Chennai’s culture is something unimaginable, and that is what makes Chennai Chennai, which I have been enjoying for almost 53 years, says V. Kamakoti, Director, Indian Institute of Technology-Madras (IIT-M).
Now, what do you mean by culture? For me, it can be the music season, the Margazhi in December, the world’s largest music festival. The sabha culture has evolved over the years, as has the number of artists. They offer great food and lecture demonstrations as well.
Then, it can be the cuisines of Chennai, the variety fare that is served. I can mention the iconic places such as Dasaprakash and Woodlands, which have carried forward traditions. It can be the longest beach, visiting which is a unique experience by itself. It can be the way the city enjoys cricket. The Chepauk Stadium, which has hosted great cricket matches, stands testimony to this vibrant sports atmosphere.
It can be our school system. We have some great schools that make us more holistic. Of course, Chennai also boasts some of the best healthcare facilities in the world. We have some doyens in the field who treat their profession as something beyond money and business. Also, the great temples and the temple tanks that we have.
The enterprises on Ranganathan Street, especially during festival times, are a great example of an inclusive place where people from all economic sections visit for shopping. Overall, in all aspects that define life, Chennai has institutionalised it in some way or the other. In every aspect you end up finding an ecosystem to help you enjoy the city better.
(As told to Saptarshi Bhattacharya)
Published – September 05, 2025 07:53 pm IST
