Registered with the Reg. No. TN/PMG (CCR) /814/06-08 Registrar of Newspapers Licence to post without prepayment for under R.N.I. 53640/91 Licence No. WPP 506/06-08 Rs. 5 per copy (Annual Subscription: Rs. 100/-) WE CARE FOR MADRAS THAT IS INSIDE

•Short ‘N’ Snappy •The sad face of heritage •Vel’s and MGR MADRAS •Drama & music in Old Madras •Burmese home rafts adrift

Vol. XVIII No. 2 MUSINGS May 1-15, 2008 Sad...Is VPH Sad... to get Tragic! a new In a few weeks this picture will all there be to remind us of a building that contributed significantly to South India’s destiny for nearly 200 years.

“A ‘Sound and Light’ show with- out any sound or light... Brilliant, I thought!” I got that... (I think) That’s the nice thing about liv- ing in a culture-hub like Chennai – there’s never a dull moment. A dance here, a reading there, yonder a play, a cinema festi- val to your left, art shows to your right, and music for all occasions – it never ends. But sometimes creativity goes all enigmatic on you, with even die-hard enthusiasts stubbing eager toes on the sharp edges of incomprehen- sion. Now, you’re not over-critical; you welcome new, or differ- ent, experiences. But sometimes... you just don’t get it. Like, shadowy figures darting across a darkened stage to plunky music – for two hours. You’re obviously missing some- thing very vital – but what? “Life?” one fellow-watcher qua- vers. Well, maybe, but that ‘re- sponse’ smacks of taking the easy way out. You are secretly thankful for the informative brochure, but a little reluctant to admit it. t was only in the last issue of ment Estate, just behind the Fort, some temples and DGP Building on the Marina “Your lack of understanding IMadras Musings that we had Anna statue at Round Tana. churches. It was in the posses- was being renovated, Govern- doesn’t diminish anything,” congratulated the Government The building, though structur- sion of the Madra family, which ment House became police you get snapped at, “Spoon- on taking steps and allocating ally sound, was found to be in probably gave the city its name, headquarters. The police did fed all the time – that’s the funds for preserving old the way of a master plan for before the Government of some restoration while moving problem. Make some effort.” buildings in its possession. But building a new Assembly for Madras acquired the building in in and were so happy with their Point taken. now, with the demolition of a Tamil Nadu, even though there 1752 as a residence for the building that certain police de- “Medium”; “message”; ‘Hot’ and ‘Cold’ – remember those landmark heritage building and are acres of space elsewhere in Governor. Since then, till 1947, partments continued to func- terms? yet another being threatened, the same estate. Related casual- this was the residence of all tion from Government House Can a demand for viewer par- we are not so sure of the even after the DGP Building ticipation get too...er... Government’s intentions. G by A Special Correspondent was restored. demanding sometimes? Last week, the wreckers’ This writer who visited Gov- Not everyone’s “multi-sensory ernment House even as it was be- hammers began bringing down ties are some century-old trees Governors of Madras Presi- simultaneous comprehen- Government House, the home of ing knocked down could get a sion” (phew!) operates on the and also Gandhi Illam, a mu- dency, ’s Raj Bhavan the Governors of Madras for feel of the original spaciousness same level – and why should seum dedicated to the Father of (then known as Guindy Lodge) of the building, all the partitions it? nearly two centuries, a building the Nation. being their country retreat. Maybe some creative efforts where the destiny of South and false ceilings having been re- Post-independence it became moved. The flooring boasted of just stress the “Brrrr” note a India, nay even of India at As regulars of Madras MLAs’ Hostel. When the some of the highest quality bit. times, was determined. Musings would know, Govern- MLAs shifted to the new pre- Oh well, you could always take Government House, often ment House was probably one of (Continued on page 2) a shawl along. mises inside the Fort, they left erroneously called Admiralty the oldest buildings surviving in the building in a derelict condi- Also see pages 3, 4 & 5 Ranjitha Ashok House, is located inside Govern- Madras city, discounting the tion. In the 1990s, when the CMYK 2 May 1-15, 2008 Senate House under lock and key he Man from Madras lege is strictly forbidden. Per- In other words, they came, they Did we help? buildings in our midst. Let this T Musings could not help mission for doing so must be walked through, and they left. be a lesson for MM not to open shedding a tear at the doors of obtained from the Ministry of MMM wondered if it could chabod was The Man from its mouth on such subjects in Senate House, the building that Education stating the purpose have been a team of undertak- IMadras Musings’ verdict. future. For what MM thinks to- government, several industrial for which the said photograph ers come to measure the build- The building has been knocked day, the Government acts upon houses and alumni of Madras is being taken. The application ing. If so, they had come to the down and that is that. So what tomorrow, except when it University contributed so liber- is to be filled in triplicate with right place. Senate House, once if it is 250 years old and was comes to passing Heritage ally to restoring. Now, for rea- one copy to the College, one to promised as a bustling centre of owned by the family that prob- Acts. sons known only to itself, the the Ministry and a third to be activity, is now deader than a ably gave the city its name? So Madras University has locked retained by the applicant. In doornail. what if it had fine woodwork Height of inaction the building and has done it so due course, the application will and some amazing marble securely that not even peering be considered and a decision Let ’em eat cake flooring? So what if it was Indi- omething must be through the windows helps the will be taken based on the mer- ans who had built it, using a “S done,” said everyone of casual visitor to catch a glimpse its of the case. Further appeals he Man from Madras technology that is now lost? All them as they shook their heads of the sumptuous interior. on refusal will not be heard. T Musings is tightening his that matters is that we will get and drank their cups of coffee. The other day MMM went That more or less was the an- belt every hour. Soaring prices a spanking new Assembly The Man from Madras Musings along with a group of heritage swer given to a visitor who tried have hit MMM where it hurts building. refers to public reaction on lovers to the beachfront and taking a photo or two. In this the most, namely his stomach. In this connection, MMM coming to know that Govern- some in the group decided to era of camera phones, such Applying to the Chief will not has a nagging doubt. Could ment House was being pulled take a peek at Senate House. gobbledeygook is amazing. help, as he will only quote Madras Musings have contrib- down. And then they contin- Out came the cameras and the A visitor from the United Polonius’ speech to Laertes and uted indirectly to the destruc- ued with their coffee and what- visitors were busy clicking States had this interesting tale also talk of rising costs of paper, tion of this wonderful struc- ever else they were doing. away when an officious security to narrate about Senate House. printers’ bills and maintaining ture? After all, we in this paper MMM is of the firm view guard arrived to tersely inform Apparently he and his mother circulation. It is in such that the heritage movement is everyone that photography was dead in the city of Madras that banned on the premises. Now, is Chennai. No more than a lip- what exactly is objectionable in service is paid to this activity taking a photograph of a and, barring a handful, nobody roughly 150-year-old building SHORT ’N’ SNAPPY is bothered. is something that foxes MMM. Some of the other reactions After all, the building cannot amused MMM even more. be coming under the Official “You never told me,” was the Secrets Act or something like decided to see the building only moments of gloom that MMM have all along been asking the plaintive cry of a matron over that. And there is after all a to find it locked. They tried turns to the business Government to vacate the Fort. the phone. The demolition of Right To Information Act as looking through the shutters, newspapers, for their use of Now what can the poor Gov- Government House was well now. But MMM and his whereupon a swarm of sweep- English has often amused ernment do but look for alter- discussed threadbare in these group put away their cameras ers descended on them and told MMM. But this time it was native accommodation? You columns and we even sent a let- obediently. The official then them to get lost. All of a sud- even better. One of the city’s can’t expect the poor chaps to ter to the Chief Minister and spat profusely on to the para- den there was a commotion papers and the first one to go operate from footpaths and, in the Governor, said MMM in re- pet of the building and walked and a couple of security guards pink in the country had a “feel any case, there are none. So ply. “Oh, I must have missed off. A member of the group threw open the doors of the good” story about how prices they look at different locations. it,” said the lady. Now what asked him why he was spitting Great Hall. A team of officials, are not going up across the In the process, a building or MMM would like to know is on the building. Pat came the all of them busy talking into board. Prices have fallen in cer- two may come down. what happens to the above ma- reply that the official and his ilk their mobile phones, then tain areas, said the story. Capper House was one and tron and others of her kind were responsible for cleaning walked through. A friendly MMM read on and found that now it is Government House. when action is needed. After the place and so they could do sweeper signalled to MMM’s prices have either stagnated or Anyway, now Madras Musings all, we in MM also circulated as they pleased! And this is friend and his mother that they fallen for upper class reserva- ought to feel relaxed for there an appeal to readers to sign on what all the restoration and could do no worse than follow tions in trains, laptops, is no further danger to any a petition to save Bharat Insur- renovation and high profile re- the officials. They did, and digicams, colour TVs, mobile other building because of the ance Building. And guess how dedication has amounted to! managed to get a good look at phones and air fares. Wonder- proposed Assembly. If only many signed up? That is apart MMM can only shake his head the inside of the building. ful! Oh, if only the common Madras Musings had not asked from the Chief and MMM. But in disbelief, beside shedding the What surprised the visitors man would use these things the Government to hand over then, Chennai has never been tear already referred to above, was that the team of officials and stop bellyaching about the Fort to the ASI, the idea for known for public-spiritedness; though not as profusely. continued on their phones all food, all will be well. After all, a new Assembly might have has it? Similarly, photographing along, not once bothering to who needs food? To be slim is never come up and we would any part of Queen Mary’s Col- look at the wonderful interiors. in. have had two more heritage MMM

(Continued from page 1) a larger construction mean more money for everyone. Even marble. The central hall on the the demolition contractor is first floor had fine plaster work Sad... Sad... Tragic! sure to make good money by on the ceiling and the hall selling off the priceless wood- fronting the verandah had a the British Raj, but the work of movement and ought to have It is still not clear as to why work being removed. Each beautiful false ceiling held with a thousands of Indian masons, been put up for discussion. The the Government House could door, it is understood, would framework of rosewood that woodcarvers and other artisans. silence of the heritage lobby in not be integrated with the new not be sold for less than Rs. 8 shone as though it had been put The Government has also not taking up this matter is plan. It is also interesting that lakh. up yesterday. The ornamental shown that, despite the few deafening. Probably the move- Rajaji Hall has been allowed to What emerges from the pillars that rose to the ceiling feeble steps it takes to preserve ment has run out of steam after remain. That building and Gov- demolition of every heritage were made of rosewood and car- old buildings, it fundamentally successive defeats in the case of ernment House were part of one building is the same: ried monograms of officials and does not view built heritage in the Adyar Estuary and Old Ma- integrated whole and one with- – There is every need to pro- rulers of the past. At least ten the city to be worth preserving. dras Club and at most a pyrrhic out the other is meaningless. In tect our heritage doorways were in the finest That is the reason why a Heri- victory in the case of the Bharat any other country, these would Dravidian style, each one of tage Act has not been passed Insurance Building. The lack of have been demonstrated as ex- – This cannot be done with- them minimum 12 ft in height. and, in a few years’ time, given public outcry about this demo- amples of a way of life. Not here, out a Heritage Act passed The ceilings were of the Madras the pace at which things are lition is lamentable. One of the in Chennai, where every square by the State Assembly roof type with Burma teak moving, the city will have noth- reasons for the lack of spirit foot is measured and valued for – Without such an Act, no rafters. The staircases had ing but concrete and glass to among heritage activists is the real estate only. part of our heritage, built or natural, is safe wooden banisters on some out- show. absence of a Heritage Act in the The German firm of archi- standing wrought-iron work. All The plan for the new Assem- city, without which any legal tects, who in their own country – To lose our heritage is to these were instances of native bly was not presented to the representation really has no would not be allowed to demol- cut at our roots. craftsmanship, none of which public. The building of an As- spine. The judgment in such ish any building even half the The sooner every right survives today. In bringing down sembly in the midst of arguably cases depends more on the sym- age of Government House, thinking citizen of Chennai this building, the Government the busiest thoroughfare in the pathy of the judge and not on should surely have known bet- wakes up to this reality, the has not demolished a symbol of city certainly affects public any law. ter. But, then, a demolition and better. May 1-15, 2008 MADRAS MUSINGS 3

Mahalingapuram has been should view the announce- opened for traffic and it has led ments made by the Chennai many to wonder whether the Corporation while presenting people behind the plan have the budget. The civic body of- Skyrocketing prices mistaken the purpose of a fered to issue birth and death Sharing knowledge flyover. certificates free of cost. It is he skyrocketing house-rents and real estate prices in adras Musings has tried to It is common knowledge that also indicated that there will be TChennai city should be a matter of grave concern to the Mbring some cheer to heri- flyovers facilitate reaching far- no cremation charges and that Government. tage buffs here through its re- flung areas in a short while or it will provide free of cost a van Recently, I came across an advertisement offering for sale a port titled ‘Better times ahead lessen the time taken to go to transport the dead to the 1200 sq.ft. Housing Board flat, around 35 years old, in Besant for heritage buildings?’ (MM, about a circuitious route. The crematorium. Nagar at a price of Rs. 70 lakh . April 16th). It is a matter of inauguration of this flyover has Apart from the fact that the price is absolutely ridiculous While the services may be cheer that Government has at led to the traffic police divert- and has no relation to the cost of construction or the original free, will the personnel in the price at which it was sold by the Tamil Nadu Housing Board, last awakened to the impor- ing traffic through the narrow Departments concerned allow this indicates that the fancy prices are being demanded in the tance of preservation of recent Kamdar Nagar Road stretch to the public to get away with such name of “market value”, for which the upper limit seems to be heritage and is ready to spend reach the flyover at the Maha- free services? I doubt it. only the greed of the house-owners and real estate speculators. money on it. But it is sad that at lingapuram end and then reach Obviously, the real estate prices are being pushed up and the this juncture there is no expert T’Nagar’s North Usman Road V.S. Jayaraman house rents hiked arbitrarily, without any logic or calculation. organisation to utilise this op- by travelling on the flyover, 31, Motilal Street As there is no resistance from helpless buyers, house-owners portunity properly. Quite often, while the original route to Chennai 600 017 and real estate speculators are having a field day. In the process, it has become impossible for the middle and the lower income we are given to understand that North Usman Road from under Hairsplitting architects are equipped the flyover is completely clear group to buy any land or building in the city at all. They cannot even afford rental accommodation, in many cases. Many have straightaway for such work. after the construction. t was really refreshing to en- joy MMM’s sortie (MM, been found shifting their residences to outside Chennai due to This is not true. Resortation is The people’s woes do not I such conditions and are commuting long distance to the work- something more than architec- end here, people from Mahalin- March 16th) after quite some places in the city every day, causing wastage of time and sapping ture. It is a question also of gapuram are to use the flyover time. His humorous comparison their energy. methods and study of arresting and reach North Usman Road of the nursery rhyme characters House rent is now a major portion of expenditure for the decay of materials, of strength- and take Periyar Road to reach with two South Indian delica- salaried class and self-employed persons in the middle and lower ening of weakening or weak- High Road! cies (end of column 2) turned income group, who do not own houses/flats. This leaves them ened structures without spoiling Why? Do we have to use the me to an academic point. I have virtually with no savings. the beauty of their ancient flyover just because it has been it on authority that Jill is not an Government is shirking its responsibility by ignoring the architecture. built? English girl’s name but another problem and leaving a large segment of citizens to the mercy of exercise in poetic licence that’s house-owners and real estate speculators. This is not a healthy It is a matter of anguish that * * * situation and can lead to restive conditions. when such work is stated to made Gill (short for Gillian, an The horrendous hoardings Instead of viewing the matter as if it is mere market-oriented have been carried out exten- English girl’s name) into Jill to have been removed – good issue, Government should effectively intervene and put some sively, as in the recent restora- match Jack! To my mind, Jill or work indeed! But their absence sense and logic in such pricings. If Government thinks that there tion of Senate House or Gill, rhymes match well with is real shortage of housing and there is lack of space in the city, has exposed the absence of road , the Hill in the second line of the it should then promote a large number of multistorey flats, of lights in long stretches of major expertise acquired was not rhyme! But academic hairsplit- even 30 stories and above, as in the case of cities like Singapore. roads! Who is going to do some- shared with others through pub- ting is really that! Alternatively, it should go for drastic decongestion measures in thing about that? lication. How can heritage the city. * * * Government is not doing much forward planning and long- thrive in such conditions? Kanchana Ravi It passes my understanding term thinking, when it encourages more and more software [email protected] N. Harinarayana why a Desi Governor, a titular companies and automobile companies to be located in Chennai 120, Big Street Free – but...? head, needs a beachside bunga- and suburbs, thus increasing housing needs in Chennai. These could easily be pushed to other areas in the State where there , Chennai 600 005 t has been reported that a re- low, a need not felt by genera- tions of really ruling English might be more space. EDITOR’S NOTE: Madras tired Army General, who held I Governors! Musings is aware that: (1) the many key posts before deciding N.S. Venkataraman entire restoration of Senate to settle in Chennai, has been However, I differ from M60/1, 4th Cross Street Besant Nagar, Chennai 600 090 House has been documented by battling for the last 14 months reader N.S. Venkataraman on those experts who worked on it to get a ration card for his fam- his reference to the simplicity free of charge and awaits publi- ily. As his efforts to get the card of Gandhiji in travelling in III Monstrous smoke With so many malls being cations if the University of Ma- became futile he, through the class rail coach. Sarojini Naidu permitted it is State-sponsored dras will fund the publishing; Army, took up the issue with t seems New York’s Mayor has gone on record saying that traffic chaos we are headed for (2) INTACH-TN has several the Chief Secretary who, it Michael Bloomburg is donat- people will be shocked to hear I on once majestic Mount Road. times appealed for the forma- appears, promised to take it up of the expenses incurred in ing a few crores of rupees to tion of a special heritage cell in with the Civil Supplies making a normal III class make Chennai free of tobacco C.G. Prasad the PWD and offered to help Department. coach suitable for Gandhiji’s smoke by 2010. The Director- 9, C.S. Mudali Street with the training of the mem- The fault with the retired travel! ate of Public Health and the Kondithope bers of such a unit. But there General was that he refused to Chennai Corporation are also Chennai 600 079 have been no takers. grease the palms of the officials. N. Dharmeshwaran rolling up their sleeves to take Had this been done, the Gen- punitive action against smokers. Flyover to nowhere? 11/5, Ist cross Bharati Nagar eral would have received the Something called Red Ribbon READABILITY PLEASE he flyover stretching from card at his doorstep. Chennai 600 091 Clubs are also going to be estab- TNorth Usman Road to It is in this context we Statue in place lished. Dear Readers, All very good. But should As letters from readers increase, n eight-foot bronze statue not the mandarins do some- we are receiving more and more Asculpted by Vivek Khatau- thing about the greater villain? hand written letters, many of them OUR ADDRESSES kar was erected inside the cam- I mean the hundreds of lorries in a hand so small and illegible or For matters regarding subscriptions, donations, non-receipt of receipts etc.: pus of the Symbiosis Group of and other vehicles which emit large and scrawled as to be Chennai Heritage, 5, Bhattad Tower, 30, West Cott Road, , Chennai educational institutions in Pune unreadable. Often this leads to our 600 014. monstrous black smoke from as early as December 2001. The their exhausts, almost killing discarding a letter, particularly if Madras Musings now has its own email ID. Letters to the editor can be statue was unveiled by the then some part of it is unreadable. sent via email to [email protected]. Those who wish to intimate the persons behind them? It is change of address can also do so provided the subscription number is President of India, K.R. there for all to see, but no ac- If you wish us to consider your let- quoted. Narayanan. tion is being taken. ter for publication, please type it For non-receipt of copies, change of address, and all other circulation ‘Common Man’ is perhaps * * * with enough space between lines or matters: MADRAS MUSINGS, C/o Lokavani Southern Printers Pvt. Ltd., 62/ the only uncommon cartoon “From Mount Road to Mall write it using a medium hand, 63, Greames Road, Chennai 600 006. figure to be honoured by instal- Road” (MM, February 16th) clearly dotting the ‘i-s’ and crossing On editorial matters: The Editor, MADRAS MUSINGS, lation of his statue! As rightly has highlighted the mindless- the ‘t-s’. C/o Lokavani Southern Printers Pvt. Ltd., 62/63, Greames Road, Chennai stated by Ranjitha Ashok (MM, ness and lack of farsightedness Many readers also try to fill every 600 006. February 16th), “He is, and will that characterises the mad square centimetre of a postcard No personal visits or telephone calls, please. Letters received will be sent always be, the quintessential (read ‘mall’) rush. Already traf- space, making reading or editing from these addresses every couple of days to the persons concerned and you ‘you and me’.” fic is so clogged and road rage impossible. will get an answer from them to your queries reasonably quickly. Strange as it so high on Chennai’s roads that Please help us to consider your may seem, if you adopt the ‘snail mail’ approach, we will be able to help you T.M. Sundararaman even an ambulance on duty may letters more favourably by making faster and disappoint you less. 19, Nallapan Street them more legible for us. THE EDITOR not see you reach your destina- Chennai 600 004 tion on time. THE EDITOR 4 MADRAS MUSINGS May 1-15, 2008 May 1-15, 2008 MADRAS MUSINGS 5

Looking at Heritage OUR REPLY TO THE SECRETARY

Mr. S. Audisehiah, IAS, 10.12.2007 Secretary to Government, Public Works Department Madras Musings’ attempt to Secretariat, Chennai 600 009. Dear Mr. Audiseshiah was delighted to receive your D.O. Letter No. 16227/H.1/2007 of save Government House I3.12.07, sounding such a warm, friendly note. Almost all letters from Government sound so official; what a refreshing change yours was, even though I differ with what you have to state in it. of the ancient Madeiros family, a name that probably got modified OUR FIRST LETTER Since you have stated that your letter is “as directed by the into Madras. Hon’ble Chief Minister”, I trust you will bring this response of mine 2. The building became the nucleus of the home of the Gover- and my reiterated plea to his kind attention. His Excellency Surjit Singh Barnala 26.10.2007 nors of Madras when the then incumbent Thomas Saunders rented Governor of Tamil Nadu, Guindy, Chennai Let me at the outset state that I am NOT against a new Assem- it from the owners in 1752 and bought it in August 1753. Since then bly-Secretariat complex being constructed in Government Estate. Your Excellency, many changes and alterations have taken place till the early 19th My only concern is the siting of that complex in the vast estate. May If only such houses Ref: Construction of New Assembly Complex and consequent Century, bringing the house to its present shape. I also point out that for years I have been suggesting that the Admin- demolition of Government House, now being called ‘Old MLAs’ Hostel’. 3. The building became the MLAs’ hostel ONLY post-indepen- istrative Capital of the State be moved to the Thanjavur- dence and when the new MLAs’ hostel was built this building was Tiruchchirappalli area exactly for the reason you cite, namely that it * * * * abandoned to its fate. will be in “greater proximity to the general public.” Since that is un- he State Government is proceeding apace with plans to build a 4. It was later spruced up for the Headquarters of the Police to likely to happen, moving the Assembly-Secretariat complex at least could be restored! Tnew Assembly and Secretariat complex in the Omandur move there while the HQ on the Marina was being sympathetically out of the Fort is something I welcome, because I hope that will make Ramaswami Reddiar Estate (formerly Government Estate). We un- restored. When the Marina offices were made ready, some police of- it possible for the Government to seek World Heritage Site status for e don’t have a heritage – gooseberry trees, jackfruit, derstand from newspaper reports that architects have been shortlisted fices stayed back and have maintained the building exceedingly well. Fort St. George, which it richly deserves for being the place from Wact to protect our grand nagapazham, marikhozhundu and for the project and that the present occupants of what is being called 5. The building is in the Classical style, an example of early Raj where Modern India grew. But as I have stated above, Government buildings, so asking for one to a rare padiri mango tree that we the ‘Old MLAs’ Hostel’ have been asked to vacate. We have wel- architecture, and, given its historical importance as well, needs to be Estate is a vast area and the new complex could be so located so as protect domestic buildings today delighted climbing.” comed the construction of the new complex as we, in Madras Musings, preserved. It is not in any way structurally weak and, therefore, de- not to make necessary the demolition of Governmnet House. In fact, is like asking for a pie in the sky. The pillared veranda leads to are of the view that Fort St. George ought to be made available to the molishing it would be an unnecessary and expensive exercise. when plans were called for by Government for the new complex, if it Yet, I have always been fasci- three stately, arched doorways, public of the State for viewing as a heritage precinct where the foun- 6. May we therefore request that, like the DGP Building on the had been stated that Government House, restored, needed to be in- nated – and, therefore, suitably the tall doors are in the French dations of Modern India were laid. In fact, we continue to hope the Marina that was saved thanks to the present Chief Minister, and the cluded in those plans, I am sure architects would have submitted inconsolable – seeing houses style, with louvres. The hall, de- will seek World Heritage status for this GPO, which even after a fire was restored to its earlier condition, this imaginative plans that would have included the historic building. pulled down. This story is about spite its barenness, is a simple but historic precinct. But we are at present concerned about the con- building too be preserved? If the new Legislature-Secretariat com- Regarding the age of Government House, except for an unidentifi- one such house which, thank- impressive one, not the least for struction of the new building for the Legislature-Secretariat complex plex is realigned, the restored Government House could be devel- able core which MIGHT – if it can be identified – be considered 250 fully, has not been pulled down its teak beams. This was the re- at the expense of a historic building. oped as a magnificent Legislature Library. years old, the greatest part of the construction is only 100 years old – as yet – and may even get a fresh ception area and was always We are glad that the Government has announced that Rajaji Hall 7. This would send a strong signal out that Tamil Nadu cares for most of it added by Governors Rumbold and Clive the Second. The lease of life! abuzz with relatives coming in / will not be affected by the plans to build the new complex. However, its heritage and its history and will be a lasting tribute to your en- Tamil Nadu Archives records will confirm this. This house will not go down going out and staying on, Noise what is a matter of serious concern is the decision taken to demolish lightened leadership. In this connection, may I point out that buildings of the 17th Cen- in the architectural history of levels were high and with a resi- the ‘Old MLA’s Hostel’. It is in this connection that we would like to In this connection, Madras Musings, which is a periodical brought tury, like St. Mary’s in the Fort, the core of the Secretariat and other bring to your attention some of the building’s history. out by Chennai Heritage, a not-for-profit organisation supported by buildings in the Fort, as well as buildings of the late 18th Century – early 1. The name ‘Old MLAs’ Hostel’ is a recent creation. The build- the leading corporate houses of the State, has already written an open 19th Century vintage, like the DGP building (which also has a much its graceful stucco arches. The Coming down, we pass the ing was first a part-time residence and then permanent residence letter to the Chief Minister. May we expect a favourable response older core), Senate House, the General Post Office, the State Bank of one on the right led to an elegant hall and a large corridor with called Government House, of the Governors of from you as well as your support and intercession in this vital matter India, the Railway Station and many other buildings con- flight of wooden stairs. As the grilled windows on both sides. from 1752 till the time of independence. It was, therefore, the seat of of saving a part of the City’s heritage? structed with brick and lime mortar, besides many others in rural areas stairs went up, the stained glass Beyond this were the two kitch- power. In effect, it was the city residence of your predecessors who constructed of mud and lime, have stood the test of time and have been Thanking you, either restored or are in good condition. Government engineers as well panels cast dainty shadows on ens – one for daily use and the occupied the exalted position that you grace today. It was here that Yours truly, as former Archaeological Survey of India personnel were involved with the wall and on the creepers that other for weddings. Beyond them many major decisions were taken that helped pioneer several institu- S . Muthiah the magnificent restoration of Senate House and can attest to the dura- was the store room, cattleshed tions in Modern India. It was a property that belonged to a member Director, Chennai Heritage & Editor, Madras Musings and other rooms. Sadly, all these bility of the building. Further, the Police, the present occupants of Government House, had invited INTACH-Tamil Nadu to give them G by PRADEEP have been demolished and the been carefully considered while taking a decision to demolish the land sold. a report by a qualified restoration expert, who categorically stated that CHAKRAVARTHY THE RESPONSE WE RECEIVED “Government House” along with various other structures for con- the building could be restored and would last a couple of hundred years So what made the house spe- struction of a new Legislative Assembly Complex in that area. Photographs courtesy: cial? Every time I visited Dr. more. I am sure INTACH-Tamil Nadu would be willing to provide you As you are aware, the “Government House” is more than 250 with this report. T. Sakthi Murugan, Thanjavur Ramakausalya, I was impressed S. Audiseshiah, IAS, Public Works Dept., Secretariat years old. The technical view is that the buildings constructed with In this context, I must therefore differ with the contention that www:http://picasabeb.google. by her relentless enthusiasm and Secretary to Government Chennai 600 009 lime mortar can generally have a life span of 100 years and exceeding “lime mortar (buildings) can generally have a life span of 100 years.” com/sakthi.murugam/ constant good cheer. She con- HeritageTrip that the strength and safety of such buildings should be under peri- Many a standing, well-kept building in this State will attest to the stantly reminded me that it was D.O. Lr. No. 16227/H.1/2007 dated 03.12.2007 odical review. At various points of time in the past some strengthen- fact that the life spans of such buildings, if tended well, could be well due to a happy childhood – and India as a remarkable one, but dent population of dozens at any- Dear Thiru Muthiah, ing measures have gone into in retaining the “Government House”. over 300 years. visiting it while listening to the time, it never occurred to anyone had crept into the house. The the house seemed so inextricably The present assessment is that further strengthening measures may Finally, I note that there is a Tamil Nadu Heritage Protection Act ‘black and white flashbacks’ of to even think of why somebody verandah upstairs circled the linked to this. Secondly, I go to his has reference to your representation given to His Excellency not be that effective as this building being more than 250 years old in place since 1999. Frankly, no one who is a part of INTACH-Tamil two women, who spent their had come for a visit and how long house and a spacious many-win- see an old house for its complex Tthe Governor of Tamil Nadu which has been forwarded to the has served its life. Hence a decision has been taken to construct a Nadu or any of the Government Departments it has worked with on happy childhood in the house, they were going to stay. What’s dowed room upstairs. The view craftsmanship; here I did not see Hon’ble Chief Minister for consideration. new Legislative Assembly Complex in the place of all the old struc- trying to draft a Heritage Act between 1998 and 2002 has ever heard brought the empty rooms to life more, visitors made themselves of the garden must have been complexity, but what I saw was As directed by the Hon’ble Chief Minister, I am writing this letter tures incorporating striking heritage architectural features. of it. If there is such an Act, I would certainly like to see it. Such Acts when Sakthi and I visited with useful and the maami who had fantastic here, but with a part of simple, elegant and solid. for your kind appreciation of the facts. As you have rightly mentioned in your letter, the Hon’ble Chief the world over are tied up with buildings listed as heritage buildings them one overcast morning dur- just got off the train would have the land now sold, we had to I sat on the wooden staircase The Hon’ble Chief Minister greatly appreciates your concern for Minister, a known connoisseur of art and architecture, was respon- and make mandatory any action in connection with a listed building ing a recent trip to Thanjavur. soon bathed and be busy adding make do with an ugly view. as my friend clicked away for his retention of the “Government House”(Admirality House) and prob- sible for restoring the present DGP Office complex to its pristine being examined by a Heritage Committee and a public hearing. Per- On a quiet by-lane in Thanja- a fresh consignment of pickles to ably to use this building as Legislative Library. I wish to inform you glory, and was responsible for bringing the Tamil Nadu Heritage Pro- haps if you send me a copy of the Act, I could find out which are vur stands Gautama House. Its the larder. that all the aspects which you have brought out in your letter have tection Act in 1999. The Hon’ble Chief Minister has not only played Chennai’s (and Tamil Nadu’s) listed buildings, whether there is a walls are thickly coated with The hall had on either side of a major role in the restoration and preservation of Heritage Buildings Heritage Committee, and what the procedures are to conserve them moss and the gate rusted but that it four rooms for the four senior architectural photo-portfolio and who spent happy days, each but also built commemorative edifices like Kattabomman Fort in or alter them or demolish them. doesn’t deter the view of a short male members of the family. One wondered who influenced room silently telling a story of Panchalankuruchi, Valluvar Kotttam, Thiruvalluvar Statue, May I once again reiterate that it is the Chief Minister’s commit- avenue and, then, imposing of whom was deeply religious and whom, the builders of buildings how a large and prosperous joint Poompuhar etc. These are the testimony to the commitment of the ment to history and art that makes me appeal to him to locate the Doric pillars amidst red brick had gold deities that demanded or vice versa. The house was family lived their lives at the turn Hon’ble Chief Minister in conserving our heritage and culture. new complex anywhere else in the Government Estate but away from walls flanked by a stately pair of long and complex rituals on a built by a doctor who sold it then of the last century. If only these You will also appreciate that Tamil Nadu requires a new Assem- Government House and request him to restore Government House for meaningful reuse. Perhaps a discussion with the architects would neem trees. Ramakausalya and daily basis. The rear rooms were to Paneerselvam, a Minister of could be recorded at some way bly – Secretariat complex which has been planned on a convenient make such revised planning possible. most of her cousins were among a graceful curved shape and one the Justice Party and his family, for future generations, they will plot of land owned by Tamil Nadu Government in the Omandurar With warmest regards the forty children born in the of them was the room for women who in turn sold it to it Polagam have large, impressive parts of Government Estate. Above all, for the reason of proximity to the Yours sincerely house in a space of 58 years. Even to be consigned to during child- Srinivasa Iyer, famous in Tanjore their heritage to be in awe of, but general public, this is considered to be an ideal location. S. Muthiah Director, Chennai Heritage and Editor, Madras Musings before entering the house they birth etc. I was the first child for a dye manufacturing com- none of the more intimate re- Considering the above facts, I sincerely seek your support to this can’t resist listing the many vari- born in the house, said Dr. pany. minders of all that was best about project and also your valuable inputs for bringing out a new Legisla- Copy to: His Excellency, The Governor of Tamil Nadu, Chennai 32 eties of trees the more than six- Ramakausalya with great pride. Today, as a shell perhaps the close family systems that tive Assembly Complex of excellence. and-a-half acre campus once Between these doors are my awaiting the bulldozer, the house gave them the successes they Yours sincerely, NO RESPONSE WAS RECEIVED TO THE ABOVE LETTER had. “We had a veritable orchard favourite parts of the house with lives on in the memories of those achieved. S. Audiseshiah CMYK 6 MADRAS MUSINGS May 1-15, 2008 Vel’s where MGR made his (Current Affairs questions are from the period April 1st to 15th. Questions 11 to 20 per- film debut tain to Chennai and Tamil hile K. Subramanyam, Popularly known as Sounda- Nadu.) WThyagaraja Bhagavathar raraja Ayyangar, Soundararajan 1. China recently signed its first and company were burning the was the first person to use the trade agreement with a devel- mid-day sun in Adyar, a few expression ‘Tamil Nadu’, long oped nation. Which country? miles away, in , an- before politicians did, naming other studio had come up and his company Tamil Nadu Talk- 2. Which prestigious sporting its floor too buzzed with hectic ies. He entered cinema during title did South African Trevor activity, films being made not the Silent Film era as a finan- Immelman win on April 13th? only in Tamil but also in cier and later becoming a pro- 3. Which two airlines reached an Telugu. It was called Vel Pic- ducer, director, studio owner agreement recently to create the tures Studio. and talent scout. He made hit world’s biggest carrier with an en- Muthuswami Iyer (Muru- films like Miss Sundari, Rishya- terprise value of $17.7 billion? gadasa), K. Ramnoth and A.K. shringar, and Bhaktha Naradar. 4. The train between Kolkata Sekhar returned from Kolhapur One of his films which created and Dhaka that resumed plying and were anxious, having tasted history was Raja Drohi or after 43 years on April 14th is the elixir of film-making, to Dharmapuri Rahasyam (1938). called? continue to make films in It also had a title in English, 5. Name the two new members Madras. They decided to float a “Traitor”. of NATO. joint stock company and went A Tamil Nadu Talkies pro- 6. On April 1st, who took over as around hunting for prospective duction and the brainchild of its the Secretary-General of the investors. They were able to get producer-director Soundara- Commonwealth, becoming the M.T. Rajen, a well-to-do elec- rajan, Raja Drohi was based on first Indian to head the 53-mem- trical contractor interested in the life of the then Dewan of a ber body? films, his friend-brother-in-law princely state, whose way of 7. Who did India beat to make it C. P. Sarathy – a sadly forgotten ruling the State made him back into the World Group of the pioneer S. extremely un- MGR making his debut in Sathi Leelavathi Davis Cup recently? Soundararajan, popular. Nat 8. The wall (in Ledra Street) in and Pinapala Round the City’s Annaji Rao, a Vel Pictures Studio was His name was M.G. Ramachan- Europe’s last divided capital city Venkata Das, a tall slim hero of formed as a limited company dran, immortalised with his came down recently. Name the businessman old studios with those days, with P.V. Das as the Managing initials MGR! city. from Andhra played the Director. The studio was RANDOR GUY Vel Pictures Studio later and film exhibi- ‘Dewan’ and his located in a palatial mansion on 9. Who is the new Union Minis- moved to a more spacious lot on tor, to join get-up amply Eldam’s Road owned by Maha- ter of State for Sports with inde- Mount Road in Guindy, then a them. Muthuswami met S.S. revealed whom he was portray- raja of Pithapuram. During that pendent charge? green clam suburb of Madras Vasan, whose Ananda Vikatan ing! period there were hardly any 10. What contentious law as re- city. Here the fortunes of the was by now a bestseller, and The film was released in a buildings around. A vast stretch gards education did the Supreme studio fluctuated and it who was also making money ‘tent’ cinema, at a place called of land behind it was much Court uphold on April 10th? changed hands. For a while, from crossword puzzles, horse- Valliyur, the check-post point wooded and used for shooting V.L. Narasu, a coffee magnate, * * * racing and mail-order business, for Travancore. The tent was ‘outdoor’ locations. One such took it over and produced films and asked him to take shares in situated safely inside British In- location was used as a tea estate 11. Name the five telecommuni- in many languages, including the company. In what could be dia, away from the jurisdiction in Ceylon which featured in cation/cellular firms that got Hindi. He burnt his fingers called the understatement of of Travancore, which promptly Ellis R. Dungan’s historic 1936 licences recently to operate in the mainly due to disorganised the decade, Vasan told Iyer, banned the movie being shown movie, Sathi Leelavathi! In this Tamil Nadu circle. management, faulty planning of “Why should I dabble in films? I in its territory. Not surprisingly, film shot at Vel Pictures Studio, 12. Which project is the first part production and backing wrong don’t need it!” As Muthuswami the ban order catapulted public one of many new faces making of the Rs. 2,300-crore Chennai horses, and left the industry. recalled decades later, the fu- interest and Travancoreans his debut in a small role as a Circular Corridor initiative? The studio vanished and in its ture Indian movie mogul, the flocked to Valliyur to see the police inspector was a very fair- 13. To whom has the State place came up a soft drinks Gemini Studio’s boss, hated film which ran for several weeks skinned, handsome youth. He Government handed over the manufacturing unit. A sad end films! in that obscure ‘tent’ cinema! had been on stage as a “boy” erstwhile Chennai Central indeed. Prison’s land near Park Station? * * * * * * donning male and female roles. 14. Which famous company, in collaboration with the Music Academy, has launched a Subscriptions and contributions CHENNAI HERITAGE Panchangam calendar on 72 G Since Volume XIV, No.1 (April 16, 2003), Madras Musings has been priced 260-A T.T.K. ROAD, , CHENNAI 600 018. melakartha ragas? at Rs.5 a copy, ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION: Rs.100/-. Please make out your 15. In which district is Uthukuli, cheque only to CHENNAI HERITAGE and send it, together with the COUPON, I am already on your mailing list (Mailing List No...... ) / I have just known for its butter and ‘ghee’? to CHENNAI HERITAGE, 260-A, TTK ROAD, CHENNAI 600 018 or C/O 16. In which place do the rivers LOKAVANI SOUTHERN PRINTERS PVT. LTD., 62/63, GREAMES ROAD, seen Madras Musings and would like to receive it hereafter. CHENNAI 600 006. Chittar, Manimuthar, Pachaiyar G I/We enclose cheque/demand draft/money order for An ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION of just Rs.100 covers only a part of our the Tambaraparani originate? Rs. 100 (Rupees One hundred) payable to CHENNAI HERITAGE, MADRAS, as costs. Corporate support and YOUR support will continue to be essential for 17. Which Jnanpith Award win- subscription to Madras Musings for the year 2007-08. Chennai Heritage and Madras Musings to play a greater role in creating ner has authored the biographi- G awareness about the city, its heritage and its environment. We therefore look As token of my support for the causes of heritage, environment and a better city cal work on the life of Munshi forward to your sending us your contributions IN ADDITION TO your that Madras Musings espouses, I send Chennai Heritage an additional Premchand, titled Oru Kadhasi- subscriptions. Rs...... riyarin Kadhai ? If in the coming year Chennai Heritage receives repeated support from (Rupees ...... ) 18. Which simple dance form of those of you who have already made contributions, and if many more sup- Please keep / put me on your mailing list. the State could be of the follow- porters join the bandwagon, we will not only be able to keep Madras Musings ing types: Poonthatti, Deepa, going, but also be able to continue awareness-building exercises on on-going Name : ...... Kulavai or Mulaipari? projects as well as undertake one or two more such exercises...... 19. When will the next Maha- Therefore, please keep your contributions coming IN ADDITION TO YOUR Address: ...... SUBSCRIPTIONS. If, say, you send in a cheque for Rs.500, we will treat Rs.100 maham be celebrated in Kumba- ...... konam? of it towards subscription to Madras Musings for 2007-08 and the remaining 20. How many MLAs make it to Rs.400 as contribution towards the causes Chennai Heritage espouses...... the State Legislative Assembly We look forward to all readers of Madras Musings, and those newcomers Note: Overseas postage Rs. 550/year extra. Cheques for overseas postage who want to receive copies, sending in their subscriptions. We are indeed from Chennai? alone payable to M/s. Lokavani Southern Printers Pvt. Ltd. All other cheques to sorry we can no longer remain a free mailer. (Answers on page 8) — The Editor ‘Chennai Heritage’. May 1-15, 2008 MADRAS MUSINGS 7 Theatre & music in Old Madras n 1890, the Dharwada com- English. The best among his bitions to sing and act in dra- Ipany came from North India plays is Vijayanagara Samrajya mas, but he was not able to do and staged dramas, which Pathanam. Sri Raghavachari’s so. He learnt dancing for some people appreciated. They role as Pathan Rustom was fa- time. He performed dance with- modernised their dramas by mous among Andhras. He had out singing. When he acted as making coloured curtains suited written the play Lava Kusa. queen, Sambanda Mudaliar to the scenes. Light arrange- Rao’s drama company was not acted as king. They were good ments also improved. Orna- running as well as that of friends. I remember his part as ments used by actors were made Achary’s. For some time, the queen with a thilakam and a of gilt. Dresses were grand. two troupes were not on good smiling face. In Telugu dramas, Their dance scenes were attrac- terms. Sri Rao’s company was sometimes Bellary Raghava- tive and their ‘Indra Sabha’ was called ‘Sumanorama Samaj’. chari and Nellore Kandadai famous. The language was The party opposed to them Srinivasan (Doraswamy) also Hindi. Because of them, people called it ‘Summaneri Sabha’. In took part. improved their art of dancing. Kannada, it means ‘observe si- The first Telugu drama I saw Many Parsi drama troupes lence’. In those days, rivalry be- was Varoodhini. The part of came to Madras. These people tween drama companies of the Varoodhini was played by from Bombay came and staged same town was common. Krishnaswamy lyer. He had a their dramas for two or three When the performance of melodious voice and many months each year at the place the Sarasa Vinodini Sabha was Chetty people came to hear him where now the Burmah Shell appreciated by people, some singing. The Town Hall () where the Sugana Vilasa Sabha staged Company building stands. Their people in Madras started the There were other drama its plays. stage arrangements were pretty Suguna Vilasa Sabha in 1897. troupes also. Changam Bazaar is Music sabhas In sabhas, they used to hear the and attractive, especially the At first there were only seven in George Town. Tamilians music by sitting apart from the scenes depicting rains, sea, members. Initially they staged there acted in plays. I saw one Due to contact with Tamilians in Madras, I culti- audience. Interest in music was burning of houses etc. Their plays at the Victoria Public Dambachari Natakam. Two not developed among women as costumes were good. Their Hall. Afterwards, the Sabha prostitutes took part; Balamani vated my interest in music. I attended many music concerts. it is now. Only Dasis learnt mu- durbar dances were worth see- shifted to its own building on and her sister acted the male sic in those days. ing. To change a scene, they In those days there were not many music samajams. Music For marriages in the homes used to fire a shot and within a G minute the scene changed. Reminiscences of concerts were held for mar- of rich people, concerts were Their troupe consisted of men Dr. K. N. Kesari - V riages, which I always attended. held in pandals. Carpets were and women. After this, women Women gave more concerts spread and sofas and chairs were started acting female roles in than men in those days. Among arranged. The pandal was deco- Madras also. Mount Road. Both Tamilians and female parts. Even though them were Bangalore Nagarath- rated with bulbs and other The Sarasa Vinodini Sabha, and Andhras were members. I they were prostitutes, they dis- namma, Coimbatore Thayi, materials. Bellary, was founded by was also a member. They staged liked men acting with them. Dhanakoti, Godavari, Salem I happened to see one dance Dharmavaram Ramakrishna- plays in English, Andhra, Tamil This drama was full of erotic Sisters and Rajayi. Veena programme of Shanmukha macharyulu. He wrote plays and and Sanskrit. After some time, scenes and there used to be a big Dhanam held performances in Vadivu during a marriage in a also acted. Before Dharwad and they staged only Tamil and crowd. Balamani was beautiful her own house every Friday. Chetty’s house in Govindappa Parsi dramas, ‘prose dramas’ Telugu dramas. They were fa- and a musician. She used to sing Those who were interested Naicken Street in George were in vogue. In 1884, the mous for good dramas as well as Telugu Javalis. She acted in went to her house to hear her Town. Though she was stout, Guntur Drama troupe was good sweets, which attracted Tara Sasankam. In this, Tara ex- sing. short and dark, her dance was famous for these kinds of dra- the members. They celebrated presses her love for Chandra Sarabha Sastri garu, the flau- appreciated by all. Generally, mas. Examples of these are Dussera festival and for nine and massages him with oil. In tist, was famous in those days. the head of the family used to days conducted feasts for all the Tamil it was called Harischandra and Keechaka enna He was born blind, but he learnt sit in the front. Chetty belonged members. An English, Telugu scene. Even photos Vadha of Venkatasubba Rao thekkare the flute and became an expert to the Vaishnava sect. He was and Chilakamaithi Laksmi- and Tamil library was also were taken of this scene and dis- in it. After him, Nagaraja Rao sitting in front with Namam on narasimham. In these dramas, started. tributed to the people. People garu and Palladam Sanjeeva his forehead. The dancer began Prakasam Pantulu used to act After shifting to their own gathered in large numbers to see Rao became experts. The set singing Siva duksha paru ralanu the roles of Chandramathi and building, they stopped staging this particular scene. (group) consisting of Sarabha ra (a song dedicated to Lord Draupadi. He was a degree dramas and now many people Govindaswamy Rao was a Sastri on flute, Govindaswamy Shiva) and sitting in front of holder and also a lawyer. So his are not even aware as to where Brahmin. He was a police con- on violin and Alaganambi on Chetty began to do puja with dramas had shades of English this Sabha is. The founder of stable who later took to drama. mridangam was famous in those bilva petals. The people in the and Sanskrit theatre. He made this Sabha was V. Srinivasa He was a hefty fellow with a days. Once I went to their con- audience were unable to control socially affluent people act in lyengar. Members called him moustache. His Ramdas drama cert in one Chetty’s house. their laughter, much to the his dramas and did not use pro- ‘Muthanna’. He was a good dra- was famous. He acted as Nawab Vissa Ramarao was also with mortification of the orthodox fessionals. And he arranged matist and for some time held in that. He knew the Urdu lan- me. He was then studying in the Vaishnavite. Amidst their songs similar to Dharwad and the post of a High Court Judge guage. Small children were Law College. He was fond of laughter, their turbans fell Parsi dramas. The eminent in Madras. He tried his best to trained to act as Rama and music. The mridangam player down. Her song Siva diksha dancer Raghavachari got the improve the Sabha. Even in his Lakshmana. The children sang Alaganambi was late for the pamaralamu ra is recorded. old age, he used to practise at title ‘Andra Nataka Pitha- well. concert due to late arrival of his In Govindappa Naicken the High Court and we were re- maha’. It was announced that a train and so another man was Street, Tachoor Singarachar- minded of Bhishma when we Prakasam was more promi- prize would be given to the best called to play in his place. yulu was an eminent musician. saw him. nent as a playwright than as an actor in Harischandra with two Sarabha Sastri did not like the He was an Andhra who had actor. Telugu drama improved The mainstay of this troupe men acting the same role. This idea. After some time, Alaga- settled down in Madras. A vio- due to his efforts. The troupe was Diwan Bahadur Sambanda was announced in the papers nambi arrived and began to play linist, he erected a Sri Rama often came to Madras and their Mudaliar. He was a Presidency and a huge crowd gathered that one or two beats on the mridan- Mandiram in his house and ar- productions were much Magistrate. He wrote Tamil day to witness the drama. Police gam. Sarabha Sastri on hearing ranged music performances. He admired. I have seen his role as dramas and members of the help was sought to control the him became happy and said was of a charitable nature and Bahuka in Chitranalineeyam. Sabha acted in them. He him- crowds. The scene started with “Anna, vandiya?” (“Have you taught students free of charge. come, brother?”). It created Then he was rather old and did self took part in the dramas. the heroine decked as a bride He wrote the treatise Sangitha th laughter amongst the audience. not shine well. After his dramas Even in his 60 year, he used to with the two men standing by Kalanidhi. All preliminary exer- appeared, other old dramas play the role of Prahalada and her side wearing costly orna- Even now, I recount this inci- cises of music were contained in went out of fashion. make the audience laugh. ments and carrying silver sticks dent to my friends. this book. He was a close friend Sri Kolachalam Srinivasa The late Rangavadivelu was in their hands. The judges In those days, women at- of Sri Sri Sri Vizianagaram Rao, then an advocate in associated with this Sabha. He declared the prize would go to tended the music concerts ar- Ananda Gajapathi Maharaja. Bellary, wrote many dramas. He was also a lawyer. And he met that one who wore more gold ranged for marriages but they wrote a book about drama in with an early death. He had am- jewels. rarely went to sabha concerts. Concluded 8 MADRAS MUSINGS May 1-15, 2008 The raft homes of Myanmar n January, a picture appeared westerly direction for about 16 It is obvious from the four Iin many newspapers of a days and was rescued by Madras structures that landed on the floating structure that was fishermen near Pulicat. There Tamil Nadu coast that they washed ashore at Vadakaru were no nets in the raft at the were the temporary dwellings of near Rameswaram. The square time of rescue. The raft was 12 Burmese fishermen. They were ‘house’ was 15 feet wide and 12 m in length and 3 m in width not used in any fishing opera- feet high. There were four and formed with bamboos in tions, as no fishing nets or gear drums to keep it afloat. While two tiers. Twenty bamboo poles were found on any of them. Per- The floating house, which drifted to Rameswaram from Myanmar. (From two of its sides were covered by were spread in two rows to form The Hindu, January 23, 1988.) wooden boards, the other two the base and they were tied with were fitted with bamboo sticks ropes. Casuarina poles sup- that facilitated free flow of air. ported the sides of the raft. The It created quite a stir near raft had a hut which was parti- Rameswaram. tioned, providing a room for My colleagues in the cooking and another for living. Research Centre of Central The approximate value of the structure was ten thousand ru- G by pees. DR. D.B. JAMES This is not the first time such structures have drifted towards the Tamil Nadu coast. On Marine Fisheries Research 10-2-1986 a similar raft landed Institute, Madras, had reported in Mudiveeranpattinam on the a similar raft in 1988. On 6-12- Ramnad District coast. An- 1987 a fishing raft with three other, with five fishermen also crew members was brought to landed at Devipattinam in Palk Madras by local fishermen. The Bay on 29-3-1987. The raft was raft was from Piyapong Chon- said to have left the Burma kaa, Burma. It appears that the coast on 12-2-1987. Yet an- raft had been anchored in the other raft was rescued near river Irawaddy. Due to sudden Mandapam on 28-1-1988. It floods in the river, the anchor may be noted that all these chain shaped and the raft structures drifted during No- vember to March when the cur- The fishing raft that was adrift and brought to Madras on December 6, 1987. (Sketch from Marine Fisheries drifted to sea with three fisher- Information Services, No. 85, July 1988.) men. rent is in southwesterly direc- The vessel drifted in a south- tion in the Bay of Bengal. haps the fishermen lived in primitive man depended only miles with the help of currents these boathouses till a on ocean currents to cover great in 101 days to prove his point. favourable tide in the river en- distances by raft. After the dis- Currents played a major role in Answers to Quiz: abled them to board regular covery of sail, he made full use the human history changing the fishing vessels for fishing opera- of trade winds which blow with course of human history and 1. New Zealand; 2. The Augusta Masters golf tournament; 3. Delta Air tions in Burmese waters. The regularity every year. Thor civilisation. But for the warm Lines and Northwest Airlines; 4. ‘Maitree’ (friendship) Express; 5. Alba- rafts from Burma reached the Heyerdhal, the Norwegian Ex- Gulf stream current, the whole nia and Croatia; 6. Kamalesh Sharma; 7. Japan; 8. Nicosia, 9. The former Tamil Nadu coast in about 16 plorer and anthropologist, of British Isles would have fro- CEC, Dr. M.S. Gill; 10. The providing a quota of 27 per cent for candi- days with the help of currents. wrote that South American zen. The El Nino cold water dates belonging to the OBCs in Central higher educational institutions. Ocean currents and winds tribal people sailed from Peru on current along Chile and Peru * * * are actually nature’s conveyor balsa rafts and, using the ocean has a devastating global effect 11. Idea Cellular, Swan Telecom, Unitech, Datacom and Loop belts, spreading ancient currents and winds, reached on weather, fisheries, wildlife Telecom; 12. Front Project; 13. Rail Limited civilisations far from their land Polynesia. He undertook a Kon- and society. It has a profound for revenue augmentation purpose; 14. Larsen & Toubro; 15. Erode; 16. of operation. Before the inven- Tiki (a raft) expedition in 1947 influence on the Peruvian sar- Courtallam, 17. Jayakanthan; 18. Kummi; 19. 2016; 20. 18. tion of sails and motor boats, and covered a distance of 4300 dine fishery also.

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