My first loud cry, my first few memorable memories and most of my emotions connect back to Madras. It is my birth place, my hometown, my work town and the place I live and love. No wonder Madras and I share our birthday the same month. And as a birthday gift I (both my husband and I) wanted to scribble down about Madras for a week (one post everyday) in the blog. As most people know (atleast the Madras walas), every year Madras week is celebrated from 21-28 Augustand the 22nd of August is Madras Day.
Marina is the first word I utter if it's Madras. Besides the interesting facts about the Beach, like the longest natural urban beach in India along Bay of Bengal and tourist attraction, they also take you on a journey from sunrise to sunset. The beach never sleeps.
The rhythm of the breeze and waves along with the tapping of the early walkers and workers bring the hiding sun from under the ocean. Marina turns to be one of the busiest places at Chennai, even at 5 AM even before the sun could pay visit the place starts to blossom. There are human heads everywhere; the school kids who come to learn karate or sports, the teens who learn to drive, the grownups who walk to reduce weight, the parents who accompany their kids for skating and yoga classes and there are the ones (like me) who come to just watch the waves, doves and drink the soup.
| And the beauty comes out! |
The beauty of walking along the shore and playing with waves is what beaches are about. But Marina is also surrounded with some iconic places and things that you must have a look at.
· The Light House - that gives the beautiful view of the beach and the city
· Vivekananda House
· The memorials (Anna and MGR) and statues of some inspirational leaders
· Napier Bridge - Take a walk along the bridge to enjoy the view and birds that pay visit
· Take a few more steps from the beach to grab a ride in the MRTS (local) train or board a bus to take tour around the city.
| Memorial |
| View from Light House |
| It's time for Moon :-) |
The beach holds more adventure besides munching and chit-chatting with your folks. The horse ride, kite fights, balloon shots, bubble burst, disk throws, ferocious swings and sand castles, what not! There are families, friends, couples, loners and living beings everywhere. The smell of the seafood, the grainy sand, the salty water and the romantic waves are the best companion for every soul that walks into Marina.
Marina is always special. It is lively. No matter whether you are rich or poor, happy or sad, lost or confused, the warmth of Marina can bring you back alive.
