In Pictures | Madras, then and now
This photo essay explores the historical evolution of Chennai, formerly Madras, by comparing archival photographs with modern-day scenes. It highlights iconic landmarks like the Chennai Central railway station, Spencer’s Plaza, and the Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram.
Why it matters
It provides cultural context and historical preservation of urban development in one of India's major metropolitan cities.
Escaping the heat at Marina Beach in the evenings, the honks and traffic near Spencer’s Plaza, panju mittai on the rocks near Mamallapuram’s Shore Temple — Chennai has transformed over the years, but some things remain the same. On the occasion of Madras Day , see how the city has changed through the eyes of The Hindu ’s archives and photographers.
Opened in 1873, Chennai Central railway station was the terminus for the Madras and Southern Mahratta Railway and handled all northern and western traffic. It was built on land belonging to a Portuguese merchant to decongest traffic at Royapuram station. Passengers boarded private buses to important places in the city. The archival picture is from 1925.
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