a heritage still evident today in its architecture and cultural landmarks. One of the most prominent sites is St. Teresa's Church, which attracts numerous pilgrims, especially during the annual Fete de Mahe, making it one of the most visited religious events in the area.

The history of Mahe is deeply connected with the colonial ambitions of European powers on the Malabar Coast. The French established their presence in Mahe in 1721, during a time when the British were expanding their influence along India's west coast. Initially setting up in Thalassery, the French later chose Mahe as a more secure headquarters due to its strategic location. At that time, Mahe was under the rule of the Vadakara Vazhunnore, known as the King of Kadathanadu, and was traditionally under the control of the Kolathiri rulers until the 7th century.

To solidify their control, the French constructed St. George Fort at Cherukkalai in 1739 and later completed Fort Mahe in 1769. However, their tenure in Mahe was fraught with conflicts, particularly with the British East India Company, which was also vying for control over the region's lucrative spice trade. An agreement with the local ruler, Vazhunnor, granted the French exclusive rights to the pepper trade, a deal that was soon contested by the British, leading to a series of conflicts and shifting control between the two European powers.

The ongoing struggle for dominance between the French and the British saw Mahe change hands several times, particularly during the French-English War of 1761. Although the French regained Mahe through the Paris Peace Agreement of 1763, they lost it again in 1779 before recapturing it in 1817. By this time, however, the entire Malabar region was under British control, forcing the French to administer Mahe with significant limitations.

Mahe is a small enclave that reflects a unique blend of French colonial and Indian cultural influences. Its historical significance, along with its natural beauty and religious importance, makes Mahe a fascinating destination for those interested in exploring the less-traveled paths of India’s colonial past.