Chennai, formerly known as Madras is the capital of the great state Tamil Nadu and is one of the four metropolitan city in India. This 350 year old city grew up under the huge influence of an English settlement of Fort Saint George and with time absorbed the surrounding towns and villages. However, despite having a British influence, Chennai has been succesful in retaining its traditional Tamil Hindu culture and have been able to provide a unique blend of foreign influence and Indian culture.

The city is widely spread in about 180 Sq. Kms. and is one of the major trade centers of India, being well linked by road, rail and air to important cities besides being a sea port. Compared to the other major metros of India, it is far less congested and polluted and also boast of the 100% literacy rate. Chennai, is a journey into timeless India, a kaleidoscope of sorts. Rich in the treasures of history, from temples and shrines to forts and palaces, here past is able to live easily with the present.

From being a small fisherman's village in 1639 to becoming one of the most enormous and beautiful city in India Chennai has definitely come a long way from where it stood. Chennai is also host to some cultural theatres that showcase various India traditional dances and plays on regular basis. Chennai like its counterpart Mumbai is the centre of the film industry of south India. Large number of hoardings and billboards displaying latest movie releases surround the city.

Fairs and Festivals
Natyanjali Dance Festival:
Natyanjali Festival is held in Chidambaram, near the city of Chennai, ever year. The five day festival is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Cosmic Dancer. As a matter of fact, he is also known as Natraj. The event takes place during the months of February - March.

Dance and Music Festival:
The Shimla museum was opened in 1974 and is built on a beautiful ground. It has a growing collection 2000 object daret. It contains a rich collection of paintings.

Dance and Music Festival:
Fairs provide an excellent opportunity to people to enjoy as well as gain information. There are a number of stalls exhibiting merchandise and providing good bargain. One such fair is held in Chennai and is known as the Tourism Fair, which is held at the Island Ground every year.

Pongal:
Pongal is one of the major festivals celebrated in the Chennai city of India. It is basically a rural-based festival, but is also celebrated in the cities with great enthusiasm. Pongal marks the end of the south east monsoon and the harvest season in South India.

Dance and Music Festival
Dance and Music festival of Chennai is held during mid December to mid January. The festival is a celebration of the Carnatic Music and classical dance of Chennai. It is held at various places in the city and attracts a host of performing art enthusiasts. The month-long festival is organized at fascinating venues like venerated temple complexes, heritage bungalows and known auditoriums.

This Dance and Music Festival showcases the art and talent of famous artistes across India. Chennai Dance and Music festival is also known as the 'Margazhi Festival of Dance and Music'. It was originated in 1927, to celebrate the anniversary of Madras Music Academy every December. However, it was later adopted by various other organizations and is since being held at different venues in the city. Margazhi is the sacred Tamil month of Hindus. During this time, the spirit of festivity swarm the art lovers as they get to witness around 2000 participants, in more than 300 concerts.

Tourist Attractions
Fort St. George: St. George Fort is located on the banks of Bay of Bengal. It was built by the British East India Company in 1640 AD. The fort is believed to be the first establishment of the British in India. It is a military architecture marvel, which was erected as a trading post.

Freemasons Hall: Freemasons Hall is situated in the Egmore area of Chennai. It is the living example of the cultural and traditional heritage of the people who inhabited the ancient city of Madras. The construction of this building was completed in the year 1923.

Government Museum: The Government Museum of Chennai is one of the most popular sightseeing pots in the city. It is deemed to be one of the oldest museums of India, as its inception dates back to the Colonial rule. There is a historical tale behind the origin of this Museum.

Kamaraj Memorial House:
Kamaraj Memorial House is built in the memory of the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Shri Kamaraj. He was an ideal for all the Indians, as he rose out of poverty and became the Chief Minster thrice. The Memorial House was inaugurated in 1978 by the then Chief Minister, M. G. Ramchandaran.