Victoria Public Hall

Najir Shaikh 13 months ago

Very Amazing ... the most beautiful British architecture Also known as Victoria Public Hall, or the Town Hall, is a historical building in Chennai, named after Victoria, Empress of India. It is one of the finest examples of British architecture in Chennai and was built to commemorate the golden jubilee of Queen Victoria. It served as a theatre and public assembly room in the late 19th century and the early 20th century. It now houses the South Indian Athletic Association Club. In a meeting held in March 1882 at the Pachaiyappa's Hall in George Town by some leading citizens, the decision to construct a town hall for Madras was taken.

This resulted in the mobilisation of a sum of 16,425 from around 30 persons who attended the meeting, and a 12-member trust was formed for the execution of the project. The municipal corporation leased a 57-ground (3.14 acres) site in the People's Park to the Victoria Public Hall Trust for 99 years effective from 1 April 1886 at a lease rent of eight annas a ground or 28 for the property. The then Maharajah of Vizianagaram, Sir Ananda Gajapathi Row, laid the foundation stone for the new building on 17 December 1883, who also led a list of 35 donors for the construction work with a contribution of 10,000.

The list included the Travancore Maharajah ( 8,000), Mysore Maharajah, Pudukottai Rajah and former Madras High Court Judge Muthuswamy Iyer (all 1,000 each) and P.Orr and Sons, a city-based watch company ( 1,400). Other contributors included Ramnad Raja Bhaskara Setupati, Zamindar of Ettiapuram and Hadji Abdul Batcha Sahib. It took about five years to complete the construction.

Pritam Sardar 13 months ago

The Victoria Public Hall was constructed in 1888 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee. It was designed by the architect Robert Chisholm in the Indo-Saracenic architectural style, which blends Indian, Islamic, and European influences. The building's grand façade and intricate detailing make it an architectural gem that stands out in the cityscape.

Over the years, Victoria Public Hall has served as a venue for various cultural, social, and political events. It has witnessed numerous concerts, theatrical performances, public meetings, and exhibitions, making it a vibrant center for entertainment and intellectual discourse.

The interior of the Victoria Public Hall is equally impressive, with its spacious halls and elegant décor. The main hall, with its high ceilings, ornate chandeliers, and beautifully crafted pillars, exudes a sense of grandeur and charm. The acoustics of the hall are exceptional, making it a favored venue for musical performances and cultural events.

The significance of Victoria Public Hall extends beyond its architectural and cultural value. It has been a witness to important historical events and has hosted notable personalities from various fields. The hall has been a platform for political speeches, public gatherings, and social initiatives, reflecting the spirit of social change and activism.

In recent years, the Victoria Public Hall has undergone restoration to preserve its historical integrity. Efforts have been made to maintain its architectural features while upgrading its facilities to accommodate modern requirements. The hall continues to host a wide range of events, including concerts, dance performances, conferences, and weddings, keeping its legacy alive.

Visiting the Victoria Public Hall offers a glimpse into Chennai's rich history and cultural heritage. Whether you appreciate architecture, music, or simply want to experience the ambiance of a bygone era, this historic venue is a must-visit. It stands as a testament to the city's enduring cultural legacy and the role it has played in shaping Chennai's social fabric.

suhair kvk 21 months ago

Very Amazing ... the most beautiful British architecture Also known as Chennai Town Hall, a beautiful building located 1 km from Chennai Central Railway Station, built in 1890 by anagilum, still stands in the heart of the city of Chennai.