Madras Day

What began as a transaction of a piece of land at Fort St George today stands tall as one of India's burgeoning metro. August 22 is officially known as Madras Day to commemorate the city's founding in 1639. In fact the ramparts of Fort St George are now floodlit and stand tall as mute testimony to the heritage of Chennai. Madras Day is being celebrated since a few years to draw the attention of the city dwellers to its rich heritage and culture. This citizens initiative is likely to spark off interest in the city's rich heritage, history and culture as well as to showcase Chennai's past and present.

From heritage walks and lectures, book releases and food festivals, the Madras Week promises to showcase many of Madras' myriad facets. The Madras Week began with a drama with folksongs conducted by the Nochikuppam seafishing community. Photowalks have been organized in different parts of the city such as the Anna Nagar Tower Park, Karneeswarar temple in Saidapet, George Town, Mylapore Santhome and Tiruvallikeni Parthsarathy temple.

Vanilla Place in Mylapore is the venue for many exhibitions and performances. Check out the live webcast of 'Slice of Chennai' from the Marina and the Kapaleeshwar Temple in Mylapore. Collections of coins and photos, motorcycle tour of heritage sites by Madras Bulls Motorcycling Club and heritage projects and competitions are part of the Madras Day Celebrations.