Chennai, formerly known as
Madras is the capital of the great state Tamil Nadu and is one of
the four metropolitan city in India. This 350 year old city grew up
under the huge influence of an English settlement of Fort Saint
George and with time absorbed the surrounding towns and villages.
However, despite having a British influence, Chennai has been
succesful in retaining its traditional Tamil Hindu culture and have
been able to provide a unique blend of foreign influence and Indian
culture. The city is widely spread in about 180 Sq. Kms. and is one
of the major trade centers of India, being well linked by road, rail
and air to important cities besides being a sea port. Compared to
the other major metros of India, it is far less congested and
polluted and also boast of the 100% literacy rate. Chennai, is a
journey into timeless India, a kaleidoscope of sorts. Rich in the
treasures of history, from temples and shrines to forts and palaces,
here past is able to live easily with the present.
From being a small fisherman's village in 1639 to becoming one of
the most enormous and beautiful city in India Chennai has definitely
come a long way from where it stood. Chennai is also host to some
cultural theatres that showcase various India traditional dances and
plays on regular basis.
Chennai like its
counterpart Mumbai is the centre of the film industry of south
India. Large number of hoardings and billboards displaying latest
movie releases surround the city.
