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Chennai, the Gateway of South India, is a beautiful coastal city in India. It is also the country’s one of the largest cities, known for being the cultural and economic centre of southern India. Long ago, Chennai was a fishing village and was called Madraspatnam. Did you know that the name “Chennai” has developed from Chennakesava Perumal Temple which is devoted to Lord Krishna? Here are some interesting facts about Chennai, the Capital of the state of Tamil Nadu for kids.
Amazing Fun Facts about Chennai
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In addition, here are some more interesting facts about Chennai!
- Chennai was also known as Madras during colonial times. However, in 1996, the city’s name changed as part of a project to change all colonial names.
- The automobile industry thrives in Chennai which gives it its name “Detroit of India.”
- Marina Beach is the second-longest urban beach in the world! It stretches over 13 kilometres along the Bay of Bengal.
- Bharatanatyam is one of India’s oldest classical dance forms which originated in Tamil Nadu.
- In 1855, the first public zoo in India, the Vandalur Zoo was established in Chennai.
- Furthermore, it also has the second oldest English-language newspaper surprisingly, still in circulation, the Madras Courier which was established in 1785.
- In the year 1914, the Germans attacked Madras City and it was the only city in India to be attacked during World War 1.
- The Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram which is located near Chennai, are recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- The Madras University introduced a Bachelor’s degree course in Music in 1930 for the first time in India.
- Chennai is part of the Smart Cities Mission which aims to inculcate modern technology and sustainable practices.
- Since the 1st century, Chennai has been an important administrative, military and economic centre. Throughout its long history, many South Indian kingdoms, such as the Chola Dynasty, the Pallava Dynasty, the Pandya Dynasty and the Vijayanagara Empire, have ruled here.
- In the year 1688, the oldest municipal corporation in India that is still active was inaugurated.
- Chennai has the biggest port in the Bay of Bengal area and also has the biggest artificial seaport in India!
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FAQs
Chennai is famous for its culture which includes Carnatic music and its stunning temples, as well as its beautiful beaches and growing auto industry.
Chennai city is a very old city. The exact dates are not that clear, however, evidence suggests that it is more than 2000 years old.
There are so many aspects that are unique in Chennai, such as its cuisine, culture and temples.
I hope you had fun reading these 13 Interesting Facts About Chennai. If you want to know more about topics like this, then visit our Interesting Facts and General Knowledge page!