Chennapatnam or Madrasapatnam, now called Chennai, was founded way back in 1639 on August 22. Since then, it has transformed from a sleepy hamlet into a vibrant metropolis.
Chennai was probably named after Chennappanaikan, in memory of the father of the Nayaks who sold the land to the British, and so came to be called Chennapattinam.
To celebrate the founding of Madras, a group of Madras lovers put their heads together and started celebrating its birthday from 2005.
This year’s Madras Week celebrations started August 15 and may extend till the month-end.
Exhibitions and food festivals are being organised to showcase the rich heritage of Madras in all spheres. Educational institutions are expected to conduct quiz competitions, and workshops focusing on Madras.
Heritage walks, talks on important landmarks of the city are some of the events scheduled for Madras Week.
Several hotels in the city are hosting programmes to commemorate the week.
Historian S Muthiah of ‘Madras Musings’ feels that people should volunteer to share their experiences about this pulsating town.
Madras Medical College, Anna University, Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage, the Madras Naturalists Society are associated with the celebrations.
|