Happy Birthday Madras...

Woah, you are 375 years old today..

No No, you are 375 years young today....

Happpy birthday to the only city I call home... 

I knew you back when you were called Madras

I spent quite a few days here 

Holidays, so memorable

Visits to the Marina beach

Playing in the water, digging into vadai and sundal

Ice cream at Snowfield

And then time flew

you changed, but not too much

I still looked forward to my holidays here

Checking out new restaurants.

Biting into that 1st pizza at Cakes n Bakes

Japoise cake and brown bread that granpa used to bring home

from McRennett

Gulping down bottles of Gold Spot, Rush and

Enjoying the pop of the Coke cans

from Burma Bazaar 

And then we moved cities

I was left in your arms for a good 2 months

Did not like it much, 

for I was just a child...

And then a decade later, I was back here

Calling Madras "home". 

Walking through the crowded lanes of Flower Bazaar

Shopping for little trinkets along the narrow alley in Sowcarpet

Laughing with friends while we downed pani puri in Pursaiwalkam

Visiting Mahabalipuram as part of school day trip..

And exploring the Egmore museum with uncle and cousin

You sure have a lot to offer, Madras

The locals and visitors will never tire..

The hot bhajji and tea in the roadside tea shop

Checking out gold bangle designs at GRT in Ranganathan Street

Waiting patiently while mom and gramma did saree shopping at Nalli

Looking forward to catching up with friends at Hot breads after college with friends

You sure have come far!!

Whenever someone new comes to the city

they ask me "so, what is your city all about?"

I stare at them as if they are stupid and then  go on to list...

The plays at Alliance Francaise

Concerts at Venkata subbarao hall in Lady andal school

and then there are all those food festivals at one of the many restaurants in the city

The Mylapore food walks and festival

The Dastkar and Aarti Bagdy shows 

We sure have it all

Today, she is called Chennai, but to me

she is always Madras

the 10 Downing street, the Pasha, the Bikes & Barrel

the Darios, the L'amandier, the Brew room

The murukku chaat, the bonda+chutney and hot jalebis

the kancheepuram saree, the fancy lehengas and swanky jeans

the Fort St George, the Theosophical society, the Art Houz

the Churches, temples, mosque and the beaches

the IT parks, the IIT, and the Vandalur zoo... 

sema supera illa mama?!!

Happy Birthday Madras......... 

Madras Day - Heritage Walk - Theaters of Mount Road by Mohan Raman

Sunday morning 6am, i was at Sun Plaza, what was once Sun Theater is today a complex with stores and restaurants. 

 I was there with many others looking forward to the Heritage walk by Mohan Raman that would take us through the Theatres of Mount Road [some of which have still stand stall while few others have been brought to the ground]. Organised  by Chennai Heritage, this was a lovely way of spending the Sunday morning- the stories, the insights, the little bits and pieces of information shared by other participants, beautiful.. especially for a movie buff like me!


We started of at the Sun plaza, which was the site of the old Sun Talkies. Even thought it is technically not Mount Road,  it was the chosen spot as it was near Mount road and where the team had obtained permission for people to park their cars in ;)

After a brief introduction to the walk and insight on Sun Theater and how it was brought down, we hopped into vans that took us to where the 1st Multi plex of Chennai once stood- Saffire, Blue diamond & Emerald complex. Saffire was where good english movies were released, including Poseidon Adventure. Blue Diamond had the concept of continuous shows- starting at 9am and going on through the day. My mom & uncles have spoken about how they would watch the beginning of a movie in one show and come back to watch 2nd half in the next. Apparently, the owners were the ones who developed the Silver Sands  Resort and an ad used to run before every movie running for more than a few minutes with the "Sea horse logo" blazing on the screen. Mohan said "the minute the logo appeared and music came,  we knew it was the ad and all would pile out into the balcony for a smoke or general breather" This complex also had a pub/discotheque in the basement but because of protests from others, it was shut and a  Gujarati/Rajasthani restaurant called Navarathna came about. Sanjay Subramanian who was part of the group mentioned he has had a few dinners with his family there during the early 1980's.

Sujatha & Sashi commented on how teachers from Church park would stand at the gate staring at the theater, mainly the bubble elevator to see if any of their students were escaping classes by watching movies here.  Alas, today, the theater remains no more, and the land is just empty and going to waste.

 

We then moved towards Anand & Little Anand near British Council library [LLA building] and in its place, is a monsterous glass faceted building that is coming up.  As we proceeded, our next stop was near LIC- where we saw the place that had once housed Globe & Plaza theater [ plaza has become Suguna vilas now]. We then headed to where the current Philatelic Bureau stands. This was the old Warwick Theater built by Warwick Major [ Major being his surname and not a title]. We were also given some stories on Alankar and Wellington theater, the latter being Wellington Plaza today.

 

It was time to head around to the trio of theaters -Casino, Gaiety, and Chitra. Of the three, only Casino remains and still shows movies, Chitra is an office complex while Gaiety seems to be another complex or shopping mall of sorts. Mohan spoke to us in length about the changes that the Tamil movie industry went through, and how the concept of placing huge cut outs for actors and sets came about. Apparently for a movie, they erected a huge Murugan temple, so much so that people when crossing the place would say a prayer and pause. For another movie, Vettaikaran that was to be released in Chitra Theater, the director insisted on putting up a Forest like set and wanted to chain a tiger to the set. When others protested, he relented and put a tiger in a cage.

Mohan mentioned about Midland Theatre in General Patter's road where MGM English pictures were screened. It then became Jayapradha and today is a mechanic shed. Around the corner was Sagar that became Odeon and we now know it as Melody. A quick visit to Pondy Bazaar to remember T.R. Rajakumari's theater that has now become a shopping complex/big bazaar?

There were also the two other theaters Kapali in Mylapore [opposite Mandaveli bus stand] and Kamadhenu in Luz [it is a wedding hall and soon might meet its end], a favourite among Viveka­nanda College students.

There was also the story about a director[ forgot his name] who was very possessive of his heroines. When making a movie with a leading heroine and M R Radha, he dint like the fact that the two were close. He set up a scene where M R Radha had to jump from a building [ back then no stuntmen or fancy equipment were used remember] . On the 1st take, M R Radha jumped, landing perfectly, but the director wanted to get him off the movie and so asked for a retake. And lo behold, M R Radha fell down, broke his leg and left the movie industry saying Theater was far safer and better... :-)

We then went across the road, via the subway [it was empty and well, a bit eerie] to the other side, Wallajah Road where we heard some fascinating tales about Paragon, Lyric, Elphinstone theatre and Jaffer ice cream parlour. 

The soda fountain at Elphinstone theatre was very popular among those who wanted to enjoy some treats from Jaffer's. What was amusing was that if any VIP was watching a movie at Gaiety or Casino, snacks & treats would be served in their seat all the way from Jaffers.

Paragon was where Shivaji released one of this movies- Pudhiya Paravai, even though Shanthi theater had already been built. It seems "Sangam", the hindi movie was running to full houses in Shanti and so Sivaji decided to release his movie in Paragon. But, the theater that had switched hands to Narasu Group had crumbled during a heavy rainfall, so producers had to spend in resurrecting the theater, getting it ready for the Sivaji release.

Trivia from Wikipedia- it completed 132 days at the Paragon theatre, 76 days at Krishna, 76 days at Sayani, and it crossed eight weeks in all major centers. After completing 70 days at Paragon, it was reportedly removed to allow the theatrical run of another Sivaji Ganesan film Aandavan Kattalai.

The walk was coming to and end, and we made our way towards Shanti Theater. Enroute we saw Anna theater, which is still running, but dint look too good in condition.

At Shanti theater, we entered the main building, which thankfully has not been touched, modernised [ aka filled with jazzy colours and glass... bleh..]. There were pictures of Sivaji all across the walls, one in particular was eye popping, it had been done by K Mohan of Mohan Arts [ they used to do all the movie posters and cut outs back then] it had Sivaji Ganesan portrayed in a very unique manner.

There were also photographs taken during a movie puja- sivaji seated with his mother, and for every new release, they would change the name of the movie on the image and use the same.

We also learnt about the Devi theater, that came up right next to Shanti Theater, how the owners had to go through a battle, law suits to obtain permission. 

And then there was little bit on Nagesh theater. When Nagesh approached the city council asking for permission to build a theater, he was turned down "how can you build a theater bang opp a school - Holy Angels school" . Nagesh then called upon the then CM MGR, and narrated this incident. When MGR countered saying "yes, that is a valid reason" Nagesh replied " sir, how will students in uniform with a security at the gate skip school and come across the road to my theater? they will go to Saffire/emerald while Church park students will be tempted to come here" and that got him the permit... Alas, today, Nagesh is gone and so is the theater, in its place a wedding hall stands. 

Followed by a breakfast at Saravana Bhavan [located inside Shanti Theater complex] the walk came to an end.. 

The city never ceases to amaze me- so many stories, so many legends and yet it is so humble!! :-)

Happy Birthday Chennai...

Just like we celebrate our Birthdays, I firmly believe the City we call home also deserves one. Today is my home town, birth place Madras/Chennai’s 372^nd Birthday.

The month of August begins and the excitement mounts. I look forward to the line-up of events dedicated to Madras Day. Infact, it was only few years ago that I discovered Chennai was born on 22^nd August, 1639.

The Chariot in DakhinChitra

The Marina Beach

There are Photowalks to explore various hidden treasures in the lanes scatted around the city; and there are talks where we get to learn about the rich history, culture and art embed within.  The events are quite a treat for those who have been living here and others who are keen on learning more about this city.  A chance for us to enjoy the architecture from the years gone by, visit monuments, buildings, parks and galleries filled with information and pictures related to Chennai and of course to create our own memories..

The Santhome Church

Earlier, Chennai was where I spent my school holidays in, among family and friends, But now, it is my Home, where i know I belong! Even though I’ve been living here for over a decade, there are so many places I’ve not visited, explored or even heard of. Hmm, about time I rectified this, what say?!

The Ashtalakshmi Temple

I have been eyeing the Madras Day agenda almost daily, wondering what all I can be a part of and there are a few that have caught my attention, which have been jotted down in my Calendar.  I am definitely looking forward to the TALK: Lesser known temples of Chennai by Chitra Madhavan on 23^rd August evening [Tuesday] and the HERITAGE WALK : Meandering down Mint Street on 28^th August morning [Sunday] amongst the lot.  Oh gosh, how can I forget to mention the NATURE WALK inside the IIT Madras Campus on 27^th August morning [Saturday]?!

What are the events you are attending? Here is the link for The Madras Day Events

Let the celebrations begin!

This post was published on CLAY

Skywatch friday- In the laps of Luxury,Madras

Last evening, while walking down Pondy Bazar after visiting the Blackberry Service center, i noticed the sky was dark grey, and clouds were all over, as if they were brimming to the edge. Alas, rains happened only later in the night, albeit crazy rains.... 

This is the Hotel Residency Towers, that sits majestic at the junction, and looked like the hotel was literally blocking the clouds' path....  The hotel has become quite the landmark in Chennai, with the multitude of restaurants, banquet halls and ofcourse the infamous Bikes & Barrels- the pub.... There is also a beautiful Roof top restaurant called The Crown, that offfers both indoor and outdoor seating... From the outdoor area, one can practically get a 360degree panoramic view of the city below...oh, not to forget the infinity waterfall that seems to stretch right into the city skyline....

Its simply beautiful, on a cool dark night...

For more beautiful skies, visit Skywatch Friday

Ashtalakshmi temple, Madras

Thanks to a friend i found in the blogsville- Vi, i discovered this treasured temple in Besant Nagar in the city i call home.  Am talking about the Ashtalakshmi temple situated in the shores of the Bay of Bengal, at the long stretch of Elliots Beach, beyond the Velankanni Church

The architecture at this temple is very unique. The Goddesses and deities are across four levels, the top most opening out to the ocean. As the name states, the Ashtalakshmi temple is home to Eight avatars of Lakshmi.
 

Santaana Lakshmi (bestower of offspring)
Vijayalakshmi (bestower of success),
Vidya Lakshmi (associated with learning & wisdom)
Gaja Laskhmi (bestower of overall prosperity)
Dhanalakshmi (Goddess of wealth) 
On the ground floor is the main shrine for Aadhi Lakshmi,
Dhaanya Lakshmi (Goddess of food)
Dhairiya Lakshmi's (the Goddess of courage, strength & power)   

There are narrow flight of stairs leading from one level to the other and it is almost like an adventure making the way to the top.... I was excited and eager to see what was in the next level... 

A temple in Uthiramerur- Sundara Perumal temple is built in the exact same style as the Ashtalakshmi Temple!! :) 

Valluvar Kottam, Madras

The memorial, dedicated to famous the poet & saint Thiruvalluvar has been built in the shape of a temple chariot. Infact, legend has it that it is indeed a replica of the temple chariot in Thiruvarur. Apparently, there is a life size statue of the poet within the chariot. 

The 133 chapters of his most famous work, the Thirukkural has been depicted all along the corridors of the chariot. There is an auditorium within the complex that is known to be the largest in Asia and today is used for exhibitions and conferences. Another unique feature of this auditorium is that it is a stand alone structure, with no beams or pillars for support.  Thirukkural, consisting of 1330 couplets has been inscribed on the granite pillars surrounding the auditorium.

 

Secretariat, or not, Madras

The Tamil Nadu assembly was being held at the Fort St. George complex for the last 53 years.  And then the Government changed and the new Government- the CM decided to create a new space for the assembly, which is this majestic huge building.. Alas, by the time they were done building it, the Government has changed and the CM has decided she will hold assembly only in the older building, at Fort St George and not here.... 

So, they are inviting ideas from people on what to do with this structure!!

Any suggestions?

Took this shot during construction stage, shall update it once i take a recent shot :)

Kamarajar, Madras

Kamarajar, the Chief Minister, the man who spread the value of Education[inspite of being uneducated]. He introduced millions of people to books, and also brought in the mid day meal system to motivate children to go to school. He was also awarded the Bharat Ratna [India's highest civilian honour] posthumously in 1976...

Even today, we remember him, for all that he did for the people! The Kamaraj Domestic Terminal in madras Airport is named after him, and so are several other buildings and roads...

This statue stands tall in the Marina Beach, amongst several others, each of whom have left their mark behind!!

MGR Memorial, Madras

The MGR Memorial is a yet another memorial we find in the Marina Beach, Chennai. Today, it has become quiite the favorite among tourists..... M G Ramachandran [MGR] was a former actor & a politician from Tamil Nadu, MGR . 

The monument is quite lovely to look at, the design and style is unique when compared to others on the beach and this is probably what sets it apart...

Napier Bridge, Madras

Yet another famous landmark in Chennai,my home is The Napier Bridge. It is also known as the "Iron Bridge" . This bridge was constructed in honor of Lord Napier who was the Governor of Fort St. George , Madras Presidency.

It was built in 1869 across the Coovum river by Governor Napier who held this office from 1866 to 1877.

The bridge connects the Marina beach with Fort St George....

Today, every time you drive past the bridge towards the beach or away, the architecture, the sunlight streaming through the gaps will make you pause and reflect....

[Skywatch Friday] Where the Boats rest, Chennai

Me: What is the one place you want to go to when you come to Chennai/Madras?

Cousin [over the phone from Delhi]- The Beach

I rest my case!! 

When she was here, one morning we all rose early[5am] and drove down to the beach, not just any beach, but The Marina Beach...  Spent about 2hours walking along the shore, while some played in the water a bit before joining us... What a fun morning that was! 

Did you know that the Marina beach is the longest in the country? yes, it stretches for over 14kms.... and one has easy access to the water as well, unlike in other places where you cannot get your feet wet :)

 

These were fishing boats resting before the trip into the ocean. There were a few fishermen sorting out the fishing nets nearby. They had done one round of fishing early in the morning [3-4am] and will go again in a while... What a life!! 

Am also submitting this post for the Skywatch Friday, visit the site to see more beautiful skies...

Red and white, Madras

The Majestic light house in the Marina beach is as much a landmark as the beach itself... I have always wanted to go up the lighthouse, but not done that yet....

The red and white tower is visible for as far as the eye can see and so is the light it shines out.... Quite a sight late at night...

Trivia[courtesy Wikipedia] : 
It was built by the East Coast Constructions and Industries in 1976 replacing the old lighthouse in the northern direction. The lighthouse was opened in January 1977.
The present lighthouse is the fourth lighthouse of Chennai. The first lighthouse started functioning in 1796 when the terrace of the Officers Mess (the present day's Fort Museum at Fort St. George) was chosen as the site for the first warning beacon which used a large lantern. It functioned till 1841. The second light house was erected during 1838-1844 on the north side of Fort St George and it was functioning until 1894. The third lighthouse was functioning from the tallest dome of the Madras High Court. It started functioning on June 1, 1894, with argand lamps and reflectors manufactured by Chance Bros, Birmingham which had originally been installed in the 160-ft-tall lighthouse tower. This was later decommissioned after the present one was constructed on the Marina beach near Santhome which was unveiled in January 1977.

Gandhi in Chennai

The Marina beach in Chennai is the longest beach in the country, stretching across 14kms... There is a Mahatma Gandhi's statue almost at the center, and it is a beautiful one at that....

 This photo was taken during an early morning [7am] walk along the beach with uncles and cousins.... 

There are so many statues lining the beach, hope to capture them and share them all during the coming month :)

High Court, Chennai

The Madras High Court is yet another landmark building in the city... Yet another brick coloured building, it is not only majestic but buzzing with activity all the time! I have only seen the top tombs and pointed structures in movies, and so it was a revelation to visit the building and see it in person..

 

The High court is believed to be the second largest judicial complex in the world.. The building looms large, and there are so many corridors and floors, its amazing...

There is a statue of Manuneedhi Cholan near the main building... 

 

Manu Needhi Cholan or Manuneedhi Cholan was a legendary Chola king believed to have killed his own son to provide justice to a Cow, following Manu Needhi or Manu's law. Legend has it that the king hung a giant bell in front of his courtroom for anyone needing justice to ring. One day, he came out on hearing the ringing of the bell by a Cow. On enquiry he found that the Calf of that Cow was killed under the wheels of his chariot. In order to provide justice to the cow, he killed his own son under the chariot as a punishment to himself i.e. make himself suffer as much as the cow. His name has since then been used as a metaphor for fairness and justice in Tamil literature. - Courtesy:Wikipedia

Wesley Church,Chennai

Another beautiful Church that i am yet to pause and enjoy is the Wesley Church in Egmore. Built by the Methodists in 1905, it is part of the Church of South India, Madras Diocese. The brick exterior is something that i love, which is probably why  i take pictures of the church everytime i pass by.

Riding home from the Central Station, i strain my neck out the auto rickshaw to catch a glimpse of this landmark building before the trees block my view... 

The 1st picture was taken during a Photowalk and 2nd during a visit to uncle's home.... 

Vanakkam Chennai

August has become a month of great significance, it is when Madras celebrates The Madras day, its birth along with various other festivities. I was born here, born when the city was called Madras and have watched it transform over the years, heck, the city is today called Chennai.. 

I have decided to do a series to celebrate the city that has me feeling chirpy, high and proud ..... 

 

This is a photograph of the infamous Chennai central Railway Station. If you have seen tamil movies, or any other movie where any of the actors make a trip to this town, this is the first building shown on the screen. Looming larger than life, the central station with its brick red exterior and colonial influences is quite a mesmerising site.