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Chennai
Chennai 
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| Country | India |
| State | Tamil Nadu |
| Founded | 22 August 1639 |
| Area | 426 km² |
| Population | Approx. 11.5 million (Metro) |
| Official Language | Tamil |
| Time Zone | IST (UTC +5:30) |
| Nicknames | Detroit of India, Gateway to South India |
| Major Landmarks |
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Chennai is a major metropolitan city in India and the capital of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the largest urban centers in the country, known for its rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and thriving economy. The city serves as an important hub for IT services, automobile manufacturing, and medical tourism.
History
Chennai, formerly known as Madras, was established by the British East India Company in 1639. It grew around Fort St. George, which still stands as a historical monument. Over the years, Chennai has played a major role in trade, politics, and cultural development in South India.
Geography
Located on the Coromandel Coast along the Bay of Bengal, Chennai has a tropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. It is prone to seasonal monsoons and occasional cyclones.
Economy
Chennai is considered the Detroit of India due to its large automobile industry. It is also a major center for:
- IT and software services
- Healthcare and medical tourism
- Banking and financial services
- Kollywood film industry
Culture
The city is known for its Dravidian architecture, Carnatic music, Bharatanatyam dance, and traditional Tamil cuisine. Major cultural festivals include Pongal and the Chennai Music Season.
Education
Chennai hosts some of India’s premier educational institutions like:
Tourism
Popular attractions in Chennai include:
Transportation
Chennai is well connected by road, rail, air, and sea. It is home to: