July 09, 2007

Dakshin Chitra - Cultural Hub

Dakshin Chitra is simply amazing. Feels good to see the effort put in to conserve our heritage ..esp South Indian culture. It is run by Madras Craft Foundation, an NGO.

To start with, it props up on the East Coast Road - it is a pleasure to drive down the ECR. The first impression of Dakshin Chitra is that of a well kept majestic cultural center - not one of those run-down-please-look-at-me-kind-of place.

The entry fee was 50 per head. It was worth it & more.

U basically get a feel of traditional living in all southern states - Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka & Andhra Pradesh.





Beautiful thematic houses have been reproduced in full glory - utensils - clothes, et all. Some interesting themes - Chettinad House , Brahmin House, Tanjore Agriculturer's house, Potter house, Cloth Weaver house, Basket weaver house etc.,







We were regaled by a karagattam kind of dance. Some great footwork & balance by the artists. Puppet show, documentaries were also in the list. Artisans carry on with their work & sell their products in specially erected stalls. The place also has a good restaurant.


A must visit place.

3 comments:

yaduruli.com said...

Nice Article. Heard about this but never went there.

sugan said...

Thanks Yaduruli..U must make a visit to the place sometime..

Anonymous said...

I second you in appreciating their intent to save our culture and heritage.

BTW, the most lovable during our trip was the puppet(shown in u r last image).