Beyond the Streets

In our daily lives, many of us are caught up in the hustle and bustle of routines. While we are busy with our day-to-day activities, we might often forgot to notice some small things that happens around us. Although these may not significantly impact us, listening to them occasionally brings a sense of happiness and a positive feeling. It's not that these things make a big difference in our lives, but they do contribute to a positive and blissful state when we take the time to notice them. So, I am going to share such a small thing that I noticed with you here, where many of us are aware of what's contained below. One day, during my bus commute to the office, I observed a bus ahead bound for Egmore. Intrigued by the name, I pondered its meaning. Curiosity led me to Google, where I not only discovered the significance of Egmore but also had the opportunity to explore the reasons behind the names of many areas in Chennai. Upon learning these reasons, I felt a sense of pride in how our ancestors were cultured and adept in governance. Their portrayal of culture, geography, community, and history is evident at every turn, even in the nomenclature of the areas. Chennai , a city that whispers tales of centuries past, a city where each neighborhood tells a story etched in history, culture, and the very essence of its people. Let's get into the secrets behind some of places in chennai.

Egmore - Elum + Oor: 

Due to its natural topography, Egmore is situated at a slightly elevated position compared to other areas in Chennai. This elevation causes the sun to rise first in Egmore. This is believed to be the reason why it was initially named "Elum oor," later evolving into the present-day "Egmore."

Nungampakkam - Nungu + Pakkam:

In earlier times, Nungambakkam was characterized by a dense population of Palm(நுங்கு) trees. However, as time has passed, the landscape has undergone significant changes, and nowadays, spotting even a single palm tree in Nungambakkam is a rare occurrence. Pakkam is in Tamil village or area.

Perambur - Pirambu + Oor:

There were many bamboo trees in this area. In Tamil, bamboo is known as "பிரம்பு" and the term for village or area is "ஊர்" (pronounced as "oor").

Triplicane - Thiru + Alli + Keni:

The lake near the Parthasarathy Temple was originally known as Thiruallikeni (திருஅல்லிகேணி). Later, this name transformed into Triplicane.

Chetpet - Setru + Pettai:

In the past, this area was a muddy land, formerly known as "சேற்று நிலம்" in Tamil. Additionally, it was home to many pot makers. Over time, this locale evolved and is now referred to as Chetpet.

Thiruvanmiyur - Thiru + Valmiki + Oor:

In the distant past, the Valmiki saint visited the Marudheeswarar Temple in Thiruvanmiyur and resided there for a period. This association led to the area being named ThiruValmikiOor, which eventually transformed into the present-day Thiruvanmiyur.

Pallavaram - Pallavar + Puram:

This region was developed during the time of the Pallava dynasty under Mahendra Varaman. Consequently, it was initially named Pallavar Puram and later underwent a transformation into Pallavaram.

Saidapet - Sayyid Shah Pettai :

In the 18th century, this area was granted by the Arcot Nawab to his chief general, Sayyid Shah, and subsequently, it underwent a transformation into SaidaPettai.

Nandanam - Nandha + Vanam:

In Tamil, a garden is referred to as "nandhavanam." Due to its natural resemblance to a garden, this area later underwent a transformation and came to be known as Nandhanam.

Ekkatuthangal - Eera + Kadu + Thangal:

This area is enveloped by a wetland forest where water collects and encircles the wooded expanse. In Tamil, this is known as "ஈரக்காடு" (Eerakadu).

Amjikarai - Amainda + Karai:

This area is situated along the banks of the Coovam river, originally named அமைந்தகரை (Amainthakarai) in Tamil. Over time, it underwent a transformation and is now known as Amjikarai.

Chintadripet - Chinna + Thari + Pettai:

This area was once inhabited by numerous small weavers, lacking any significant large weaving industries during that period. In Tamil, a loom is referred to as "தறி" (thari), and consequently, the area was known as ChinnaThariPettai in ancient times. Eventually, it transformed into the present-day Chintadripet.

Besant Nagar:

It is named after Annie Besant, a prominent British social reformer, women's rights activist, and supporter of Indian self-rule.

Avadi:

It's an acronym for "Armoured Vehicles and Ammunition Depot of India".

Avadi is surrounded by major defense establishments. It's home to the Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE), the Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF), and the Ordnance Factory Board (ODF).