Tamil Nadu ministers inaugurate ‘Madras 387’ photo exhibition to mark Madras Day

CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu Ministers A Rajmohan and S Rajeshkumar on Saturday (August 22) inaugurated ‘Madras 387’, a photo exhibition at the Anna Centenary Library here to commemorate Madras Day.

The week-long exhibition, organised by the state Tourism Department, features a curated collection of heritage photographs captured by photographer L Ramachandran during the Covid-19 lockdown.

The photographs document the city’s architectural landmarks and evolution, including Fort St George, the Ripon Building and the Madras High Court.

Speaking at the inauguration, Tourism Minister Rajeshkumar said visual archives play a vital role in educating younger generations about Chennai’s 387-year history and its architectural and cultural heritage.

He said such initiatives help students connect with the unique identities of the state’s various districts.

School Education Minister Rajmohan underlined the power of photography to chronicle history and evoke deep human emotions, citing globally iconic historical photographs.

During his address, the minister announced that the School Education Department had decided to conduct monthly world cinema screenings for students with autism and other special educational needs in government schools.

He said a similar initiative previously conducted at the MGR Government Film and Television Institute had received an encouraging response from students.

Rajmohan encouraged students and the public to visit the exhibition, noting that entry is free throughout the week.

Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation Managing Director Dr Jeyaseelan, along with senior officials from the Tourism and School Education departments, attended the event.