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India.com
a day ago
- India.com
10 Essential Facts About Chennai City That Everyone Should Know
Located in southern India as the capital of Tamil Nadu state Chennai maintains its status as a metropolitan city which harmoniously unites cultural heritage with contemporary development. The Tamil Nadu capital presents an authentic cultural environment and dynamic economic activity as well as waterfront attractions which appeal to every visitor. This city provides endless discoveries to people who have interests ranging from historical exploration to food exploration to urban development studies. Discover these ten intriguing details about Chennai that everybody needs to understand. 1. Chennai Was Originally Called Madras Chennai officially gained its new name in 1996 after centuries of history shown through the beginnings of 'Madras' as a city. Madras became a colonial settlement after the British East India Company built Fort St. George in 1644. The settlement transformed into a substantial British imperial harbor throughout the ages. Many institutions and landmarks were unwilling to change their colonial-era names like Madras High Court and Madras University following the efforts to shed colonial associations during the name change process. 2. It's One of the Oldest Continuously Inhabited Cities in India The historical records of Chennai date back even before Europe established a presence in the region. Many researchers have shown that humans began living in this area approximately 2,000 years ago. Cultural remnants from the Pallava and Chola dynasties persist in different parts of modern Chennai through temples and historical inscriptions and artifacts. Mylapore in Chennai stands as one of the city's most established residential areas because it contains the famous Kapaleeshwarar Temple which the Pallava dynasty built in the 7th century CE. 3. Home to India's Second-Largest Film Industry: Kollywood Kollywood—the popular Tamil film industry also known as Tamil cinema—operates from Chennai studios located in Kodambakkam which has given rise to this dual naming tradition. The Tamil film industry operates at an annual speed of hundreds of movie productions while retaining famous actors Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan. Movies from this area play an essential role in building and promoting Tamil culture to domestic and global Tamil communities. 4. Gateway to South India Chennai occupies prime position on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal which earns it recognition as the 'Gateway to South India.' Due to its natural harbor Chennai generates vital maritime activity and its complex road and rail systems link it with the rest of India. The urban area contains two vital maritime facilities including Chennai Port and Ennore Port that process large-scale and bulk shipping operations. Business activities together with travel industry developments and industrial developments have benefited from this connectivity network. 5. A Hub for Classical Arts and Music The people of Chennai actively maintain and develop classical arts because they value their significance. During the month of December Chennai organizes Margazhi Music Season which stands as the largest music festival on Earth committed to Carnatic music. The city welcomes renowned musicians from various parts of the world who stage concerts at numerous locations attracting many thousands of concert-goers. Chennai serves as an essential center for Bharatanatyam classical dance because it maintains numerous performance spaces and educational institutions alongside dance workshops throughout the city. 6. Rich Biodiversity and Green Spaces The metropolitan city of Chennai contains various natural environments alongside its active urban core. The Guindy National Park stands as a singular national park worldwide because it occupies only 2.7 square kilometers of land. Spotted deer share their habitat with blackbucks along with many different bird species at this location. The Pallikaranai Marshland stands out as a protected wetland that shelters various bird species as well as aquatic creatures. Chennai demonstrates steady dedication to environmental preservation through its conservation strategies for these important areas. 7. Culinary Paradise The gourmet food in Chennai reveals the cultural diversity of the city. Traditional South Indian dishes idli and dosa and sambar share the culinary table with spicy Chettinad cuisine in the city. People can enjoy steaming-hot bajjis (fritters) and bondas at both street food stalls and elegant dining establishments. Residents along with visitors in Chennai consistently choose stainless steel tumblers filled with freshly ground filtered coffee as their daily beverage. 8. Educational Excellence The educational institutions of Chennai gain worldwide recognition because they enroll students from across India together with international students. The country-ranked top educational institutions include Anna University with Madras University and SRM Institute of Science and Technology. The city gains stronger recognition as a professional excellence center due to educational institutions such as Christian Medical College (CMC) Vellore and Sri Ramachandra Medical College. 9. IT and Automotive Powerhouse During the last few decades Chennai established its position as a powerful center for both Indian IT sector operations and automotive manufacturing activities. The automotive manufacturing center known as 'Detroit of Asia' welcomes Hyundai cars, BMW vehicles, Ford and Renault-Nissan production facilities. Major information technology organizations TCS and Infosys along with Cognizant established big campuses in Chennai for their operations. A perfect mix of experienced workers alongside government assistance with infrastructure development made Chennai dominate major industries. 10. Resilience Amid Challenges The increasing metropolitan expansion of Chennai creates new difficulties including traffic problems alongside limited water resources and rainy season floods. The city shows outstanding capabilities to bounce back from difficulties. The disastrous flooding from 2015 triggered residents and organizations to collaborate for disaster management system reconstruction and enhancement. The city advances sustainability by requiring citizens to collect rainwater and plant trees while implementing these projects as standard practices. Final Thoughts As an Indian city Chennai stands far above its counterparts because it embodies the indestructible essence which South India perpetually embodies. Living traditions along with its expanding economy and friendly culture make Chennai maintain its fundamental nature as the city transforms forward. The city of Chennai presents visitors with unending opportunities to appreciate different facets from its cultural heritage through its delicious cuisine and groundbreaking artistic pursuits and industrial activities. The ten facts mentioned here cover only some of the vast offerings Chennai currently displays to its visitors and residents because the city holds continuous discoveries to make.
India.com
4 days ago
- India.com
Top 6 Weekend Getaways in Tamil Nadu You Can't Miss
Tamil Nadu is an Indian state full of ancient heritage, vibrant culture, and beautiful nature that offers numerous options for a weekend break from city life, at least. The place has pristine beaches, green hill stations, and temples from ancient times to fascinate any traveler. Just join me on this virtual tour of some of the best places to spend your weekends. Ooty, also known as Udhagamandalam, is a hill station located amidst the Nilgiri Hills, known for its breathtaking views and refreshing weather conditions. Some of the must-visit places include Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Picturesque Botanical Gardens, or maybe you can enjoy peaceful moments at Ooty Lake on a boat ride. Colonial charm with tea gardens and winding paths is what makes this town a perfect destination for a relaxing weekend getaway. One cannot help but feel enchanted by the beauty and tranquility that Kodaikanal offers, being situated in the Palani Hills in the Western Ghats. There is always something interesting to do here, like walking along shimmering Kodaikanal lake shorelines, hiking through the lush forests leading to Pillar Rocks, which are quite huge rocks standing tall against each other, or simply sitting quietly amidst mist-covered mountains. A cool climate with lush landscapes makes it an ideal place, especially during the summer when one wants to escape from heat, hence attracting lots of nature lovers as well as adventure seekers. For those who adore history and architecture, Mahabalipuram stands as a rich source of antiquities. You can find intricate carvings in temples, rock-cut sculptures, etc., all belonging to the Pallava dynasty period under the UNESCO World Heritage Site label. While here, one can see the famous Shore Temple, explore famous rock-cut caves, or even enjoy beautiful beaches along the seashore. Mahabalipuram is an ideal destination for history enthusiasts looking for a short break. Pondicherry, earlier a French establishment, combines European grace and Indian colors. One can walk through the lovely French Quarter with its colonial buildings and tree-lined avenues or visit Auroville Ashram and Aurobindo Ashram to feel the spiritual atmosphere of this town. With peaceful beaches, tasty cuisine, and lively cultural traditions, Pondicherry offers a memorable weekend experience of relaxation and exploration. Yercaud is known for its lush green forests, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking viewpoints, as well as being located on the Shevaroy Hills. Walking around picturesque landscapes of virgin woods is possible here; boating in Yercaud Lake is also available; otherwise, one may just bask in this serenity at this quiet hill station. Because it has a cooler climate as well as unspoiled natural scenes, Yercuad makes itself ideal for weekends away from the bustle. Coonoor is another tea plantation paradise hiding within the Nilgiri Hills, which are covered with mist all year round while slopes provide amazing views over valleys filled with emerald green tea plants. This place can be reached by a tourist train called Nilgiri Mountain Railway that takes you across sprawling plantations, or if you prefer hiking, take Dolphin's nose or Lamb's Rock, where lovely panoramas unfold before your eyes. So, if you want to skip crowded places during your weekend holidays, then come to Coonoor, an oasis of tranquility set amidst scenic beauty. Conclusion For nature lovers, those who admire past events, and others that are looking for a relaxed atmosphere in Tamil Nadu's natural beauty, you will find many memorable experiences in beautifully captivating locations. There is no doubt that it has a variety of destinations to choose from that offer visitors exposure to diverse cultures where there is relaxation, thrill-seeking, or simply getting lost in the midst of a beautiful environment. You can go on a small journey, pack your things, and enjoy yourself at the most fantastic weekend getaways in Tamil Nadu.
The Hindu
6 days ago
- The Hindu
DakshinaChitra's exhibition on hero stones celebrates culture in ancient Tamil Nadu
It is the last weekend before school begins, and Chennai's famed DakshinaChitra is crowded with families. At the Varija Art Gallery a group of college students is putting together tactile clay objects they have helped create. Anitha Pottamkulam, director, Culture, DakshinaChitra, says, 'The Immortal Valors: Hero Stones of Tamil Nadu is an extraordinary exhibition curated by DakshinaChitra in collaboration with Tamil Nadu's Department of Archaeology, Roja Muthiah Research Library and Yaakkai Heritage Trust. On these pictorial representations come alive stories etched in stone — of bravery, sacrifice and ancestral homage spanning over two millennia. It invites you to discover the fascinating world of nadukal, the legendary hero stones that immortalise Tamil warriors who gave their lives in war, cattle conflicts, and protection of their villages. Museums say 'don't touch' but to bring these fascinating stories from the fringe to the mainstream, we have created tactile versions.' 'There are three ways you can date an inscription,' says Prof Rajan on a phone call, having just stepped away from an archaeological site where he is working. 'The first is based on content — name of the king, regnal year... Assuming that this is not available, the content may denote the political geography of the region or the territorial division which may have emerged after a certain period (names of dynasty or names of chieftains also give clues). The third is paleography — initially vatta ezhuthu script and later Tamil script. The shift from the first to the second happened in the late Pallava period. In addition, sculptural representation on the stone helps date them. Early stones have shields and swords, bow and arrow, and are on cattle raids. Later ones have details on capturing land and villages, a sign of social transformation.' Hero stones populated the Tamil land 'from 4BC to the 5th Century as just stones with inscriptions. Post that, figures made their appearance, from 6th Century to 9th Century — this is when most of the memorial stones were created. A new range came up after the 10th Century, not just for heroes but also on sati and sanyasis. During the Vijayanagara period, inscriptions were done away with and only sculptural representations were found. By the Colonial period, they started fading', says Rajan, adding that the oldest hero stone in India is found in Pulimankombai in Theni district on the banks of the Vaigai. Whether the 'hero' has been buried at the scene of action or brought home and buried is a question that begs to be asked. 'Only if we excavate under them and find the skeletal remains will we know. But these stones are worshipped, and out of deference to the dead, this has not been done,' he adds. In a land profuse with such cultural artefacts that define both time and territory, the onus of discovering, protecting and pushing for their study also falls on the citizen-historian. Which is where institutions such as the Coimbatore-based Yaakkai Heritage Trust, founded in 2017 by Sudhakar Nalliyappan to create awareness and conserve cultural heritage, step in. Sudhakar, president of Yaakkai, found his way to history through degrees in Computer Science and Tamil Studies. 'I was fond of travel and discovered hidden facets of our culture when on the road. Information was available, but scattered, and bringing this microhistory under one umbrella was our focus. Memorial stones are written in common dialects of the region. We have GPS-pinned nearly 1,200 stones and involved locals in their discovery and preservation. This gives them a sense of ownership. Almost 150 students intern with us. We also work to conserve prehistoric rock paintings and megalithic sites. Heritage should also be made part of CSR activity — it opens up funding. Time and knowledge investment is our biggest contribution,' says Sudhakar, adding that volunteers are from different fields but follow their passion post-work and on weekends travelling and learning methods of preservation. This knowledge now hangs on photographs with details of the memorial stones at the gallery. There are also 3D models created by the interning college students. The exhibition invites you to travel back and forth, but it follows the narrative that connects modern people with the way we were. The exhibition is on till July 20 (10am-6pm) at DakshinaChitra, Muttukadu. Closed on Tuesdays.
Scroll.in
15-05-2025
- Scroll.in
A new book examines the historical context of the Airavatesvara Temple, built during the Chola rule
Upon entering the main temple complex and reaching the first mandapa, we were immediately fascinated by the innovative architectural designs on display. This particular mandapa was crafted to create the illusion of horses pulling a chariot. Delving into the history of such architectural concepts, I discovered that about 50 years prior to the construction of the Airavatesvara Temple, the Amirthakadeswarar Temple, commissioned by Chola king Kulothunga I in 1113 CE, also employed a similar design. However, a comparison reveals a stark contrast in complexity and grandeur between the two. While the concept was present in the Amirthakadeswarar Temple, the Airavatesvara Temple elevated it to a new level of magnificence and proportion. The desired effect of a chariot being pulled by horses is more pronounced and awe-inspiring in the Airavatesvara Temple, showcasing advancements in architectural innovation. Subsequent temples embraced the concept of a temple or mandapa being pulled by horses or elephants like a chariot. This design evolution suggests progress in architectural techniques, notably seen in later temples commissioned by Pallava kings. A strikingly similar structure can be observed in the Sun Temple at Konark, built approximately a hundred years after the Airavatesvara Temple, further highlighting the enduring impact and evolution of this innovative architectural concept. The distinctive architecture of the Airavatesvara Temple unfolded before us, presenting an enchanting tableau. A majestic horse, poised on its hind legs with its front legs raised in the southern direction, dominated the scene. Behind it, a grand chariot wheel added to the spectacle. To the east, steps led to the mandapa adorned with intricately carved elephant sculptures. These elephants, with uplifted trunks, intricate decorations, and a sense of dynamic movement, contributed to the temple's well-defined aesthetic. After ascending the steps, we reached the famous Rajgambhir Tirumandapam. Our attention was particularly drawn to two remarkable sculptures on the exterior walls of the mandapa. The first depicts Nagaraja, the serpent king, with five hoods crowning his head. This human-like figure featured four arms, two of which were folded in prayer over its chest, exuding a gentle expression. The second sculpture portrays Sage Agastya in a seated posture. He is depicted beautifully, with a serene expression on his face, a withered janva (sacred thread) going across his protruding belly and hands holding a rudrakshamala (prayer beads) and a kamandalu (water pot). There is debate regarding whether this representation of Agastya belongs to the Vedic period, as numerous illustrious Agastyas were prominent in the south, leading to confusion about their identities and contributions. Shridhar Venkatesh Ketkar's Marathi encyclopaedia mentions an Agastya, who served as the guru and minister of the first Pandya king, and was a scholar of sculpture science, which suggests that this might be a sculpture of him and not the Agastya from Vedic times. Known for his text Agastya Sakaladhikara, Agastya laid down rules on proportions for idols, a legacy incorporated into subsequent sculpture texts like Kasyapiya, Saraswatiya and Anshuman-Vedkalpa. These guidelines, still considered valuable by sculptors today, contain details on sculpting the sixteen forms of Lord Shiva, reflecting the significance of the Shaivite tradition during that period. It is plausible to assume that the inclusion of the Agastya sculpture in the temple could be a gesture of gratitude and respect toward him by the sculptors, acknowledging his contributions to the field of sculpture science. The Rajgambhir Tirumandapam boasts a remarkable array of 108 columns, renowned worldwide for their intricate miniature carvings. The mandapa begins with a slightly elevated open area, resembling a porch, which is balanced by twelve stone columns. Along the outer side of this space, eight pillars showcase sculptures of the mythical creature 'Yali' (Vyal) near the ground. Yali, a fantastical being amalgamating various animals, is a common motif in South Indian temples, symbolising the harmonious integration of diverse animal characteristics. In this instance, the yalis, known as gajvyal, exhibit a distinctive structure, featuring the trunk of an elephant and a body resembling that of a lion. During our visit, a local guide explained each organ in the yali structure in detail, revealing a composition that includes several animals – lion, elephant, dragon, eagle, bull and pig. Notably, all eight yali sculptures on the columns share a common design, only with differentiated tails. These yalis are believed to have been crafted with the specific intent of safeguarding the temple by warding off evil forces. Among the twelve pillars, the four central pillars stand out for their exceptional and distinct carving patterns. These pillars narrate stories from the Skanda Purana in a serialised form, depicted in mesmerising miniature carvings. The carvings unfold a sequence of events, including Daksha's yajna, the humiliation of Shiva during the ritual, Parvati's courageous entry into the fire, the ensuing war between the deities and Shiva's ganas, Parvati's intense penance to win Shiva's favour, the marriage ceremony of Shiva and Parvati attended by Vishnu and Brahma, and the musicians of the wedding procession. The detailed carvings vividly bring these scenes to life, capturing the speed, emotion, and overall atmosphere of each moment. Observing these miniature sculptures, I found myself completely engrossed in the narratives, appreciating the skill and artistry of the sculptors who brought these stories to life in stone. In that moment, I could not help but offer a heartfelt mental bow of admiration and gratitude to the talented craftsmen behind these living carvings. Upon entering, we encountered a spacious hall adorned with numerous carved stone columns, spanning 23 metres in the southwest direction and a little over 21 metres in the east-west direction. As we gazed into the interior, the mandapa appeared to be a space seemingly designed for artistic performances and enjoyment. Some scholars share a similar hypothesis, suggesting that this temple was not primarily constructed as a centre of trade and commerce, unlike the temples at Thanjavur and Gangaikondacholapuram. Instead, it was envisioned as a centre for entertainment and stress relief. This purpose is affirmed by the choice of images carved into the pillars of the mandapa. The Chola kings' tradition of promoting various arts, including the royal patronage of Bharatanatyam, a dance form, is reflected herein. The temple features the 108 mudras (hand gestures) of this dance art engraved on the pillars. Some miniature sculptures, as tiny as a finger, are a must-see. These include a dancing Ganesha, Shiva and Parvati engaged in a relaxed interaction, and the depiction of Gajasamhara. The Gajasamhara sculpture, also known as Gajasuravadh, narrates the tale of Shiva vanquishing an asura named 'Neel', who assumed the form of an elephant. In the tale, after slaying the asura, Shiva wears the elephant skin. In this miniature sculpture, Shiva is portrayed with eight hands, wielding a damaru (drum), khadga (sword), trishul (trident) and gajacharama (elephant hide). Parvati, positioned beside Shiva, appears frightened by his rudra (fierce) form, while holding the infant Kartikeya. This particular depiction has garnered the attention of sculpture scholars, who acknowledge it as a remarkable piece of art within the temple. Entering the hall, we found ourselves in awe, unsure of where to direct our gaze amid the overwhelming beauty. The intricately carved roof added to the visual splendour. Notably, this space houses miraculous sculptures, playing with the illusion of vision. One such example is the portrayal of a female acrobat viewed from multiple perspectives. Initially, she appears seated, but upon closer inspection, her body seems to be kneeling on the right side, her legs neatly folded. Intriguingly, she presents a different stance when viewed from the left side. In a delightful twist, the fourth perspective showcases the same woman engaged in exercise, with her body weight supported by her arms and both legs raised from behind. These optical illusions add a layer of marvel to the artistic wonders within the hall, leaving its viewers immersed in the skilful craftsmanship and the playful magic of visual perception. There is also another impressive and elaborate sculpture called VrishabhaKunjaram in the Shilpaslesh style, which is found on the temple wall. It features a single face with a twist: an optical illusion whereby on one side it is an elephant and on the other it is a bull. Excerpted with permission from Dynasties of Devotion: The Secrets of Seven Iconic Hindu Temples, Deepa Mandlik, translated from the Marathi by Aboli Mandlik, HarperCollins India.
Hans India
05-05-2025
- General
- Hans India
Heritage in Peril: Ramagiri's ancient temple crumbles in neglect
Tirupati: A 1000-year-old Kalabhairava temple and a 500-year-old Gopura located in Ramagiri village of Pichatur mandal in Tirupati district, have been found in a state of alarming neglect, according to noted archaeologist Dr E Sivanagi Reddy, CEO of Pleach India Foundation. Acting on information provided by locals, Dr Sivanagi Reddy conducted a field visit to Valiswara and Kalabhairava temples, along with the associated ruined mandapas and Gopura structures. The temples were originally constructed during the Pallava period and later expanded under the Chola and Vijayanagara dynasties. The archaeologist expressed serious concern over the extent of deterioration and emphasised the urgent need for preservation efforts. 'The ruins are in a highly dilapidated condition and demand immediate conservation, these structures represent the artistic evolution of South Indian temple architecture across three major dynasties,' said Sivanagi Reddy. The Kalabhairava temple consists of a garbhagriha (sanctum), ardha mandapa (antechamber), and an open mahamandapa (grand hall), constructed primarily in stone. It also features a brick sikhara (superstructure) adorned with stucco figurines, though many of these have now suffered extensive weathering and damage. The adjacent Gopura, which once served as an intricately carved gateway to the temple complex, has collapsed nearly to its basement level. Despite the structural failure, remnants of high-quality stone sculpture reflecting Pallava, Chola, and Vijayanagara styles are still visible. In light of the deteriorating condition of these historic structures, he conducted an awareness programme in the village, during which he sensitised the local community to the cultural and historical value of the monuments. He urged villagers to take collective responsibility for preserving the site and appealed for voluntary efforts to restore the structures to their former glory. Supporting the initiative were Ch Sivakumar, Hariprasad Reddy, and Srikanth from the SV Museum, Tirumala, along with amateur archaeologist P Srinath Reddy, who participated in the awareness programme. The Pleach India Foundation has called for coordinated action involving local stakeholders, heritage bodies, and government authorities to undertake immediate conservation work.
