There are many stories hidden away in the mundane rituals of daily life. So walking through Chennai’s oldest district Mylapore can be quite a revelation of things past and present. After all the 7th Pallava century port here used to do a brisk business of spices and silks and cotton with Rome and continues to be one of the liveliest and culturally rich and inspired metros in the country to this day.
Unlocking Mylapore both past and presentDiscovering its Biblical tiesZooming in on the deep cultural connects
Join us on a leisurely walk through Mylapore, exploring fascinating stories hidden away in the mundane rituals of daily life. You will discover many a story behind everyday sights, stories of Gods and demons, of ancient customs and symbolisms, and of Mylapore and Madras.
Mylapore is a bustling neighbourhood in the heart of Chennai, pre-dates the city by at least 2000 years, and has kept alive many traditions and arts that Chennai is so well known for. Highpoints of the walk include visits to the Kapaleeshwara Kovil dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the oldest in the city and famed for its Dravidian architecture and massive holy tank. Shiva is symbolised as ‘mayil’ or the peacock, which is where Mylapore also takes its name. The area is also home to houses dating to the 19th century. Thomas Cathedral Basilica or Santhome is dedicated to St. Thomas the apostle. This is one of the only three churches in the world built over the tomb of an apostle of Jesus. It is marked for its Hindu and Catholic features. While the Virgin Mary is draped in a saree, Jesus stands on a lotus and is flanked by two peacocks