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To Madras, with love

 Where the day starts with newspaper and filter coffee,

Where one is graced by the towering Central station upon arrival

Where you see giant cut-outs of actors near theatres

- On the backs of autos and in taxis,

Where movie releases are celebrated like festivals

The perfect blend of Malgudi and metropolis –

That’s Madras.

Where you eat delicious dosas from Saravana Bhawan,

You can visit Anna library for research or go to Chepauk to watch a match,

Can go to Egmore museum or take a stroll along the beach,

Visit the temples or go to cafes,

The city which accepts you with open arms,

That’s Madras.

Where Rahman is celebrated as elegantly as MS Subbulakshmi,

Where Thalaiva rules over everyone's hearts-

That international mascots have to bend.

Where there is history associated with every street,

Every nook and corner has a story to tell,

Where Margazhi festival is as abuzz as rock concerts,

Where you feel like home-away-from-home,

Where Sir Thomas Munro keeps a watch atop a horse,

Where the Cooum, Aadyar and Kosasthalaiyar flow,

Where the resplendent High Court stands tall,

Where people talk about politics with as much enthusiasm as they talk about cricket,

The city which is youthful even at the age of 384.

For me, it will always be Madras.

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