21 hours ago
After major facelift, Valluvar Kottam, a landmark of Chennai, is ready for inauguration
Valluvar Kottam, one of the city's landmarks, is ready for inauguration after renovations. The venue is likely to host its first function since the facelift on June 21, and Chief Minister M.K. Stalin is expected to participate in it.
The Public Works Department (PWD) has completed the ₹80-crore project to renovate the city's iconic monument, which is spread over 5 acres. People who pass by the edifice may get a glimpse of the stone chariot lit up during the evening hours.
Besides structural retrofitting of the monument that was constructed between 1974 and 1976, the PWD has built various facilities to attract visitors to the facility dedicated to Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar.
The monument has undergone elaborate Stapathi works to beautify its entrances, and visitors will be treated to a 10-minute 'light and sound show' at the stone chariot and a musical fountain at the entrance. The modernised edifice will also have intricate artworks on its columns and facade. Officials said the recreational facilities were being tested before the inauguration.
Some of the new facilities include a cafeteria and a multi-level parking area, which can accommodate 164 vehicles. The ground floor will have an air-conditioned auditorium with a seating capacity of about 1,500 people and another modernised library and research hall, which can accommodate 100 people.
The Kural Manimadam on the first floor, which will have the 1,330 Thirukkural verses on display along with commentary by former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi and relevant paintings, has also been spruced up.
The terrace leading to the 106-ft chariot has been redesigned with ornamental pillars and a covered pathway. Elevators and ramps have also been installed for better accessibility, officials added.
