Minister Rajmohan Inaugurates 'Madras on Stage' Photo Exhibit on Anna Salai

Minister for School Education, Tamil Development, and Information and Publicity Rajmohan inaugurated The Hindu’s Made of Chennai Archival Photo Exhibit, ‘Madras on Stage’, at the publication’s office on Anna Salai on Friday, August 14, 2026. Speaking at the event, the Minister highlighted the shared history and legacy between the publication and the city.

Reflecting on his college days, Mr. Rajmohan recalled his participation in cultural programmes, oratory events, and elocution competitions. He recounted his early career steps, including a radio audition where he worked under L.V. Navaneeth, currently the Chief Executive Officer of The Hindu Group. The Minister credited Mr. Navaneeth as his first boss and teacher, noting that he created an inclusive work environment that helped shape his career in media.

Historian and curator of the exhibition Thirupurasundari Sevvel spoke about the repository housed within The Hindu Archives. She explained that the exhibition aims to bring attention to rare images, articles, and photographs that document how culture moved through the city. According to Ms. Sevvel, cultural shifts unfolded across streets, neighbourhoods, and community spaces where residents gathered to create and share experiences.

Ms. Sevvel added that performers and artists arriving from various countries over the decades introduced diverse sounds, ideas, and experiences that integrated into the city's cultural identity. She noted that the exhibition also includes a focus on cinema and its deep ties to Chennai and landmarks like the Chennai Central railway station, encouraging residents to explore and ask questions about the city's heritage.

The inaugural event was attended by N. Murali, Chairman of The Hindu Group Publishing Private Limited (THGPPL); Ramesh Rangarajan, Chairman of Kasturi and Sons Ltd.; N. Ram, Nirmala Lakshman, and Rohit Ramesh, Directors of THGPPL; Suresh Nambath, Editor of The Hindu; and Mr. Navaneeth. Santhosh V., vice-president of Casagrand, and Anand, regional manager for AU Small Finance Bank in Chennai, also addressed the gathering.