After 56 Years, Chennai Still Holds Her Heart Unwaveringly

For Sabita Radhakrishna, Chennai isn’t just a city—it’s home. After more than five decades here, her affection hasn’t dimmed. "I would not trade it for any other city in the world, irrespective of the weather!" she declares, her voice echoing the steadfast loyalty many feel toward this vibrant South Indian metro.

A Metro with Soul

Back in the 1970s, after sampling life in other cities, Radhakrishna found something special in Madras. It had all the buzz of a metro but held onto a simplicity that felt genuinely welcoming. The city exuded warmth and friendliness—traits that still define it today.

Memories Woven in Time

Her outings were simple yet magical. Walks through the Theosophical Society, sitting under the ancient Banyan tree, visiting residents whose perspectives on life felt refreshingly different. Conversations with figures like Sankara Menon, Sarada teacher, and Kamala Trilokekar were uplifting. Meeting Rukmini Arundale, she says, was a life experience in itself.

Beach trips to Besant Nagar were family favorites. They’d pack sandwiches and finger food, lie on the sands, and watch the sun dip below the horizon. The cries of "Thenga Manga Pattani Sundal" vendors were a soundtrack to those golden hours.

An Era of Ease

Driving in the 70s and 80s felt manageable, even pleasant. Traffic was controlled, and people actually followed road rules. You could drive right up to Broadway and find parking without a hassle. Radhakrishna fondly recalls showing Moore Market and Burmah Bazaar to her children—precious voyages of discovery, unspoiled by today’s virtual distractions.

And then there were the looms at Kalakshetra. She remembers watching in awe as weft melded into warp, producing exquisite silks, some designed by the legendary Rukmini Devi. It was magic, right here in Chennai.