Madras Celebrates 387th Anniversary at Victoria Public Hall

The 387th anniversary of Madras Day was celebrated at the historic Victoria Public Hall on Saturday, with Tourism Minister S. Rajesh Kumar calling on the younger generation to learn about the city's rich history, art, and culture.

The event was organized jointly by the Tourism Department and the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC). Speaking at the venue, the Minister said Madras Day provides a valuable opportunity to pass on the city's heritage to the next generation, noting that Madras has evolved over the years as countless people have arrived to build their lives and careers.

Rajesh Kumar also visited a Special Photography Exhibition organized at the Anna Centenary Library, which will remain open to visitors until August 31. He observed that while reading books provides knowledge of history, viewing history through photographs creates a significant impact, adding that the exhibited images brought the spirit of Madras to life.

V.P. Jeyaseelan, Director of Tourism and Managing Director of TTDC, highlighted the historical importance of Victoria Public Hall, stating that the landmark, along with Moore Market and Chennai Central, formed a core part of old Madras. He noted that the purpose of Madras Day is to learn from the past, shape the future of the modernizing city, and ensure it remains inclusive.

As part of the celebrations, officials also felicitated the winners of wall art and photography competitions conducted for school and college students over the past week.