Madras Day is observed every year on 22 August to commemorate the founding of the city of Madras, now known as Chennai, established on the same day in 1639. The celebration began in 2004, initiated by Chennai-based journalist Vincent D’Souza and historian S. Muthiah to highlight the city's heritage and history. It marks the purchase of Madras by the East India Company from the Vijayanagar Empire. The primary focus is celebrating the city's past and present, and here are the all the events happening in the city this year.
Celebrate The Timeless Charm Of Chennai This Madras Month With These Events
Cycling With The Yogis
Experience a one-of-a-kind celebration of Madras Day with Cycling Yogis. The event's highlights include the first-ever inclusive cycling ride in Chennai along the picturesque ECR Bicycle Lane, stretching from Kottivakkam to Muttukadu. Safety is paramount, with helmets being mandatory, and the ride isn't a race but a joyful journey to celebrate Madras. The event also features a special book launch, offering insights into Madras' water heritage, engaging folk dance performances that showcase the city's vibrant culture, and the fourth edition of the Vintage Bicycles Exhibition, a collection that pays homage to Madras' cycling legacy. The festivities kick off with breakfast at 7.30 AM, followed by enchanting folk dance performances, that embrace the spirit of unity and community that defines Madras. You can sign up on the link below. If you have any questions don't hesitate to call Ramanujar Moulana at 98840 23123, or Girija Palani at 97909 91868.
When: 27 August, 5.30 AM to 7.30 AM
Where: Start at Pro-Bikers, OMR and finishing at DakshinaChitra
Price: INR 200
Talks At Press Institute
The Press Institute of India is organising a series of discussions in honour of Madras Day. Refreshments will be served at 4.30 PM prior to the commencement of each talk. The talks are scheduled to begin at 5 PM on the respective days they are being held.
August 22: ‘Treasures in the Madras Museum: A presentation by Dr Chithra Madhavan
August 23: ‘How the Gujaratis, Marathis and Marwaris made Chennai their home’ – a presentation by Anuradha Oberoi
Where: Press Institute of India, Taramani
Price: Free
Madras Day Celebration With British Council
Delve into the heart of Madras while unravelling its essence through the realms of literature, music, and history in a captivating panel discussion. Join esteemed panellists as they share their insights on the city's diverse tales, from traditional songs to ancient poetry, inscriptions, and oral narratives that have woven a tapestry of knowledge which each panellist will illuminate. Also, engage in dialogue during a Q&A session. Moreover, be part of the celebration of Madras Day with a heritage walk, in partnership, where you can explore the city's well-kept secrets and stories that have sculpted its identity. This invitation is extended to all residents, uniting us to commemorate our shared history and craft enduring memories.
When: 25 August, 4 PM (for panel discussion); 27 August, 7 AM (for heritage walk)
Where: British Council Chennai
Price: Free
Made Of Chennai With The Hindu
A multiple-day event, here's everything you can expect:
Archival Photo Exhibit
Curated by local researcher Thirupurasundari Sevvel, the archival exhibition of photographs offers a captivating gateway to nostalgic sentiments. It harks back to a bygone era when Marina Beach was synonymous with family connections and Thiru Vi Ka Park in Shenoy Nagar, now occupied by a Metro station, flourished with luxuriant green surroundings. Named 'Oor, Ula, Ulam', this display provides a captivating occasion to traverse the memory lane, featuring an assortment of exclusive and previously unreleased images of Chennai. This endeavour is a collaboration with The Hindu and invites you to embark on an emotional journey through the city's lively history and treasured instances.
When: Until 9 September, 10 AM to 6 PM
Where: Chennai Central, Guindy, Vadapalani, Thirumangalam, Koyambedu, Airport, and Wimco Nagar metro stations, Kathipara Urban Square and The Hindu office premises.
A Day Out At The Ripon Building
The rich and dynamic history of Madras demands a vibrant narrative encompassing its people, artistic expressions, architectural marvels, and political developments. To honour the city through literature, Chief Minister MK Stalin is set to introduce three books authored by The Hindu group. These books delve into the trailblazers of Tamil history, the magnificence of the Chola dynasty, and Tamil Nadu viewed through a societal perspective. The iconic Ripon building will temporarily host the Archival Photo Exhibit as part of the event. Following this, the occasion will feature captivating performances by traditional folk artists.
When: 22 August
Where: Ripon Building
Heritage Walks
Engage in delightful morning walks that offer you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the city's abundant history, delectable cuisine, and cultural gems. Reserved exclusively for a limited group, secure your spot for these guided strolls, and ensure your participation by completing the registration procedure.
When:
23 August: Exploring the Ripon Building precinct
26 August: Biriyani Trails
27 August: Mount Road walk
2 September: Reminiscing Royapuram
3 September: Photo Walk, Kosapet
Made Of Chennai Run
Join a foot-based city exploration with an extra challenge. Participants can run either five or ten kilometres, starting from Napier Bridge. This route offers a balanced experience, allowing time to appreciate notable structures along the coast. Beyond physical benefits, running in Chennai's heat unveils immense sweat as well as discoveries on the city's roads. Head to the link to join the race.
When: 3 September, 5.30 AM
Where: Sivananda Salai-Napier Bridge Signal
Price: INR 349
Moonlight Cinema
If you're familiar with director Pa Ranjith's film Madras, but haven't seen it yet or wish to relish its quality, join The Hindu for an evening of movie-watching featuring Madras, along with films like Chennai 28 and Alaipayuthe. Enjoy this cinematic experience under Chennai's starry sky, accompanied by warm sundal and fluffy soan papdi for a delightful evening.
When: 6 PM and 9 PM
Where: Thiruvanmiyur Beach and Besant Nagar Beach
Food and music festival
Chennai has consistently served as a fusion hub for culinary influences, drawing from the finest aspects of South, East, and West Tamil Nadu. To commemorate the city's diverse offerings, including beloved items like bun butter jam, aromatic mutton pulao, upscale Japanese dishes, and innovative vegan choices, The Hindu is hosting a food festival, coupled with musical performances from renowned local bands, an exhilarating blend of entertainment and flavour is on the menu.
When: 9 and 10 September
