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• Short ‘N’ Snappy • Swathi – and after • Remembering a Raja – II • Naduvakkarai to • A poem for today • Madras Week Programmes

Vol. XXVI No. 8 MUSINGS August 1-15, 2016 Will UNESCO rescue our temples? (By A Special Correspondent) ow often have we seen the most wilful damage being inflicted Hon some of our most ancient temples in the name of restora- tion and consecration? Towers of doubtful merit being built over Chola gateways, Nayak period paintings being whitewashed, polished granite and vitrified tiles being pasted over age-old stones bearing inscriptions, and grilles being riveted on stone pillars are some of the common instances of vandalism that happen in the name of restoration of the shrines. The culprits in most of these cases are the HR & CE department officials who are invariably ignorant of what amounts to sensitive restoration and, more often than not, do not wish to know better. Of late, rich devotees with a mistaken zeal to put up giant statues and tall towers have Fort St. George’s sewage filled moat. (Photo: Vijay Sriram.) See page 12 for what it once was. worked in tandem with these officials. All these may be mat- ters of the past if the High Court (HC) of Madras has its way. A promise to clean the Fort’s moat Early in July, the Hon’ble HC ruled that the Government needs to involve ast week saw a glimmer of in October 2014. Nothing came However, a new problem ever, silent on how it proposes experts from the United Na- Lhope as far as the conserva- of it. It is to be hoped that this soon developed. Untreated to prevent any further accumu- tions Educational, Scientific tion of Fort St George is con- year’s resolution will result in sewage from the Fort began to lation of sewage which the Fort and Cultural Organisation cerned. Two of its many part some concrete action. be let into the rear portions of will continue to generate. What (UNESCO) in all temple resto- owners, the Archaeological The moat is one of the many the moat and this has since is envisaged is that the entire ration efforts from now on. It Survey of India (ASI) and the historic components of Fort St stagnated. The water is mostly moat will be maintained in a dry has asked the Government to Army, have agreed that it is George that is rapidly going to moss green and smells foul. It condition in its entirety, as the ensure that UNESCO officials high time that the moat sur- seed. Originally a dry ditch, it has also become a convenient front parts have been for long. are present on August 23rd at rounding the fort is cleared of later became a full-fledged moat receptacle for all kinds of rub- In a city that is perennially wa- the court to take up matters fur- stagnant water (read untreated in the 18th Century, with water bish from the Fort. And yet in ter-starved it would perhaps be ther. In the interim, the State drainage from within). But be- from the being let spite of such neglect what is deemed an unwarranted luxury Government has been barred fore there is cheering all around if the moat were to be other- let us hasten to add that the wise. However this may be the (Continued on page 11) same announcement was made G by The Editor best time for the Government to rope in the Cooum River Restoration project into the in to fill it. This was kept up till truly amazing is that the area activity and consider whether More sewage needing cleaning Independence when it was also surrounding the moat is full of after the clean up of that water common practice for the soldiers lush vegetation and teems with body there could be the possi- B. Wilson of garrisoned in the Fort to fish in a variety of bird life. The fact bility of the moat being filled Hyderabad was re- the waters. In later years, with that this part of the Fort hardly with water. It must be pointed cently given the hardly any water in the river, the sees any human footfall could out here that most of the moats Magsaysay Award supply was cut off and the parts also be a contributory factor. in India are now dry. for his work in of the moat fronting the fort But it cannot be denied that the Whatever be the eventual Hyderabad, saving went dry. An added factor was sewage has begun to post a condition of the moat – wet thousands of work- or dry, we at ers from the indig- that with seawater entering the threat to the ramparts. Madras Musings nity of cleaning city river and the Recently, the ASI, the Army hope that it will be clean. We sewers. But in it was feared that brine would and the PWD agreed that it was have written repeatedly on the Chennai such clean- surround the fort and cause its high time that the moat was moat’s sorry state and are now ing goes on with no historic structures to crumble. cleared of all its accumulated happy that some action is one batting an eyelid The two sluice gates that regu- sewage. Work on sludge re- being contemplated. We also (See Page 3) lated water to the moat, one near moval will soon begin and is hope that the cleaning up of the War Memorial and the other most likely to be completed the moat will trigger off other near Napier’s Bridge, were before the onset of the monsoon restoration work within the therefore closed permanently. in October. The plan is, how- Fort. CMYK Burying Caesar, musically 2 MADRAS MUSINGS August 1-15, 2016 Some thoughts Burying Caesar, musically on Swathi – have come to bury Cae- my name. He then told me I with a ‘Why don’t you…’, “I sar, not praise him,” said was the only one who could thereby suggesting that they Mark Antony if you recall one prove equal to the demanding should implement at least one & the aftermath of those rare straightforward performer.” of those ideas themselves. This passages from The Bard. The While this rather long- normally brings the conversa- wathy, the young and sprightly IT-professional of Chennai, al Man from Madras Musings re- winded panegyric to the self tion to an abrupt end. Then Slegedly slain by an infatuated neighbour a few weeks ago, has calls those lines vividly, having was in progress, others on stage there are the expansive think- touched the raw nerve of this hallowed city. Coming so soon after had to write them down 100 were becoming restless. They ers who dream big – a shutting a series of murders, Swathy’s confirms that the city is no longer a times by way of an imposition had after all prepared identical down of Mount Road for a haven of peace and safety. In a manner of speaking, it has hurt my when he, MMM, was a CCC – speeches with what little infor- procession, a declaration of a ego more than any other event of the recent past. I am extremely Cherubic Child of Calcutta – mation there was on the re- public holiday, a mass feeding proud of my native city. But this is not the city that I grew up in and had incurred the displea- membered artiste from the or a flypast. All very noble, no sure of an English tutor in Internet. The longer the first doubt, except for the budget and used to adore. Also, this certainly was not a ‘one swallow does school. speaker spoke, the less they and its financing. These call- not make a summer’ case. Many violent crimes against innocent Those lines came swim- would have to say. That gave a ers usually assume that the citizens have marred its reputation. ming back to MMM’s mind glimmer of hope to MMM and Chief and Madras Musings are Without sounding alarmist, I now regretfully look upon when he, at considerable risk others in the audience about sitting on moneys that the Re- Chennai as a dangerous place to live in, not merely for the reckless to posterior, sat in a Sabha seat the concert beginning on time. serve Bank of India may want and couldn’t-care-less modern female professional, who considers watching a meeting in progress But that was to be short-lived. and so the sky is the limit. it her divine right to roam about in pursuit of evening entertain- wherein a group of musicians All speakers took their time to There is a third variety that ment. The sedate and usually conservative inhabitant will also had been assembled on stage to speak, particularly as they were assumes it has to seek the ap- have to take more than usual care while moving about or visiting pay homage to a colleague talking about their favourite proval of an imagined commit- public places. It is irrelevant that Swathi was murdered in broad whose anniversary of passing subject – themselves. tee in charge of Madras Week. into eternity was being ob- To cap it all, there was a MMM has heard the Chief daylight on a busy railway platform. It is equally immaterial that served. MMM was keener on Mistress of Ceremonies who hold forth for over ten years on the Chennai Police was able to nab the offender in quick time. The the concert that was to follow, decided that she had to repeat how Madras Week is a purely attack on the young woman is as symbolic as Nirbhaya of Delhi, as also were several members in passive voice everything that voluntary effort and that ev- and teaches us many lessons on personal security. in the audience as was evident a speaker had just said. MMM eryone is free to celebrate it in The happening proves once again that you cannot depend on from the large turn-out. The was of the view that this was his/her own way. But these the police or fellow citizens to protect you. A woman will have to defend herself through personal protective measures like karate, pepper stray, etc. This may not be very effective, but is better than expecting law enforcement of officials or the public around you to come to your rescue from an aggressor. The police cannot be SHORT ’N’ SNAPPY present everywhere. What is appalling is the rapidly diminishing fear of the police. The system has become so corroded because of corruption at all levels. full house, always a rarity at her way of ensuring that the people assume that they are Chennai has grown too large for our comfort. It is a happening memorial meetings unless meanest intelligence in the au- better off seeking approvals city that attracts a wide spectrum of population from different parts there is dinner or a concert to dience could understand every- and so you will have these call- of the country. This trend certainly makes it more cosmopolitan follow, evidently encouraged thing that was happening. ers who will tell you rather and less laid-back. But, at what cost? I do not for a moment suggest the speakers on stage to imag- The upshot of all this was hesitantly that they have these thatMADRAS the upsurge of bodily crime WEEK is entirely due AGAIN to new arrivals from ine that the audience had that the concert began half an ideas and so could we please rolled up to listen to them. All hour behind schedule. MMM approve of them? MMM now (Continued from page 1) G A former CBI Director of them without exception came away with the feeling that wonders if it would not be bet- by R.K. RAGHAVAN – shot the time limit allotted to the best tribute a person could ter for the Chief to have some outsideThose the who State. are It planning is nevertheless events aare factor requested that distracts to send andin details over- each and spoke in what can pay a departed artiste was by rubber stamps made, one sig- only be termed as ‘at length’. keeping silent. He dismissed as nifying approval and the other burdensby email theto the police, following and makes IDs – prevention [email protected] of crime more complex. and [email protected]. Details so received will be put up on That by itself would not unworthy the other idea – plac- rejection. The growing distrust of the police has led to a phenomenal op- have been so bad if they had ing a stick of dynamite under The fourth variety needs portunitythe web site for privatewww.themadrasday.in security agencies. and Let also us notthe deludemobile ourselvesapp Ma- restricted themselves to the all those who gather to pay trib- handholding on a fairly impres- intodras believingWeek. In that addition, this has a sorted multi-page out the booklet problem with of domesticprogrammes se- nuggets from the life of the ute. sive scale. This kind will pep- curity.will also Far be publishedfrom it. The and guards distributed provided closer by to thesethe date agencies of the eventare a person being remembered or per you with status reports ev- laughableby Madras collectionMusings, whose of young website men is (a www.madrasmusings.com few women as well), who to facets of his art. This, how- Madras Week again! ery hour. While MMM would have no clue of what they are expected to do. They are mostly ever, was not the case and all give this variety full marks for untrained and always underpaid. A majority are from the east and the speakers converted the op- ere we are – that time of enthusiasm, he does feel that northeast of the country with no knowledge of the local language, portunity into a fulsome Hthe year once again when the score on ‘consideration for a dedicated band of volunteers topography or modes of living. There is a Central Government leg- speech in praise of themselves others’ would be rather low. and their art. This, of course, and the same set of speakers go How else can you explain call- islation on private security, which prescribes minimum standards. was done most cleverly – as from venue to venue praising ers that first gleefully an- I am not very sure that the personnel whom we see in Chennai are though they were quoting the our city to the high heavens – nounce that it looks as though anywhere near those standards. If theiryou are completion, in an apartment there is block, scant departed senior. making it a sceptered isle, this they would have an idea for youalong and other residentsthe shouldOld takeattention the initiative being to paid collectively to the “He was most generous in other Eden and what have you. Madras Week and then an Mahabalipuramtrain the guards allotted Road. toMany your buildinghavoc andthey exercise are causing. strict If super- at all his praise of other artistes,” The Chief as The Man from hour later call you with three Madras Musings cannot help housingvision over complexes their performance. and office there was any hope, it was with began one. Ah, thought ideas and ask whether all of MMM, now there will be some noticing generally becomes these could be done? The next blocksThe have police been often dumping advise gar-you againstthe IWAI. hiring Now a servant even that without is fast checking his or her credentials. This is good advice, but it is advice interesting insights. But his Good King Wenceslaus around day it would be a call to tell you bage and debris indiscriminately receding. Even at this stage, if this time – calling forth for that does not carry you very far. Background checks by non-pro- hopes were all dashed for the that they have found a venue into the Canal thereby ruining the State Government chooses speaker went on to state as to flesh, wine and pine logs. (hip hip hurray!). By nightfall it.fessional The andadministration poorly compensated has agenciesto intervene, are a it farce. can get Most the of Cen- the how the late lamented identi- When not cast in that role, he there will another call saying turnedchecks providea blind youeye wrongduring data the thattre is to dangerously retain an IWAImisleading. office in fied him, the speaker, as one is like Old King Cole who be- that a Chief Guest has been constructionThe practice stage of hiring of most a living-in of Chennai servant evenis growing. while It opening may be of the best talents that ing a merry old soul (and a found as well (wunderbar!) theseconvenient projects if you and are now, old orafter have oldone parents in Andhra. to care But for. will But it this do Carnatic music has ever merry old soul was he) calls for The succeeding day it would be has its perils in terms of security. Therethe needful? are many cases of living-in known. “He spoke to many his pipes, drums and fiddlers the snack menu and so the long servants themselves committing horrific crime, or helping crimi- sabha secretaries about me and three, exhorting everyone to fortnight wears on. It is no nals with vital data on the lay-out of your residence and on the told them that I was the best,” come forth and celebrate our wonder that, by the end of Ma- value of movable assets (including cash and jewellery). My advice droned the speaker. “He also city. dras Week, MMM usually ends is that you should not have a living-in servant, unless there are said that it was his ambition to MMM, while sharing in the up with tinnitus – the infection general enthusiasm, is some- compelling reasons. perform in tandem with me as, that makes your ears imagine according to him, I was near what more tempered in his joie that a phone is continuously In the final analysis, security is a grim and serious business. Your perfect even at a young age.” de Madras. He is particularly ringing in the vicinity. personal safety, and that of your family, is much more important He then went on to narrate a vary of armchair enthusiasts There is of course the fifth thantakings. that of Moreover, your wealth. in the Just case recall of ,the case of athe few area days owned ago, rather long story about how a who call up at all odd hours variety that wants to participate bywhen the a Railwaysteacher met spans her adeath, whopping recklessly 72 acres chasing of whichon a two-wheeler- the station particular artiste was a terror with sentences that begin with but has always held back be- occupiesan individual just awho fraction. had sprintedWhy then away does with the the Railways cash she want had to justde- to all accompanists, young and ‘Why don’t you...’ and then cause it considers Madras Week molishdrawn latethe thatstructure? evening. The Impulse High Court and safety has rightly do not suggested always go that to- old. “Nobody wanted to ac- proceed to list around 50,000 to be ‘colonial’. The less said anygether. development This applies in alsothe placeto handling can happen an intruder with the inside station your building house. company him. But when dear ideas that they think would about this group, the better. remainingTact and not intact. direct confrontationHopefully this is the should formula see that better usually counsels works. departed got to know of this, make for a good celebration. To all of them MMM responds prevailingIt may not saveat the your Railways belongings. and Itbetter will certainlydays for protectthe Royapuram you from he immediately recommended – MMM terminus.bodily harm. August 1-15, 2016 MADRAS MUSINGS 3

Where is Presidency going?

s an ex-Presidencian, I am impelled to and the floor below. This was full of litter. The Ashare some thoughts about my alma mater bench tops were ornamented with white pigeon after reading the write-up on Presidency College shit all over. The reason given for this state of (MM May 1st-15th). affairs everywhere was that funds received from I spent almost decade (three as an under- the Government were inadequate for mainte- Still at it manually of Rs.10. He was fond of Leo graduate in Chemistry and six as a Researcher) nance. Tolstoy. I had sent a translation in 2007. As an undergraduate student, I used to anual cleaning of hazard- of one of Tolstoy’s stories which Our surviving group of eight Honours borrow many books from the excellent college ous filthy stormwater M he published. These are still students resolved to celebrate the golden jubi- library. Now, we were told that only one book drains, all over Chennai, using with me in my collection. lee of our graduation with a reunion. We asked can be borrowed in a month! We had an excel- unorganised workers on daily Back in 1953, we, SSLC the Department Head what we could give to the lent library in the Chemistry Department also. wage basis employed by cont- Department in token of our respect and students, came to Madras on In my research days, every year, Dr. Pai (the ractors, with the blessings of gratitude to our alma mater. We were told that Deputy Dept. Head then) used to commandeer excursion. Some of us went to Chennai Corporation goes on one laboratory was out of use because of the my services on Sundays to checked the books in the Kalkandu-cum-Kumudham unabated. eroded gas distribution system. We readily the Departmental Library. Together, we first got office on High Chennai Corporation says agreed to put it back into operation, but found back all the books on loan, checked them and Road to see him. But he was too that this involved calling for tender by the PWD one thing in the High Court, got bound those needed binding, thus ensuring busy to see us and we came back Dept first. Since we had no time for involved that the valuable library stock remained intact. does exactly the opposite on the disappointed. Years later, in procedures, we were alternately asked to Distinguished personalities from various streets. The Corporation and 1972, I was Secretary of the provide fibre glassboards for the classrooms and fields used to address the students. Dr. C.V. other municipalities appear to Leather Export Promotion books for the M.Sc. students’ library. We Raman used to give a lecture every year to all accept defeat in war against Council, Madras. There was a happily did this. On the reunion day, we had an the students. I cannot forget the meeting illegal sewage flow into storm- interaction with the M.Sc. students and after a addressed by Rev. Martin Luther King. After function in Vani Mahal with water drains. lunch, we spent some time with the Principal. Martin Luther King’s absorbing talk was over, Kannadasan speaking, to which We then went round the campus. C. Subramaniam, who presided, requested A. Narayanan I was also invited. After the What we saw pained us terribly. There was Coretta King to render a Negro Spiritual which Director, function, on the lawns, I saw my litter not only on the open grounds, but even on she rendered readily and charmed the audience. Changeindia (a centre for namesake, a nephew of the fa- the laboratory floor! As we climbed the stairs, Those were the days in Presidency! Where advocacy and research) & mous leather Nagappa we could see that the tops of the electrical meter are we going? Editor Paadam Magazine Chettiar, with a bald, tall man boxes had not been cleaned for years. The 1957 Incidentally, we were told that we were the 2/268, Rapid Nagar standing by his side. My name- batch of Physics Honours Group also had a first batch of students in the Chemistry Depart- sake introduced him to me as reunion and their meeting was held in the very ment to have come back to the college for a Chennai 602 101 lecture room where C.V. Raman had sat and Reunion! Tamilvanan. He was without studied. We were invited for this. Brand Tamilvanan his brand hat and goggles. I In Presidency, the gallery system of wooden Indukanth Ragade, explained to him, how I could A-4, Prabhat Apts. have read with interest R.V. benches prevails, i.e. they are in an ascending not meet him in 1953. He very Kamala Bai St Rajan’s Brand Tamilvanan fashion with the lecturer at the floor level. Thus I humorously replied, “Now you T. Nagar, Chennai 600 017 (MM, July 1st) 2016). there is huge empty space between the benches may be all that keen on meeting Tamilvanan was really a leg- me!” Whats’ happening Other books included in the endary figure with his hat and Kalkandu was also famous for website are: dark glasses. I read his Kalkandu Q&A, as Babu Rao Patel’s fter reading “What is hap- 1. Taking the high road – from the very first issue and cut- Q&A in Film India and I.S. pening to this famed hall?” A Research on transport in devel- and-bound his series on Johar’s Q&A in Filmfare. (MM, July 1st), I went to the oping economies, (September Sankarlal. Someone borrowed It is good the legacy lives on internet to see how it looks 2013) from me but it came back to me through his sons. now. Here is a sketch of it done only when I found it with a sec- by an artist in 2013. It looks 2. Traffic engineering and plan- ond-hand bookseller in Vellore. Dr. G. Sundaram, IAS (RTD) tragic. I understand it stands on ning under mixed traffic and A-001, Dugar Apartments other prevailing conditions in Tamilvanan published a one acre. It will be interesting Land values being so high, the Keshav Perumal Puram, India, (October 2014) piece of mine sent on a post- to know if it really still stands or custodians need to clarify. 3. Transport research in India – card and he sent an honorarium has it been encroached upon. After all the freedom move- Chennai 600 028 Analytical case studies, (July ment started in Madras and the 2015) hall associated with it has a very I hope these books will be of The MLS awakens high heritage value and needs some use for further research, to be renovated and perhaps planning and development used as a museum highlighting tasks in this field in developing the people of Madras; contribu- countries. tion to that movement. N S Srinivasan K V S Krishna [email protected] [email protected] Studying traffic OUR ADDRESSES s a research planner I un- For matters regarding subscriptions, Adertook a series of studies donations, non-receipt of receipts etc.: and planning tasks in different CHENNAI HERITAGE, 5, Bhattad Tower, 30, Westcott Road, parts of the country for over 55 , Chennai 14. years. Many schemes have Madras Musings now has its own email been successfully implemented ID. Letters to the editor can be sent via and also evaluated. As the email to [email protected]. findings of some of the studies Those who wish to intimate change of are of direct relevance to the address can also do so provided the subscription number is quoted. For public, I wrote brief articles on non-receipt of copies, change of A reading at the MLS draws a crowd. these topics, highlighting the address, and all other circulation salient findings of the studies, matters: Madras Musings, C/o ou will be glad to know that the fortunes of We hope the monthly events at the MLS will on newspapers and magazines/ Lokavani Southern Printers Pvt. Ltd., 122, Greames Road, Chennai 600 006. Ythe Madras Literary Society improved be a draw; you might take a look at the Journals. I have now prepared a dramatically in 2015-16, largely thanks to the Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/Ma- On editorial matters: The Editor, book entitled Planning for the Madras Musings, No. 5, Bhattad efforts of just four members – Jaya Mahbbani, dras-Literary-Society-10536257 98039945/ to future – Solutions for India’s Tower, 30, Westcott Road, Padma Padmanabhan, S. Thirupurasundari, see the encouraging response we had for our Royapettah, Chennai 600 014. and Rajith Nair. The main factor has been the July meeting (see picture). traffic problems containing 30 of the articles published during No personal visits or telephone calls, vigorous outreach strategy they have initiated, It was a reading of Bernard Shaw’s A Dress- please. Letters received will be sent covering Madras Week, Litfest, ing Room Secret in which a group of party-goers the past few years. This book is from these addresses every couple of events held in the library on the mornings of dress up as for a Shakespeare performance. incorporated in the website: days to the persons concerned and you second Saturdays every month, and www.nssrinivasantraffic.com will get an answer from them to your soliciting the interest of colleges, institutions Mohan Raman for the benefit of the technical queries reasonably quickly. and schools. [email protected] community and others. – THE EDITOR 4 MADRAS MUSINGS August 1-15, 2016 August 1-15, 2016 MADRAS MUSINGS 5

legacy at best. A year later, an- Government School of Indian Remembering the Raja other pioneering piece of legisla- Medicine, headed by Capt. Dr. tion – the Madras State Aid to G. Srinivasamurthy. To house Industries Act was passed. This this institution, Panagal donated made it a State policy to extend Hyde Park Gardens, his property A Prime Minister loans to developing industries in at . The Kilpauk Medical the Province. College now functions from this The second general elections campus. in Madras were held in 1923 and During his tenure as Prime in (en)action the Justice Party won a majority. Minister, Panagal brought in a Ramarayaningar, now conferred complaint of cheating against the honorific of Raja of Panagal Murugesa Mudaliar, a well- (continued from last It was also with the assistance by the Government, was invited known diamond merchant. It fortnight) of O. Thanigachalam Chettiar to become Prime Minister. There was found that emeralds pur- that Ramarayaningar brought t must be recalled that the was a change in his cabinet – chased from him by the Raja forward his first significant legis- Justice Government formed in T.N. Sivagnanam Pillai became were not up to the weight that I lation – the representation of 1921 was elected by a limited Minister in place of K.V. Reddy they were originally claimed to non-Brahmins in Government franchise and that the real ex- Rao Naidu. With Patro being the be. By then the third general jobs. Piloted in the Council in ecutive powers continued to vest other member, the combination elections were due in Madras. August 1921, this was to be hotly with the Governor and the bu- of names led to a widespread joke Conferred a knighthood by the debated, with members such as reaucracy. In such a scenario, – Pana(n)gal (toddy) in a Patro Government, the Raja of B. Srinivasa Rao and L.A. not much was expected of (vessel) led to Sivagnanam Panagal chose his trusted lieu- Govindaraghava Aiyar opposing Ramarayaningar and his cabinet (bliss). The new cabinet faced its tenant O. Thanigachalam it and others such as R.K. of two members, these being first challenge almost immedi- Chettiar to be his lawyer in what Shanmukham Chetty staunchly Kurma Venkata Reddy Rao ately when a section of the Jus- became known as the Raja of in favour. The Government’s Naidu, in charge of Develop- tice legislators, led by Panagal case. The election cam- Law Member, A.R. Knapp had to ment, and Aneppu Parasuram- Cattamanchi Ramalinga Reddy, paign was intense and resulted in repeatedly intervene and work Naduvakkarai ...... to Anna Nagar das Patro who held the portfolios broke away and formed the no party acquiring a majority in Ramarayaningar when he was the out a compromise. The net result of Education and Public Works. United Nationalist Party. They the Legislature. Panagal chose to Chief Minister of Madras. was the famed Communal GO by nna Nagar had its begin- Fair or know little about it or The Indian International Air-India, a major Govern- But he and his colleagues did tabled a no-confidence motion sit in the opposition even as Dr. whose terms, 44 per cent of all nings in a suburban village how the locality changed from a Trade and Industries Fair was ment undertaking, highlighted choose to leave behind a lasting The Government moreover sug- against the Panagal Govern- P. Subbaroyan was weaned away A Government jobs were reserved called Naduvakkarai. It was silent village to a most sought af- scheduled to open in 1967 but its pavilion with a large, Mughal legacy. gested that the cost of maintain- ment. With the redoubtable ora- by the Swaraj Party and made to for non-Brahmins, 16 per cent called Mullam village and is still ter residential and commercial was inaugurated on January 21, style dome. The pavilion was Law & Order was one of the ing peace ought to be borne by tor S. Satyamurti also in the cobble together a coalition gov- for each of three groups – Brah- referred to as that by the Land area. It is important to know 1968. The Fair was organised by open on all four sides, giving visi- key portfolios that the Governor the residents of the locality. The Council as a Swaraj Party mem- ernment of sorts. mins, Muslims and Christians and Revenue Department. about such catalysts which trig- the All India Manufacturers’ tors an unrestricted view of their kept to his Executive Council. Justice Party immediately sent ber, the debate on the motion In the meanwhile, the case (inclusive of Anglo Indians) – In the early 1950s, the village ger development. So, this docu- Organisation with the aim of miniature display and the Maha- The elected Government was out a delegation to study the was lively, his wits being pitted concerning the emeralds went against speakers such as Panagal on. The defendant had the for- of Naduvakkarai had a truly ru- mentation is the history of to- showing India’s industrial devel- rajah with his hostesses. therefore not technically respon- ral flavour, with a serene river morrow and what is relative to opment since Independence and The Railways’ display was one sible for maintenance of public and O. Thanigachalam Chettiar. midable Nugent Grant as his The motion was defeated – the lawyer. Despite his exalted sta- (Cooum) flowing nearby. time. offer foreign business opportuni- of the biggest attractions at the peace, which was at that time * * * Nays leading 65 over the Ayes tus, Panagal chose to appear in Naduvakkarai was between ties to open new industries in In- Fair. They had on view locomo- disrupted owing to a prolonged G by Sriram V In the early 1950s, the village 44. court and submit himself to a and Cooum-karai. dia. The theme was: ‘Prosperity tives, engines and a model rail- strike in the Buckingham and of Naduvakkarai had a truly ru- The new Government fo- grilling cross-examination by The area was also called through Partnership”. way network. Their mini-rail Carnatic (B&C) Mills, ral flavour, with paddy fields and cused on reforms in education. It Grant. The key witness was Pro- Mullukadu and vellankadu – It was planned to be the larg- train, which covered a part of the . The management, a serene river flowing nearby. passed the Madras University fessor N.G. Ranga, later to be- based on the thorny bushes est international trade fair in fair grounds, passed this open with the active connivance of situation and this resulted in an and 8 per cent for what would One of the earliest house, was Act that reorganised the func- come a respected parliamentar- which flourished. Asia. Approximately two dozen display on its round. the Government (read Governor adjournment motion in the Leg- today be referred to as Scheduled Rukmani Nilayam, opposite tioning of that body. It saw to the ian and representative of agrar- Anna Nagar was developed Public Sector Industries (apart The gently curved dome of and Council), resorted to divi- islative Council, brought forward Castes and Tribes. Widely re- today’s Anna Adarsh School. creation of a Governing Body, ian interests in free India. The by the Tamil Nadu Housing from 11 Ministries) participated, the Atomic Energy Establish- sive tactics by appealing to the by O. Thanigachalam Chettiar, ported then as a pioneering at- During the early 1960’s, the headed by the Governor as case ended in the acquittal of Board in the early 1960s. The along with State Governments ment sheltered a simple, infor- Adi Dravidas among the workers a leading member of the Party. tempt at social reform, it is con- industrial estates in and Chancellor, the Minister for Murugesa Mudaliar. Board developed residential and a large number of private mative display which reminded who broke away from the Unions Actively supported by sidered today to be the first step started to develop and Education as Pro-Chancellor It was during his tenure as plots, apartments, commercial sector industries. you of the consequences of push- and reported for duty. The Mills Ramarayaningar, the motion, in inclusivity in the whole of In- people from all over the State and the creation of the office of a Prime Minister that the long complexes, wide roads, school The foreign participants were ing the button. were re-opened but at an enor- which censured the Government dia. The bill as originally pro- zones, bus terminals and large began to move in. That was mainly the East European Com- Situated close by was the full-time Vice Chancellor. In pending proposal to drain the Based on a booklet, mous toll – the Adi Dravida – chiefly the Labour Commis- posed by O Thanigachalam when the Housing Board was 1925, the Andhra University Long Tank of and de- parks. The Government and the munist bloc countries led by the fertiliser industry’s pavilion, a colonies surrounding the Mills sioner and his staff in the han- Chettiar stipulated such reserva- constituted, to regulate the situ- Naduvakkarai to Anna Act was also passed. The same velop it as a residential area Board initiated subsidised devel- U.S.S.R. West Germany was the replica of a South Indian temple. were gutted, the police resorted dling of the issue – was passed by tion for a period of seven years, ation and to provide necessary Nagar – The story of Anna year, Panagal was greatly instru- gained ground. Panagal and his opment schemes which made only Western representative. Inside were shown the uses of to firing and there was loss of life. an overwhelming majority. till equality was achieved. Its housing facilities. Then the first Nagar, brought out by mental in the setting up of the ministers ensured that the work people choose Anna Nagar de- The U.S.S.R. and the East Euro- various fertilisers. A tribute to subsequent history has been dif- spite its deserted outlook and si- step, a land use survey of the Thirupurasundari Sevvel, pean countries displayed a vari- the gods for the year’s plentiful ferent, as is well known. lent nature. They also took steps Naduvakkarai area, was taken. for Nam Veedu, Nam Oor, ety of machines. Thailand was harvest. Ramarayaningar then began to make people move in with During the initial layout itself, Nam Kadhai Group. the Asian entrant and displayed In the private sector, Binny’s taking steps to implement an- ease and made sure the hesita- the space for the Industrial Fair her culture and relatively new pyramid won acclaim for its well- other of his pet reforms – the ad- tion, which was due to fear, was was provided. exports. designed interior. CHENNAI HERITAGE ministration of temples and overcome. The Indian Interna- An integrated system of hous- There were a lot of subsidies Among the participants from EID-Parry had on display an Hindu religious establishments. No. 5, Bhattad Tower, 30, Westcott Road, tional Trade and Industries Fair ing, meant for all classes, was ini- given for the buyers, which en- India, Maharashtra with its large automatic sweet wrapping ma- These were at that time mostly Royapettah, Chennai 600 014 (1968), which was held at the lo- tiated, possibly for the first time abled the dreams of lots of industrial base, had the best pa- chine and some of its latest vitre- under the control of mahant-s, cality, was one of the catalysts in the country. The Board devel- people, who wanted to buy af- vilion. Inside was a web of small ous waxes. I am already on your mailing list (Mailing List No...... ) / I adeenam-s and other pontiffs. that triggered the development oped residential plots, apart- fordable dwelling, to materialise. booths and stalls displaying a Bata’s stall resembled a zoo have just seen Madras Musings and would like to receive it The shrines owned vast tracts of of the area. ments, commercial complexes, Areas that expanded after the large number of consumer items with painted animals holding the hereafter. land and most of these were Following the Trade Fair, wide roads, school zones, bus ter- formation of the initial 1970 lay- manufactured in the State. Company’s shoes in their paws. G poorly handled, resulting in very I/We enclose cheque/demand draft/money order for more people were drawn towards minals and large parks, besides a outs do not follow the standard Mysore’s display in an impres- The transport to the grounds low or no revenues. Ramaraya- Rs. 100 (Rupees One hundred) payable to CHENNAI the locality and development bathroom and toilet in each and nomenclature. sive pavilion was considered sec- gained a lot of international at- HERITAGE, MADRAS, as subscription to Madras ningar suggested the setting up of gained momentum. However, a every household. This was where ond only to Maharashtra’s. tention in magazines. It was with Musings for the year 2014-15. a Hindu Religious Endowments lot of people are not aware of the the first exhaust fans were used. The roof of the Gujarat pavil- two very unusual Leyland buses Board and by end 1921, this too * * * G ion appeared to have been made specially ordered by State Trans- As token of my support for the causes of heritage, was approved by the Legislative environment and a better city that Madras Musings of numerous miniature flying port. One was an open-top Council. The forerunner of Firsts in saucers anchored to the earth. double-decker seating 66, the espouses, I send Chennai Heritage an additional today’s HR&CE department of began in right earnest. Work Chetty. Its focal point, developed Amongst the Ministries of the other was a single-deck bus with Rs...... (Rupees the Government, it saw the Anna Nagar would continue for long but by as a park, was named after Government of India, the Minis- its body shaped like a picturesque ...... ) wholesale takeover of all temple then Panagal was dead. He Panagal and eventually came to School: Valliammal School try of Commerce had a pavilion Kashmiri houseboat. It had a ca- Please keep/put me on your mailing list. and mutt administrations. College: Kandasamy College passed away on December 15, house an exquisite bronze statue shared by a number of agencies, pacity of 50 people. Name : ...... Ramarayaningar’s sentiments be- Supermarket: Chintamani 1928, much mourned by all. The of his by M.S. Nagappa, alas now including the State Trading Cor- Most engineering industries, hind the move were laudable and Temple: Makali Amman and Address: ...... Long Tank would eventually coated with gilt (as would have poration of India. The STC dis- both public and private, dis- received wholehearted support Chandramouleswaran ...... give way to T(heyagaroya) been seen in older picture last played numerous varieties of wigs played either too much or too from the Paramacharya of Church: St. Lukes All cheques to ‘Chennai Heritage’. DD/Cheque should be sent by Nagar, named after Panagal’s fortnight). Mosque: Masjid Javed made from human hair obtained little. However, the Fair was one Kanchi but its subsequent imple- Speed Post only. mentor Sir Pitty Theagaroya Bus stage: Blue Star from temples in South India. mentation has been a mixed The planned residential area Panagal dreamed of. (Concluded) (Continued on page 6) 6 MADRAS MUSINGS August 1-15, 2016 A poem for today (Current Affairs questions are from the period July 1st to 15th. G This little known poem by Rudyard Kipling was re- So ’twas built, and Allah blessed it; and, through earthquake, Questions 11 to 20 pertain to Chennai and Tamil Nadu.) cently read out for a small gathering of best lover’s flood, and sword, 1. According to the Union Ministry meeting for breakfast. It struck me – and others – as Still the bridge his Viceroy builded throws her arch o’er Akbar’s of Tourism’s latest report on domes- being so very appropriate for our times in Madras and Ford! tic and foreign tourist visits to States elsewhere. and Union Territories for the year Rudyard Kipling 2015, which State is on top? – The Editor 2. Apart from Chandigarh, which two Indian ‘properties’ were Akbar’s Bridge inscribed this year as World Heri- Jelaludin Muhammed Akbar, guardian of mankind, tage Sites by the UNESCO? Moved his standards out of Delhi to Jaunpore of lower Hind, 3. After whom is the Mhow Rail- Where a mosque was to be builded, and a lovelier ne’er was planned; way Station in Madhya Pradesh And Munim Khan, his Viceroy, slid the drawings ’neath his hand. NADUVAKKARAI going to be re-named? (Hint: A Bharat Ratna awardee.) (High as Hope upsheered her towers to the promised Heavens above. TO ANNA NAGAR 4. Where in the capital did BJP Deep as Faith and dark as Judgment her unplumbed foundations President Amit Shah unveil the dove. world’s largest charkha (spinning (Continued from page 5) wheel) recently? Wide as Mercy, white as moonlight, stretched her forecourts to the known as the Visveswaraya 5. Which Rio-bound gymnast be- dawn; of the catalysts which triggered Tower. comes the first Indian to secure And Akbar gave commandment, ‘Let it rise as it is drawn.’) the development of the locality. Shanthi Colony 4th Avenue the World Class Gymnast award, It drew attention and brought and the Anna Arch are the two ‘Gymnaste de Classe Mondaile’ Then he wearied – the mood moving—of the men and things he light to the area. main landmarks people relate to awarded by the Federation ruled, * * * when finding their way in Anna Internationale de Gymnastique And he walked beside the Goomti while the flaming sunset cooled, In the 1970’s, after the Fair, Nagar. 4th avenue was called (FIG)? Simply, without mark or ensign – singly, without guard or guide, there were not many takers ini- Shanthi Colony because it was 6. Which former RBI Governor’s And he heard an angry woman screeching by the riverside. tially due to the deserted ap- conceived as a typical residen- recently released memoirs Who pearance of the area. Circulars tial area with silence and seren- moved my interest rate? has created were sent to all government of- ity prevailing. After the starting a stir? ’Twas the Widow of the Potter, a virago feared and known, In haste to cross the ferry, but the ferry-man had gone. ficials, inviting them to buy of commercialisation in the late 7. Operation ‘Sankat Mochan’ plots. Government and the 1980s, lots of houses in Shanthi initiated recently rescued more So she cursed him and his office, and hearing Akbar’s tread, than 150 stranded Indians from (She was very old and darkling) turned her wrath upon his head. Board offered several subsidy Colony were converted into which country in Africa because and development schemes en- shops, which is the case in other of a civil war there? But he answered – being Akbar – ‘Suffer me to scull you o’er.’ ticing people to choose this parts of Anna Nagar too. 8. In a first-of-its-kind move in Called her ‘Mother,’ stowed her bundles, worked the clumsy scow West Madras neighbourhood The general character of 40 the country, which State has de- from shore, despite its desolate appearance. per cent of the independent cided to impose ‘fat tax’ of 14.5% Till they grounded on a sand-bank, and the Widow loosed her mind; One of the main attractions houses in Anna Nagar is sloped on ‘junk’ food such as burgers, piz- And the stars stole out and chuckled at the Guardian of Mankind. was the Panchsheel Tower roofs, with bands and grand fa- zas etc. sold through branded res- (presently called the Anna cades. The man behind the ris- taurants? ‘Oh, most impotent of bunglers! Oh, my daughter’s daughter’s brood, Nagar tower) from which a pan- ing of these buildings is Vergis 9. By winning her 22nd Grand Slam Waiting hungry on the threshold for I cannot bring their food, oramic view of the fair-site Oomen, an architect, who was singles Wimbledon title, whose could be seen for less than a ru- a resident of Anna Nagar in record did Serena Williams equal? Till a fool has learned his business at their virtuous grandam’s cost, And a greater fool, our Viceroy, trifles while her name is lost! pee. The Anna Nagar tower early 1970s and designed and 10. Name the spacecraft that be- used to give people the excite- built his house near Rountana. came the first to enter Jupiter’s ment of going up the ramp to People who were attracted by orbit and circle the giant planet ‘Munim Khan, that Sire of Asses, sees me daily come and go on July 5th. As it suits a drunken boatman, or this ox who cannot row. the summit and, from there, the design and its uniqueness getting a splendid view of the contacted him and he built Munim Khan, the Owl’s Own Uncle – Munim Khan, the * * * open green around and also the their houses; he is the architect 11. Where in the State will the first Capon’s seed, distant LIC ‘skyscraper’ on who has designed most of the squadron of the indigenous LCA Must build a mosque to Allah when a bridge is all we need! Mount Road. This 138 feet independent residential build- Tejas, that was inducted recently (42 m) tall is now officially ings in Anna Nagar. into the IAF, have its base? ‘Eighty years I eat oppression and extortion and delays– 12. Why was Enayam, near Snake and crocodile and fever – flood and drouth, beset my ways. Colachel, in the news recently? But Munim Khan must tax us for his mosque whate’er befall; Ode to Anna Nagar 13. Which temple in the State is Allah knowing (May He hear me!) that a bridge would save us all!’ among the 10 iconic places that Once there was a little village called Naduvakkarai, will enjoy a cleaning drive under For it was near the coovum karai; a new initiative by the Swachh While she stormed that other laboured and, when they touched the Bharat Mission? shore, It was quiet, it was calm, 14. Name the ‘Sister City’ of Laughing brought her on his shoulder to her hovel’s very door. People settled there for it charm; Chennai in China. But his mirth renewed her anger, for she thought he mocked the 15. Which Governor was respon- weak; But a few thought it was dark and dull, sible for introducing the Black- So she scored him with her talons, drawing blood on either cheek... There came the fair which brought the lights; buck to the Guindy National There was the village, now with new houses here and there, Park in 1924? Jelaludin Muhammed Akbar, Guardian of Mankind, With spaces for schools, shops and places of worship, 16. Which now bustling area in Spoke with Munim Khan his Viceroy, ere the midnight stars Chennai was once called ‘Dina- declined— After three decades of existence, chintamani-Chaturvedi- There came the rush of commercialisation mangalam’ during the reign of Girt and sworded, robed and jewelled, but, on either cheek Kulothunga I (1070–1120 A.D.)? appeared Lots of houses came down for flats and shops 17. Which educational institu- Four shameless scratches running from the turban to the beard. Yet few houses remained with the test of time; tion began as the Madras Trades School, set up by the Depart- ‘Allah burn all Potters’ Widows! Yet, since this same night was Prices shot up like rockets, ment of Industries, in 1912? young, No more open plots to play cricket; 18. What was the profession of One has shown me by sure token, there was wisdom on her Roja Muthiah Chettiar after And now the silence is all gone, whom a library is named? tongue. All the plots are built and done; 19. What is at present located on Yes, I ferried her for hire. Yes,’ he pointed, ‘I was paid.’ And he told the tale rehearsing all the Widow did and said. Now grown like a city itself, the site of Popham’s Market set With everything available in its shelf: up in the 1780s? 20. What is the claim to fame of And he ended, ‘Sire of Asses – Capon – Owl’s Own Uncle – know It has a unique sense of place, Nathamuni and Govindu after I – most impotent of bunglers – I – this ox who cannot row Only experienced by the people who grew up there whom there are streets named in I – Jelaludin Muhammed Akbar, Guardian of Mankind – T’Nagar? Bid thee build the hag her bridge and put our mosque from out thy In Naduvaakkarai or Anna Nagar, (Answers on page 12) mind.’ Whatever it’s called. August 1-15, 2016 MADRAS MUSINGS 7

August 9 (Tuesday), 2016 Walk: Butterfly Walk 2.15 p.m. Madras Please bring along binoculars & cameras Adyar Poonga Organised by the Madras Naturalists’ Society Group Size: 20 Week ’16 For registration: Vijay at strictly on [email protected] first-come basis. Events: August 5-28 August 10 (Wednesday), 2016 Quiz: INTACH Heritage Quiz Alumni Club, August 5 (Friday), 2016 for students from classes 7-10 Organised by INTACH in teams of two. Chennai Chapter Discussion: Discussion forum on the Duly filled in Email : [email protected] Registration: 9 a.m. City’s Heritage will be conducted at registration forms MEASI Academy of Architecture, Royapettah. to be sent by email to August 13-31, 2016 Students from city colleges will discuss heritageforum2016@ Exhibition: Ancient temples of Madras. An Kadambari Gallery the importance of Cultural Heritage in gmail.com exhibition of paintings curated by Gandhirajan. DakshinaChitra today’s context and strategies to promote Organised by INTACH Heritage-based urban development. Chennai Chapter August 13 (Saturday), 2016 Talk: Temples in the Chennai Area by 11 a.m. August 6 (Saturday), 2016 Dr. Chitra Madhavan Madras Literary Walk: Stories on the Run – 6 a.m.-8 a.m. Non-members of MLS: Rs 50 per person Society a running trail by the sea. Reporting venue: Lecture: Chennai: From 11 am-1 pm Mode: Slow jog, with plenty of stops Gandhi statue, Metropolis to Megapolis: Challenges to followed by lunch along the way. Distance covered on foot: Policing by R.K. Raghavan, IPS (RETD) ORF-Chennai Approx 6 km (return by train). Max. capacity: Organised by Observer Research Conference Hall To register: Write to [email protected], 30 PAX Foundation (Chennai Chapter) Ph: 9940040215. Organised by Storytrails. Registration free. Note: Email confirmation mandatory 3-5 days Things to bring along: water bottles, running in advance. [email protected] shoes, cap Choral: Singing performance by Madras Literary Lecture: Chennai: From Metropolis 11 am-1 pm Nalanda, a group of underprivileged children Society to Megapolis: Infrastructure followed by Lunch trained by Sriram Ayyar. Non-members 3 p.m. Requirements & Deficiencies ORF-Chennai of MLS: Rs 50 per person by G. Devasahayam, IAS (RETD) Conference Hall Organised by Observer Research August 14 (Sunday), 2016 Foundation (Chennai Chapter) Heritage trails: Lanes of Aminjikarai 6:30 a.m.-7:30 a.m. Note: Those not already on ORF Mail list, email confirmation mandatory Organised by Nam Oor, Nam Veedu, Starting point: for participation, between three and five days before each event (not in Nam Kadhai opposite Lakshmi advance, nor later) : [email protected] Registration: [email protected] Theatre Booklet Release: Chennai Yogis’ 11.00 am -12.00 noon. Tree Walk: Marina. Organised by Nizhal 8-9 a.m. Cycling in Madras (1877-1977). A first ever Hotel Ibis Register online http://bit.ly/29CT9LO Marina, opposite attempt to trace 100 years of cycling in the PWD building city. Chief Guest: Kalyanam, Personal Tree Walk: Museum 4.30 p.m.-5.30 p.m. Secretary to Mahatma Gandhi Organised by Nizhal Parking lot Register online http://bit.ly/29CT9LO WALK: Food Trail – August 6, 20, 27 To register: Write to [email protected] 4 p.m.-6 p.m. Heritage Walk: . Free registration Ph: 9940040215 Mode: walk Reporting venue: Email :[email protected] Organised by INTACH Distance covered on foot: approx. 2 km Chinnakadai Chennai Chapter Organised by Storytrails. Mariamman August 15 (Monday), 2016 Things to bring along: Temple, South Mint Tree Walk: Tree Park. 4.30 p.m.-5.30 p.m. comfortable walking footwear Street, George Town, Organised by Nizhal River View Road Chennai. Register online http://bit.ly/29CT9LO Kotturpuram Max. capacity: 8 PAX Registration free August 18 (Thursday), 2016 Play session: An Evening of Traditional Ashvita Bistro Heritage Clubs’ Meet: Annual Intach Heritage Club Meet to Games conducted by Kreeda in interact, exchange ideas to make Heritage Club partnership with Ashvita Events activities meaningful. Each Heritage Club to make a Details: [email protected] four-minute Power Point presentation on its record of the past academic year and for the Kreeda is an organisation that has been working for over 15 years in current academic year. All schools to send up to researching, developing and reviving traditional games of India. Kreeda five Heritage Club student representatives along has a whole range of games from short solitaire ones played with locally with their respective teacher and club coordinator(s) available materials to sophisticated board games focusing on strategy as to participate in the programme. well as complex games of dice. A prime focus of Kreeda is to research Agenda and document all the information that can be collected on traditional 8.00 a.m.-8.30 a.m. : Registration. games. Kreeda believes that these traditional games cut across all ages 8.30 a.m.-10.30 a.m : Competition – Role Play on Icons of and boundaries making them fun whether you are young or old, rich or Chennai with a tea break poor, educated or not. For more information, log on to 10.30 a.m.-11.30 a.m. : Presentation by schools (4 minutes each) www.kreedagames.com. Kreeda has planned a whole series of events to 11.30 a.m.-12.30 p.m. : Film by INTACH, discussion and wrap up of celebrate Madras Week. The events all focus on games that have been annual agenda. played in Madras through the ages and attempt to interweave games 12.30 p.m.-1.00 p.m. : Prize distribution for Essay and Role Play together with various aspects of life in Chennai. competitions. August 7 (Sunday), 2016 August 19 (Friday), 2016 Heritage trails: Experiencing the 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm Exhibition: An exhibition on Tirukkural Madras Literary community dwellings of . Starting point: by architect Dhana. Non-members of Society 11 a.m. Organised by Nam Veedu, Nam Oor, Pezhalwar Street MLS: Rs. 50 per person Nam Kadhai. Registration: and temple junction August 19, (Wednesday) 2016 [email protected] (next to temple car) Talk: Chennai History through Church 5.30-6.30 p.m. Architectural styles by Dr. Amaladass Anand Dhyana Ashram

NOTE: Limited seating/registration at all venues/events on first-come, first-served basis, but terms apply Not open to all. Only for members and guests. Check www.themadrasday.in and Madras Week App for up-to-date programmes. Promotion and Publicity: PRISM Public Relations. 8 MADRAS MUSINGS August 1-15, 2016

August 20, (Wednesday) 2016 August 21 (Sunday) 2016 Talk: Jesuit Participation in Chennai history 5.30-6.30 p.m. Heritage Ride: Madras Day Heritage Ride Start: 5.00 a.m. by Dr. Amaladass Anand Dhyana Ashram to Sadras Fort. Organised by Cycling Yogis Finish:12.00 noon The ride will start from the city and reach Registration is August 20-21, 2016 Sadras Fort. The return will conclude at compulsory for all Exhibition: Anna Nagar 10 a.m.-6 p.m. DakshinaChitra Heritage Museum on ECR the participants. Nam Veedu, Nam Oor, Nam Kadhai request Road. There will be a Medal Distribution For more information a venue in Anna Nagar (school or auditorium Ceremony and talk on ‘Cycling in Madras please contact: or a hall – for the two days). 1877-1977’ followed by special edition Ramanujar Moulana Email: [email protected]; My Stamp release on S.Muthiah Ph: 9884023123 phone: 00-91-9840495717 (Chronicler of Chennai) or log on to www. at the Finish Point (DakshinaChitra) facebook.com/ August 20 (Saturday), 2016 cyclingyogis/groups Walk: British Blueprints 6 a.m.-8 a.m. Helmet is mandatory. Please wear bright coloured clothing to enhance 1 – Lighthouse to War Memorial Reporting venue: visibility. The ride is free of cost and has no registration fees. You are Mode: walk. Distance covered on foot: Gandhi statue, responsible for your own safety. Obey all the traffic rules. The road will approx 3 km Marina beach not be closed for the event. Ride route is subject to last minute To register: Write to [email protected], Maximum capacity: changes. Ph: 9940040215. Organised by Storytrails 30 PAX Things to bring comfortable Registration free. Walk: British Blueprints 2 – Beach Station 6 a.m.-8 a.m. walking footwear, cap to Fort. Reporting venue: Mode: walk. Distance covered on foot: Beach Station, Walk: Bird Walk at Tank 6.30 a.m. approx 3 km North exit Please bring along binoculars & cameras Bus stand opp IT Park To register: Write to [email protected], Maximum capacity: Organised by the Madras Naturalists’ Society near Toll Plaza in Ph: 9940040215. Organised by Storytrails 30 PAX For registration: Vijay at Perumbakkam Things to bring along: water bottles, Registration free. [email protected] Group Size: 25 comfortable walking footwear, cap strictly on first-come basis. Walk: Nature Walk at backwaters 6.30 a.m. Walk for the diffabled: The City and 10 a.m-12.30 p.m. Please bring along binoculars & cameras Bridge on OMR-ECR its Cinema - an accessible excursion. Starting point: Organised by the Madras Naturalists’ Society link road at An introduction to the fascinating history Entrance gate of For registration: Vijay at Kelambakkam of cinema in Chennai followed by a walk L.V. Prasad Academy, [email protected] Group Size: 25 across Prasad Studios and Prasad Labs. strictly on Lead:. Venkatesh Chakravarthy, Rs,200 per person, first-come basis. Regional Director of L.V. Prasad Film & towards travel charges Walk: Naduvakkarai to Anna Nagar 7 a.m.-8 a.m. TV Academy Organised by Nam Oor, Nam Veedu, Starting point: Last date for registration: 10th August, 2016. Nam Kadhai Tower Park – Ayyapan Organised by Explore Differently Registration: [email protected] temple side entrance (www.facebook.com/exploredifferently) Tree Walk: . 8-9 a.m. Explore Differently works on building ways to offer options for an Register online http://bit.ly/29CT9LO Nandanam Extn. accessible outdoor exploration for persons with disability and wheelchair Organised by Nizhal outside Boston School users. Madras Week gives us a great opportunity to include a few walks that are designed to welcome persons with disability and wheelchair Play session: Games from Chennai 10 a.m.-6 p.m. users. Participation welcome from wheelchair users and persons with – A display and play session conducted The Folly, Amethyst, disabilities and possibly their family members (if they wish to accompany). by Kreeda in partnership with Amethyst Opp Satyam Cinema Also a small number of individuals without disabilities. Arrangements for For information: [email protected] accessible transport (a bus that has a facility to lift wheelchairs) and portable ramps will be made by Explore Differently. We will also have a Walk: On the trail of the British Raj (for kids) 10 a.m.-12 Noon special educator to overcome hurdles in communication. We do To register: Write to [email protected] Reporting venue: Fort understand that most of the walks under Madras Day celebration are free Ph: 9940040215 Organised by Storytrails Museum entrance of costs. But as we will be arranging for custom transportation and a Things to bring along: water bottles, cap Max. capacity: 25 PAX special educator, we need to charge only to cover expenses. Participants Age group: 7-11 years who make their own arrangements will not be charged. Registration free Lecture: Chennai: From Metropolis to 11 am-1 pm Walk: A tour of the Bronze Gallery, 11am- 1pm. Megapolis: Demography and Social followed by lunch Madras Government Museum, Egmore Rs. 300 per Mobility by Sujatha Natarajan, ORF-Chennai led by Dr Chithra Madhavan, Historian registration Patron and ex-President, Conference Hall To register, contact Organised by Family Planning Association of India [email protected] Namma Mylapore Organised by Observer Research Storytelling: Madras Nalla Madras – 1.30 - 2.30 pm Foundation (Chennai Chapter) a storytelling feast by Jeeva Raghunath. The Spice Jar Note: Email confirmation mandatory 3-5 days in advance. Organised by Kathai Kalatta. restaurant, [email protected] Residency Hotel Talk: Talk by architect Dhana on Tirukkural. Madras Literary Non members of MLS: Rs. 50 per person Society 11 a.m. Talk: Chennai Heritage Lecture: Hotel Maris S. Anwar – Madras under the Golconda Sultans 6.30 p.m.-8 p.m. Talk: Palaeolithic cultures 3 p.m. Talk: Traditional Games from Chennai – 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. of Madras by Dr. Jinu Koshy, DakshinaChitra What they tell us about ourselves by The Folly, Amethyst, Department of Ancient History & Archaeology, Vinita Sidhartha of Kreeda at The Folly, . For information: [email protected] Talk: Historical temple art 3.30 p.m. in Madras by K.T. Gandhirajan, DakshinaChitra Resource person, Tamil Virtual Academy. August 22-28, 2016 Art Show: CWA Art Show 2016: Lalith Kala Akademi, Talk: Contemporary art in Chennai by 4 p.m. Chennai Weekend Artists are conducting Inauguration: August Vaishnavi Ramanathan DakshinaChitra an art show displaying around 300 art 22, 5.30 p.m. Launch: Memories of Madras – A card game 6 p.m.-8 p.m. works of Chennai on location drawings Contact: Muralidharan celebrating Madras City followed by a quiz Odyssey, Adyar and paintings. Show includes public Alagar 9840082098 and a game session in association with participation also. Inauguration by Odyssey and produced by Kreeda with eminent artists of Tamil Nadu. guidance from S.Muthiah Exhibition: Prize-winning Madras AFM Gallery For information: [email protected] photographs from Alliance Francaise Contest August 1-15, 2016 MADRAS MUSINGS 9

August 22 (Monday), 2016 Storytelling: Madras Nalla Madras – 4.30 - 5.30 pm Play Session: Never too old to play – A 3 p.m.-7 p.m. a storytelling feast by Jeeva Raghunath. Shiva Parvathi play session for senior citizens conducted Old is Gold Store, Organised by Kathai Kalatta. Gardens by Kreeda in partnership with the Old is Gold Opp. Kohinoor Talk: Chennai Heritage Lecture: The Park Hyatt Stores. For information: info@kreedagames. Asiana, V. Mohan Raman – Madras Bhashai in 6.30 p.m.-8 p.m. com /[email protected] Semmenchery Lecture: Digging the Past : 5.30 p.m. August 27 (Saturday) 2016 ArchaeologyNorms, Practices and RMRL, Taramani Heritage Walk: Marudheeswarar Temple – 7 a.m.-7.45 am Legislations in India and The U.S.A. and games thrown in! At spot entrance by Dr. S. Suresh, State Convenor, Tiruvanmiyur in 7-8th Century to temple opposite Tamil Nadu Chapter, INTACH Pradeep Chakravarthy with Vinita Sidhartha the temple tank and Organised by Roja Muthiah Research Library of Kreeda. Registration: facing the beach Talk: Chennai Heritage Lecture: Hotel Crowne Plaza [email protected] (NOT the one on ECR) Vijay Kumar – Busting the idol racket (Adyar Park) Walk: Steeple Chase 8 a.m-11 a.m. 6.30 p.m.-8 p.m. Walk through Chennai’s Christian Reporting venue: August 23 (Tuesday), 2016 history and stories. Storytrails office, 21/2 Forum discussion: Traditional Games 10 a.m-12.30 p.m. To register: Write to [email protected], TTK Road, 1st Cross from Chennai – Their impact on the Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Ph: 9940040215 Organised by Storytrails Sriram Nagar, Chennai development of special children. Nataga Manram, Things to bring along: water bottles, 600 018. Rasa in partnership with Kreeda Chennai 600028 comfortable walking footwear, caps Max. capacity: For information: [email protected] Mode: Tempo Traveller 10 PAX Play session : Traditional Games 2 p.m-4 p.m. Registration fee: Free for special children Tamil Nadu Eyal Isai Lecture: Chennai: From 11 am-1 pm Kreeda in partnership with Rasa Nataga Manram, Metropolis to Megapolis: Psychology of a followed by lunch For information: [email protected] Chennai 600028 Changing Social Fabric by Dr. Ravi ORF-Chennai Talk: Chennai Heritage Lecture: Chamiers Samuel, PhD, Psychotherapist. Organised Conference Hall Sadanand Menon – 6.30 p.m.-8 p.m. Observer Research Foundation (Chennai Chapter) Chandralekha and the Chennai connect Note: Email confirmation mandatory 3-5 days in advance. [email protected] August 24, (Wednesday) 2016 Recital: Chennaiyil Gnanaratnam, a recital Madras Literary Play session: Never too old to play – A 3 p.m.-7 p.m. and play on Bharati and Chennai. Society 11 a.m. play session for senior citizens conducted Old is Gold Store, by Kreeda in partnership with the Old is Gold No. 53, 1st Main Road Storytelling: Tales of Madrasapattinam Madras Literary Stores. For information: info@kreedagames. Indira Nagar by Jeeva Raghunath of Kathai Kalatta. Society 3 p.m. com /[email protected] Storytelling: Madras Nalla Madras – 4 pm Lecture: South Indian Languages during 5.30 p.m. a storytelling feast by Jeeva Raghunath. DPI Library Colonial rule – History and growth RMRL, Organised by Kathai Kalatta. by K.R.A. Narasiah Talk & Demo – Lecture and 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Organised by Roja Muthiah Research Library Demonstration of Ancient Temple Games Apparao Galleries Talk: Chennai Heritage Lecture: The Hyatt Regency presented by Apparao Galleries in The Leela Palace Gopalkrishna Gandhi on 6.30 p.m.-8 p.m. association with The Leela Palace. Some personalities of this City Chitra Madhavan in conversation with Vinita Sidhartha of Kreeda; Lakshmi Talk: Dr. Crispin Branfoot, South Asian British Council Srinath / TVAM and Kreeda will translate Art & Archaeology expert from SOAS, 6.00 p.m. traditional games in the demonstration; University of London. Organised by INTACH For information: [email protected] and Association of British Scholars Talk: Chennai Heritage Lecture: Hanu Reddy August 25 (Thursday) 2016 R. Mohan – Chennai & Cricket Residences, Walk for the diffabled: Arms Gallery at the 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Poes Garden Government Museum. A look at the amazing Rs,200 per person, 6.30 p.m.-8 p.m. collection of weapons on display, towards travel charges most from the Tanjore armoury. (*See also August Storytelling: Madras Nalla Madras – 7.30 p.m. - 8.30 p.m. Stories and trivia behind them. 20th) a storytelling feast by Jeeva Ragunath. Southern Spice Lead: Rajith Nair. Organised by Kathai Kalatta. restaurant, Last date for registration 16th August, 2016. The Residency Towers Organised by Explore Differently August 28 (Sunday) 2016 (www.facebook.com/exploredifferently) Heritage Walk: Kapaleeswarar temple, 6.30 a.m. -8.30 a.m. Mylapore – History, Art, Architecture Rs. 300 per registration Storytelling: Madras Nalla Madras – 1.30 - 2.30 pm and Traditional Games by Dr. Chithra Organised by a storytelling feast by Jeeva Raghunath. Malgudy Restaurant Madhavan, with Vinita Sidhartha Namma Mylapore Organised by Kathai Kalatta. Hotel Savera of Kreeda. Register: Play session: Never too old to play – A 3 p.m.-7 p.m. [email protected] play session for senior citizens conducted Old is Gold Store, G Lecture: Kizhambur Sankara Subramanian, 10 am at the exhibition by Kreeda in partnership with the Old is Gold AH 247, 1st Street Editor, Kalaimagal. hall of Russian Stores. For information: info@kreedagames. Anna Nagar Organised by Probus Club Cultural Centre com /[email protected] of Chennai. Kasturi Rangan Road, Talk: Chennai Heritage Lecture: Amethyst (Open to members Rosella Stephen and panellists – 6.30 p.m.-8 p.m. and their guests only.) Chennai’s Style Influencers – panel discussion Heritage Walk: Stone Gallery of the Govt 10.30 a.m.-11.30 a.m. August 26 (Friday) 2016 Museum led by Pradeep Chakravarthy. Registration free. Talk: Kapaleeswarar temple, Mylapore – 6.30 a.m.-8.30 a.m. Participants buy their own tickets at the History, Art, Architecture and Traditional Eastern entrance to gate. Registration to Games by Dr. Chithra Madhavan Kapaleeswarar [email protected] by Aug 20, 2016. with Vinita Sidhartha of Kreeda Temple (next to Rs.300/- per person. To register, Giri Trading) Storytelling: Madras Nalla Madras – 1-2 p.m. [email protected] a storytelling feast by Jeeva Raghunath. Aloft Chennai Organised by Kathai Kalatta. Storytelling: Madras Nalla Madras – 1.30 - 2.30 pm a storytelling feast by Jeeva Raghunath. Malgudi Restaurant, Tree Walk: Neer Vanam Chitlappakkam 4.30 p.m.-5.30 p.m. Organised by Kathai Kalatta. Hotel Savera Organised by Nizhal Register online http://bit.ly/29CT9LO Erikkarai Lecture: The Tamil-South Korean Connection 5.30 p.m. by Kyungsoo Kim, Consul General of RMRL, Taramani Talk: Chennai Heritage Lecture: The Park the Republic of Korea in Chennai T.N. Venkatesan, IAS – The Co-Optex Story 5 p.m.-6.30 p.m. Organised by Roja Muthiah Research Library 10 MADRAS MUSINGS August 1-15, 2016

COMPETITIONS

INTER SCHOOL COMPETITIONS (organised by INTACH, Chennai Chapter). Photo Competition: Graffiti Games in Temples / Monuments conducted by Kreeda in partnership with Ashvita Events. Last date for submission: August 1. ROLE PLAY CONTEST (August 6th): 15, 2016. Each school can send a team of up to 8 students to perform a skit for the For more information: [email protected] Role Play Contest on the Icons of Chennai ( 4 minutes each) in English or Tamil. Time: 8.00 a.m. – 10.30 a.m. * * * Venue: A.M.M. Matriculation Higher Secondary School, Kotturpuram. Multimedia Contest for schoolchildren A Powerpoint Presentation contest for city school students to explore Chennai’s Details: [email protected]. heritage Theme: Streetscape of any old part of city. The Powerpoint presentation should be submitted to the organisers on or 2. INTACH INDIA HERITAGE QUIZ – 2016 (City Round) (August 10th) before August 12, 5 pm. E-mail it to: themadrasday@ gmail.com. (Subject line – Madras Day – PP Contest) (Please do not courier the project. Organisers do not Schools are invited for the largest school quiz in India – The INTACH INDIA entertain hand delivered entries!) HERITAGE QUIZ – 2016. The quiz is based on the heritage and culture of India, Students from classes 7th to 10th are eligible to participate in teams of 2. The contest is open to school children studying in classes 8 to 12. A school can The quiz has three rounds - city, State and National. The winning team will send only one team. Each team MUST have 3 members and all 3 members must participate in the State round and the winner of the State round will go on to take turns to make one presentation. participate in the National quiz in Delhi. Choose a street in an old sector of our city which has old houses and buildings (at least 10 of them on either side dating to the 1930s-60s or before). Study the 9:00 a.m. Registration; 9.30 a.m. Written Round; 10.30 a.m. Oral Round streetscape, the local architecture, the nature of houses and residents and the Venue: Alumni Club, Road, R.A. Puram. striking features of this street. Take classy photos, make notes, talk to people in the Details: [email protected] know. The team should retain a copy of its project on a pen-drive or copy it on an electronic * * * device and bring it to the venue of the contest. The organisers will provide a PC and a projector at the venue to help teams make their presentations. The contest is COMPETITIONS organised by Nam Veedu, Nam Oor, Nam Kadhai open to the first 25 teams to register on first-come-first-serve basis. Competitions Results Registration The contest will take place on August 23 from 9.30 am to 3.30 pm with a 30-minute Social history of Anna Nagar: 21st August 2016 Submission on lunch break (you need to bring your lunch!). Venue: Srinivasa Sastri Hall, Luz, Mylapore. (Report at 9 am to download your PP onto our PC). Scrapbook or before The best THREE presentations will be awarded trophies, gifts and certificates. All Power point August 15, 2016 participants will be given certificates. The prizes will be presented at about 3 pm. Prizes will be awarded based on quality of research / presentation of visuals and Competition 1: Make your own social history album/scrap book. Age: 8 to 16 points / presentation format and answers to the questions posed by the judges. (individual) . This event is supported by Mylapore Times, the neighbourhood newspaper, and Start with a 4 generation family tree (minimum), add pictures, plan of your house South India National Association (SINA), Luz. (before and now), write stories, add function invitations, postcards, sketches etc., and how your family moved to Anna Nagar, when? how? why? How your family * * * history is related to Anna Nagar. Photographic Society of Madras (PSM), is holding the ShootMadras There will be prizes and selected works will be displayed at the 2nd Anna Nagar photography contest and later an exhibition. Social History exhibition. There are two sections: 1. Open, and 2. Students. There are three themes: Competition 2: Video or Power Point presentation. Age: 15 and above. No. of 1) My Madras: The photographer’s personal tribute to Chennai, including persons: 2 to 5 typical Chennai views like beaches, towns, eat outs, city life, cityscapes. How your family moved to anna Nagar, when? how? why? How your family history 2) Only in Madras: scenes unique to Madras, be it a modern woman in is related to annanagar. Jeans and tops with jasmine flower on her head or The thenga maanga pattani sundal on the beaches, trade mark autos or ‘flying trains’. Quiz on Anna Nagar. Registration before August 18, 2016. 3) Evolving Madras: New buildings, roads, bridges, flyovers and metro Drawing competition: Junior level, Senior level (topic – on the spot). lines, parallel with structures of yester years. Registration before August 18th 2016. Entries to [email protected] by August 15th, 10 p.m. Maximum two entry per theme, per participant, but in only one of the two sections For details: [email protected]; Phone: 91-98404 95717 Prizes: 6 first, 6 second and 6 third. Special Mentions plus complimentary PSM * * * membership till 31st March 2018 for first and second prize winners. Documentation Contest organised by Kreeda in partnership with Odyssey For details: email: [email protected] Games my Grandparents played / Memories of playing Traditional Games in B Ramana Kumar, Cell: 9841113024 Chennai – Documentation submission conducted by Kreeda in partnership with Odyssey. Last date for submission of entries: August 26th. For information: INTACH FILM ON CHENNAI [email protected] or contact the Odyssey staff Arrange to screen the film “The Story of Madras – The First City of Modern * * * India” brought out by INTACH Chennai Chapter and collected last year by Marvellous Madras photographic competition 2016 organised by many schools. Invite students of neighbouring schools to attend the screening Gingerbread at your premises. The categories for the competition are as follows: The film, of 50 minute duration and in English, could be screened on any 1. Heritage Madras, 2. Contemporary Madras, 3. Lifestyle Madras convenient day during the month of August 2016 to increase the awareness and appreciation among children of the heritage of the city they live in. The entries will be judged by a jury and the selected photographs will be exhibited at Tanishq, Anna Nagar. Each section will get two prizes. Participants can send Details: [email protected]. their entries by email as an attachment to [email protected]. CD please contact Chitra / Saravanan / Lakshmi at 24991696, 24994909, Entries should reach us by 10th of August 2016 midnight. 24983619. Looking forward to hearing from you after screening the film. * * *

SOME VENUE DETAILS

Aloft, Chennai: 102, , OMR - IT Expressway, , Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600119; Alumni Club: Boat Club Road, R.A.Puram, Chennai 600 032; Ashvita Bistro: 11, Bawa Rd, Alwarpet, Chennai, 600018; Observer Research Foundation: Conference Hall, Sixth Floor, A-1 Building, 89, Dr. Radhakrishnan Road, Chennai 600 004; Dhyana Ashram, 25, Madha Church Road, R.A. Puram, Chennai 600 028; DPI Library/Madras Literary Society: College Road, Thousand Lights, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600 006; The Folly, Amethyst: next to Corporation Bank, Whites Road, Royapettah, Chennai 600 014; Hotel Ibis: 689, (Old Anand Theatre), Thousand Lights West, Triplicane, Chennai, 600 006; Odyssey, Adyar, 1st Main Road, Gandhi Nagar, Adyar, Chennai, 600 020. Shiva Parvathi Gardens, 51/55, Seemathamman Koil Street, Mettukuppam Main Road, , Chennai 600 095. August 1-15, 2016 MADRAS MUSINGS 11

The Zoo Story... Part V A dose of nature for urbanites

n 2000, a Zoo School was gered species, wildlife education

Iopened to educate the gen- G by and wildlife research. The first eral public and students about Shobha Menon Population Habitat Viability wildlife and its conservation. Analysis (PHVA) workshop Records show that by 2012-13, held in 1993, was followed by 204 programmes had been con- planned breeding of the Lion- ducted to connect to 22, 230 cies are planned to be added on tailed Macaque (LTM), and Nellikuthra at Wellington Zoo entertaining New Zealand children: photo students from across Tamil – the rhino, king cobra and genetic management of the by John Pascoe (1943). Nellikuthra died of intestinal ulcers in Wellington Nadu. binturong. Environment en- species. The AAZP is currently (NZ) on August 15, 1944. Source: National Library of New Zealand (http:/ /www.natlib.govt.nz/collections) Visitors are screened and richment activities that provide the Coordinating Zoo for the separated politely from all plas- stimulated conditions of animal conservation breeding of the G The P. Subbaroyan Government gifted Nellikuthra, a tic. Littering is an offence, even and bird habitats are an exclu- LTM!” female elephant – to the Wellington Zoological Garden ‘liable for imprisonment’! A sive focus three days in a week.” Successful captive breeding (WZG), New Zealand, in 1927. Nellikuthra was the first website www.aazoopark and Says Zoo Director, KSVVP programmes also include Nilgiri Asian elephant in Australasia, and the WZG website claims illustrative zoo guides add Reddy, I.F.S, “The aim of the langur, Indian rock python, that Nellikuthra, along with three other female Asian value. Deputy Director, K. park is the offsite conservation Bengal tiger, Indian gaur, wild elephants (Maharani, Nirvana, and Kamala), entertained Sudhagar confirms, “More spe- propagation of critically endan- dog, Indian peafowl, jackal, and New Zealanders for long. ostriches! Wildlife biologist A Manimozhi affirms, “Animal exchange programmes have now considered centres whom, contact with biodiversity. And been part and parcel of zoo apart from recreation, have sensitively planned zoos like the Pangolin sighted management programmes, for specific objectives focused on Anna Arignar Zoological Park n a humid Sunday morning in May, we encountered a purpose of infusion of new education, scientific research could provide the recom- Ofull grown adult Pangolin at the Doctor’s road at blood line or pairing of a single and conservation. For many mended dose of nature for the . Initially, when we heard the crunch- animal. However many formali- urban dwellers, zoos represent urban resident. ing dry leaf litter, we thought it should be a monitor lizard or ties have to be cleared before their first and most immediate (Concluded) a feral pig. The moment we took a short turn, we noticed an the actual exchanges happen, armoured animal running directly towards us and, if it had either from within India or not taken a turn, it would definitely had rammed into one of internationally.” With a well Snippets from us. While getting back into cover, it did hid on a small stump equipped veterinary hospital and almost fell down making us burst into laughter. After a from 1985, the AAZP is cur- G In 1997, with the Air Force station located about while, it disappeared. It made another appearance on our rently the only zoo in country 3 km from Arignar Anna Zoological Park facing acute threat trail a few metres ahead of us. It was a moment to cherish, with three full-time vets and from the free ranging deer within their campus; officers and as seeing one in daylight is a dream come true. From the biologists! It is also the only one staff found it difficult to operate the aircrafts at crucial take–off direction of its travel and the sense of urgency and focus, we in South India (of the seven and landing hours. To get over this problem “Operation Deer guessed that the Pangolin was on the way towards the only across India) certified as a Cen- Drive” was carried out by creating a chain link corridor 10 m water source Kaatan Kulam. – (Courtesy: Madras Natural- tre of Excellence by the CZA. wide, 1.3 km long from Tambaram Air Force to Arignar Anna ists’ Society.) – Gnanaskandan K. “For a zoo to be dynamic, Zoological Park. About 325 deer were driven into Arignar Anna Photo: Amirtharaj there must be a visible assem- Zoological Park. The “Operation Deer Drive” is a success story blage of popular species, more in wildlife management. labour, animal feed, and regular maintenance. Awareness cre- * * * ation needs to be sustained and G Recollections of an Indian official, Roger Bell, District Officer people oriented. Entrance rates between 1928-1949, recorded “severe floods in 1943... nearly will need to be increased from all the city lay under water, especially deep in the zoo…and all the current Rs 30”, an official the animals in the zoo died, except the giraffes!” feels. In the Mysore and Hyderabad Zoos, the entrance * * * fee is currently around Rs 100,” G Several documents refer to Madras Zoo as the first of its kind he adds. in the Indian subcontinent. However, the zoo historian Sally Zoo critics may disagree but Walker indicates that the animal collection of the Nawab of the the fact remains that zoos are Carnatic should be considered the first of its kind in India. UNESCO to save our temples?

(Continued from page 1) A team of four experts then dentally, UNESCO has a pres- set up on the express orders of the time it reaches 460. As it is, from taking up any repair works went around visiting recently ence in India dating back to the HC, has been functioning at least ten of the original 460 on its own, except for what may renovated temples and submit- 1948 and it is a mystery as to for the past six years. It was are no longer in existence, most be termed as emergency activi- ted its report in November last why the HR&CE took all this mandated to study the merits of of these being Government ties, those that are needed to year. Acting upon this, the while to establish contact. preserving 460 heritage build- owned. When these were de- prevent any collapse. Court had even earlier sug- Of course, the HC’s ruling ings in Chennai, all of which molished, there was not even a The entire case concerning gested that the State Govern- does not mean all will at once were listed, documented and comment from the HCC. temple renovation began in ment go slow on repair works be perfect with temple renova- graded by a committee of ex- It is to be hoped that in mat- June last year when the Court that it was undertaking and tions. Our officials have a con- perts. The HCC, however, de- ters of temple renovation, took suo moto cognisance of the bring in experts from siderable knack of interpreting cided that it needed to carry out which probably will have better matter. It had then appointed a UNESCO. But with the au- judgements to suit their own the listing activity afresh and ground support as compared to special committee to study in thorities dragging their feet over methods. This is quite evident has over the last six years com- public heritage buildings, the depth the quality of restoration contacting the latter, it became in the manner in which the pleted this for a mere 66 build- Government will act in the true that had been done in temples. necessary for the Court to inter- Heritage Conservation Com- ings. We are certain that several spirit of the law. The rest is up vene once again recently. Inci- mittee (HCC) of the CMDA, decades would have gone by, by to the Gods! 12 MADRAS MUSINGS August 1-15, 2016 A Ramzan-time walk DakshinaChitra workshops amzan-time Triplicane special. Anwar worked his con- the place of women and on the the response has been flowing Children R Walk was held recently. tacts and the Walk became a fault lines and skewed under- ever since. Everybody in that August 13 & 14: Theatre; Age Today, it continues to attract reality. standing. group seems to have had an ex- 8-14 years, Fee: Rs. 1500; comments and is being talked As our group quickly walked We were also witness to the perience. There was no need to Resources Person: Krishna about on social media. down the ever-busy and chaos- spirit of the season – sharing. elaborate on it. Perhaps a better Kumar, theatre export September 3: Terracotta Ganesha I am wondering. ridden Triplicane High Road, A group of members of the understanding. making; Age 8-14 years, Fee – Walks are ideas I toss around Anwar shared with us nuggets Sufi Dar Community, mostly At Christmas season time, I Rs. 800; Resources Person: through the year. So I sug- of local history – of the Nawabs Sindhis, laid out the goodies have often wondered why we do Palani, in-house potter gested to film-maker and histo- and of the Muslims – and we got they had brought there to be not have people of different rian Kombai S. Anwar that a to sample the snacks and sweets distributed to the fasting com- faiths inside churches when the DakshinaChitra workshops Walk through the familiar that are made and sold on the munity and their guests. choirs host their Christmas car- Adults August 13 & 14: Wire wrapped Triplicane at Ramzan Time roadside, specially at Ramzan Kanji, and dates, bananas ols. jewellery would be a unique experience. time. and rose milk, wafers, and water. After all, the music of September 3: Palm leaf Ganesha It would mean something As the sun set that evening Our host took the men and Christmas can be an uplifting making. more if we got to know the and pigeons scattered across the the women in the group to dif- experience. Little effort is made * * * meaning of Ramzan and got to pink-hued skies above the ferent spaces alongside the by the priests or the parish to Till August 31: An exhibition of see and feel the colours and sprawling campus of the prayer hall and at the given invite all the families of the paintings by Akmal Hussain and sounds of the season. And if we Wallalajah Mosque, Anwar hour, we sat on mats and par- neighbourhood to step inside Keiko Mimo could be at the mosque at shared more of local history and took of the food served to us. the church, take a seat and en- September 3-30: Faces of Creativ- evening prayer and joined the sliced it with his take on the A few of us who were on this joy the music. ity; an exhibition with porttaits community when it broke its meaning of Ramzan, on prayer Walk shared their pictures and The music experience at the of 135 Indian artists by Yusuf Arakkal fast, the experience would be and the relationship with god, experience on social media and San Thome Cathedral or at the August 31-September 4: Onam Kirk in Egmore or at St. Celebrations including tribal George’s or at St Mary’s in the dances from the Wayanad dis- Fort at Christmas carols time trict. can be special. August 15: Russian Singing Bells What is stopping us? Concert at 4.30 p.m. What can encourage us? September 5: Vinayaga Chaturthi, a Mohaniattam group from – Vincent D’Souza Puducherry will perform.

Answers to Quiz 1. Tamil Nadu; 2. Khangchendzonga National Park, and the Archaeo- logical Site of Nalanda Mahavihara; 3. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar; 4. Indira Gandhi International Airport; 5. Dipa Karmakar; 6. Duvvuri Subbarao; 7. South Sudan; 8. Kerala; 9. Steffi Graf; 10. Juno. * * * 11. Sulur; 12. The Union Cabinet has given its ‘in-principle’ approval for setting up a Major port there; 13. Meenkashi Temple, Madurai; 14. Chongqing; 15. Lord Willingdon; 16. ; 17. Central Polytech- nic (CPT); 18. A signboard painter from Kottaiyur in Chettinad, the logo of his firm was a rose (roja); 19. Sriramulu Naidu Park; 20. They were workers who were killed while digging to lay the underground drains in T'Nagar. MADRAS MUSINGS ON THE WEB To reach out to as many readers as possible who share our keen inter- est in Madras that is Chennai, and in response to requests from many well-wishers – especially from outside Chennai and abroad who receive their postal copies very late – for an online edition. Madras Can we bring the Fort St. George moat back to this enticing state? (Photo Courtesy: Vintage Vignettes.) Musings is now on the web at www. madrasmusings.com – THE EDITOR

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