In this article, we provide comprehensive information about the geography, history, population, and top tourist destinations of Chennai. Chennai is the capital city of Tamil Nadu, situated in southern India along the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal. Often referred to as the “Gateway to South India,” Chennai serves as a significant administrative and cultural hub.
| About: | Chennai formerly known as Madras is the capital city of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. This metropolis is often called the cultural capital of India for its deep-rooted traditions and long heritage. The city is the gateway to the rest of South India. It has the 2nd longest seashore in the world, located on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal. With a population of around six million, it is Indias fourth largest city. Established in the 17th century by the British, Chennai evolved into a significant urban center and naval base. By the 20th century, it had emerged as a key administrative hub, serving as the capital of the Madras Presidency. From the pre-Independence era to the present day, the people of Chennai have played a crucial role in shaping the political landscape of the country. The city’s economy is diverse, with strong sectors in automobile manufacturing, technology, hardware production, and healthcare. Chennai is the second largest exporter of software and IT-enabled services in India, and a significant portion of the country’s automobile manufacturing is concentrated here. The city accounts for 60 percent of India’s automotive exports, earning it the nickname “Detroit of South Asia.” Chennai also hosts the annual Madras Music Season, a major cultural event featuring performances by numerous artists. The city has a lively theatre scene and is a prominent center for Bharatanatyam, a classical dance form. Additionally, Chennai is home to Kollywood, the Tamil film industry, which is the second largest movie industry in India. |
| Country : | India |
| State: | Tamil Nadu |
| District: | Chennai |
| Population: | 6,748,026 (2011) |
| Language: | Official: Tamil, English |
| Literacy rate: | This child population figure of Chennai district is 10.08 % of total urban population. Average literacy rate in Chennai district as per census 2011 is 90.18 % of which males and females are 93.70 % and 86.64 % literates respectively. |
| History: | Chennai, originally known as Madras Patnam, was located in the province of Tondaimandalam, an area lying between Pennar river of Nellore and the Pennar river of Cuddalore. The capital of the province was Kancheepuram.Tondaimandalam was ruled in the 2nd century A.D. by Tondaiman Ilam Tiraiyan, who was a representative of the Chola family at Kanchipuram. It is believed that Ilam Tiraiyan must have subdued Kurumbas, the original inhabitants of the region and established his rule over Tondaimandalam.Subsequent to Ilam Tiraiyan, the region seemed to have been ruled by the Chola Prince Ilam Killi.The Chola occupation of Tondaimandalam was put to an end by the Andhra Satavahana incursions from the north under their King Pulumayi II. They appointed chieftains to look after the Kancheepuram region. Bappaswami, who is considered as the first Pallava to rule from Kancheepuram, was himself a chieftain (of the tract round) at Kancheepuram under the Satavahana empire in the beginning of the 3rd century A.D., The Pallavas who had so far been merely viceroys, became independent rulers of Kancheepuram and its surrounding areas. |
| Major Attractions to Visit: | Parthasarathy Temple: Parthasarathy temple in Triplicane was built by the Pallava kings of South India in around 8th century and later renovated by the Vljaya nagar Kings in the 16th century. It is one of the major tourist attractions of Chennai. Santhome Cathedral: An important pilgrimage center of Christians, visiting chennai the Santhome Cathedral is at the site of the tomb of Apostle St. Thomas who came to India from the Palestines. Marina Beach: The famous Marina Beach, the Pride of Chennai, is second longest beach in the world and has a wide sandy foreshore. One can see statues of heroes from Tamil culture to Samadhi of great leaders like Anna and MGR here. Walk along the Marina in the evening to cool off and eat crispy sundal and murukku. An aquarium is also located on the Marina Beach. Watching sunset and sunrise from the beach is a fascinating experience. Ashtalakshmi Temple: Built on the Besant Beach shore, the temple is dedicated to the eight avatars of the goddess symbolising power, wealth and health. The complex also has dedicated shrines for gods Hanuman and Ganapathi. Mahabalipuram: 60 km away from Chennai, this ancient port city of Mahabalipuram is a visual marvel that offers awe-striking views, rock-cut architecture and all-embracing carvings that are sure to refresh your soul. |
