The sounds of the veena
rend the morning air. A bharatanatyam dancer is immersed in her
daily practice. The aroma of "filter coffee" tickles the
nostrils. Young girls with flowers in their hair, draw bright
coloured "rangoli" patterns in front of their houses. Men
clad in impeccably white dhotis, umbrellas in band walk down to the
vegetable market.
Chennai is the most
Indian of all Indian cities. Tradition is still alive here. Age old
customs and rituals are still religiously followed. Food is till
cooked the way "ajji " used to do it. Festivals are still
celebrated with all the devotional fervour of yore.
And yet, Chennai has
also managed to keep pace with the times. This harmonious blend of
the old and the new is one of the charming aspects of this lovely
city. Close to Chennai is Mamallapuram - the land of beaches and
shore temples. A perfect place to unwind Dodge the waves. Build sand
castles. Or simply soak in the sun. Come, have a great
holiday. At Chennai and Mamallapuram.
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