V Sriram is an entrepreneur, columnist, music historian and heritage activist who is known for his books on the history of Chennai, Carnatic music and Chennai theatre. He is also known for his blog on Chennai heritage, and is the Editor of Madras Musings.
The existing museums are monotonous spaces which hardly attract repeat visitors. Unless there is enough thought given to planning and administration, the new ones may face the same fate.
In 2010, a Madras High Court bench had mandated protection and restoration of the city’s heritage structures, suffering years of neglect. Sadly, both state and public will appear to be lacking.
The COVID-19 crisis has revived the debate over a shift of the TN capital to Madurai or Trichy. A look at some important factors that should guide the decision.
Presently, corrugated sheets are nailed all around the infected house or block, leaving an opening much like the eye of a needle! What if there is a need for emergency evacuation?
There must be clear communication on dos and don’t and procedures to be followed upon lifting of lockdown in order to avoid chaos and confusion among the citizens, writes Sriram V.
The rules have been relaxed for the erection of banners for social, religious and political events, increasing the possibility of reappearance of banners and hoardings across the city.
Chennai has never been afraid to stand up for what it feels is right. Eminent writer and heritage activist V Sriram decries the strong-arm tactics against peaceful, artistic expressions of dissent in the city, such as the recent one against Kolams carrying a message.
Hurdles in the formation of CUMTA has prolonged the chaos of public commute in the city; a central authority to provide a cohesive vision remains missing.
