Society

A street name that has been around for centuries becomes an integral part of local history; changing it for cosmetic reasons or short term posturing serves little purpose, writes blogger and historian V Sriram.

As part of celebrations and events leading up to Madras Week, a walk along the Buckingham Canal, led by historian D Hemachandra Rao, was organised last week. Bhavani Prabhakar joined in, only to discover many fascinating trivia related to the history of the Canal and the landmarks around it.

Are you all set to participate in the birthday celebrations of your favourite city, Chennai that was once Madras? As Madras month commences, here’s a quick look at its history and how you could be a part of it over the next few weeks.

Bala Vidyalaya helps spread awareness about the significance of diagnosing hearing impairment early in children, to help them lead a normal childhood.

A group of seven schoolkids in Chennai come together to raise funds to help underprivileged children with books, school stationery and other things that would support their academic journey.

Breaking the silence around child sexual abuse and teaching students, parents and teachers how to prevent it – that is the main objective of the Project Masoom sessions. You, too, could be a part of it!

A group of 11 kids from Grandma & Grandpa’s International Early Learning Center come together to solve the neighbourhood’s garbage problem.

As temperatures soar and water shortage looms large, tips for the Chennaiite on how to maintain the delicate balance between saving water and protecting the plants.

The Urur Olcott Kuppam Vizha is Chennai’s most happening and talked-about arts festival. A volunteer organiser hails the uniqueness of the festival and the events this year.

How many of us know that erstwhile Madras formed the cradle of many of the institutions that define modern India? Here’s a slice of that glorious history of present-day Chennai.

Upcycling — producing creative, high-end products from reusable waste — has found a growing following in the city of late. Bhavani A P captures the trend and provides a primer for the beginner.

Iswarya V, a PhD scholar at the Madras Christian College, has launched a petition on Change.org arguing for an immediate stop to the glorification of stalking by the hero in Tamil films. Bhavani A P in a candid chat with the petitioner: