Mylapore is one of the coastal regions in Chennai city and is
situated close to the shores of Bay of Bengal. The region is
considered as an important cultural and religious centre in the city
of Chennai. The Chennai city, constituting the capital of Tamil Nadu
state, houses many attractions which include some ancient monuments
and worshipping places. Mylapore suburb,a small locality in the
southern premises of the famous city is one such place. The locality
features some popular worshipping places and a commercial hub of the
city.
Mylapore is believed to have derived its name from the word Myil
meaning peacock. According to the popular belief Goddess Parvati is
said to have done penance by taking the form of peacock and as such
remaining close to Lord Shiva. The famous Kapaleeswarar Temple
abodes the legend and has been preserving it for centuries. This
enchanted temple is visited by hundreds of pilgrims and constitutes
one of the prominent attractions in the city.
Mylapore also houses the Santhome Basilica Cathedral. Built on the
shores of Bay of Bengal, the cathedral presents the Portuguese
building and the legend associated with the place. The place where
the cathedral stands is believed to be the burial place of St.
Thomas, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ.
Descriptions about Mylapore have been given by many distinguished
explorers in the past. Ptolemy and Marco Polo have mentioned this
ancient port city in their accounts. The present Mylapore is
believed to be successor of a flourishing trade center of the bygone
period. The Portuguese conquest has added one more dimension to the
place.
The place also bears cultural importance. Many cultural events have
been and are still being organized in this part of the city. The
region also features one of the oldest existing Sabha (responsible
for holding cultural events). The Parthasarathy Sabha has been
preserving the cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu for years now.
Accessibility
- The Santhome High Road that proceeds to the north of Mylapore
connects it with the city center. Mylapore is about 6 kms from
the city centre. Buses and taxis ply between the mentioned
regions.
- Thirumalai Railway Station termintes in the region itself.
One can as such access the place by travelling in the train.
- The nearest airport to the place is Chennai Airport. The
airport is about 11 kms from the place.
Areas Under Mylapore
- Mandaveli
- Santhome
- Foreshore Estate
Other
